Steampunk-Faux Tin Ceiling Tile - Antique Silver 25-Pack

Step 1: Gathering the Materials

To complete this decorative ceiling tile project, you need several tools. Make sure you have a straight razor, tape measure, chalk line reel, scissors, straight edge, and any form of construction adhesive. Our recommendation would be to use the #310 Instant Grab Adhesive. As this is very good adhesive, the smoother the job will be. A good adhesive will bond immediately with some pressure, and it can be repositionable for up to 15 minutes. For the most effective method, use a little less than half the tube of adhesive per panel.

Once you have all the tools you need, get yourself a drop cloth so that you can protect the floors. A wet rag will also be handy so that you can wipe off excess adhesive during the installation.

Step 2: Mark the Control Line

The control line is where your chalk line comes in handy, as it helps you mark the position of your control line. Your control line is a straight line that cuts the tiled area in half. To do this, measure your ceiling so that you can determine the halfway point. Now, use your chalk line to connect the two points, stretching it from one side to the other at the halfway point. It’s easier if two people hold it in place, and one person should pull down and release the chalk-covered string to create the chalky line onto the ceiling to give you a reference line so that you know how to place your ceiling tiles.

Step 3: Mark Another Control Line

Now that you have one control line marked, it’s now time to mark another. Rotate 90 degrees and mark up another control line, creating a cross while forming straight lines that divide your middle point.

Once you have created this crossed pattern and have your control lines marked, plan for your first tile to be placed in the corner, formed by the intersection of the two control lines.

Step 4: Dry Fit

If you’re gluing up your ceiling tiles, dry fit them before doing so. Before applying the adhesive, position your tiles onto the ceiling, tracing any fixtures you have to workaround. A good method for this is to place duct tape on the back of your tiles to hold it up while you trace and dry fit each tile you will use.

Step 5: Make the Necessary Cuts

It’s now time to bring the scissors into play. Use them to cut the PVC tile to fit on your ceiling. A good strategy is to cut out rounded shapes, as this will leave room for the light fixture in the center of the room. Don’t expect this process to be difficult or time-consuming. What will help, though, is to use a strong set of scissors.

Step 6: Apply the Instant Grab #310

If you have a caulking gun, then it will be highly recommended for use during this process. Using the caulking gun, apply an even coat of Instant grab #310 to the back of your tiles. Instant grab #310 must be dry clean and free of grease. For best use, apply the adhesive to the edges and corners of each tile. This will allow them to bond with the surface. Once applied, press the materials together and fix correctly.

Even when bonded, the materials are still able to move. Try and provide support for during the setting. If the adhesive hasn’t been fully cured, then it must be protected against water and moisture. This is highly significant, so if you are installing these tiles where water is commonly exposed, you will have to be extra careful.

Step 7: Install the Tiles

Place your first ceiling tile on the lines, holding it firmly in place, ensuring that the adhesive forms adequate contact with the ceiling surface for excellent adhesion. Once you install the first tile, begin placing the ones adjacent to it, overlapping the edges. Make sure to align the design of the tile, not the edges which may not always be cut exactly the same.

To place PVC ceiling tiles along the edges, measure the distance between the attached tile and the wall before marking it on each tile. Using scissors, cut the tile to fit, and then glue it on. Repeat this strategy until the edge gap is complete around your ceiling.

Some Faux Tin Tiles can be installed in a grid system. If this does apply to you, then do note that this is a straightforward process that requires very little work. The tiles will work with a standard 15/16 grid system and can be installed on their own or under existing tiles.