What are Drop Ceiling Tiles

The modern drop ceiling tiles nowadays look nothing like they used to. Today’s drop ceiling tiles are contemporary or antique, they can be painted or faux finished. Some are even made to look like tin or other materials. The tiles of today are lighter weight, easier to install, and more attractive.

Modern drop ceilings tiles serve many purposes like concealing exposed plumbing and beams to soundproofing. Installing a drop ceiling tiles is a moderately inexpensive way to change the appearance of a room, but sometimes can be a little drab. Painting drop ceiling tiles can lighten the space and bring a welcomed change to any room. By adding color, one can add character and change the look of the ceiling just as easily as changing the color of the wall paint.

In decorating drop ceilings tiles will enhance the ceiling and show off the space from top to bottom. The drop ceilings tiles are an excellent way to hide many defects in regular ceiling may have. Even though there are various styles of drop ceilings available, some are much more decorative than others. The basic drop ceiling is simple and sometimes very unattractive and quite repulsive. There are many ways to improve the look of the plain ceiling tiles without breaking the bank. When decorating drop ceiling tiles it is easier to take them down individually to decorate; always make sure that the design is completed and dry before putting them back up.

Paint is used as a primary decorative element for the drop ceiling tiles.  Choose latex or gloss paint in a color that compliments the space. To add spice to the ceiling use metallic paints to create the faux tin look. Stencils can also be used over a solid paint finish or immediately on the plain ceiling tile for added design and style. If one prefers wood, try using a wood stain to paint the drop ceiling tiles (in the dark/light wood tones) then drag a dry brush or a wood grain rocker through the wet stain to achieve a faux wood finish.

Construct a decorative or ornate ceiling by pasting wallpaper on each tile. Placing printed, textured or textured wallpaper on the ceiling tile can achieve a stunning designer look. Wallpaper borders can also be used horizontally and vertically to create a patchwork design on the drop ceiling tiles.

Fabric will create depth to the ceiling. Staple or glue fabric onto each tile or run fabric through the tile frames for a flowing soft look. Upholstering each tile with padding and fabric adds dimension and style to the space. Cut the padding (batting) to the size of the tile then cut the fabric one or two inches larger than the tile and staple it onto the back of the tile. For added interest, create a tufted look on the drop ceiling tiles by stapling down small areas on the front of the tile to create a triangle or square design, or just staple one area down in the middle. Use upholstery buttons (cover the buttons with the same fabric) and sew or hot glue them into the tufted spots to cover the staple; regular buttons can also be used.

Gluing wood, tin or plastic medallions or moldings to drop ceilings tiles will bring it to life. Place medallions onto the center of the drop ceiling tiles and paint it in one color or in monochromatic colors for added depth and style. Paint or stain lightweight wood or plastic moldings and glue it onto the tile. Frame each tile like a picture. If one wants a designer look, add additional frames to the tile and build a descending frame design. Painting the tile a slightly different hue from the molding will add an extra touch of style.

If one’s unhappy with the way the drop ceiling tiles look, it can be easily changed without having to remove the hardware that’s attached to the ceiling. Simply remove the tiles, get the exact measurements and replace them with the tiles of your choice.