The Pros and Cons of Vinyl Drop Ceiling Tiles
Written by Milan Jara on 18th Jul 2022
Vinyl drop ceilings provide aesthetics and function to drab-looking commercial and residential settings. Here are the pros and cons of vinyl drop ceiling tiles.
Vinyl ceiling tiles are a great choice to cover a lackluster drop ceiling. The lightweight and affordable models conceal unsightly ductwork and electrical conduit, making the room neater.
Despite the numerous advantages, there are liabilities you should know about before installing vinyl ceiling tiles on your drop ceiling. This article delves into the top pros and cons of vinyl ceiling tiles. But first, let’s get a clear understanding of this ubiquitous form of tiling.
What Are Vinyl Drop Ceiling Tiles?
A drop ceiling is suspended one to four feet from the structural ceiling. Drop-in ceilings usually have metal channels or, in the case of interlocking tiles, furring strips that make up the grid system. Newer designs lean on using plastic frameworks rather than metal channels.
Conventional drop ceiling tiles "drop" onto the standard ceiling grid framework and are glued in to cover the medley of ductwork, fire safety features, and electrical wiring. The choice of tiles usually dictates the sound-dampening properties and visual appeal associated with drop ceilings. Fiberglass and dedicated acoustic tiles are ubiquitous in schools and offices. The benefits of acoustic tiles are more profound in noisy environments.
Vinyl drop ceiling tiles' customizability, ease of maintenance, and many other perks make them a preferred choice for ceiling paneling. Drop ceilings usually sacrifice some headroom, which works in both ways. The lower height makes a room feel cozier, but for some homeowners, the loss of ceiling height can make the room feel cramped.
Pros of Vinyl Ceiling Tiles
Vinyl ceiling tiles' extensive use to cover drop ceilings speaks volumes of their practicality. Below we present the pros of vinyl ceiling tiles.
Affordable
Vinyl ceiling tiles have affordable price points compared to fiberglass, acoustic, and other options for covering the drop-in ceiling. Manufacturers produce vinyl ceiling tiles in mass production, making them more affordable. Plus, the tiles are easy to install, significantly reducing installation costs. Vinyl ceiling tiles offer an inexpensive way to improve your home's aesthetic value without depleting your home makeover budget.
The different types, patterns, finishes, and extensive designs of vinyl ceiling tiles impart a premium look to the ceiling without extra cost. Although not Sistine Chapel standard, they achieve immense visual appeal.
Durable
Many vinyl products are going around. Vinyl is preferred for wall paneling since it is durable. The tiles are no different. Vinyl ceiling tiles resist the most problematic cause of tile damage: moisture.
You may ask, "Are these thin vinyl ceiling tiles durable?" Yes. With regular maintenance, vinyl ceiling tiles can last more than a decade.
Light Weight
If you are a DIY connoisseur, you will appreciate the lightweight nature of vinyl ceiling tiles. The tiles are easy to lift and install. Most DIYers install the tiles in less than a weekend with only an extra pair of hands to help with measurement. Armed with construction-grade adhesive, nails, and a can-do attitude, you can nail the installation process.
Humidity Resistant
Ceilings trap moisture and have little air circulation above the tiles. As such, they are prone to dingy stains and breakages from water damage. The vinyl ceiling tiles from drop-in ceilings are inherently humidity resistant. You can seal them with a clear polyurethane sealer to prevent mold and mildew growth. The protective sheen of the tiles ensures they serve you for years after installation.
Easy to Maintain
If you do not have time for regular ceiling maintenance, you will fall in love with the low-maintenance vinyl ceilings. Vinyl ceiling tiles are easy to clean and maintain. Occasionally vacuuming them and wiping them with a lint-free cloth ensures they retain their striking visual appeal. Do not scrub them to avoid nicking, gouging, or denting them.
Versatile Designs
The general principle of architectural design is form follows function. Following the guide, it is sometimes hard to find an aesthetically pleasing and functional décor. You get the best of both worlds with vinyl ceiling tiles for suspension ceilings.
The tiles have different designs to match any contemporary or modern ceiling. Check out these drop ceiling tiles to seek inspiration for your next interior design project. You can even match the tiles with the crown molding for a superior glam look.
Easy to Install
Unlike interlocking tiles, drop-in vinyl ceiling tiles are easy to install and clean. The significant work is measuring and trimming the edges. Most vinyl ceiling tiles come in 24-by-24-inch sizes and therefore fit the metal or plastic framework for the suspended ceiling.
The installation starts by measuring the required size, applying adhesive to the main tiles, and sticking them onto the framework. Install the border or corner tiles and joint strips if the tiles have them.
Since the tiles are easy to install, they are also easy to remove and replace. For a finished look, match the moldings with the tiles' color, or choose contrasting colors to create exceptional and appealing visuals.
Cons of Vinyl Ceiling Tiles
Like all other tiles, vinyl tiles also have drawbacks that may not favor specific spaces. It is essential to know the cons to factor them into your choice.
Warps Under Extreme Temperatures
The vinyl material will warp if you live in areas with significantly fluctuating temperatures, like Arizona. Exposing the ceiling tiles to extreme heat and cold stretches them beyond their elastic limit, hence the warp. Avoid installing heaters near the ceiling, subjecting the tiles to excessive heat.
Subpar Sound Dampening
Vinyl paneling does not improve the acoustics of your home. While dropping them in the ceiling provides some sound dampening, the ceiling tiles do not filter out all the noise. While this may not be an issue in residential homes, you may need to consider acoustic tiles for commercial spaces.
Conclusion
Drop-in vinyl ceiling tiles offer an inexpensive way for your ceiling to look its best. Consider the pros and cons of the tiles before making your decision. Run through our selection of ceiling tiles to find one that matches your aesthetic considerations and budget.
