How to Install Ceiling Tiles and Upgrade Your Space

Remove any light fixtures, ceiling fans, vents, or other obstructions to ensure the easiest working environment possible and that the tiles get to where they need to go. This will give you a clean slate on which to install the ceiling tiles.

Dirt, dust, or grime on the ceiling can prevent the tile adhesive from sticking, so clean the ceiling thoroughly. If you’re doing a direct-mount application with adhesive, you’ll need to remove a popcorn ceiling by scraping all the “kernels” off and sanding it. If you prefer, you can ask a ceiling repair pro for a quote to remove the popcorn ceiling. 

You’ll also need to patch any holes or cracks to make sure the surface is smooth. If you choose track-mounted tiles, you may be able to install them over a popcorn ceiling or without patching the existing ceiling.

Before you attach a tile to the ceiling, you need to figure out where to start. An easy place to begin is in the center of the ceiling, but this may not be possible if you have a light fixture there or if the room is irregularly shaped. Regardless of where you want to begin, you’ll need to choose a spot and mark it with perpendicular chalk lines that intersect at the starting point.

The first tile guides the rest of the ceiling tile installation. The installation method will depend on the type of ceiling tiles you use.

Using Adhesive

If you’re using ceiling tiles with adhesive, apply the adhesive to the back of the tile in a thin bead along all the edges and a cross or an “X” across the back. Depending on the adhesive, you can use a roller brush to apply it to the entire back of the tile. 

If the tiles have a deep pattern, you can add additional adhesive to the places that will touch the ceiling. Use less adhesive on tiles with shallower patterns because it will spread when you press the tile to the ceiling. 

When you’re ready, locate the point you marked with your chalk line and place the tile on the ceiling slightly away from where you want it to end up. Press it firmly to the ceiling and gently slide it into place.

Using Track-Mounted Tiles

If you use a track-mounted tile system, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the tracks through the drywall and directly into the ceiling joists. The size of the ceiling tile determines the spacing. Locate your starting point and install the first tile. 

Using Furring Strips

Another way to install ceiling tiles is to attach furring strips to the ceiling joists and then staple or nail the tiles to the furring strips. Secure the furring strips to the joists with staples or nails, checking to make sure they're level and at even intervals that will support the tiles. Then, choose your starting point and install the first tile. 

After you’re satisfied with the first tile’s installation, you can install the rest of the tiles by placing adhesive on the back of each tile and fitting them into place or attaching them to the furring strips or the track system (according to the manufacturer’s directions). Continue installing the tiles until you come to a border.

As nice as it would be to have all the tiles fit onto the ceiling perfectly, this is very rarely the case. So you’ll have to cut the border tiles according to the manufacturer’s recommendations so they fit along the edges of the ceiling to complete the coverage. You’ll also have to cut tiles to fit around obstructions like light fixtures and skylights.

After installing the ceiling tiles, it’s time for the finishing touches. If your ceiling tile system comes with adhesive strips that cover the joints where the tiles meet, make sure the tiles are clean and dry, and then apply the strips. You can also install crown molding around the perimeter of the ceiling and replace any fixtures or vents you removed before installation.