Drop Ceiling Installation | Armstrong Ceilings Residential

Before You Begin: Preparation is Key

Read complete installation instructions before beginning your installation. Instructions can be found at the end of this overview.

Let your ceiling panels adjust to the environment in the room of installation.

Unpack all panels at least 24 hours prior to installation. Panels may be stored in areas with a temperature between 60and 80F. Also, be sure to check that the relative humidity is below 70%. You may consider purchasing a dehumidifier with a humidity reader for this.

Know your ceiling and grid terms.

Mark hidden joists.

For joists that are hidden behind drywall, youll want to use this tip to mark where they are:

Knock on the drywall. You should hear a solid thud when you tap on a joist. You can also use a stud finder to help with this task.

Dont forget to determine the direction of the joists as well.Helpful hint:joists are usually 16 apart on center.

Plan the location of each ceiling panel for an even layout.

If your new drop ceiling installation will have border panels, make sure that the opposite sides of the room have the same border width. Always cut panels face up with a sharp utility knife.

Place all ceiling and grid materials in one location. Be sure to check out thedrop ceiling calculator toolto help with the layout and a list of the materials needed for your project.

4. Hang Main Beams Cut the first main beam to make sure there is a cross tee hole where your pre-determined first border cross tee is to be located. The first cross-tee hole in each row of main beams must line up. Always put the cut end of the main beam on the wall molding. To hang, simply slide each hanger wire or QuickHang hook through one of the small round holes in the main beam. Repeat these steps for the second main beam.

5. Install the Cross Tees You will need to measure and cut the border tees to the border panel size. Place cut end of tees on wall molding and connect the uncut end to main beam. Now insert the first two uncut cross tees in line with the border cross tees. When connecting two cross tees in the same rectangular hole in a main beam, insert the second tee into the slot by passing on the right side of the already installed tee.

6. Squaring the Grid To achieve the best end results, its important to make sure your grid is square at this point. To check that your grid is square, measure across the diagonals of the 2x4 opening. The measurements will be the same if the grid is square. If the measurements are not the same, trim one of the main beams further until the diagonals are equal.

7.Finish Grid Repeat steps #4 and #5 for all other main beams and cross-tees. Click additional main beams and cross tees together as needed. When connecting grid elements together, an audible click will be heard when properly connected.

8.Install Panels Slide the tile through the grid opening at an angle. Carefully lower into place. Cut any border tiles or required openings with a utility knife with the panel face up.

Install 24x24 panels in the same manner as 24x48 panels, with the following exceptions:

Preparations help the drop ceiling installation process go faster and more smoothly. Take your time and get ready to be surprised by how handy you are. Also, be sure to check out videos, more how-tos, and the full set of installation instructions below.

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Drop Ceiling Installation | Armstrong Ceilings Residential