In another case of what’s old is new again, metal ceiling tiles are making a comeback. Eye-catching metal ceiling tiles are breathing new life into ceilings with both old-fashioned charm and a modern edge.
Tin ceilings were introduced into the US as an affordable alternative to the elaborate plasterwork used in European homes. They were made using sheets of tin that were stamped one at a time using a cast iron mold to embed a pattern. In their heyday there were about 45 companies, mostly in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York, manufacturing these tiles, but they began to lose their popularity in the 1930s.
Modern metal tiles are used for more than the creation of stunning ceilings. Here are a few other ideas for incorporating them into your home:
As a kitchen backsplash – Use metal tiles instead of traditional tiles to create a unique backsplash. As a fireplace surround or behind a wood stove – Fireproof metal tiles make an excellent and creative substitute for brick. As a bar – Create a unique basement bar out of metal tiles. As an accent wall – If you love the look of metal tiles, why not put them somewhere you don’t have to look up to see? Metal tiles can add depth and texture to a room and look stunning placed
in small alcoves. As decor – If you love the look of metal tiles, but don’t want to commit to a large amount, use them as decor around your house as a headboard in the bedroom, as wall art, or install in the back of bookcases to give them more personality.
According to Tinceilingexpress.com, the modern adaptation of metal tiles includes numerous patterns, colors and finishes, and metals. Steel tiles plated with tin are the most popular, but tiles are also made out of aluminum, stainless steel, copper, and even PVC. Tiles can be adhered directly to the ceiling by nailing them into a plywood base, although there are a limited number of styles and materials are made to screw into any ceiling. They can also be installed as a drop ceiling where they are snapped into a grid. It is now also possible to find metal floor and wall tiles in modern subway and mosaic shapes, although these tiles typically do not have patterns on them.
A metal ceiling is actually comprised of three different tile types:
Field panels – which are the actual square tiles
Filler – which is similar to grout in that it borders the
field tiles
Cornices – which are meant to transition from ceiling to wall
The cost of metal tiling will generally run between $2 and $17 per square foot, depending on the tile material and finish.
If you’re looking to restore an existing metal ceiling, do not attempt the restoration yourself. These tiles were often painted white to mimic plaster and the lead paint used on turn of the century tin ceilings presents both an environmental and a health hazard. If you are trying to match a historical pattern, several modern companies can create and stamp custom tiles, although it can be expensive.
In addition to the aesthetic benefits of installing metal ceiling tiles, there are also other reasons why they are a good choice. They can add value to your home whether you use them on the ceiling or for something more creative. They are also moisture resistant, fire resistant, and less likely to crack. Installing metal ceiling tiles may be a good choice if you have an existing ceiling that is damaged and costly to repair as they can also hide imperfections. So whether you are trying to restore a Victorian house, or living in a modern one, metal ceiling tiles add a new dimension to that overlooked “fifth wall” or wherever you choose to use them.
