Ceiling - Frequently Asked Questions



Ceiling General

Where can I buy Armstrong ceilings?
Click to buy ceilings near you.

How can I get a brochure on Armstrong ceilings?
Click to request an Armstrong ceiling brochure.

Where can I find a copy of my ceiling warranty information?
Click for ceiling warranty information. Detailed product warranty information is included in every ceiling product carton.

Is my Armstrong ceiling warranty transferable?
No, the warranty is good only for the original purchaser. More ceiling warranty information.

What are Armstrong ceilings made of?
Armstrong mineral board ceilings are made of mineral fiber and can include up to 82% recycled content. Armstrong also offers high performance engineered resin and durable laminate plank ceilings made from wood fiber byproducts.

Note: Insulation must never be placed behind fire-rated ceilings, without prior approval from your building code official. As well, putting insulation on the back of fiberglass panels is not recommended.

How much will a new ceiling cost?
Costs vary according to product design and performance features. The cost for a new ceiling in a 10' x 12' room would range from $50 - $200. This figure does not include the cost of a suspensions system or installation.

Note: Armstrong cannot guarantee that the published surface burning characteristics, fire resistance ratings, acoustical performance, dimensional stability/sag, or light reflectance will remain the same after painting. Field painting will void the warranty.

Will the ceiling sag over time?
No, if the ceiling is installed according to its warranty. Armstrong ceilings are treated with a special back coating to resist moisture. When properly installed under the right conditions (no excessive humidity, etc.), they remain level and flat. We recommend using HumiGuard™ Plus panels or fiberglass panels in areas of high or seasonal humidity; they are not recommended for spaces exposed to continuous moisture, such as shower rooms and swimming pool areas.

Do Armstrong ceilings protect against flammability?
Armstrong ceiling panels, tiles and planks are fire-retardant and meet high industry standards for flame-spread ratings. See individual ceiling product warranties for specific fire ratings.


CEILING INSTALLATION


Can I install an Armstrong ceiling as a do-it-yourself project?
Yes, most of our ceilings can be easily installed. Click below for detailed installation instructions.

Do I need to install insulation between floors?
Most ceilings are installed between floors that are maintained at the same temperature - making insulation unnecessary. Most basements are at least partly heated by heat flow through the ceiling from the heated space above. In that case, attempting to insulate the basement ceiling surface could actually reduce heat flow.

Can Armstrong ceilings be used in the bathroom?
Yes, if the bathroom is vented to the outside with a fan. Armstrong ceilings with HumiGuard® Plus are extra sag resistant for use in areas of high humidity. BioBlock® Treatment inhibits the spread of mold and mildew.

Can I put insulation on the back of an Armstrong ceiling?
Only on Armstrong suspended ceiling panels that are at least 5/8" thick. You must use rolled insulation and install it perpendicular to the cross tees so that the weight of the insulation rests on the suspended grid system, and there is air space between the insulation and the panel. Ask your dealer for specific details.

What kind of surfaces can I install Armstrong ceilings over?
Most of the Armstrong tile ceilings (including Tin Look paintable ceilings) and plank ceilings (including Wood Haven laminate ceiling planks) can be installed to an existing ceiling that is in good shape. That includes open joists, drywall, plaster, and popcorn ceilings. The 2’ by 2’ and 2’ by 4’ panels must be installed with a suspended grid system. This suspended ceiling system can be installed over any ceiling surface or open joists where the hanger wires can be attached.

Where can I install Armstrong ceilings in my home?
For most of your interior rooms, you can choose from our entire line of ceilings. For bathrooms or rooms that reach over 70 Percent humidity, you should select a ceiling with our HumiGuard™ Plus feature.

What is the minimum overhead distance required for a new suspended ceiling?
Armstrong suspended ceilings require a minimum of 3" of overhead clearance. If you are installing recessed lighting, measure the height of the light and add 2" of overhead clearance. Fiberglass suspended ceilings require a minimum clearance of 2-1/2".

Should ceiling materials adjust to room conditions (temperature and humidity)before installation?
Yes. Unpack ceiling materials 24 hours before installation to allow the product to adjust to normal room conditions. Do not install during excessively humid conditions. See specific product instructions for best results.

Can ceilings be installed over embedded radiant-heat coil ceilings?
No. An appreciable loss of heating efficiency will result and the ceiling will not remain stable.

Can a new ceiling be cemented directly over old ceiling tiles?
Only if the old ceiling tiles are in very good shape. In many cases, the old ceiling tiles have deteriorated and you can’t get an adequate hold for the new ceiling.


CEILING LIGHTING


Can existing light fixtures be used with a new ceiling?
Yes. But you may have to remove the fixture to install the ceiling and then reinstall it over the new ceiling.

How many fluorescent lighting fixtures will I need for a new ceiling, if this serves as my main source of light for my room?
Standard rule for light fixtures is two 4' fluorescent tubes for every 75 square feet of suspended ceiling.

Can a hanging or swag lamp be used with an Armstrong ceiling?
Yes, if supported independently from the ceiling.

If my ceiling question is not listed here, how can I get an answer?
Contact Armstrong Ceilings or call 1-800-233-3823.


CEILING PAINTING

Can Armstrong ceilings be painted?
Fiberglass panels should not be painted. All other Armstrong mineral fiber ceiling tiles, panels, planks, and even grid can be painted any color or to mimic any metal - bronze, tin, gold, or copper.  Latex or water-based paints are recommended. 

1. Install the ceiling material.  Tiles and planks may be installed before or after painting.

2. Using a paint roller with a 1/4" nap, apply two coats of paint, waiting 24 hours between coats.

3. To achieve the look of green patina that develops on copper with age, use a small natural sponge to apply a stippling of dark green paint followed 24 hours later by a stippling of light green paint.  Vary the placement of the paint and texture of the sponge to create an authentic look.

Note-- For best results on 2' x 2' or 2' x 4' panels:  If using a water - based paint, also paint the back side of the panels with one coat of paint and let dry before installing to prevent cupping.

Painting Precaution: Armstrong cannot guarantee that the published surface burning characteristics, fire resistance ratings, acoustical performance, dimensional stability/sag, or light reflectance will remain the same after repainting. Field painting will void the ceiling's warranty.

Will painting acoustical ceilings affect acoustic efficiency?
Yes. Armstrong acoustical ceilings can be painted using no bridging or porous paint that does not cover the holes, but expect a slight loss of sound absorption.