FAQs

Tin ceiling tiles are durable, lightweight, and fire-resistant. They add a unique, decorative look to any room and can increase your home’s value. Plus, they’re easy to clean and maintain compared to traditional ceiling materials.

Tin ceiling tiles have few drawbacks, but the main ones are the potential for rust if unfinished tiles aren’t properly sealed and the need for precise installation to achieve a professional look. They can also be noisier than softer ceiling materials unless insulation is added above the panels.

Yes, tin ceilings can increase your home’s resale value by creating a memorable first impression, adding timeless style, and offering long-lasting durability at a relatively low cost. Buyers often view tin ceilings as a high-end design feature that sets a home apart from others on the market.

Tin ceilings became popular in North America in the late 1800s as an affordable alternative to ornate European plasterwork. Their popularity declined mid-20th century as design trends shifted, but they’ve recently seen a resurgence, blending historic charm with modern style.

Yes, tin ceilings are very much in style today. They add character, texture, and a timeless aesthetic to both modern and traditional homes. Homeowners and designers use them in kitchens, dining rooms, and commercial spaces to create a distinctive look that blends historic charm with contemporary design trends.

Old houses often have tin ceilings because they were an affordable alternative to intricate European plasterwork. They were also prized for their fire-resistant properties, which was especially important during a time when house fires were more common.

Our tin ceiling tiles come in a standard size of 24" × 24", making them easy to plan and install in a variety of spaces.

Our tin ceiling tiles are made from high-quality tin-plated steel, providing both durability and a lightweight feel. Each tile is 0.010" thick, offering strength and longevity while remaining easy to cut, shape, and install.

Yes, installing a tin ceiling makes a great weekend DIY project. With basic tools, accurate measurements, and a nail-up or drop-in system, homeowners can often achieve professional-looking results.

Yes! Tin ceilings can be installed over drywall. Nail-up tiles need a solid base, like furring strips or plywood, to be securely nailed in place, while a drop-in grid system can be easily hung from the existing ceiling. Both methods turn a plain ceiling into a stylish, durable design feature.

Tin ceiling tiles can be easily cut with a good pair of tin snips—just be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges. For contractors or anyone working with large quantities, a guillotine cutter can speed up the process and provide cleaner, more precise cuts.

We recommend using cone head nails to install tin ceiling tiles. At Metal Ceiling Express, we sell them in 1 lb. boxes in four finishes—Bright Steel, Copper, Stainless, and White. Each box provides enough nails to install approximately 50 tiles, giving you plenty of coverage for your project.

Yes! Tin ceilings became popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries partly because of their fire resistance. Today, our tiles are Class A, 1-hour fire rating, combining historic charm with modern safety standards.

Tin ceiling tiles can rust if exposed to moisture. Coated or pre-finished tiles have a lower chance of rusting, while unfinished panels require a protective finish to prevent oxidation. We recommend painting or clear-coating unfinished tiles for long-lasting protection.

No, tin ceilings are not toxic. Our tiles are made from tin-plated steel, a safe, non-toxic material suitable for any residential or commercial space, whether they are coated or left unfinished.

Yes! Tin ceiling tiles can be painted to match your décor or create a custom look. For the best results, use a primer designed for metal and a quality topcoat, especially on unfinished tiles, to ensure long-lasting coverage and protection against rust.

Tin ceiling tiles can be cleaned with a mild detergent and a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes, which can scratch the metal surface. Regular dusting helps prevent dirt buildup.

We currently ship our tin ceiling tiles and related products throughout the United States. For international shipping inquiries, please contact our customer service team for options and pricing.

Unfinished tin ceiling tiles typically ship within two (2) weeks, while powder-coated tiles ship within four (4) weeks. Exact ship dates depend on inventory and production schedules. If there are any delays, we’ll contact you promptly.

Metal Ceiling Express accepts returns on non-defective, unfinished products within seven days of delivery, provided they are unused and resalable. A 20% restocking fee applies, and customers are responsible for return shipping.

Please note: Custom products, including cut tiles, backsplashes, trim, molding, and all powder-coated tiles, cannot be returned, though we may review extenuating circumstances at our discretion.