Safety first: asbestos
Ceiling tiles made before the 1980s may contain asbestos. If yours are old, don’t cut, sand or break them until a sample is tested by an accredited lab. Undamaged tiles left in place are generally lower risk; disturbing them can release fibers. When in doubt, hire a licensed abatement contractor.
Replacing a tile
- Push the tile up, tilt it, and lower it out of the grid diagonally.
- Check the grid above for damage or water staining: fix the cause of any stain first.
- Tilt the new tile up through the opening, then lower it flat.
Matching an old tile
- Look for an item number printed on the back.
- Match size, thickness, edge (square or tegular) and pattern.
- Discontinued? Replace all tiles in one visible area, or move old tiles to a closet and put the new ones there.
Cutting border tiles
Measure each opening, mark the tile face-up, and cut with a sharp utility knife against a straightedge. For tegular tiles, re-cut the stepped edge.