Removing Old Ceiling Tiles

Suspended tile grid system.

Removing old ceiling tiles.

Until the 1970s most ceiling tiles in suspended ceilings contained asbestos. Contained in this rigid form asbestos is far less dangerous than in loose insulation form. Suspended tiles rest in a metal grid that is fastened to the walls and the ceiling. First remove the old crown molding then use a pry bar or claw hammer to pull the old tiles loose image 2.

The grid for this system is much easier that the drop ceiling grid and the tiles attach directly to the grid. Tap it as far under the tile as you can using your hammer. If your grid holds 24 x 48 tiles try a scored product that s designed to look like 24 x 24 panels. Use a pair of pliers to pull the old staples from the furring strips.

Upgrading a drop ceiling. If you plan to replace the old tiles with new you don t need a new grid. Make sure the strips are left smooth. Using a spray bottle soak the ceiling tiles.

Begin removing the tiles carefully ensuring that your respirator is never directly underneath the tile you are moving. This detergent and water combination will help to form an adhesive which will keep the asbestos fibers in place even if the tiles are damaged. Step 3 remove the tiles. Slide your wide scraper between the ceiling and the tiles.

Set up a sturdy stepladder in one corner of the room. Begin removing the tiles. Surface mount ceiling tiles are easy to install. Many remodelers working on older homes may come across plaster ceilings with glued on ceiling tiles that no longer fit the home s decor.

How to remove glued up ceiling tiles. If you still have concerns however contact an asbestos removal contractor to remove your entire ceiling. This goes faster with two people or more working on ladders from various points of the room. For a quick update pop old tiles out of the ceiling grid and replace with fresh ones.

Your aim here is to break the bond between the tiles and the glue or adhesive holding them up.