You may not spend much time looking at the ceiling of your office, but when the ceiling tile needs to be replaced, it’s often pretty noticeable.
If you ignore the need to replace your ceiling tiles, more damage will accumulate, so as soon as you see one or more of these signs, replace your ceiling tiles.
TILES ARE DAMAGED OR UNSTABLE
Old ceiling tiles are bound to become brittle and less stable. If any of your ceiling tiles have fallen or look to be on the verge of falling, your best bet is to go ahead and replace them all. If your ceiling tiles have damage like gouges, holes, or sagging, that’s another clear sign it’s time to replace them. Any sort of ceiling tile damage leaves you prone to litigation risks if someone is injured.
TILES ARE HARD TO CLEAN
Ceiling tiles can and should be cleaned by placing drop cloths on the floor, brushing or vacuuming the ceiling to loosen dust, and wiping tiles with a dampened lint-free cloth. For dirtier tiles, use a solution of one tablespoon of mild liquid dish detergent in a gallon of warm water. Don’t get tiles too wet and allow them time to dry. You can also hire a professional cleaning service to clean ceiling tiles.
If your ceiling tiles have sustained so much damage that they’re difficult or impossible to clean, it’s time to replace them. Tiles that are difficult to clean will only get worse over time. Start fresh with new ceiling tiles and get in the habit of regular maintenance.
TILES ARE DISCOLORED
Ceiling tiles may turn yellow or brown because of water damage caused by leaks coming from above, which could be due to a damaged HVAC unit, roof problems, or a leak in the plumbing system. This damage isn’t just unsightly — it can lead to structural damage, mold, mildew, and poor indoor air quality. Fix the underlying issue, and then install new ceiling tiles.
TILES ARE OLD
Ceiling tiles have a lifespan, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors. Ceramic tiles can last 70 years or longer, but acoustical ceiling tiles last closer to 40 years — although ceiling tiles over 25 years old may contain asbestos.
In the past, asbestos was commonly used in building materials. Asbestos can be damaging to people’s health, but materials that contain asbestos that aren’t damaged aren’t likely to lead to health risks.
Even if your ceiling tiles don’t contain asbestos, it’s always a good idea to replace any item that’s been hanging on for decades, especially if regular cleaning and maintenance haven’t occurred. If your ceiling tiles have asbestos, make sure they are safely removed by a professional.
TILES ARE MISSING
Missing ceiling tiles aren’t a great look, and they’re also a fire safety hazard. If a fire were to start in your office building, smoke and gas would reach the ceiling and move horizontally. As a result, any smoke alarms, heat detectors, and sprinkler systems would be activated.
But when ceiling tiles are missing, smoke and gases can rise above the ceiling, moving above the fire protection systems that are at ceiling level. This could delay a fire alarm from being triggered. Missing tiles also allow the heat from a fire to rise into the space above the ceiling, allowing the fire to spread further and faster.
YOU’RE REMODELING
If the rest of your office is getting a makeover, why leave out the ceiling? If you’re remodeling with fresh paint on the walls and new office furniture, old ceiling tile will stick out like a sore thumb. New ceiling tiles will tie the room together and give your space a fresh, clean look.
GET YOUR NEW CEILING TILE TODAY
If you’re ready to replace your ceiling tiles, look no further than Miller’s Building Supply. We can even deliver your new ceiling tiles to you!
Check out our ceiling tile and other products online or visit us at 1819 E. Monroe St. in Goshen.