Polystyrene tiles add a decorative touch to corrugated or flat metal ceilings. Unlike drop-in ceiling tiles, polystyrene tiles use adhesives rather than fasteners to hold them in place. This reduces installation time and mimics the look of older tin-tiled ceilings, if the correct adhesive is used. The correct adhesive bonds to a metal ceiling without breaking down the polystyrene. The effects of incorrect adhesive are immediately noticeable when applied to the tile. The tile begins to warp or in extreme cases, "melt" -- destroying the tile or causing it to break free of the metal after installation.
Instructions
1. Run a wire brush across the metal to remove rust, loose paint and cake-on debris. Ensure no large particles remain on the metal before proceeding.
2. Spray the metal with a degreasing cleaner. Allow the cleaner to penetrate the metal for two to three minutes. Vigorously wipe the surface with a clean rag. Use multiple rags if necessary. Let the cleaned area dry for three to five minutes.
3. Shake a can of polystyrene-approved spray adhesive for 30 seconds to one minute.
4. Set a polystyrene tile facedown on a sturdy surface located outside. Spray the backside of the tile and the cleaned metal surface with spray adhesive. Wait 15 minutes to allow the adhesive to become dry to the touch.
5. Hold the glued side of the tile two inches away from the metal. Align the edges of the tile with the edges of the metal. Press and hold the tile to the metal for 30 seconds. Repeat the procedure until all exposed metal is covered with polystyrene tile.
Tags: correct adhesive, metal ceilings, polystyrene tile, spray adhesive, surface with