Friday, August 9, 2013

Tin Ceiling Alternatives

The look of a tin ceiling is a popular one.


Tin ceilings date back to the mid-nineteenth century, when they were first used as a low cost alternative to decorative plaster ceilings. Today, technology allows us to replicate the look of authentic tin ceilings using a number of alternative materials. Faux tin ceiling tiles offer a number of benefits, including low cost, easy installation and lower maintenance.


Polystyrene


Polystyrene ceiling tiles provide an extremely budget friendly alternative to typical tin ceilings. At a fraction of the cost, these ceiling tiles come in a variety of patterns and colors. The tiles are extremely lightweight, making installation quick and easy, with just the use of ceiling adhesive. You can paint the tiles with water-based paint to mimic the look of a true tin ceiling. The polystyrene has the added advantage of increasing insulation and potentially decreasing your electric bill.








PVC


Faux tin ceiling tiles are often made of PVC for another inexpensive, lightweight alternative. These ceiling tiles typically come in more patterns and finishes than their polystyrene counterparts. You can find PVC ceiling tiles or larger ceiling panels that are pre-finished in a metallic or antiqued finish for a more authentic look and feel. Similarly, the ceiling tiles can be installed with simple adhesive for a quick, easy installation. The PVC is waterproof and washable, making them an ideal ceiling tile for humid or damp rooms.


Drop-in Tiles


Faux tin ceiling alternatives now come in drop-in tiles that are a snap to install. The drop-in ceiling tiles look like genuine tin tiles and fit easily into an existing suspended ceiling structure. Panels can be installed flush with the supporting grid, creating the appearance of an authentic tin ceiling.


Embossed Wallpaper


Another low cost alternative to tin ceilings, embossed wallpaper adds the texture and depth that a tin ceiling provides. The embossed wallpaper is applied to the ceiling and painted for the desired finish. Embossed wallpaper gives you the option of creating the exact look that you want, while creating a seamless, textured ceiling. However, installing wallpaper on a ceiling is never an easy feat and the wallpaper needs to be heavy enough for durability.

Tags: ceiling tiles, Faux ceiling, cost alternative, easy installation, Faux ceiling tiles