How to Find Replacement Zentia Tiles for an Existing Armstrong Ceiling

Zentia and Armstrong ceiling tiles are essentially the same products, just offered under different brands. Zentia has replaced Armstrong Ceiling Solutions for UK operations, and the two brands offer largely similar products — same factories, same designs, and same performance. Therefore, if you need replacement tiles for an Armstrong ceiling, you will be looking for a Zentia equivalent. This guide will outline what has changed and what has stayed the same, as well as how to correctly identify compatible tiles for Armstrong ceiling grids. 

What actually happened to Armstrong 

Armstrong World Industries divested from its EMEA ceilings business, and along with this, the UK ceiling operation was rebranded as Zentia. Only marketing underwent changes. All else: manufacturing, engineering, product designs, etc. The name on the box, as well as in many cases the name of the individual tile, changed. Zentia continues to leverage the long-standing heritage of Armstrong, as one of the most commonly installed brands of suspended ceilings in UK commercial buildings. 

The items are identical and only been rebranded 

This is the section that traps people. Due to the brand name change, some Armstrong tiles were renamed, even though the tile itself did not change. The most common tile replacement changes for people are: 

• Armstrong Tatra → Zentia Fission. TThe budget directional fissured tile (RCT stock codes BP952 and BP958). 

• Armstrong Dune Supreme → Zentia Dune Supreme — the popular micro-perforated white tile (BP2271). 

• Armstrong Dune eVo → Zentia Aruba Dune Evo — the flagship smooth tile (BP5460). 

If you are searching for an old Armstrong product and you can’t find it, it is almost definitely not discontinued, but has been renamed. The same tile is still being manufactured, albeit under the Zentia name. Additionally, RCT lists its Zentia tiles under the former Armstrong names, so you can find them both ways. 

Why are so many people continuing to look up ‘Armstrong’? 

For many decades, the American company Armstrong has been linked with the installation of drop ceilings in the UK commercial construction industry, meaning there are many thousands of square metres of ‘Armstrong’ ceilings still present. Armstrong is so integrated within the industry vernacular that, even today, Facility Managers, contractors and specifiers still call them Armstrong tiles. This is completely reasonable — RCT has changed Armstrong product names to their current Zentia counterparts, so you don’t have to. 

How to find the right Zentia tile for an Armstrong ceiling 

Identify your current tile by size, edge detail, and surface pattern and match it to the current Zentia product: 

1. Remove a tile and take a measurement (typically 595mm x 595mm or 1195mm x 595mm). 

1. Check the edge: square (lay-in) or tegular. 

1. Note the grid width (24mm or 15mm). 

1. Photograph the pattern on the front and any writing or coding on the back. 

1. Either align with the current Zentia range or ask the RCT team to map the old Armstrong name for you. 

Does the rebrand affect quality or compatibility? 

All tiles are made to the same industry standards and can be used in the same standard grid systems. Zentia tiles will fit into existing Armstrong grids in the same way as the original tile, provided you have the same size, edge detail and grid width. The rebranding is a corporate and marketing change, not a change to the product. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is Zentia the same as Armstrong? 

Yes, this is correct. Zentia is the new name for Armstrong Ceiling Solutions in the UK. The tiles are probably unchanged apart from the brand and some product naming adjustments. 

What is Armstrong Tatra now called? 

Armstrong Tatra is now branded as Zentia Fission. It is the same classic directional fissured budget tile, now with a new brand name, which is stocked by RCT in 595mm and 1195mm. 

Will my current Armstrong ceiling work with Zentia tiles? 

Yes, as long as you maintain the same size, edge detail, and grid spacing. The products are made to the same standards and are intended to fit standard suspended ceiling grids just like the original Armstrong tiles. 

What happened to my Armstrong tile? 

It is more likely that it has been renamed than that it has been discontinued. You can search them either way, or contact the team to confirm the equivalent, as RCT lists Zentia tiles under their former Armstrong names. 

Check out our website to view the full Zentia range, both under Zentia and the old Armstrong names. Zentia (formerly Armstrong) category page. 

Got an Armstrong ceiling and don’t know what the Zentia equivalent is? Send us a photo or give us a call. 01939 251 450 — we will identify it and confirm stock. Request a quote for replacement quantities.