To identify your current ceiling tile, you need to document the following five characteristics: size, edge profile, material, grid width, and any product markings. You’ll also need to take a photo of the tile to assist the supplier in matching it. For each of the tiles, you’ll need to take a picture to help determine the right replacement. Even if you’ve removed the tile and don’t know the brand, you can still measure and take a picture. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to identify a drop ceiling tile.
Be careful when handling the tiles, as they may become brittle with age. When lifting a tile, make sure to do so without damaging it to the tile so it can be replaced. Use a step ladder, tape measure, phone or camera, and gloves (the tiles can be dusty, and sharp metal edges may be present).
Attempt to push an entire tile (not cut) and try to tilt it out of the grid. Measure the tile and not the opening of the grid:
The tile edge profile can be identified by looking at it edge-on. You may see a flat all round (square/lay-in), a stepped rebate so the face sits below the grid (tegular on 24mm, microlook on 15mm), or no lay-in edge which means it clips onto the grid (clip-in, often metal). Also note grid width – the exposed metal face between tiles – is 15mm or 24mm. Edge and grid are both critical to an accurate match.
Using your experience of the material’s weight and feel, the following description will assist you in determining the correct material. If it feels soft, light and slightly fibrous = mineral fibre or soft fibre; hard, dense and heavy with a smooth surface = gypsum; rigid, cold and thin = metal. Fissured or textured surfaces suggest mineral fibre; a smooth and painted surface suggests glass/stone wool or gypsum. Powder-coated or perforated metal surfaces suggest a metal tile.
On the back of the tile, there should be a printed product code, a brand name, or batch markings, as many tiles have these. Identifying quickly and accurately is possible with codes such as Zentia/Armstrong ‘BP’ numbers or Burgess pattern references. Take clear pictures of any markings, even if they appear old or partially missing.
Based on the photos and measurements, the RCT team can identify the tile and verify the present product or nearest equivalent—even if it’s an unbranded old tile. This is much more dependable than assuming based on a name, as companies rebrand and products are re-named (e.g. Armstrong to Zentia). The definable attributes are what ensure an accurate match.
What are the procedures for determining the type of ceiling tile I have?
Remove one entire tile and note its size, edge profile, material, grid width, any codes on the back, and take photos of the face, edges, back, and the tile in the grid with a measuring tape. These details will allow a supplier to identify it.
What is the location of the product code on a ceiling tile?
Normally, you’ll find a brand name, product number, or batch marking printed on the back of the tile. Not every tile has these, but where they do, it helps with fast and accurate identification. Take a photo of it, even if it’s faded.
Is it possible for me to identify a tile if I do not know the brand?
Yes. The RCT team can match an unbranded older tile or find a close substitute using measurable characteristics (size, edge profile, material, and grid width), in addition to good photos.
How do I measure a ceiling tile correctly?
Use a tape to measure a complete, uncut tile (do not measure the grid opening or a perimeter tile that has been cut) and expect a measurement of about 595 mm or 1195 mm for metric tiles, or 605 mm/1210 mm for imperial tiles. Also, take note of the thickness.
Once identified, find your tile across our Suspended Ceiling Tiles range and brand pages.
Send your photos and measurements or call 01939 251 450 Every day, we identify tiles, including unbranded older versions, and we will verify the match and stock. Request a quote.
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