Ceiling tiles from the old Imperial system measure approximately 605mm x 605mm and 1210mm x 605mm, which makes them about 10mm bigger than the current metric tiles that measure 595mm and 1195mm. Additionally, these tiles are set within an Imperial grid that a metric tile cannot fit into. Determining an Imperial ceiling is important so that metric tiles are not ordered, which is a frequent and annoying error. This guide addresses how to identify an Imperial ceiling, the reason behind the persistent sizes, and what can be done regarding replacements.
Before metrication, suspended ceilings in the UK were designed using imperial units, specifically 2ft x 2ft (approximately 610mm) and 2ft x 4ft modules. Many of these ceilings still exist years later because of the sound grid, and durable tiles which don’t need to be removed. Most ceilings built with imperial measurements have the original tiles because the standards of the building don’t change to metric during renovations.
The defining clue is dimensions. An imperial tile measures approximately:
That is about 10mm larger in all directions than the metric tile. While this may seem small, it makes all the difference for a tile that fits as opposed to one that doesn’t — a metric tile will sit loose and can drop through an imperial grid whereas an imperial tile will be too big for a metric grid.
Do not use the nominal description of ‘2ft’ — measure in millimeters as the small real-world difference determines fit.
To the naked eye, a 595mm and a 605mm tile are indistinguishable, as a 10mm difference is virtually imperceptible across an entire ceiling. This is why customers opt for ‘standard 600 x 600’ metric tiles for an imperial ceiling and only come to realize their mistake when the tiles arrive and are either too loose or fall through. Accurate measurements before placing an order will prevent problems and saved time.
RCT can supply imperial tiles still available specially. 605mm x 605mm and 1210mm x 605mm To patch or refresh the imperial ceiling, tiles have been created to match the existing imperial ceiling, so you don’t have to replace the grid. The other options are more disruptive by having to replace the entire grid to adjust to the metric standard which only makes sense when doing a larger refurbishment. For a repair, matching the imperial size is the more practical option. Please provide the RCT team with the measurements, and they will verify the imperial match.
What size are imperial ceiling tiles?
They are approximately 10mm larger than the modern metric 595mm and 1195mm tiles. The dimensions are 605mm x 605mm and 1210mm x 605mm. They sit in an imperial grid set out at approximately 610mm/1220mm centres.
What are signs that my ceiling is imperial?
Measure an entire, uncut tile exactly: 605mm or 1210mm suggests imperial, about 10mm bigger than metric. Measure in millimeters instead of using the approximate ‘2ft’ description, and measure multiple tiles.
Am I able to use metric tiles in an imperial ceiling?
That would be incorrect. A metric tile is about 10mm smaller, resulting in them being loose and capable of falling through an imperial grid. You will need to do an imperial sized match, or as part of a bigger refurbishment, replace the grid.
Can I still buy imperial ceiling tiles?
Yes. RCT can provide imperial 605mm x 605mm and 1210mm x 605mm tiles specially, so an older imperial ceiling can be matched and repaired without replacing the grid.
Are you trying to match an old ceiling? Check out our advice and range via the Suspended Ceiling Tiles category.
Do you believe you have an imperial ceiling? Please send exact measurements or give us a call. 01939 251 450 We will confirm and supply imperial tiles on a custom basis. Request a quote.
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