Zentia vs Armstrong Ceiling Tiles: Are They the Same Thing?

For all intents and purposes, Zentia and Armstrong are the same ceiling tiles, just under different labels. Zentia is the new name for the UK branch of Armstrong Ceiling Solutions and the products are mostly identical — same factories, same designs, same performance. If you have an Armstrong ceiling that needs replacement tiles, you will now be searching for the Zentia comparable product. This guide explains what has changed, what hasn’t, and how to identify the correct tile for an existing Armstrong ceiling grid. 

What actually happened to Armstrong 

Armstrong World Industries divested from its EMEA ceilings business and in conjunction with that, the UK ceiling operation was rebranded as Zentia. The changes that occurred only affected marketing. The manufacturing, engineering, product designs, and everything else remained the same. The name on the box, and in a lot of instances, the name of the single tile changed. Zentia continues to be one of the most popularly installed brands of suspended ceilings in UK commercial buildings, capitalizing on the heritage of Armstrong that has been built over decades. 

The products are the same – just a rebrand 

This is the part that catches people out. With the brand change, some notable Armstrong tiles were renamed, even though the actual tile did not change. Most tile replacement changes for people are: 

• Armstrong Tatra → Zentia Fission. The standard 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 looking for an old Armstrong item and can’t find it, it has almost certainly been renamed and not discontinued. The same tile is still produced, it just is now under the Zentia name. RCT also lists its Zentia tiles under the old Armstrong names, so you can find them either way. 

What is the reason for a large number of people still searching for ‘Armstrong’? 

The brand Armstrong has been associated with drop ceilings in UK commercial construction for decades, so there are countless square metres of ‘Armstrong’ ceilings still in situ. Armstrong is so embedded in the vernacular of the industry that even today, Facilities Managers, contractors and specifiers refer to them as Armstrong tiles. This is certainly understandable — RCT has converted Armstrong product names to their current Zentia equivalents, so you don’t have to. 

How to find the right Zentia tile for an Armstrong ceiling 

Determine your current tile by size, edge detail, and surface design, and then align it with the current Zentia product: 

1. Take off a tile and perform a measurement (usually 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. Take a photo of the pattern on the face and any coding on the back. 

1. Please match the current Zentia range or request the RCT team to map the old Armstrong name for you. 

Does the rebrand affect quality or compatibility? 

No, the tiles are manufactured to identical specifications and can be used in the same standard grid systems. A Zentia tile will drop into an existing Armstrong grid the same way the original did, as long as you match the size, edge detail and grid width. The rebrand is a corporate and marketing change, not a change to the product. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is Zentia the same as Armstrong? 

Yes, effectively so. Zentia is the rebranded UK ceiling business that used to be called Armstrong Ceiling Solutions. The tiles still have the same designs, specifications, and most likely the only changes are the brand and some product names. 

What is Armstrong Tatra now called? 

Armstrong Tatra is now being sold under the name Zentia Fission. It is the same classic directional fissured budget tile, just under a new brand name, which RCT stocks in 595mm and 1195mm sizes. 

Will my existing Armstrong ceiling accommodate Zentia tiles? 

Yes, as long as you keep the size, edge detail, and grid spacing the same. The items are manufactured to the same specifications and are designed to fit standard suspended ceiling grids just like the original Armstrong tiles. 

Why can’t I find my Armstrong tile anymore? 

It is very likely to that it’s been renamed instead of discontinued. RCT lists Zentia tiles under their previous Armstrong names, so either way you can search them, or reach out to the team to verify the equivalent. 

Visit our site to see the complete Zentia range under both Zentia and the old Armstrong names. Zentia (formerly Armstrong) category page. 

Have an Armstrong ceiling and unsure of the Zentia equivalent? Send a photo or give us a call. 01939 251 450 — we will identify it and confirm stock. Request a quote for replacement quantities.