Being a builder or investor, you have a lot of concerns and dreams about the construction. Next to the quality, you would like to improve the ambience and overall look. Right now, the market is engaged with plenty of decorative ideas that align with your demands and expectations. But the ceiling tiles are exceptional. Ceiling tiles are none other than the ceiling coverings available in various materials, types, sizes and thicknesses. Based on the needs of individuals, the selection will differ.
One of the popular choices among them is mineral fibre ceiling tiles, used widely in both commercial and institutional settings. Because of their enhanced performance and affordability, people would like to prefer this option. In this article, you’ll be explained its benefits, application, and maintenance process. Continue your reading to have a better understanding.
What are Mineral Fibre Ceiling Tiles
Mineral fibre ceiling tiles can be defined as those ceiling tiles which are made up of a combination of materials specifically meant to be used for suspended ceiling systems, with mineral wool, obtained from rock or slag, being the principal material used for preparing this tile. Other materials, which include perlite, fibreglass, recycled newspaper and other binders, are then added to the mineral wool.
Phenomenal acoustic and fire-retardant properties make these mineral fibre ceiling tiles apt for installation in commercial and institutional spaces. It absorbs sound and noise levels that find their way into the environment, thus aiding the safety and peace in buildings.
Advantages of Using Mineral Fibre Ceiling Tiles in Construction
Mineral fibre ceiling tiles have become a go-to choice for many people because of the following advantages.
Fire-Resistant: The installation of mineral fibre ceiling tiles contributes to the overall safety and security of a construction. The mineral composition is a primary reason behind its fire-resistance properties, which also slow down the spread of fire in emergencies.
Acoustic Performance: These ceiling tiles are excellent in sound and noise absorption. It significantly helps commercial and institutional spaces to reduce the echoes and noise level inside the environment. These tiles are particularly useful for sensitive areas like hospitals, offices, and schools where the pleasant atmosphere is a primary concern.
Economical: If you prefer an affordable choice with an enhanced quality, this can be your better option. From small-scale to large-scale projects, this ceiling tile blocks the noise levels that travel inside. Compared to other materials, this has become an ultimate choice where the budget constraints matter.
Easy to Install: These ceiling tiles are lightweight and therefore simple and easy to handle and install. It ultimately reduces the project times and labour costs.
Thermal Insulation: Many people mistakenly think that ceiling tiles cause the indoors to be hotter, so making the space around them uncomfortable. Instead, it retains a certain level of thermal insulation, keeping a stable indoor temperature and hence, lesser energy consumption.
Applications of Mineral Fibre Ceiling Tiles
Notably, mineral fibre ceiling tiles are versatile and used in a wide range of applications. Due to their excellent acoustic and fire-resistant properties, they become an ideal choice for various environments. Let’s see where it is commonly used:
- These tiles are a popular choice for offices or workspaces. They often conduct professional meetings and get together, expecting the area should be noise-free.
- It creates a safe, peaceful and comfortable environment by reducing reverberation, echoes, and background noise. This characteristic makes them more suitable for retail spaces to give a comfortable shopping environment.
- The institutional buildings like hospitals, schools and universities expect quieter and calming environments. This is especially for improving acoustics, and reducing distractions.
Installation Guide for Mineral Fibre Ceiling Tiles
Measure and Plan
Start by measuring the length, width, and desired height of the suspended ceiling of the room. This will help in determining how many tiles, runners, cross tees, wall angles, and hanger wires will be required. Standard ceiling tile sizes are 2′ x 2′ (24″ x 24″) and 2′ x 4′ (24″ x 48″).
Install Wall Angles
Fix wall angles around the perimeter walls along the planned ceiling height. Level them properly. These will support the outer edges of the ceiling grid.
Attach Hanger Wires
Attach hanger wires to the structural ceiling at regular intervals. These wires will hold up the main runners, so ensure that they are tight and adjusted to the correct height.
Install Main Runners
Attach the main runners to the hanger wires. They should be running the length of the room with spacing depending upon the size of your ceiling tiles. Make sure they are adjusted properly that the ceiling is even.
Add Cross Tees
Insert the cross tees in the middle of the main runners to create a grid. The spacing must match the tile sizes.
Place Ceiling Tiles
Lift each mineral fibre tile gently, tilt it through the grid opening, and lower it into place. Each tile should comfortably settle flat within the grid.
Maintenance and Care of Mineral Fibre Ceiling Tile
Proper maintenance is a key to extending the lifespan of ceiling tiles without any scratches or damage. Here is some simple guidance provided to improve the maintenance and care:
- Gentle cleaning is a primary tip. You can use a soft duster or a vacuum with a feather duster. It helps clean the surface with no scratch or damages.
- It is significant to clean the tile in one direction; otherwise, the dirt or dust may settle into the tile.
- Regular cleaning is advisable to prevent the buildup of dust. Later, you may need a harsh cleaning agent to remove the stains.
- Avoid the excessive moisture content over the tile, which can severely damage it.
- It is important to address and repair the leakages promptly.
How to Choose the Best Mineral Fibre Ceiling Tiles
Here are the important factors you need to consider while choosing mineral fibre ceiling tiles.
- Ensure the tile has a higher NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient) value, which carries a better sound absorption quality.
- Look at the intended use of a room or space for choosing the appropriate tile type.
- The institutional spaces like healthcare facilities and workspaces need privacy and a comfortable atmosphere, which requires the tiles with a higher CAC (ceiling attenuation class).
- Consider the tile option aligned with local building codes and regulations.
On the Whole
Mineral fibre ceiling tiles offer a good view for utility, affordability, and aesthetics for residential and commercial spaces. They offer sound absorption, fire resistance, and maintenance properties.
Their design versatility also establishes them as a popular medium for achieving comfort and safety. More so, mineral-fibre ceiling tiles for practicality fused with performance, make an economic decision for any building project.