Armstrong ceilings are widely used in commercial and residential spaces for their acoustic performance, durability, and design flexibility. For professionals and DIY enthusiasts installing Armstrong suspended ceiling systems, following the correct procedures is essential to ensure safety, functionality, and compliance with warranty conditions. This article provides a detailed, step-by-step guide based on official Armstrong installation documentation, covering grid assembly, panel placement, adhesive application, and special considerations such as fire ratings and repainting. The instructions are specifically adapted for the U.S. market and emphasize the importance of adhering to manufacturer specifications to maintain product performance and longevity.
Safety and Environmental Considerations
Before beginning the installation process, it is critical to prioritize safety and environmental conditions. According to Armstrong’s installation guidelines, users should always wear safety glasses and gloves during installation due to the potential for sharp metal grid components. When working overhead, ensure the work area is free of obstructions and that ladders or scaffolding are stable to prevent accidents. Additionally, Armstrong recommends that installation areas maintain specific temperature and humidity levels to meet warranty requirements.
Another important precaution is to never install ceiling panels below an existing ceiling that contains embedded radiant-heat coils. This can lead to heat transfer issues and potential damage to the new ceiling system. Loose-fill or batt insulation should also not rest directly on ceiling panels, as it may compromise structural integrity and reduce fire resistance. To maintain a clean finish, installers should keep their hands clean to avoid smudges on the ceiling surface.
Pre-Installation Preparation
Prior to installation, Armstrong advises that panels be removed from their cartons at least 24 hours before installation to allow them to adjust to the ambient temperature and humidity of the installation area. This acclimation process helps prevent warping or cracking after installation.
For mineral fiber or fiberglass ceiling panels, it is recommended to cut the panels face-up using a sharp utility knife to ensure clean edges and avoid damaging the panel surface. Additionally, main beams should be installed perpendicular to the joists, with a typical spacing of 4 feet between them. In rooms with unusual configurations, extra components may be necessary to accommodate the layout.
Armstrong also specifies a minimum drop height of 3 inches for traditional hanger wire systems or 2.5 inches for T QuickHang™ grid hooks. QuickHang instructions are highlighted with a gray background in the official documentation and are available through select retailers.
Grid Installation
The first step in installing an Armstrong suspended ceiling is to assemble the grid system. The grid is composed of main beams, cross tees, and wall moldings, which work together to support the ceiling panels.
To begin, prepare the first main beam by trimming its end so that a cross tee slot is positioned at the correct distance from the wall to accommodate the border panel. Armstrong suggests using tin snips to cut the top of the grid first, then bending it open to cut the face side. Once the main beam is cut, it should be placed against the wall molding, and the main beams can be hung using hanger wire or QuickHang hooks.
After the first main beam is in place, install two 4-foot cross tees between the two main beams to establish the initial grid structure. To ensure the grid is square, measure the diagonals of the 2-foot by 4-foot opening. If the measurements are unequal, one of the main beams should be trimmed until the diagonals are equal.
Continuing with the grid installation, complete the first two rows of main beams by hanging them from the hooks and connecting their ends. An audible click should be heard to confirm a secure connection. Cross tees should be installed in line with the first two border tees to maintain alignment.
Panel Installation
Once the grid is assembled, the next step is to install the ceiling panels. Armstrong recommends lifting the panels at an angle and inserting them into the grid through an existing opening. If there is an obstruction in the area where a panel is being inserted, it may be necessary to lift the panel through an adjacent opening and gently move it across the back of the grid into place.
For edge panels that abut walls, a straight edge should be used to trim the border panels. When cutting tegular tiles, the edge resting on the wall molding should be adjusted to allow the panel to lay flat. Armstrong emphasizes the importance of cutting “tegular” or “recessed grid” tiles with a sharp utility knife and using a proper knife angle to ensure a smooth cut.
Leveling the tiles is also an important step in the installation process. Armstrong suggests using a 1/16-inch thick fiber spline approximately 3 inches long at each corner of the tile to assist with leveling. A 48-inch to 72-inch straight edge can then be pressed against the installed tile to help ensure it is flush with adjacent panels.
Adhesive Application
In certain applications, Armstrong ceiling panels can be installed using adhesive rather than the grid system. This method is particularly recommended for 12-inch by 12-inch tiles. Armstrong specifies that acoustical adhesive, such as Henry #237 Acousti-Gum, is suitable for this purpose. However, it is important to follow the adhesive manufacturer’s instructions for application and usage to ensure proper bonding.
When applying adhesive, the recommended coverage area is approximately 3 inches across and 1/8 to 3/16 inch thick per tile. Armstrong cautions against buttering too many tiles in advance, as the adhesive can form a skin that weakens the bond. Additionally, it is not recommended to place new adhesive on top of old adhesive in previously tiled areas.
For adhesives applied to surfaces such as drywall or plaster ceilings, it is essential that these surfaces are smooth and even. Armstrong provides detailed guidelines for adhesive installation in its technical documentation and recommends referring to the CISCA Ceiling System Handbook for further information on this method.
Special Installation Considerations
Armstrong’s documentation includes specific instructions for certain installation scenarios, including fire-rated assemblies, repainting, and the use of wall moldings.
For fire-rated assemblies, Armstrong advises installers to determine the existing or planned building elements, including structural, mechanical, electrical, and finish materials. The Fire Resistive Rating Summary in the Armstrong ceilings catalog should be consulted to identify the appropriate UL design numbers that correspond to the building’s requirements. Once the appropriate design is selected, it should be submitted to the code official for approval.
Repainting Armstrong ceilings is possible, but it requires special precautions. Armstrong states that most ceilings and walls can be repainted by spraying, but vinyl or FL laminated products should not be painted. Field painting will void the warranty, and Armstrong cannot guarantee that the fire resistance ratings, acoustical performance, or light reflectance will remain unchanged after repainting.
For perimeter trims, Armstrong recommends using its Slip-on Wall Moldings. These moldings are available in 10-foot lengths and come in thicknesses of 1/2 inch (#7841), 5/8 inch (#7842), and 3/4 inch (#7843). They feature a 15/16-inch flange and are designed to fit securely into the grid system.
Surface Mount Installation
An alternative to the grid system is the surface mount installation method, which is particularly useful in retrofitting existing ceilings. According to Armstrong, surface mount ceilings can be installed using clips or adhesive.
For the clip method, the track is attached to the ceiling joists or existing ceiling, and the tiles or planks are slid into the clips. This method requires less prep work than the EASY UP system and is ideal for installations where minimal height loss is desired.
When using adhesive for surface mount installations, Armstrong recommends applying the adhesive directly to the existing drywall or plaster ceiling. It is important that the surface is smooth and even to ensure proper adhesion. The adhesive should be applied according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and the tiles should be pressed firmly into place.
Maintenance and Repairs
After installation, maintaining the ceiling system is essential for long-term performance. Armstrong provides guidelines for repairing minor damage, such as tears in the vinyl facing. A white, latex-based tub and tile caulk (such as Dap or Red Devil) can be used to cover and reseal the tear. The caulk should be applied in a bead, smoothed with a wood stick, and allowed to dry before the panel is installed.
For larger repairs or replacements, Armstrong recommends referring to its technical documentation for step-by-step procedures. The company also notes that any repainting or repair work performed by the user will not be covered under warranty and should be done with caution to avoid compromising the ceiling’s performance characteristics.
Conclusion
Installing Armstrong ceiling tiles requires careful planning, adherence to safety protocols, and strict following of the manufacturer’s instructions. From grid assembly and panel installation to adhesive application and special considerations such as fire ratings and repainting, each step is crucial to ensuring a durable and aesthetically pleasing result. By following the guidelines provided in Armstrong’s technical documentation, installers can achieve a high-quality ceiling system that meets both functional and design requirements. Whether working on a commercial project or a residential renovation, understanding these procedures is essential for a successful installation.