How to Cut Ceiling Tile

Ceiling tiles installed

Ceiling tiles are a fresh addition to any room that needs a lift. They are easy to install, and also absorb as much as 70 percent of the excess noise in a room. Because installation can be done by the homeowner with a few simple tools, they are also very easy on the budget.

Things You'll Need

• Ceiling Tile
• Tape measure
• Pencil
• Straight edge
• Utility knife

Instructions

Cutting Ceiling Tiles

1. 

   Measuring tape

   Measure the area where you will be placing a tile on the ceiling. Subtract 1/8 inch from your measurements to ensure an easy fit.

2. Mark the measurements on the back side of the uncut ceiling tile with a pencil.

3. Lay the marked tile on a solid surface that is safe for cutting. Align the straight edge with your pencil line on the finished side of the ceiling tile.

4. Press the straight edge firmly on the tile. Using the utility knife score along the pencil line using the straight edge as a guide.

5. Grasping both sides of the tile close to the scored marks, gently snap the tile along the line.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a sharp blade in the utility knife for best results.

References

• Facadeideas.com: Ceiling Installation for Glue-up and Lay-in Applications; 2008
• Acehardware.com; Installing Ceiling Tile; 2001
• Acoustical Solutions; Ceiling Tiles Installation Instructions; 2001