How to Remove Suspended Ceiling Tiles

Suspended ceilings are an excellent remodeling tool---perfect for finishing basements or other unfinished areas. They are fairly easy to install, and due the their modular construction, maintenance and repair can be accomplished quickly and easily. One of the most common repairs necessary for a suspended ceiling is replacement of ceiling tiles that have been damaged or have become discolored with age or by dirt and smoke. The first step in replacing the suspended ceiling tile is to remove it.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Stepladder

1. Position your stepladder underneath the ceiling tile(s) you wish to remove. For your personal safety, it's important that you use a proper ladder, as opposed to standing on a chair or some other make-shift method.

2. Push up firmly on one edge of the ceiling tile with your hands. The edge of the tile is the portion adjacent to the metal grid that holds the ceiling tile in place. The tile should lift up out of the grid as you push upon it.

3. After the edge comes loose, place your hands under the center of the tile and lift it straight up (above the grid and toward the ceiling above the drop ceiling). Lift the tile high enough that it is completely clear of the grid.

4. Angle the ceiling tile so that it can be slid downward from above the grid, through the opening in the ceiling. Slowly lower the tile down so that it comes out without bumping against the edge of the grid.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear safety glasses or goggles to prevent dust and debris from getting in your eyes as you lower the tile. This is especially important if the tiles are old or have been in the ceiling for a long time.

References

• The Family Handyman 2008; The Home Handyman; 2008

Resources

• Ceiling tiles