How to Ceramic Tile a Ceiling

Ceramic tiles come in many shapes, sizes and designs.

Drywall, wood and acoustic tiles are all popular ceiling materials. But, if you want a fresh new look and and a challenging project, then try applying ceramic tiles to your ceiling. This process will take a bit more time than other ceiling installations; however, it will last a lifetime if done properly. Installing ceramic tiles on your ceiling means smoothing any texture first. Either scrape away the texture or cover the ceiling with cement backer board to get a tile-ready surface. Once the ceiling is smooth then it is ready to be tiled.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Chalk box
• Tile adhesive
• Toothed tile trowel
• Tiles
• Boards, 8 foot long 2-by-4s
• Sledge hammer
• Caulk gun with 30-year silicone caulk
• Wet rags

Instructions

1. Measure around the perimeter of your ceiling. Place pencil marks periodically around the perimeter, spacing them the length of one tile plus 1/2 inch. Connect each mark to the corresponding mark on the opposite wall with your chalk box.

2. Spread tile adhesive between the starting wall and your first chalk line. Press tiles into the adhesive, leaving a 1/2-inch space between each tile.

3. Have an assistant hold an 8-foot board flat against the tiles. Place another 8-foot board between a point 2 feet from one end of the horizontal board and the floor below. Gently tap the bottom of the vertical board with your sledge to wedge it into place. Install a second vertical brace 2 feet from the opposite end of the horizontal board.

4. Cover the entire ceiling with tiles, leaving a 1/2-inch brace between each tile and carefully bracing the tiles with your boards. Allow 24 hours for the adhesive to cure. Remove the braces.

5. Squirt a bead of caulk into the gaps between the tiles. Wrap a wet rag around your finger and wipe each bead to compress and smooth the caulk. Allow 12 hours for the caulk to cure.

Tips & Warnings

• Safety glasses and work gloves are required for this project.

References

• Ceramic Tile Floor: Ceramic Tile Installation