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Answers to Frequently
Asked Questions
What are Armstrong
®
ceilings made of?
Armstrong
®
mineral board ceilings are made of inert mineral
components, binders and inert filler materials, with up to 55% recycled
content. Armstrong Ceilings also offers durable laminate plank ceilings
with 95% recycled content.
What about insulation value between oors?
Most ceilings are installed between floors that are maintained at the
same temperature — making insulation unnecessary. Basement
recreation rooms are at least partly heated by heat flow through the
ceiling from the heated space above. In that case, attempting to insulate
the basement ceiling surface could actually reduce heat flow.
Can I put insulation on the back of Armstrong ceilings?
Only Armstrong suspended ceiling panels (2' x 4') that are at least 5/8"
thick can be backloaded with additional insulation. Rolled insulation
must be used and installed perpendicular to the cross tees so that the
weight of the insulation rests on the suspended grid system, and there
is an air space between the insulation and the panel.
NOTE: Insulation must never be placed behind fire-rated ceilings, unless
designated in a UL design assembly. Backloading fiberglass panels is
not recommended.
Can Armstrong ceilings be painted?
All Armstrong ceiling tiles and panels (except fiberglass) can be painted
with latex paints. The front and back of 2' x 2' and 2' x 4' panels should
be painted.
Note: Armstrong Ceilings cannot guarantee that the published surface-
burning characteristics, fire-resistance ratings, acoustical performance,
dimensional stability/sag, or light reflectance will remain the same
after repainting. Field painting will void the warranty.
Will painting acoustical ceilings affect acoustic efciency?
Armstrong acoustical ceilings can be painted with a slight loss of
acoustical efficiency using nonbridging paint which does not cover
the holes.
Can ceiling tile be used in the bathroom?
Yes, if the bathroom is vented to the outside with a fan. Armstrong
ceilings with extra sag/mold/mildew resistance for use in areas of
high humidity are recommended.
Should ceiling materials adjust to room temperature
before installation?
Yes. Unpack ceiling materials 24 hours before installation to adjust
to normal room conditions. Do not install during excessively humid
conditions. See specific product instructions for best results.
Can the ceiling be installed over embedded radiant-heat
coil ceilings?
No. An appreciable loss of heating efficiency will result and the ceiling
will not remain stable.
Can a hanging or swag lamp be used with an
Armstrong ceiling?
Yes, if supported independently by an existing structural member.
Can a new ceiling be cemented directly over old
ceiling tiles?
It’s best to remove old tiles first. In many cases, the old ceiling may
have deteriorated and an adequate hold cannot be obtained.
What is the minimum overhead distance required for
a new suspended ceiling?
Armstrong suspended ceilings require a minimum of 3" (6" if
installing recessed lighting) of overhead clearance.
Can existing light xtures be used with a new ceiling?
Yes. Armstrong ceilings are adaptable to standard lighting fixtures.
Will the mineral ceiling sag over time?
No. Armstrong ceilings are treated with a special back coating to
resist moisture. When properly installed under the right conditions
(no excessive humidity, etc.), they remain level and flat. We
recommend using sag/mold/mildew resistant panels or fiberglass
panels in areas of high or seasonal humidity; they are not
recommended for spaces exposed to continuous moisture, such
as shower rooms and swimming pool areas.
Do Armstrong ceilings protect against the spread of re?
All Armstrong panels, tiles and planks are fire-retardant and meet
Class A flame-spread ratings, with the exception of WoodHaven
®
planks, which meet class C flame-spread ratings. All products meet
residential building codes.
Have questions that we didn't answer?
Contact: armstrongceilings.com or Techline
1-877-ARMSTRONG (276-7876)