Acoustic ceiling tiles effectively improve sound quality and reduce noise in residential, commercial, or institutional spaces. They are designed to absorb sound and enhance acoustical performance within a room. A typical application is installing acoustic ceiling tiles below a concrete slab using a suspended ceiling system.

This article explains the step-by-step procedure for installing acoustic ceiling tiles on a slab. We use mineral fiber tiles and a standard tee grid system.

Materials and Tools Required for Acoustic Ceiling Installation

Installing an acoustic ceiling is different from how we fix a gypsum ceiling. The acoustic tiles have a special grid system known as the tees. Here is what you need to fix a dropped acoustic ceiling system.

• Acoustic ceiling tiles (600mm x 600mm or 600mm x 1200mm)
• Main runners (3600mm), cross tees (600mm & 1200mm)
• Wall angles or shadow molding
• Galvanized binding wire (18 or 20 gauge)
• Expansion bolts, ceiling brackets
• Drill, level, pliers, tape measure, chalk line

Step 1: Mark the Ceiling Height

Use a spirit or laser level to mark the desired ceiling height around the room’s perimeter. Depending on utilities or lighting to be concealed above the ceiling, the distance is typically 6–12 inches below the concrete slab.

Step 2: Install Wall Angles

Fix wall angles or shadow molding along the marked line using wall plugs and screws. Wall angles form the edge support for the suspended ceiling grid. Make sure the angles are perfectly level on all sides.

Step 3: Suspend the Main Runners

Drill expansion bolts into the slab and fix the galvanized binding wire to hang the main tee runners (3600mm). Keep the main tees level with the wall angle and space them at 600mm or 1200mm apart, depending on the tile size.

Step 4: Install Cross Tees

Insert 600mm and 1200mm cross tees between main runners to form the ceiling grid—the cross tees lock into the main tees to create 600x600mm or 600x1200mm panels.

Step 5: Drop in the Acoustic Ceiling Tiles

Carefully lift and place each acoustic ceiling tile into the grid openings. Using a utility knife, trim the edge tiles for a perfect fit. Make sure each tile sits flush and level within the grid.

Optional: Add Lighting or HVAC Panels

The installing technician can install the lighting fixtures, diffusers, or AC vents in place of tiles where needed. Make sure these units are independently supported, not just resting on the ceiling grid.

Final Inspection

Ensure all tiles are correctly placed within each square grid and that the grid is level and secure. Clean any dust or marks. Well done! Your acoustic ceiling installation is complete! Now your customer or supervisor can inspect.

Why Choose GCS Acoustic Ceilings?

GCS Acoustic Ceiling Tiles from Gypsum Ceiling Supplies offer superior sound absorption, light reflectance, thermal insulation, and modern aesthetics. Paired with our fire-rated tee grid systems, they’re ideal for offices, schools, hospitals, studios, and homes.

Visit our branches in Nairobi, Kisumu, or Ruai, or shop online for high-quality acoustic ceiling materials, accessories, and installation guidance.

Need help? Contact us today for free consultation and site support!