For devoted do-it-your-selfers, there is no job too big or too small to take on. Hanging a new type of ceiling tiles is one do-it-yourself way to dramatically improve any room. A tin-look or metal ceiling tile looks complicated, but can be a true do-it-yourself project. These aluminum ceilings can add a degree of charm and nostalgia to any home.

Pick and Paint

The first thing you should do when considering this project is to pick a ceiling tile that you like. All metal tiles tend to come in one color, therefore it is necessary to paint the tile to your liking. The detail that you add to the tile with the painting is entirely up to you. Keep in mind that the more paint and colors you add to the tile the greater the more interesting the finished product will look.

Install a Plywood Sub-ceiling

Attaching your metal ceiling tiles to a plywood subceiling is the easiest way to install a tin-look ceiling. After removing the old ceiling and making sure it is completely dry, attach the plywood ceiling in panels. Do this with screws and make sure they are securely fastened to the pre-existing support beams for the ceiling. Once the plywood sub-ceiling is constructed, it is time to begin attaching your painted metal ceiling tiles.

Install Tiles

This is where the do-it-yourself project can get a bit complicated. In order for the ceiling to be installed properly it must be installed square. Therefore, you must find and mark the true center of the ceiling and draw your square pattern from that point, making visible lines going from the center to the walls of the room to outline where the squares will go . Once you have completed this step, lay out the design by placing your metal squares on the floor in the pattern you intend to use, so that you know how the layout will look once it is on the ceiling. Attach one tile at a time starting with the outside edges of the room (either directly to the edge of the ceiling or to your cornices or crown molding first if you have cornices). The tiles should be attached using small nails. The manufacturer's instructions for the metal ceiling pieces will specify a nail size. Once the ceiling tiles are attached, examine the ceiling for any visible nails. There should be no obvious nail heads showing since they are so small, however, if you see a nail showing a simple paint touch up is all that is needed to make the blemish disappear.

Source:

OldHouseWeb.com: How to Install a Tin Ceiling