You need to know how to cut ceiling tiles. Why? Because you love your house. Your bedroom is cozy, your bathroom is elegant, and you have a marvelous kitchen. There is one problem, though; the basement. It’s gross. After months of deliberation, you finally decided to turn that dingy old dungeon into an entertainment room. How exciting! Unfortunately, all of the plumbing was running below the floor joists above. No problem, you thought, a drop ceiling would be the perfect solution for this situation. As you considered this process, a shocking realization occurred; you don’t know how to cut ceiling tiles! No need to fear; our easy step-by-step guide will have you cutting ceiling tiles in no time.
How to Cut Ceiling Tiles- A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1- Measure
- Your ceiling tiles sit on top of the metal framework of your drop ceiling. To account for this, measure the opening in the framing. Add 1″ to the measurement. This will ensure that your ceiling tiles overlap the opening by ½”, allowing them to rest securely on top of the metal framework.
- Always measure both ends of your space. This way, you can confirm whether or not your opening is consistent or tapered.
Step 2- Mark
- Transfer the measurements you found in step one to your ceiling tile using your tape measure and a pencil or marker.
- Using a straight edge, draw a line along where you need to make your cut.
Step 3- Cut
- Place your ceiling tile on a piece of plywood, a workbench, or another surface you don’t mind cutting.
- Cut gently along the line you drew in step two with a sharp razor knife. Only penetrate ¼”-½” of the blade into the tile as you cut.
- Make a second cut following the same line; this time, penetrate the full depth of the blade into the tile.
- Break any remaining connecting between the ceiling tile and the portion you cut off.
Congratulations, you have cut your ceiling tile!
Additional Tips For Cutting Ceiling Tiles
- Use a new razor blade for each cut.
- A fresh, sharp knife will help keep your cut line straight and clean.
- Use a wallboard saw for cutting circles or notches out of your ceiling tile.
Good Work! Now You Know How to Cut Ceiling Tiles!
See? Cutting those ceiling tiles was a piece of cake; we knew you could do it the whole time. And now look at that basement, what a beauty! Your friends are going to be so jealous. You invited them all over to watch the big game next weekend. Your biggest problem now will be getting them to leave!