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What are Acoustic Ceiling Tiles?

What are Acoustic Ceiling Tiles?

Author: Eric Dellolio

Last Updated: June 26, 2024

Read Time: 3 Minutes

Author:

Eric Dellolio

Last Updated:

Jun. 26, 2024

Read Time:

3 Minutes

Author: Eric Dellolio

Updated: Jun. 26, 2024

Read Time: 3 Minutes

An acoustic ceiling tile (ACT) is just like a traditional ceiling tile, designed to lay into a drop ceiling grid. The main difference is that they are made of materials engineered to absorb sound and reduce echo and reverberation. These tiles are ideal for environments such as offices, schools, restaurants, and commercial spaces where noise control is crucial.

what are acoustic ceiling tiles made of?

Acoustic ceiling tiles are made of a variety of different materials ranging from recycled fibers to cementitious wood wool, each built to perform. The materials we use in our acoustic ceiling tiles are manufactured with safety and durability in mind. They're fungal resistant, meet Class A fire rating standards, and contain no chemical irritants or formaldehydes.

Material Why We Recommend Acoustical Performance
  • Recycled polyester fibers
  • 1/2" or 1" thickness
  • Cost-effective acoustics
NRC: 0.90
  • Recycled polyester fibers
  • 12 color options
NRC: 0.80
  • Sustainable wood wool
  • 5/8" thick
  • Easy to paint
NRC: 0.50
  • High density, recycled cellulose
  • Blocks and absorbs sound
  • Add behind existing tiles in offices
NRC: 0.50
STC: 15
  • Non-fibrous beads good for labs and clean rooms
  • Waterproof
  • Blocks and absorbs sound
NRC: 0.70
STC: 13

how are acoustic ceiling tiles used?

Acoustic ceiling tiles are primarily used to improve sound quality and speech intelligibility within a space by absorbing echo and reducing reverb. They also reduce noise by between 3-10 dB. It's very common for people to use acoustic ceiling tiles to improve acoustics in open offices, conference rooms, call centers, and schools.

Transforming a ceiling with acoustic ceiling tiles will create a clearer, quieter working environment. People will also subconsciously speak at more comfortable levels, further lowering the overall noise level due to reduced echo and reverb – a concept called psychoacoustics. For places like call centers and schools where voices and background noise reign supreme, adding acoustic ceiling tiles will help limit distracting noise and promote focus.

Ceiling Tiles for Blocking Sound

Buildings with shared walls often share noise, too. With drop ceilings, it’s very common that there is nothing above the two spaces allowing sound to flank over through the ceiling. By adding acoustic ceiling tile backers or ceiling tiles designed to block sound you can help prevent sound from traveling between rooms with shared walls. This is particularly useful in spaces where privacy is important, such as medical offices and counseling rooms.

final thoughts: why acoustic ceiling tiles?

Acoustic ceiling tiles are an excellent solution for anyone looking to improve the acoustic quality of a space. Their ability to enhance speech intelligibility and reduce noise make them invaluable in commercial settings. With easy installation and a variety of material options, acoustic ceiling tiles offer a practical and effective way to manage sound in any room.

Our Recommendation

PolyZorbe™ EZ Drop Acoustic Ceiling Tiles


Related Pages

Acoustic Ceiling Tiles

Drop Ceiling Soundproofing