Are All Ceiling Tiles Fire Rated?

Not all ceiling tiles are fire rated. Standard decorative or mineral fiber tiles may not offer fire-resistance performance unless specifically tested. Aluminum ceiling tile manufacturers produce variants with noncombustible or fire-retardant cores and coatings that meet fire test criteria. These tiles, when part of a complete assembly—including a compatible aluminum suspension grid and perimeter trim—can achieve hourly fire-resistance ratings under UL 263 or ASTM E119. To confirm whether a tile is fire rated, check the manufacturer’s fire-resistance directory listing, which provides a listing number, hourly rating, and installation details. Look for classification marks on tile packaging or the product data sheet indicating compliance with ASTM E84 (surface burning) and UL 723. Always pair fire-rated tiles with the specified grid, seal perimeters and penetrations appropriately, and follow the tested installation guidelines. This ensures that your aluminum ceiling system delivers the expected fire resistance and complies with building codes.