PRANCE metalwork is a leading manufacturer of metal ceiling and facade systems.
How Are Custom Aluminum Drop Ceiling Tiles Installed on Vertical Walls?
Custom aluminum drop ceiling tiles can be repurposed as striking vertical wall panels for feature walls, lobbies, and outdoor façades. Begin by designing a concealed subframe: a galvanized steel or aluminum grid fixed to the wall studs, spaced according to tile dimensions, typically 600 × 600 mm or 1200 × 300 mm. The grid attaches via adjustable brackets that ensure perfect alignment and allow for thermal expansion.
Each tile features perimeter flanges that hook into the T-bar grid. For vertical installation, rotate tiles so flanges engage horizontal moldings; ensure that the bottom flange overlaps the tile below to direct water away from the substructure. Seal joints with elastomeric gaskets or silicone beads to maintain watertight integrity. Where panels meet at corners or around openings, fabricate custom extrusions or use trim profiles to conceal cut edges and provide a clean finish.
Because vertical applications face wind uplift, specify mechanical locking clips or concealed fasteners made of stainless steel to secure each tile to the grid. Reinforce the grid at regular intervals—every 600 mm vertically—to resist dynamic loads. Finally, apply a powder coat or anodized finish to both tiles and grid components for consistent color, corrosion resistance, and low maintenance. This method delivers a seamless, modern façade look using familiar drop ceiling tiles in an innovative vertical configuration.