Suspended Ceiling Removal

Removing the Tile

• The ceiling tile rest in a framework of channels. Removing the tiles is as simple as pushing the tile up and free of the framework. Twist the tile and lower through the framework to clear the tile from the ceiling. The tile can be set aside for reuse or disposed of. Wear safety goggles and a breathing mask during removal. Many of ceiling tiles include fiberglass as sound insulation.

Dealing With Lights

• Suspended ceilings sometimes include electrical light fixtures. Turn off the power at the breaker or fuse box before disconnecting the fixtures. The fixtures commonly connect to a junction box attached to the ceiling joists. Remove the fluorescent bulbs before removing the light fixtures from the suspended grid.

Removing the Grid

• The suspended framework hangs from wire attached to the ceiling joists. Use a wire cutter or pliers to cut the wires. Disconnect the pieces of the grid framework, which is clipped together, as you clip the wires and lower the frame. The grid can be reused or sold for scrap.

Cleaning Up the Details

• Some of the framework is fastened by nails or screws to the wall around the perimeter of the room. There are also nails or screws into the ceiling joists that served as the anchor of the wires that held the grid in place. Depending on the future plans for the space, these screws or nails may need to be removed to make way for insulation or other renovations.