Drop Ceiling Cost Calculator | Estimate New or Replacement Costs
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Use our drop ceiling cost calculator below to get an estimate of supplies, labor and installation cost for installing a new drop ceiling or replacing an existing acoustic tile ceiling. Estimated costs are based on your location, the square footage of the area to be installed, the type and size of ceiling tiles you choose, complexity of the project and the options you choose in the estimator tool below.
Estimated Cost Calculator
Overview
Installing a drop ceiling, acoustic tile ceiling or suspended tile ceiling, is not a hard project as long as you are handy, have the right tools and equipment and have the patience to get the job done right. I generally recommend hiring a remodeling contractor for this project since they have the knowledge, tools and experience to deliver a perfectly level drop ceiling with any added features like ceiling fans, can lighting and integrating HVAC vents into the tiles, which can be challenging for a homeowner who has never done the job before.
Included in this Estimate
- Materials and Supplies: All material costs such as the ceiling tiles based on the type you choose, the main runners, cross tees and wall angles. In addition, we’ve included estimated costs for all insulation as needed, adhesives, anchors, and any other necessary materials.
- Installation Labor: Labor costs for all work performed in the preparation, hanging and wall fastenings, reconnect lighting and HVAC vents, etc.
- Existing Removal and Disposal: If you’re replacing an existing drop ceiling, we’ll include the cost of removal and disposal.
- Jobsite Cleanup: All cleanup of the area after the new ceiling has been installed.
Not Included in this Estimate
- Extensive Electrical Work: If a new circuit breaker needs to be added for a dedicated line to the can lighting, you may need to hire an electrician and get permits from your local authorities.
- Fire Sprinkler Systems: If you require a fire suppression system in a commercial space, that needs to be handled separately.
- Extensive HVAC Work: If new duct runs need to be added versus reproposing the existing ducts/vents, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor.
- Paint Touch Ups: In most cases a drop ceiling can be installed without disrupting the existing walls to the point they need to be repainted. If there are some touch-ups needed however, you’ll need to either supply the paint or call a local handyman or painting company to complete that part of the project.
Common Types of Ceiling Tiles
The tiles below are the most common types installed in homes, apartments and small offices. We’ve included the common retail cost per square foot for each type, not including installation and labor cost.
- Acoustic Tiles: $2.50 – $4.00 / sqft
Acoustic ceiling tiles are designed to dampen sound and reduce noise levels within a room. They are often used in basement ceilings or areas where another living area is above the ceiling. Acoustic ceiling tiles often feature a porous surface that absorbs the sound to prevent it from travelling through the ceiling and floor above. Adding insulation to the space between the ceiling and floor can also provide sound dampening.
- Fiberglass Tiles: $3.00 – $4.50 / sqft
Fiberglass tiles are lightweight and offer excellent acoustic properties. They are resistant to moisture and mold, making them ideal for use in humid environments. These tiles are easy to install and can be found in various designs and finishes, suitable for both commercial and residential use.
- PVC Tiles: $2.00 – $3.75 / sqft
PVC tiles are moisture-resistant and durable, making them suitable for areas with high humidity or exposure to water, such as bathrooms and kitchens. These tiles are easy to clean and maintain, and they come in a variety of styles, including faux wood and metal finishes.
- Moisture Resistant Tiles: $2.50 – $4.50 / sqft
Moisture resistant tiles are designed to withstand high humidity and damp conditions. They are the right choice for use in bathrooms, basements, and kitchens. These ceiling tiles help to prevent mold and mildew growth, and assure a lasting solution when installed in areas prone to moisture.
- Fire-Rated Tiles: $3.50 – $5.00 / sqft
Fire-rated tiles are made from materials that resist fire, providing added safety in commercial and residential buildings. These tiles are often required in areas where building codes mandate fire-resistant materials. They offer both safety and functionality without compromising on aesthetic appeal.
- Aluminum / Metal Tiles: $5.00 – $10.00 / sqft
Metal tiles, often made from tin or aluminum, add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space. They are highly durable and resistant to moisture and fire. These tiles are commonly used in decorative applications, such as restaurants, cafes, and vintage-style homes.
- Wood Tiles: $6.00 – $12.00 / sqft
Wood ceiling tiles provide a warm and natural aesthetic, adding a touch of luxury to interiors. They are available in various wood types and finishes, allowing for customization to match any decor. These tiles are often used in high-end residential spaces, hotels, and upscale restaurants.
- Custom Designed Tiles: $8.00 – $15.00 / sqft
Custom designed tiles offer unique patterns and styles tailored to specific design requirements. They can be made from various materials, including metal, wood, and specialty composites. These tiles are ideal for creating distinctive and personalized interiors in commercial and residential projects.
Estimate for These Drop Ceiling Projects
Our cost estimator is designed to help you calculate the cost of installing a new drop ceiling where only the floor joists above are showing. Replacing a drop ceiling that already exists, or installing to an old drywall ceiling you wish to cover.
References and Data Sources
We make use of several resources to compile data used in our cost calculators. It assures you the most accurate cost estimates based on real scientific data from trusted resources. For this drop ceiling cost estimator, we used the following sources:
- Cost of living data: US Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis.
- Labor costs are calculated from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics and based on your zip code and state.
- Ceiling tiles and grid supplies costs are sourced from the following: Pro ceiling Tile Supplier, Home Depot, Grainger Supply, Lowes Home Improvement.
- Estimated costs are compiled by a averaging the cumulative costs submitted by our drywall and ceiling tile installation partners who have used this as a estimating tool for their own purposes and made their estimates public.
- We’ve removed all personal identifying data and used aggregate values only.
