How to Install a Copper Stamped Metal Ceiling

Stamped Metal Ceilings Bring Back the Past or Accent the Modern

This post is in partnership with Decorative Ceiling Tiles. The opinions and recommendations are my own.
For more information on the ceiling tiles featured in this video Click Here. For more on the crown molding Click Here

Stamped metal ceilings were quite the rage beginning in the late 1800’s. Originally, they were intended as a less expensive way to replicate the ornate carved and cast plaster ceilings popular in Europe. Metal ceilings are still with us and in more varieties than ever.

For this 200-year-old home, they seemed to be the perfect enhancement to the dining room that was added 150 years ago.

Step 1

Decide on the Tile Layout

The goal in coming up with a good layout beforehand is to ensure that the partial tiles around the perimeter of the room are uniform and balanced. In nearly every situation, installation begins at a point near the center of the room.

Putting up furring strips for copper ceiling tiles

Step 2

Install Furring Strips

The tiles will be attached with nails. The nails would not have adequate gripping power in wallboard or plaster, so we’ll need to add either a layer of plywood or narrow furring strips. We use the furring strips which are run perpendicular to the ceiling joists and attached with screws.

Shimming furring strips for copper ceiling tile installation

Step 3

Shim to Create a Flat Nailing Surface

If the ceiling is not flat, and this one certainly is not, wooden shims are installed between the furring strips and the ceiling and adjusted until the furring strip surfaces are even. Either taut strings or a laser level can be used verify a flat surface.

Step 4

Nail Up the Tiles

The tiles are overlapped, and at twelve-inch intervals, cone-head nails driven through the edges and into the furring strips or plywood. This part of the job is best done with two people.

Cutting copper ceiling tile with aviation snips

Step 5

Cut Tiles with Aviation Snips

Full tiles can be trimmed to size, notched to fit around corners and cut out for vents and electrical boxes using aviation snips. Metal tiles have sharp edges, so wear gloves when working with them.