How do you read the technical values of acoustic ceiling tiles?
Example data from a white-coated mineral fiber acoustic tile, 600 x 1200 x 14 mm, flat edge, installed on a T-bar grid with a 24 mm face.
Value | Example | What it means in use |
|---|---|---|
Weight per area | 3.33-3.58 kg/m2 | Light, saves on structure |
Sound absorption (NRC) | 0.50 | Reduces echo in the room |
Sound attenuation (CAC) | 33 dB | Reduces noise from outside |
Fire rating | Class A | Does not spread flame or give off toxic smoke |
Light reflectance | 0.86 | Helps keep the room bright |
Thermal resistance (R) | 1.6 (BTU) | Acts as thermal insulation |
Suited to offices, schools, hotels, meeting rooms, karaoke rooms and home theaters.
How acoustic ceiling tiles reduce echo
Acoustic ceiling tiles absorb sound instead of reflecting it. They are made of mineral fiber, perforated gypsum with insulation behind it, or other porous materials, so a room echoes less and speech is clearer. Performance is rated by NRC: the closer to 1, the more sound it absorbs.
Types and uses
- Mineral-fiber T-bar tiles, 60x60 and 60x120 cm, 12-16 mm, from USG, Armstrong and Fibrotone
- Patterned KS-Acoustic, KS-Acoustone and KS-Softonee tiles, 12-16 mm
- Perforated gypsum boards such as Knauf Cleaneo and Micro Ceiling Vela for drywall ceilings
Benefits
- Meeting rooms, classrooms and restaurants echo less, so conversation is clearer
- Many are rated for high humidity and resist sagging
- Sit in a T-bar grid and lift out for access like any tile
- Glass wool above the tiles also cuts sound passing between rooms
Why buy acoustic tiles at OneStockHome
We stock acoustic tiles from USG, Armstrong, Knauf, KS-Acoustic and Gyproc with prices side by side, and T-bar grid in the same order. To block sound through walls, see sound-rated board. Delivered nationwide.
