Tin ceilings are prized for their beautiful, distinctive patterns, and natural shine. Yet many homeowners hesitate to invest in these ceilings under the assumption that real tin ceiling tiles are too expensive, opting instead for cheaper plastic or acoustic tiles that resemble tin. In reality, real tin tiles are the better deal in the long run.

Benefits of Real Tin Ceiling Tiles

Actual tin carries several benefits for homeowners. First, real tin ceilings increase your home’s value. The eyes are naturally drawn upward, so if you are selling your home or purchasing a new one, metal ceilings may be the first thing a potential buyer notices. Tin ceilings are elegant and unique, available in a variety of colors and patterns that please almost everyone’s decorative tastes.

Beyond looks, real tin carries value to both environmentally- and maintenance-conscious homeowners. Compared to traditional wood or plaster ceilings, tin ceilings don’t crack or flake and are far less likely to attract insects. A tin ceiling acts as insulation, regulating indoor temperatures and saving you money on energy bills. Finally, real tin reflects both sunlight and indoor lighting extremely well, keeping your home bright and healthy. Sunlight is a great source of vitamin D and A, and it is a natural combatant of depression and stress.

Disadvantages of Plastic or Acoustic Tiles

Plastic and acoustic tiles come in several colors and patterns just like tin, so many homeowners choose these tiles assuming they are cheaper and easier to install. However, tin, plastic, and acoustic can be installed without much trouble. The tiles are either “dropped in” via a grid or quickly nailed in place.

Plastic or acoustic might be cheaper at first, but it will prove more expensive than tin over time. Plastic causes hidden pollution in a process known as off-gassing, wherein chlorine and other chemicals slowly seep out from the tiles. When the tiles start damaging your home’s air quality, you will likely remove them and throw them away. Your tiles will then end up in a landfill, damaging the environment. Even if you recycle, the plastic tiles will simply be repurposed into another plastic product, starting the process over again.

Unfortunately, there are further disadvantages to plastic and acoustic tiles. Usually quite flimsy, these tiles may lift out of the grid if the air pressure in your home changes. While this is not normally a concern, it can become one if you live in an area with frequent severe weather. Finally, plastic and acoustic tiles chip, flake, or break more easily than tin tiles, making them less aesthetically-pleasing.