Mineral fibre and metal ceiling tiles are the two most common lay-in tiles for suspended grid ceilings. Mineral fibre tiles — made from mineral wool, cellulose & binders — are prized for excellent acoustic absorption (high NRC) and are the default for offices, schools and auditoria. Metal tiles — aluminium / GI / steel — are durable, hygienic, fire-safe, and used in clean rooms, airports, hospitals and premium commercial ceilings.
These tiles follow ASTM E1264 / EN 13964. Major brands: Armstrong, Saint-Gobain Ecophon, USG Boral, Hunter Douglas, Anutone, Aerolite, Daiken, Gyproc.
Made from mineral wool / fibreglass + recycled cellulose + binders, formed into lightweight acoustic tiles with a textured / fissured / smooth face. The porous structure absorbs sound, making them ideal for noise control.
Made from aluminium / galvanised steel, powder-coated, in lay-in, clip-in, or open-cell formats. Durable, washable, non-combustible & moisture-proof — ideal for hygienic / wet / premium applications.
| Parameter | Mineral Fibre | Metal (Aluminium/GI) |
|---|---|---|
| Acoustic (NRC) | 0.50–0.90 (excellent) | 0.50–0.85 (perforated + backing) |
| Durability | Moderate (fragile) | High |
| Moisture Resistance | Moderate (sags if wet) | Excellent |
| Fire | Fire-resistant | Non-combustible |
| Hygiene / Washable | Limited | Excellent |
| Look | Textured / functional | Modern metallic |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Best For | Offices, schools (acoustic) | Clean rooms, hospitals, airports, premium |
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Lay-in Mineral Fibre | Drops into T-grid (most common) |
| Tegular Edge | Reveal edge (recessed look) |
| Acoustic Fissured / Fine Texture | Varied face patterns |
| Humidity Resistant (RH99) | For humid areas |
| Metal Lay-in / Clip-in | Aluminium / GI in grid |
| Metal Open Cell / Baffle | Open architectural look |
| Metal Linear / Plank | Linear strips |
| Perforated Metal + Acoustic Pad | Sound + durability |
| Property | Mineral Fibre | Metal |
|---|---|---|
| Module Size | 600x600, 600x1200 mm | 600x600, linear, custom |
| Thickness | 15–20 mm | 0.5–0.7 mm sheet |
| NRC | 0.50–0.90 | 0.50–0.85 (perforated) |
| Light Reflectance | up to 85% | Varies (coated) |
| Fire Rating | Class A (limited combust.) | Non-combustible (A1) |
| Humidity Resistance | up to RH 95–99% (special) | Excellent |
| Lifespan | 10–15 yr | 20–30 yr |
| Brand | Products |
|---|---|
| Armstrong | Mineral fibre & metal ceilings |
| Saint-Gobain Ecophon | Acoustic mineral tiles |
| USG Boral | Mineral fibre tiles |
| Hunter Douglas | Metal & designer ceilings |
| Anutone / Aerolite / Daiken | Acoustic tiles |
| Gyproc | Ceiling tiles |
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Standard Mineral Fibre Tile (per sqft) | Rs 30 – 70 |
| Acoustic Premium Mineral Fibre (per sqft) | Rs 70 – 160 |
| Humidity Resistant (RH99) Tile (per sqft) | Rs 60 – 130 |
| Metal Lay-in Tile (per sqft) | Rs 120 – 300 |
| Metal Open Cell / Baffle (per sqft) | Rs 200 – 500 |
| Installed with Grid (mineral, per sqft) | Rs 60 – 140 |
| Installed with Grid (metal, per sqft) | Rs 180 – 450 |
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| ASTM E1264 | Classification for Acoustical Ceiling Products |
| ASTM C423 | Sound Absorption (NRC) |
| EN 13964 | Suspended Ceilings — Requirements |
| ASTM E84 / EN 13501 | Fire / Surface Burning |
| ASTM E1414 | Sound Attenuation (CAC) |
| ISO 354 | Sound Absorption Measurement |
Mineral fibre and metal tiles are the workhorses of suspended grid ceilings. Mineral fibre offers the best acoustic absorption at low cost — ideal for offices, schools and auditoria; metal tiles are durable, hygienic and fire-safe — ideal for clean rooms, hospitals, airports and premium / wet areas. Choose humidity-resistant grades for humid areas, galvanised grid for durability, and add insulation backing for extra acoustic performance.
These tiles install into Armstrong / grid ceilings; for fixed designer ceilings, see gypsum boards, POP or wooden ceiling; for budget / wet areas, PVC panels. Add glass wool / rock wool backing for acoustic.