They Are No Longer Made Of Tin !
An aluminum alloy has now been created to especially suit these beautiful art metal ceilings. Aluminum is a corrosion resistant, durable product which doesn't rust, unlike steel which is used by some manufactures of pressed tin. The panels are still widely known as pressed tin even though they are not made from tin.
Panel Sizes/Weight Differences
Aluminum ceiling panels are much smaller than sheetrock. They are generally 6' x 2' or otherwise 6' x 3'. A few are only 2' x 2'. This metal paneling is only one-fiftieth (yes, one fiftieth) of an inch thick. It is actually thicker than the original older style tin paneling but it is much lighter. One person can carry several sheets at one time. Imagine how much easier it is to hold a lightweight sheet of metal above your head as opposed to a very heavy sheet of wallboard which is easily more than twice as big as the largest aluminum sheet. The weight difference is enormous. And this is exactly what you will be doing - holding the sheet above your head whilst you attach it to your ceiling.
Painting a Pressed Aluminium Ceiling
Painting an ornate, aluminum ceiling in fine detail is easy because it is painted before it gets fixed to the ceiling. Painting an ornate plaster style ceiling is very difficult because it requires special equipment otherwise you will quickly get a sore back and a sore neck. Oil based paints are recommended.
Strength
When this special aluminum alloy is pressed into the various designs it hardens substantially and holds its shape exceedingly well.
Variety Of Patterns And Designs
There is now an enormous range of patterns available and these patterns can be arranged in an endless variety of designs to suit your ceiling. There are designs suited for both commercial and residential buildings plus there are contemporary designs as well as traditional patterns.
Longer Lasting Than A Plaster Ceiling
Aluminum ceilings won't rust, they won't crack and they won't fall off. The material they are made from is non-porous so it resists moisture and odor. If water enters your roof and if you can remove it promptly then you will have no damage to your ceiling. You certainly can't say that about most other types of decorative ceilings. Anyone who restores buildings will tell you that ceiling restoration is a major cost and time factor issue for them. Install an aluminum ceiling and you won't be facing any ceiling restoration problems in later years.
Good For Tornado/Cyclone Areas
Additionally, aluminum ceilings move and flex with the structure so if you are in cyclone or tornado areas you will find these products particularly suitable.
Value
Ornate aluminum ceilings will add more value to your property than they cost. They can be painted in myriad ways creating works of art on your ceiling. Their value becomes priceless. Stunning results are being obtained by the average home handyman.
