[DannyT]

if its those kinda soft easy to cut 12x12 tiles id take them down.

 

[timthetoolman]

There are two common types of these tiles. They may have been installed by gluing to the existing ceiling surface. Or more commonly they are attached to small furring strips spaced 12" apart which run perpendicular to the support joists...which you need to screw the drywall to. If you are screwing through furring strips you need much longer screws to catch joists and support the weight of the drywall. This will be much more of a pain.

Either way...Take it down...If you don't, you are only asking for headaches. Not to mention....finding your supports to screw to through the tile and strips will be a headache. And the chances for sagging drywall, popping screws, cracked corners, will go way up if you go over existing tiles!!!

 

[bob22]

Tiles may contain asbestos; might want them tested first before you start spreading asbestos throughout the home.

 

[dsbnad]

new drywall over old ceiling

to: timthetoolman.....

thank you! i did take the old celing down and so glad i did... needed to do a few repairs up there and my husband will put up canister lights now... wasn't even too messy.. i pulled the strips down and that tile came down in decent size strips also... thanks again. debra

 

[DannyT]

you will be glad you did many times in the future