Let’s face it. There is nothing attractive about the standard acoustic ceiling tiles. But at $2-$3 per 2x2 ceiling tile, should you consider using this low-cost material in your home? If you are like most homeowners, then the only room you would consider them for is the one that few guests will ever see: your basement. Unfortunately, the conditions of a basement are not favorable to mineral fiber tiles. Often, ceiling grids in a basement are used to grant access to pipes along the ceiling and when water drips from the pipes (whether from condensation or a leak in the pipe), the tile is left with a very noticeable, yellow stain. An even bigger issue is that basements can have higher moisture levels in the air, causing the tiles to age rapidly, often leading to mold and mildew issues.

When installing ceiling tiles in a basement, the best choice is to select a waterproof tile. Not only will a waterproof tile prevent those unsightly stains on the ceiling, but it will also last far longer in the harsher conditions of a basement. So, while $2-$3 might be a lower up-front cost when you consider the additional expense of replacing tiles (and the time involved in installing them), most homeowners are far better off investing in something that not only looks better but will stand the test of time.