Acoustical Ceilings

Commercial Acoustical Ceilings: Where Function Meets Design

Walk into almost any office, retail space, or commercial building, and chances are you’ll look up to see an acoustical ceiling. These ceilings are one of the most widely used construction features in commercial interiors—and for good reason. They’re designed to do more than just cover ductwork and wiring; they play a vital role in managing sound and enhancing the overall experience of a space.

At first glance, acoustical ceilings may appear simple—typically smooth with tiny pinholes, pores, or textured patterns—but there's much more going on behind the surface. These tiles are engineered to absorb and control sound, helping to reduce noise levels, improve speech clarity, and create a more comfortable environment for employees, clients, and visitors alike.

But not all acoustical tiles are the same. There are a wide variety of materials, textures, and performance levels available, each suited to different needs—from basic sound absorption to high-end designs that meet strict acoustic ratings for specialized spaces like conference rooms, medical facilities, and classrooms.

At Midwest Partitions, we specialize in commercial ceiling construction with a focus on custom acoustic grid ceiling systems. Our team works closely with contractors, architects, and developers to deliver solutions that don’t just meet performance standards—they elevate the look and feel of the entire space. Whether you’re going for sleek and modern or warm and welcoming, we offer customizable ceiling options that balance aesthetics with acoustic effectiveness.

In short, a well-designed ceiling isn’t just overhead—it’s a key element of a smart commercial interior. With the right acoustic ceiling system, you can reduce noise, meet building requirements, and create a space that sounds as good as it looks.

Acoustic Ceilings

Acoustical Ceilings

  • STANDARD SYSTEM: This acoustical tile is used for noise absorption and as a decorative overhead surface. The standard system tile is made of wood fiber, mineral fiber or metal pan. This ceiling is stapled, cemented or suspended in metal framework to the existing ceiling structure. Wood fiber tiles will absorb between 45% and 65% of the sound, which strikes their surface, mineral fiber ceilings, 55% to 80% and metal pan (perforated aluminum or steel below a mineral pad) 80% to 90%.
  • TIME DESIGN RATED SYSTEM: This system is used as a fire protective barrier for structural steel building components. They are always made of incombustible mineral fiber and are usually of denser composition than standard acoustical material. This ceiling tends to require less cleaning since it does not allow the passage of dirt-laden air to pass through it, as do standard tiles. Time design tiles are the only acoustical ceiling tiles, which can be painted with no effect on their acoustical or fire protective performance.
  • VENTILATION SYSTEM: This system is designed to distribute conditioned air (heating and cooling). The entire ceiling delivers this conditioned air via perforations, which run through the entire thickness of the tile. This conditioned air is fed continuously into a sealed area above the ceiling called the plenum where it builds up in pressure. This pressure forces the air into the room through the ceiling perforations. Ductwork and vents are not required with this system, there are no cold spots as can be found in ductwork vent systems. The constant downward flow keeps dust and dirt from accumulating on the ceiling surface. The low rate of air movement also keeps dust and dirt from circulating around the room. Any broken or cracked tiles should be replaced since they reduce the plenum pressure, which affects the uniformity of air distribution.
  • CERAMIC SYSTEM: This system is used in locations, which are exposed to high moisture conditions. These areas include indoor swimming pools, food processing facilities, outdoor amphitheaters, and parking garages. These ceiling tiles are composed of an inert composition which will not expand, contract or weaken under prolonged exposure to moisture.
  • MULTI-FUNCTIONAL INTEGRATED SYSTEM: This system combines into a single assembly all the necessary provisions for room lighting, air distribution, and acoustical control. All components - mechanical, electrical, and structural - are blended together to create a unified visual effect. This design reduces above ceiling congestion.
  • SPECIAL PURPOSE SYSTEMS: There are a few specialized types of ceilings, which have been designed to meet the requirements of unique environmental conditions. The hospital is an example of one of these locations where unique conditions exist. In many parts of a hospital, the interior surfaces must be scrubbed and disinfected on a weekly basis or even more often to discourage the growth of bacteria. Except for ceramic ceilings, traditional acoustical ceiling tiles cannot withstand the moisture and scrubbing necessary in this environment.

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