Acoustical ceiling tiles are as common in commercial buildings as gypsum wallboard on the walls. While they do a great job providing a bright and consistent ceiling, they also raise concerns in tenant’s minds when they become water stained.
Water stained ceiling tiles can occur when small leaks happen in the above ceiling areas. The first evidence of a small leak is indicative of larger problems in the future and should be addressed quickly by property management. At the same time however, water damaged ceiling tiles should be replaced.
I have walked through commercial buildings with stained ceiling tiles many times. Occasionally, occupants ask whether there is mold growing on the surface of the stained tiles. My response is always, “While mold could grow on the surface of that tile, it would have to be in response to a chronic water leak. A simple water stained tile from a short-term leak usually won’t support mold.”
What often happens is that the occupants are walking through the building and happened to look up at the ceiling. When they see a dark stain on the tile, they begin to worry about indoor air quality.
I am a firm believer that “out of sight is out of mind,” and the simplest way to end this issue as a concern in the minds of building occupants is to simply replace the tile.
Water damaged acoustical tiles will always happen. It is important that your staff understands that identifying and fixing the leak and then replacing the tiles will eliminate many occupant concerns for mold in the building.