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Tin ceiling

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This is an old revision of this page, as edited by Spookymaceo (talk | contribs) at 15:54, 18 May 2007. The present address (URL) is a permanent link to this revision, which may differ significantly from the current revision.

A tin ceiling is an architectural element that was very popular in Victorian buildings in North America in the late 19th century and early 20th.

History

Historically, tin ceilings were introduced to North America as an affordable alternative to the exquisite plasterwork used in European homes. They gained popularity in the late 1800’s as Americans sought sophisticated interior design. Durable, lightweight and fireproof, tin ceilings were appealing to home and business owners alike as a functionally attractive design element that was readily available. It was during the Victorian era (1839-1901) that thin rolled tin-plate was being mass-produced. Between 1890 and 1930, approximately forty-five companies in the United States marketed metal ceilings; most were in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York, located along railroad lines that served as the main routes for delivering the pressed metal products directly to contractors. Sheets of tin were stamped one at a time using rope drop hammers and cast iron molds. Using this method of production, metal was sandwiched between two interlocking tools. The top tool, or "ram," was lifted up by a rope or chain, then dropped down onto the bottom die, smashing into the metal that was underneath and permanently embedding intricate patterns into the tin. Tin ceilings were traditionally painted white to give the appearance of hand-carved or molded plaster. They were incorporated into residential living rooms and parlors as well as commercial businesses, where painted tin was often used as wainscoting.

In the 1930s, tin ceilings began to lose their popularity, and ceilings as a design element were ignored. As a result, few companies continued to produce pressed metal panels.

The 21st century brought innovation to this old world ceiling material with a new demand in North America. An interlocking tin panel flange system was created named, "SnapLock". The idea came from Gary Shapiro in Bradenton, Florida The American Tin Ceiling Company. This system allowed the installer flexibility in materials that were required for the installation of a tin ceiling. This new patented invention allows homeowners to easily screw the SnapLock tin ceiling panel into drywall, plaster, wood and other ceiling materials. Spookymaceo 20:57, 16 May 2007 (UTC)

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