4 Ceiling Tile Edge Types Explained

There are four main styles of ceiling tile edges; square, tegular, vector, and tongue and groove. How do you know which is compatible with your installation method and desired look? We’re here to help.

What is an edge profile?

The edge profile is the style or type of edge found on a ceiling tile. Some tiles are easier to install because of their edge type, while some minimize the amount of grid showing, and others offer design details to elevate your overall interior look.

Common edge profiles

• Square lay-in sits directly on the suspended ceiling grid.
• Square tegular hangs 1/4" below the grid creating a field of squares.
• Beveled tegular hangs 1/4" below the grid with rounded corners to create a softer look.
• Angled tegular hangs 1/4" below the grid with angled corners to create a softer look.
• Flush tegular hangs flush with the grid to create a smooth surface.
• Vector creates a clean, grid-hiding visual effect.
• Tongue & groove provides a seamless, uninterrupted grid-less look.

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4 main ceiling tile edge types explained

Square lay-in

A square edge on an acoustical ceiling tile forms a rectangle when viewed from the side. Square Lay-in tiles are one of the simplest tiles to install and allow for easy access to pipes, wiring, and ducts.

Square edge tiles and panels sit flush with the suspension system, creating a classic, clean look. They come in a variety of sizes, colors, and textures making them great for large spaces like schools, mega stores, offices, and healthcare facilities.

Tegular

Tegular edge profiles are available in a variety of sizes and finishes and are often used to replace ceiling tiles for an updated, more modern look or used in new construction to create a visually pleasing final look.

A tegular edge refers to the stepped edge detail allowing a tile or panel to extend below the grid, making it less noticeable. A beveled tegular edge is the most common style and creates a soft look due to its angled or rounded step.

A few tiles have variations of the tegular edge. For example, in addition to a beveled tegular, CIRRUS Profiles, also offers a chamfered tegular (steps and angles) and a classic step tegular option.

It’s easy to update your tile style while maintaining easy access to all pipes, ducts, and wiring when you install a tegular edge tile.

Vector

A vector edge profile design provides downward accessibility and a clean upscale visual with a thin 1/4″ reveal, nearly hiding the grid. You can install vector edge tiles using a standard 15/16” suspended grid.

In this video, you'll learn about installation options and how to use perimeter trim, like AXIOM, to complete the vector ceiling look.

Tongue and groove

Tongue and groove edges are available on various tiles, but are most popular with surface mount applications like wood-look planks and GRENOBLE 12 x 12 ceiling tiles.

On one edge, you’ll see a groove running down the center side of the tile or plank and on the other, a corresponding tongue making each piece seamlessly fit together without a gap. They are easy to install and offer a modern, clean look.

All the ceiling tile edge profile variants

Now that you know the main edge types for ceiling tiles and how they look in the grid, have you decided on your ceiling style?

When shopping on Kanopi’s site, you’ll find illustrations of each option edge profile based on your tile and size. With multiple to choose from, you’re sure to find the desired look and functionality for your new ceiling!

Still can’t decide, try our ceiling selector to guide you to your perfect fit!