Vinyl plasterboard ceiling tiles are commonly specified in commercial suspended ceiling systems where a smooth, durable, and easily cleanable surface is required. These tiles are typically used in offices, healthcare, education, and retail environments where hygiene and maintenance are important considerations.
Historically, foil-backed vinyl plasterboard tiles such as the Nova range have been used on Australian projects. Today, the most commonly specified vinyl-faced plasterboard ceiling tile is Gyprock Freshtone, which is available in both white and black finishes and integrates with standard suspended ceiling grid systems.
Nova Foil-Backed Vinyl Plasterboard Ceiling Tiles (Reference Only)
Nova foil-backed vinyl plasterboard ceiling tiles have previously been used in Australia where vapour control and moisture resistance were required. Availability and specification vary and these products are now primarily referenced on legacy projects.
Information relating to Nova tiles is retained for reference only.
The foil backing is a point of difference when comparing the Nova to its rivals. Foil is commonly used in the reflection of heat in construction. Furthermore, The foil backing is designed to be more resistant to moisture than the usual paper backing on most plasterboard ceiling panels. Moisture leads to tile sag and premature tile life. This makes Nova ideal for ceiling spaces with low ventilation and higher than average humidity.
Tech Specs
- Material. Plasterboard
- Texture: Fine textured vinyl face
- Colour: White
- Edge Profile: Square
- Tile Length: 1192mm
- Width: 592mm
- Tile Thickness:9mm
- CAC: not specified
- NRC: not specified
- Sustainability: made from gypsum and 100 percent reclaimed paper waste
My thoughts on Nova Plasterboard ceiling tile
I find the smooth factory edges makes for easier cutting. Most experienced installers use their tape as a guide for measurement. The surface is then scored at the desired length for the length of the tile. Consequently, the smoother edge makes this easier reduced bumps as you score the panel.
The Nova vinyl Plasterboard ceiling tile breaks cleanly when scoring and snapping. I am unclear as to whether this is due to the backing or the board or both. In reality, I only care that it breaks cleanly, reducing the need for messy time-consuming trimming.
The prepackaged boxes that Nova comes in, results in less damage. This, in turn, leads to a cleaner install and a better result overall. The only negative I could state here is the boxes are heavy. Henceforth, it would be a good idea to invest in smart ways to move them around the site.
Conclusion
Nova is currently our preferred plasterboard vinyl ceiling tile. Firstly, this is largely due to it being a quality product, at a competitive price. Secondly, It’s brilliant white face really lights up a space, creating a fantastic look. Finally, it has the added bonus of the foil backing for the same price as it’s competitors. Henceforth, this is why it takes the number 1 spot for vinyl faced ceiling tiles we use.
Gyprock Freshtone Vinyl-Faced Ceiling Tiles
Gyprock Freshtone is the vinyl-faced plasterboard ceiling tile most commonly specified on current Australian commercial projects. It provides a smooth, hygienic surface suitable for areas requiring regular cleaning, including healthcare, education, and food-adjacent environments.
Gyprock Freshtone is available in both white and black finishes, making it suitable for modern black ceiling tiles used in low-light commercial interiors.. The tiles are installed as part of compliant suspended ceiling systems, allowing access to services and integration with lighting and HVAC.