Apparatus and method for refurbishing a ceiling grid to permit installation of ceiling panels

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method of installing asbestos impermeable acoustical ceiling panels to an existing suspended ceiling system, and a bracket and asbestos impermeable ceiling panel therefor. This method utilizes existing light fixture supports so that existing light fixtures and any asbestos insulation need not be removed. The method generally comprises the following steps: a) providing a plurality of brackets having base and tee portions, a leg extending from the base, and a flange extending from the tee, b) aligning each bracket so that its flange engages the lips of the existing light fixtures, c) attaching the legs to the existing light fixture supports, and d) mounting the new ceiling panels on the tee portions of the brackets. The ceiling panel comprises a layer of acoustical material with an asbestos impermeable vinyl backing secured to its upper surface and an asbestos impermeable coating applied to its edges. Asbestos particles accumulating on the upper surface of the ceiling panel are easily vacuumed away.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.