For 16 x 16 fiber board ceiling tiles, what is the length of staples used along each flanged edge?

• A. 9/16 inch
• B. 1/2 inch
• C. 5/8 inch
• D. 3/4 inch

Answer: (A)

The main idea is to choose a staple length that will bite into the backing enough to hold the thin fiberboard edge without causing damage. For a 16 x 16 fiberboard ceiling tile with a flanged edge, you want the staple to pass through the edge and embed into the supporting material behind it. A 9/16 inch staple length achieves this by penetrating the backing sufficiently to secure the edge while keeping the staple from protruding or crushing the tile. Shorter staples might not grip well and longer ones could distort or split the edge or show dimples on the surface. That balance makes 9/16 inch the appropriate choice.