What are these (fiberboard) ceiling panels called?

[millinghill]

Hi, Our community clubhouse (in downstate New York) was built in the 1940s. The cathedral ceiling is finished with these large panels (approx 4ft x 6ft) that have wood strips around the perimeter of each panel, keeping them attached to the roof joists. It's not plasterboard. On the unpainted side, it's brown. It's maybe 1/2" thick. It's not very strong (you can bend/break it with your hands if you wanted). It's almost like a wood-fiber/cardboard board. Any idea what this stuff is called? We need to replace a section that was damaged and I've no clue what to ask for at the lumber yard or even big box store. Thanks! Theodore

[Ed Pawlowski]

I think you have to find a lumberyard with inventory from the 1940s and a guy that has been working there since then too.

Sounds like Homosote board. Used to be available in 4 x 8 sheets, 5/8" thick.

[gfretwell]

That sounds like Beaver board. It is best just ripped out and replaced with something from the last 50 years

[Clare Snyder]

Likely Homasote. Recycled newsprint treated with 0.1% copper metaborate for fire and insect protection.

[Clare Snyder]

HomAsote - still available

call Rob Fohl at 716-864-9593 or fax [phone] for local retailer in your area of New York.

[micky]

Sounds like acoustic tile, but maybe the white stuff with ilittle cracks and holes didn't exist in the 40's.

It seems so associated to me with late 50's suburbia.

[millinghill]

Thank you all VERY much! I'll check for Homasote boards in my local big box store to see if it's the same.