Can acoustic ceiling tiles be painted without removal?

Yes, I have painted them in the past myself. I used a 1/2" nap roller to get into all the crevices. It can splatter quite a bit, but I put down tarps to protect the furniture and flooring.

I would think you can just use a roller on an extended wand and paint the whole thing while standing on the floor. I have painted my styrofoam ceiling tiles and they came out great.

Heres one idea

http://www.danslelakehouse.com/2012/04/basement-update-lazy-guide-to-painting.html

Additionally consider these comments

"One must remember that a key word is "acoustical." Unless the right products are used, a severe loss of sound absorbing qualities will likely occur. Furthermore, ceiling tiles typically lay in a grid system that allows the tiles to be removed for access above the ceiling. Choosing the wrong product can result in the tiles being stuck to the grids when the paint dries.

First, a non-bridging coating material must be used to mantain the acoustics and keep the tiles free and not stuck to the grids. And for sure, a primer coat is the last thing that should be applied to the entire ceiling unless there is no desire to maintain the acustical quality of the ceiling.

A non-bridging material will also leave a very natural appearance as opposed to one that is obviously a paint job. "

https://www.bobvila.com/posts/88514-paint-ceiling-tiles?page=1#.Wh7GmdFOmf0

A sprayer would probably be easier than rolling, since the pressure of the roller would dislodge the tile. It can be done, but taking them down is the easiest way to get an even coverage if you don't use a sprayer

We remolded an old house with those tiles but removed them and what a job. We had to nail 2x4 boards down the whole room than add new tiles. I am glad we did this because when we sold our home people noticed the new added work.

Thanks! As I am a senior,and live alone,this is impossible for me.

I have painted the tiles. Use a primer first, then paint them. But I was able to take mine out of the metal frames. We also painted ones that were installed without frames - and just painted them (after priming).