Material for suspended ceilings: features of canvases made of PVC film and fabric coverings. Which material is better to choose for a stretch ceiling? How to choose the right stretch ceiling

Decorating your home with stretch ceilings is a simple design solution. It looks stylish, aesthetically attractive and has not lost its relevance for many years. But this is subject to proper selection of materials, colors, textures and proper installation.

The main design detail is a canvas made of fabric or PVC film. It is stretched tightly and strengthened in advance installed frame. If the installation was carried out correctly, the canvas has no unevenness.

Is it worth installing a suspended ceiling?

People continue to prefer stretch ceilings for years, and this phenomenon is due to a large list of advantages design solution.

1. . Tension coverings made of fabric and PVC film look presentable, neat and beautiful. They combine well with different wallpapers, flooring and furniture.
2. Wide selection of colors, textures and effects. The variety of variations allows you to choose a canvas for any interior.
3. Possibility of combination. The canvases go well with elements of a plasterboard suspended ceiling.
4. Durability. The tandem coating with the frame can last more than ten years.
5. Easy to care for. It is enough to wipe the ceilings occasionally to remove dust.
6. High speed and low installation complexity. Single-level ceiling Easy to install with two people in two to three hours. It takes about six hours to install a multi-level one.
7. Water resistance. This only applies to PVC ceilings. In the event of a flood in the neighbors above or damage to the roof, the film will withstand a large amount of water. To eliminate signs of deformation from moisture, it is enough to carry out the installation again. There is no need to replace PVC.
8. Possibility of installation at any time. A suspended ceiling can be installed at any time, even if the remaining stages of repair have already been completed. After its installation, the room is easy to clean.
9. Ability to hide defects. The canvas perfectly hides unaesthetic wiring and ceiling irregularities.

Stretch ceiling coverings have a number of disadvantages.

1. Fragility. PVC film is very easy to pierce or damage. This often happens when installing lighting.
2. High price. The frame, fabric and installation cost more than regular painting or tiling.
3. Power limitation lighting fixtures . Lamps turned on at full power leave a yellowish halo on the ceiling.
4. Unpleasant sounds due to pressure in space. This case is a common occurrence. The accumulation of pressure above the canvas provokes slamming after opening a window or door. A good company whose employees carried out the installation should take measures to eliminate the defect.

Video - Types of suspended ceilings

PVC film ceilings

This type of suspended ceilings is considered the most common. The canvas is a film with a matte or glossy texture. This ceiling covering has many advantages.

1. Various design options. In specialized stores it is easy to find ceiling coverings of different colors and textures.
2. Different price options. You can purchase both a budget monochromatic canvas and an expensive film with an original design. PVC films with patterns are more expensive than classic single-color options.
3. Water resistance. PVC film does not leak.
4. Possibility of drawing. The design of a PVC ceiling can be easily changed using special paint and an airbrush.
5. Possibility of reinstallation. The stretched film is removed and stretched in another room, if its size allows.
6. Easy to care for. A slightly damp cloth is enough to remove dust from the coating.
7. Soundproofing effect. You shouldn't expect 100% protection from extraneous sounds, but even very loud noises will seem muffled.
8. Rejection of odors and fat. The film does not absorb them. There is no mold on it either.
9. Antistatic effect. PVC does not attract dust.
10. Does not affect condensation. PVC film ceilings are suitable even for very damp rooms.

Even such an attractive and multifunctional coating has its drawbacks.

1. Vulnerability. The film is easily deformed. This usually happens due to contact with sharp objects. It will not be possible to eliminate the defect; you will have to change the canvas.
2. The need for a strong increase in room temperature during installation. This drawback applies to those who want to install the ceiling themselves.
3. Intolerance low temperatures . In the cold, the film is deformed, after which it cannot be restored. Install PVC film It is highly not recommended in unheated rooms.
4. Smell. It is only present for a few days after installation, but can be a nuisance for allergy sufferers. A few days after installation, the smell disappears completely.
5. Seams. When large elements are connected, seams remain, although not too prominent. In good lighting and low ceilings they are noticeable.

Meet matte and glossy variations of PVC film sheets. Usually buyers come for a certain type coverings. If you find it difficult to decide, take into account the comparison of both types according to the criteria.

1. Aesthetic appeal. It all depends on personal taste preferences. If you like shimmer and play of light, choose gloss. Connoisseurs of classics and restraint will love the matte texture.
2. Impact on room proportions. Gloss tends to increase the height of walls and create a feeling of spaciousness, even if a dark coating color was chosen. Matte, on the contrary, is more suitable for very high ceilings.
3. Price. Glossy finishes are more expensive than matte finishes.
4. Lighting. Some glossy film models transmit light perfectly. This allows you to create the effect of a “starry sky” and realize other design fantasies. Matte ceilings not only do not allow light to pass through, but are also very sensitive to it.
5. Color palette. Glossy ceilings are more popular, so their range of color variations is much wider.
6. Care. Matte ceilings are inferior to glossy ones in this regard. The first ones often leave stains that are visible to the naked eye. The latter are much easier to clean.

Both glossy and matte PVC ceilings are installed using the same technology. Most instructions for their installation have the same essence, the only difference is in the fixing profiles (harpoon, glazing bead, clip). The method of fastening the canvas directly depends on them.

General instructions for installing PVC film sheets

1. Preparing the room and ceiling. Remove from the room all objects that do not tolerate high temperatures. Make sure that the plaster does not peel off from the ceiling. Evaluate the electrical wiring and modify it if necessary.
2. Marking. Take a level and make markings before installing the fixing profiles. The size of the gap between them and the ceiling is two centimeters.
3. Processing baguette corners. The size of their angle is half the corner of the room.
4. Installation of fixing profiles. Position the fasteners so that they are ten centimeters apart from each other. Drill holes in them and install dowels. Then attach the baguette and attach it with self-tapping screws.
5. Installation of “crocodiles” and working with the canvas. Place four tongs in the corners of the room at the level of the baguettes. Attach PVC film to them. Turn on the heating device (gun) and heat the air temperature to sixty to seventy degrees.
6. Fastening the blade. Using a spatula or spatula, insert the film into the fixing profiles. Start from the corners, removing the canvas from the “crocodiles”.

Before working with the gun, take a few safety precautions.

1. Watch the position of the gun muzzle. She shouldn't look at the gas cylinder.
2. Check the hose connecting the gun to the cylinder for integrity.
3. Cylinders have an expiration date. Do not use the cylinder if this period has expired.
4. If you want to make a combined ceiling, start with a suspended one. After complete installation and painting of drywall, you can begin installing the film. Baguettes in this case are attached to the edges of the drywall.

The canvas is a fabric impregnated special composition. Previously ceilings with fabric covering were considered luxury, but now they are not difficult to find and purchase.

Here are a few reasons why fabric ceilings were considered a chic interior detail.

1. Presentable appearance . Fabric canvases look non-standard and expensive.
2. Wide selection of patterns, colors and designs. Extraordinary paintings, sparkling threads, great amount shades - you can choose exactly what fits perfectly into the interior.
3. Safety. Fabric fabric is a material that allows air to pass through and does not emit harmful fumes. It can rightfully be called environmentally friendly. It does not smell and does not provoke allergies.
4. No possibility of fire. The special composition of the fabric impregnation does not allow the fabric to burn, even if the coating is set on fire from several sides at once.
5. No seams. Fabrics are different large sizes. They don't need to be connected.
6. Resistance to mechanical damage. It is very difficult to accidentally deform a fabric canvas. It will only be damaged if you deliberately cut it with a knife or scissors.
7. Frost resistance. Fabric stretch ceilings can be installed even in rooms that are not heated. They can also withstand high temperatures.

Before you go to the store for a fabric covering, you need to take into account its disadvantages:

1. High price. The cost of installation is unlikely to exceed the price of installing PVC film, but the film itself will cost much more. Firstly, fabric is more expensive than film, and secondly, the price includes special impregnation.
2. Risk of buying a fake. Fabrics are sold not only by official manufacturers. Counterfeits are of poor quality and highly toxic, but are much cheaper. It is better to give preference to original products, since cheap counterfeits often provoke allergies and emit harmful substances.
3. Low water resistance. A fabric ceiling can only withstand a small volume of liquid. If there is a lot of moisture, the canvas will let it through.
4. Unreliability of fastening. Sometimes the structure becomes deformed under pressure.
5. No possibility of re-installation. If the structure is damaged or you want to move it to another room, it cannot be reinstalled again. There is only one way out - buying a new canvas.
6. Special care required. Cleaning fabric ceiling coverings is not easy. Especially if the pollution is strong. You will have to purchase a special cleanser and act very carefully.

Installing a fabric ceiling

The procedure consists of several stages, let's consider them.

1. Preparation. Remember that the minimum gap between the highest point of the ceiling and the tension covering should be a couple of centimeters. Determine the lowest point and make a level with a special thread.
2. Baguette processing. Take a plastic baguette with a snap-on clip and shorten it so that the angle is equal to half the corner of the room.
3. Fastening baguettes. Place the fasteners in 10 cm increments. Make holes using a drill, install dowels in them and attach a baguette. Secure it with self-tapping screws.
4. Installation of the canvas. Unroll the roll so that the coating straightens. Have an assistant hold the canvas suspended. Take a rounded spatula and start tucking in the coating. It's better to start with approximate mounts. The distance between them should not be less than 1/2 meter, and from the corner - no less than 30 centimeters. Start with smaller walls. Move from the middle to the corners.
5. Removing everything unnecessary. After the fabric covering is finally secured, trim off the excess. Place a spatula under the baguette to avoid cutting the stretched fabric. Don't worry about noticeable edges, as they will later be hidden by the baseboard.

Selecting a ceiling for a specific room

When choosing a canvas, you need to take into account not only personal preferences, but also the recommendations of designers, as well as the properties of each coating.

Table. Options for rooms and ceilings that fit well into them.

Room	Ceiling
Kitchen	PVC film as it is easy to clean. If the kitchen window often opens and the ceilings are low, it is better to give preference to the matte option.
Living room	If the interior has a lot of luxurious details, the design will complement fabric ceiling. Glossy PVC film is also perfect.
Bedroom	Fabric and matte PVC coverings contribute to the feeling of comfort.
Bathroom	Glossy canvases harmonize perfectly with tiles and tiles.
Corridor	If the wall coverings are plain and simple, a glossy ceiling will do. A matte ceiling canvas goes better with patterned wallpaper.
Office premises	In this case, only matte ceilings are suitable.

The relationship between interior style and ceiling

In addition to the purpose of the room, you need to be guided by the features of its decoration. For each style you need to select the appropriate type of ceiling.

1. Baroque, Gothic and Vintage. A fabric ceiling will fit well into an interior with unusual patterns and soft muted colors. If the design has a lot of modern notes, you can choose a glossy finish.
2. Classic and minimalism. Matte canvas – The best decision. If there are a large number of metal parts in the interior, a glossy ceiling is suitable.
3. High-tech and modern. Gloss is the most suitable option.
4. Futurism. Feel free to give preference to a thin glossy coating, because with its help you get a luminous ceiling that imitates outer space or a starry sky.
5. Country. The design should be complemented with discreet light-colored fabric or matte PVC film.
6. Loft. The attic style does not imply luxury and shine; choose a matte film in restrained neutral tones (white, black, gray).

Interior defects and ways to eliminate them using the ceiling

Stretch fabrics not only hide uneven ceilings, but also visually change the room. Correct selection coating is an excellent method of eliminating these problems.

Often, when choosing a stretch ceiling in order to eliminate defects, mistakes are made that are noticeable after installation, although the designers’ recommendations were followed. The reason lies in the incorrect selection of color or a certain shade.

Before purchasing a canvas, decide what you want color scheme and carefully consider the proposed sample. it is desirable to see it under artificial and natural light. Typically, after installation, the coating may look a little different, as this is affected by the furniture, color of the walls and floors.

Video - Features of choosing suspended ceilings

Stretch ceilings appeared in France more than half a century ago. Modern technologies allow you to choose them for any designer interior. These ceiling coverings are different types and have mostly positive reviews. The composition influences how a certain species is called.

Advantages

The popularity of suspended ceilings is explained by a number of positive qualities compared to conventional ones:

• the tension option can be installed both before and after, and even during finishing work;
• the ceiling covering hides all communications;
• a PVC ceiling can save an apartment from flooding;
• do not require additional care, except for wet cleaning when dirty;
• installation requires 2-3 hours. For multi-level ones - 5-6 hours;

• durable;
• do not crumble;
• do not burn out;
• not subject to deformation;
• hide defects and unevenness of the ceiling slab;
• do not require filling of the ceiling before work.

Kinds

Currently, there are three types of suspended ceilings:

• film - made of polyvinyl chloride;
• fabric - made of polyester threads;
• fiberglass - using glass fibers.

PVC ceilings are divided according to a number of indicators.

According to invoice:

• glossy;
• matte;
• satin;

• “suede-like”;
• “marbled”;
• "metallic";
• translucent.

According to the method of fastening there are:

• with plastic insert;
• end-to-end

According to production technology:

• suture;
• seamless.

By design:

• single-level;
• two- and multi-level;
• square;
• round;
• oval.

By color:

• plain;
• with an image.

Fabric ceilings, in turn, vary depending on technology and color solutions.

According to device technology:

• seamless;
• butt.

By color:

• white;
• colored;
• plain;
• with an image.

Characteristics

Each of the presented types has its own advantages and disadvantages.

PVC ceilings

• does not attract dust.
• is not saturated with odors;
• resistant to UV rays;
• easy to wet clean;
• does not hide space;
• has the ability to be re-installed;
• it is easy to install sensors, lamps, hoods and more into its design;
• able to withstand a flood due to design load 100 kg/m2;
• Installation requires no more than 6 hours.

The disadvantages include:

• not intended for non-residential premises with a temperature below 50C;
• the first three days after installation it may cause bad smell;
• it can be easily damaged when rearranging furniture;
• if the width or length of the room is more than 3200 mm, a seam is required;
• cutting takes place in the workshop, and it is necessary to measure the coverage area very accurately;
• during installation, the room heats up, which affects furniture, wooden frames and floors;
• can be coated with an aseptic solution.

Fabric ceilings

The positive qualities of such ceilings include the following:

• the roll width reaches 4 m, which allows you to create seamless stretch ceilings in standard rooms;
• resistant to mechanical stress (it is difficult to cut or tear);
• withstands negative indoor temperatures, can be used for a non-residential country house;

• has high sound insulation;
• allows painting with paints on fabric;
• does not require heating during installation;
• Can be used for decoration with acrylic paints;
• does not sag.

The disadvantages include:

• limited color range;
• drawing a picture is possible only after installation;
• originality is achieved only through photo printing;
• cleaning such a ceiling is very labor-intensive compared to PVC;
• impossibility of re-installation;
• high price;
• There is no possibility to make a figured and multi-level ceiling.
• in case of flooding, moisture immediately seeps into the room;

Fiberglass ceilings

The advantages are:

• possibility to mount different types lighting, hoods and so on;
• non-flammability of the material;
• the ability to create multi-level structures.

The disadvantages are:

• high price;
• short warranty period;
• limited choice of installation specialists;
• limited color range.

Design options

Ceilings made of polyvinyl chloride film have a wider choice for design solutions.

An interesting and one of the most popular options is to create a starry sky above your head. It is perfect for the bedroom and living room. You can admire the stars without leaving your home. For such a ceiling you will need optical fiber, which will be visible through small punctures.

If you get tired, and the layout of the room allows it, you can reorient such a ceiling by turning it 180 or 900 degrees. The disadvantage of this solution is the impossibility of closing the holes to obtain a single-color fabric. In addition, when daylight such punctures will be visible to the naked eye.

LED ceiling lighting allows you to change the color of walls and furniture at night. It can have several switching modes, from flickering to static. Control occurs from the remote control. The downside is the cost of mounting it into a ready-made structure. It will have to be dismantled, which is not a big deal for suspended ceilings, and reinstalled. Here it is possible either to mount the ceiling not end-to-end, then the gap will be visible during the day, or to mount directly to the ceiling, then the tape will be visible. The ceiling should be white.

Replacement options must be considered as LEDs do not last long.

Two-level ceilings allow you to combine matte and glossy surfaces, combine two or more colors. Such ceilings can visually increase the height of the room and emphasize the taste of the owner. Two-level ceilings are used in rooms that require zoning. First of all, it's the bedroom.

A glossy bright surface in the center will highlight the bed standing in the center and distract attention from the wall cabinets. In the living room, installing such a ceiling will allow you to separate the relaxation area and the active area. In the hallway and bathroom, such ceilings are rarely installed due to the small area.

3D ceilings allow you to achieve maximum realism of the picture. Living in a city apartment, you can feel like you are relaxing in nature. It is enough to print a window with a sakura branch on the ceiling. Seascapes will help you relax and forget about worries. How nice it is to look at the meadow from beautiful flowers who are begging to be torn down. And how nice it would be to pet splashing dolphins jumping out of the ocean.

Photo printing on the ceiling allows you to make original design for relatively little money. Thus, a pattern in the form of marble tiles will harmoniously complete the decoration of the bathroom.

Raindrops on the glass will allow you to relax after a hard day at work. Printed pictures depicting your favorite cartoon characters help your baby fall asleep as quickly as possible.

For fabric ceilings, as a rule, photo printing and acrylic paints. Floral motifs are most often used as designs. You can paint such a ceiling in a single color that harmonizes or contrasts with the color of the walls, or create a unique design using fabric paints. In this case, work should be carried out after installation.

Which ones are better to choose?

First you need to decide on the amount you are willing to spend on installation. To do this, you need to call companies that deal with suspended ceilings and decide whether you will order it or install it yourself.

Remember that when installing a PVC stretch ceiling you will need heat gun. It is necessary to include the cost of its rental in the calculations.

Then you should select the material from which you plan to install suspended ceiling, taking into account the pros and cons outlined above.

Now we choose the design shape and color.

When choosing color range The future ceiling is taken into account by a number of factors.

• The white version is a classic and will suit any interior. The matte ceiling will look great in a living room in a country or Renaissance style. Glossy is suitable for a room in an antique style.
• For a room with a low ceiling, you should choose pastel colors: beige, blue, milky. They contribute to the visual enlargement of the room.

• Saturated and dark colors Perfect for high ceilings.
• For the bedroom and living room, it is better to choose colors that promote relaxation: pink, green, brown, light yellow.

• A pink marbled ceiling is suitable for the bathroom.
• For a nursery, you can make the ceiling turquoise.
• Photo printing will add zest to the interior and make it unique.
• For the bedroom, you can choose the “opal” technology, creating a projection of the starry sky or running an LED strip along the edge.

Selection criteria by material

In rooms with high humidity (bathroom, kitchen), you should opt for a PVC ceiling. Its glossy version will increase the space. A combination of matte and glossy material will allow you to zone the kitchen, combining the functions of a living room.

For the bedroom it is better to choose a matte or satin PVC ceiling, as well as a fabric one. This type will not reflect the sun and will create a feeling of comfort. Of course, you should not forget that a fabric ceiling will cost you much more than one made from PVC film.

For the children's room and bedroom, where we spend a third of our lives, it is better to choose a fabric option due to its ability to breathe air.

When choosing material for the ceiling covering in the living room, there are no rules. It should be taken into account that a glossy surface will increase the size of the room and add light to a darkened room. Matte and fabric ceilings are better suited for rooms located on sunny side. Glossy models in bright colors will complement the pop art style living room. Suede-like ceilings will add pomp to the living room. This option will perfectly complement a room in an antique style.

In a country house that is not heated, PVC tension options should be abandoned, as they cannot withstand temperatures dropping below +5C.

Glossy tension models should be installed in the hallway. They are easy to clean and visually increase the size of the room.

When choosing a country of origin, a number of important criteria should be taken into account.

• France as the founder of tension structures is the standard. Such ceilings are characterized by durability and high quality materials. The fabrics produced in France are dense and have a beautiful shine. But their prices are also high.
• German quality known all over the world. Stretch ceilings from Germany are no worse than French models. At the same time, their cost is lower.
• Italian manufacturers managed to develop new material which requires virtually no maintenance. The quality of such paintings corresponds to European standards.
• Ceilings Russian production They are distinguished by their low price and their fragility.
• Ceiling quality from China depends on the integrity of the manufacturer. You can buy high-quality ones that are not inferior to European ones, or you can buy ones that can cause irreparable harm to your health.

If, after three days after installation, the smell remains in the apartment, then such ceilings should be immediately dismantled. Poor quality materials can lead to poisoning and problems with the liver, brain and lungs.

When choosing a seller, you need to consider a number of important factors:

• the seller is obliged to provide certificates of quality and safety of the material upon your first request;
• check the width of the roll: it may differ from one manufacturer to another;
• when purchasing glossy PVC film, check it for reflectivity;
• The presence of the manufacturer's logo along the edge of the film reduces the area of ​​use.

To learn how to choose a manufacturer of suspended ceilings, see the following video.

Beautiful examples in the interior

This option would look perfect in the bedroom. Looking at the starry sky, you can feel like a part of the universe. For those who suffer from insomnia, this is a great opportunity to count the stars before bed.

Tension fabric is the most promising material for decorating the ceiling space in an apartment or office. It provides perfect flat surface, has high performance characteristics and durability. Installation of a stretch ceiling is possible in renovated premises; it is carried out within 2-3 hours, does not involve wet processes and does not require a radical rearrangement of furniture. A variety of textures and colors, multi-level designs, prints and the use of special effects create unlimited possibilities for design solutions. Which canvas is better to choose? When purchasing, you should focus on the specifics of the premises, personal preferences and financial capabilities.

Blade type

Which material is better: PVC, fabric or fiberglass?

For the manufacture of suspended ceilings the following is used:

• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) film with a thickness of 0.15-0.35 mm. This is the most affordable and popular material for finishing apartments.
• Polyester fabric, 0.25 mm thick, impregnated with polyurethane. It is attractive due to its environmental friendliness and the possibility of seamless installation in large spaces.
• Fiberglass. High strength waterproof fabric. Serves as a basis for painting. Rarely seen.

The technical characteristics of the materials are similar, but there are some differences that determine their scope of use.

• Appearance. Film ceilings are glossy, satin or matte; the texture of fabric panels is always matte.
• Strength. Fabric sheets are more resistant to mechanical damage from sharp objects than film sheets.
• Frost resistance. At subzero temperatures, PVC becomes brittle and cracks. Fabric ceilings can withstand -35 C, which allows them to be used for finishing unheated rooms.
• Water resistance. In terms of this parameter, the performance of film canvases is better. They are recommended to be installed in rooms with high humidity.
• Environmental friendliness. All types of suspended ceilings are safe for health. At the same time, the presence of micropores in the fabric structure promotes air ventilation and ensures a healthy microclimate in the room. This canvas can be chosen for decorating a children's room.

Texture

Which texture is better to choose: matte or glossy?

All fabric stretch ceilings have a matte texture. The reflective characteristics of PVC sheets vary widely: from 5 to 70%. Which material to choose depends on the specifics of the room and the personal preferences of its owner.

Matte stretch ceilings

In appearance, matte ceilings are similar to flawlessly executed plaster. This kind of discreet elegance is preferred by people of conservative views with refined taste. Matte ceilings are suitable for spacious, well-lit rooms. They blend harmoniously with the interior in classic style, columns, stucco, antiques. The most popular are white canvases and discreet pastel colors.

Glossy stretch ceilings

Glossy ceilings are appropriate when creating modern interiors. They are chosen by active people striving for innovation. The material allows you to visually increase the size of the room and is suitable for small spaces. Glossy canvases are characterized by a large selection of colors. The richer the shade, the better its reflective qualities are manifested, so even an unconventional black ceiling will not look gloomy and depressing.

Company manufacturer

Which manufacturer of suspended ceilings is better to choose?

The quality and price of suspended ceilings are largely determined by the manufacturer. On the market you can find products made in Europe, Russia and China. Which one is better?

European stretch ceilings

Canvases from Europe occupy the largest segment of the market. Manufacturers offer a wide range of glossy and matte ceilings of the highest quality, and French companies are trendsetters. The cost of European products is significantly higher than their Russian and Chinese counterparts.

Well-known companies: Barrisol, Alkor Draka, Extenzo, Newmat, Clipso (France), Poliplast (Belgium), Renolit, Pongs, Descor, Lackfolie (Germany), Cerutti (Italy).

Russian stretch ceilings

In Russia, the production of suspended ceilings is still poorly developed. The industry leader is Saros Design, which founded production in Moscow in 1996. Today, the company has production facilities in a number of Russian cities, Kyiv, Narva, and Stuttgart. The company offers canvases in a wide range of sizes and colors, applies drawings, and makes computer calculations using its own program.

Budget buyers can choose stretch ceilings produced by the Kazan Artificial Leather Plant and Ivanovo NIIPIK. Enterprises produce canvases up to 1.4 m wide in a limited range of colors.

Chinese stretch ceilings

Range Chinese goods traditionally heterogeneous. Here you can find both materials that are not inferior in quality to their European counterparts, as well as outright fakes. Industry leaders include the following companies: MSD, HALEAD, Gline. Stretch ceilings from these manufacturers compete with world leaders and are much cheaper.

Color

How to choose the color of a stretch ceiling

A wide color range of suspended ceilings allows you to implement a wide variety of design ideas. The appearance of the material has a serious psychological impact on household members.

White color is traditional for ceiling cladding. It visually increases the height of the room, does not put pressure on the psyche, and is suitable for interiors made in different styles. White, as well as discreet pastel colors, are appropriate in living rooms, corridors, bedrooms, kitchens and other rooms. If you want to diversify the appearance of a light matte ceiling, you can apply elegant photo printing.

Bright orange, blue, purple, green canvases are well suited for children's rooms, filling them with an atmosphere of joy and energy. Rich colors can be chosen for the kitchen and bathroom.

It is better to decorate the bedroom in calm, romantic colors: beige, blue, pink.

The business style of the office will be emphasized by a brown ceiling, but it should not be very dark and not cause a depressing mood.

Psychologists attribute many qualities to the color red. On the one hand, it is the color of love and energy, on the other, it imparts aggression. In the interior of apartments it is used in the form of small inserts.

Glossy dark purple, steel, black ceilings will add originality to rooms with great height. Dark canvases are often used to create a “starry sky” effect.

Multi-level designs often combine textures and colors, creating a stylistic effect in contrast.

Room

How to choose a suspended ceiling for the kitchen, living room, bathroom and children's room

Each room in the apartment performs certain functions. The choice of stretch ceiling for the living room, children's room, kitchen and bathroom should be made taking into account their operational characteristics.

Living room

The living room is the largest room in the apartment. All family members spend significant time here, so great attention is paid to the design of the hall. Any materials are suitable for decorating the ceiling, the main thing is that their color and texture fit harmoniously into the interior of the room. It is better to give preference to universal, calm tones that do not cause discomfort to any member of the household.

Children's

To decorate a children's room, it is advisable to choose bright fabrics. The matte surface is more durable and will eliminate the risk of damage to the ceiling by active children during games. A big advantage is the presence of micropores in the tissue structure, providing natural ventilation air.

Kitchen

Cooking is accompanied by steam rising to the ceiling and grease stains settling on it. Here best choice There will be a glossy PVC sheet. It has high water-repellent properties and easy to clean.

Bathroom

The use of a bathroom is associated with temperature changes and high humidity. A glossy film ceiling is better suited for it. The canvas easily tolerates difficult conditions and can withstand a significant volume of water when flooded from above. After the accident has been eliminated, it can be installed in its original place. Glossy ceiling looks impressive in small spaces, visually increasing the space.

Lamps

What lamps for suspended ceilings are best to buy?

Stretch ceilings are ideal for built-in lighting. When choosing them, you should take into account the operational characteristics of the material and temperature restrictions: if exceeded standard indicators the canvas will warp.

Incandescent lamps

The use of classic lamps with a tungsten spiral in tension structures has the greatest limitations associated with their high heating:

• power up to 40 W for film ceilings, 60 W for fabric ceilings;
• the ventilation gap between the canvas and the ceiling is at least 12 cm.

Incandescent lamps are attractive due to their low price, but have a short service life: about 1000 hours.

Halogen lamps

When installing halogen lamps The following standards must be observed:

• power up to 20 W for film ceilings, 35 W for fabric ceilings;
• ventilation gap – 6 cm.

Compared to incandescent lamps, they emit brighter light in the yellow spectrum and have a resource of 2-4 thousand hours. Halogen lamps are best used for directional illumination of work areas.

LED bulbs

LED bulbs practically do not heat up and have no restrictions for installation. This best option for suspended ceilings. LED lamps can be chosen both as the main light source and to create visual effects on matte, satin or glossy canvases. Lamps of this type are the most economical, and their service life is about 5 years.

Cornice

Which cornice to choose. Installation Rules

When installing a suspended ceiling in a house, one should not forget about other interior details. An invariable design element is curtain rods. They are made from various materials. Structurally, cornices are divided into wall and ceiling. The latter look more presentable. The difficulty is that the thin fabric is not designed for hanging heavy structures. However, there are 2 ways to solve this problem. The cornice can be fixed in an open or hidden way

Outdoor installation

Before installing the canvas on the ceiling, it is mounted wooden beam on the same level as the guide profiles. It is better to choose hardwood. Before installation, the timber must be treated with an antiseptic. After stretching the ceiling, the cornice is attached to the beam through the film. Holes for self-tapping screws should be burned so that the molten edges prevent further tearing of the fabric.

Hidden installation

With hidden installation, the cornice is attached to the ceiling above the level of the suspended ceiling. A beam or corner is installed next to it for mounting the guide molding. The operation should be performed before taking measurements. The design with curtains falling from the ceiling looks impressive, harmoniously combined with both matte and glossy canvases.

Ceiling "starry sky"

How to make a “home planetarium” from the ceiling

Suspended ceilings allow you to create a stunningly beautiful “starry sky” effect in your apartment. Despite the high cost, this method of finishing has many supporters among lovers of progressive exclusive interiors.

Installation

To set up a home planetarium you will need:

• glossy or satin dark fabric;
• optical fiber;
• light generator (projector).

The fiber optic threads on which the “star” function is assigned have a diameter of 0.25 mm. By collecting them in bunches you can create “luminaries” of varying brightness. The threads can be brought out through the fabric pierced in the right places and cut flush with it, but it is better to fasten it from the back. In the second case, you should choose a thin translucent material. The light intensity will be less, but the overall picture will become more realistic.

The optical fiber is connected to the light generator. The equipment operates autonomously and is not connected to the room lighting system. The most advanced projector models provide effects such as fading and flashing of “stars”, flickering and movement of “celestial bodies”.

Additional effects

Additionally, the ceiling can be decorated with photo printing, glowing Starpins, and LED lighting of individual zones. Swarovski crystals installed on the “stars” will create a unique light scattering.

The “starry sky” effect is performed either over the entire area of ​​the ceiling, or in a separate area, combining it with light matte canvases.

"Floating" ceilings

How to create the effect of "floating ceilings"

“Floating” stretch ceilings will help to radically transform the appearance of the room and give it exclusivity. At the same time, creating the effect does not entail significant complication and increase in cost of work.

The design idea is to create a light barrier, thanks to which the ceiling is visually separated from the walls. It's like he's floating in the air. This effect is achieved through the use of a special profile, which has a groove for placing an LED strip. Otherwise, the installation is no different from installing a conventional stretch ceiling.

The effect is also used in multi-level designs with a combination of matte and glossy canvases of various colors. Here you can create a “floating” of the upper or lower layers, depending on the direction of the light flux. In this case, various profiles are used to provide the required lighting angle. To create curved surfaces, baguettes made of flexible polymer materials are used.

The LED strip works autonomously. It can be turned on and off independently of the lighting system, replaced without affecting ceiling structure. When purchasing, it is better to choose low-power LEDs, unless you plan to use the strip as the main light source in the room. Their light spectrum may vary. Fade and fade effects are also available.

Stretch ceilings in a country house

Useful tips for installing suspended ceilings in country house

In urban environments, suspended ceilings are installed everywhere: in apartments, offices, hotels, bathhouses, and entertainment venues. But how appropriate are they in a country house? Indeed, operating conditions are different, which requires certain adjustments.

Installation restrictions

In a new house, a suspended ceiling can be installed only after it has completely settled.

Preliminary work

To avoid unpleasant consequences, it is recommended to perform a number of measures before installing ceilings:

• check the condition of the roof and repair if necessary;
• treat the wooden floor with an antiseptic;
• carry out pest control and seal all the cracks, otherwise the space between the ceiling and the cladding will become convenient place for breeding rodents.

About the benefits of suspended ceilings in a private home

Thanks to stretch ceilings in a private home you can:

• cover uneven floors;
• hide communications;
• improve thermal insulation;
• visually increase the space.

A large selection of matte and glossy canvases of various colors allows you to choose a canvas for any wall material.

A stretch ceiling completely transforms a room, giving it a more aesthetic appearance as a result of a combination of unique combinations of colors, patterns, textures and levels of arrangement. This may explain the ever-growing popularity of this species. ceiling decoration. Today the market offers many different technological solutions for installing suspended ceilings using materials from Russian, European and Chinese manufacturers. And therefore, the question of which stretch ceilings are better is not really relevant.

The simplest structures are installed during the day and can be installed during repairs or as an independent type of work.

The main advantages of suspended ceilings include:

• simple and quick installation;
• beautiful appearance;
• the ability to hide defects in floor slabs and hide part of utility lines;
• long service life;
• easy care;
• affordable price.

However, the large number of proposals creates certain difficulties for consumers. Therefore, this article discusses questions about how to choose the right suspended ceiling and what indicators should be decisive in this case.

Main selection criteria

The appearance of the ceiling, service life and cost are determined by such factors as:

• type of canvas and its texture;
• color, pattern and overall design;
• number of spatial levels;
• fastening system;
• material manufacturer;
• qualification of installers.

All this must be taken into account when deciding which suspended ceiling to choose for your home or apartment.

Multi-level ceiling design.
Multi-level tension structures allow you to achieve remarkable design results at the expense of cost.

Type of canvas and texture

Material manufacturers make canvases from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyester and fiberglass.

Polyvinyl chloride films

Due to their relatively low cost, PVC film ceilings are especially in demand among customers. The thickness of the material used can be in the range of 0.15-0.35 mm with a blade width of up to 5100 mm. Among the main advantages of this finish are:

• variety of color shades;
• a wide choice of textures, from glossy or matte, to imitation marble, wood and metal;
• elasticity and strength;
• waterproof;
• price accessible to all segments of the population;
• the property of not attracting dust and being easy to care for (can be washed with a simple water solution);
• absence of harmful and toxic substances.

However, the number of disadvantages of PVC film is not much less. This:

• the presence of glued seams on the ceiling surface;
• in case of a puncture, traces of subsequent decoration remain visible;
• very careful care is required, because the canvas is very easy to damage;
• the appearance of yellow spots in areas exposed to sunlight or intense lighting;
• brittleness at air temperatures below +5°C.

Also noted negative impact glossy reflective surfaces on the psycho-emotional state of a person.

Comparison of PVC film and fabric.

Synthetic polyester fabrics

These sheets have a thickness of 0.25 mm with a sheet width of up to 6 meters. To increase strength and increase elasticity, they are impregnated with polyurethane. The material does not have connecting seams and is available only in matte texture. Among the main advantages are:

• much higher density;
• ease of installation;
• possibility of operation in the temperature range from -40°C to +80°C;
• fire safety;
• ability to pass air;
• soundproofing properties;
• possibility of repeated painting and artistic painting.

The main disadvantage of polyester canvases is their high cost, which is at least 3 times higher than PVC. In addition, material:

• able to absorb and retain odors;
• does not allow wet cleaning;
• cannot be reinstalled;
• allows moisture to pass through.

As a result, polyester cannot be installed in kitchens, bathrooms and other rooms with odors and moisture.

Fiberglass

When deciding how to choose high-quality stretch ceilings, you should pay attention to fiberglass. These fabrics are the strongest, most durable and reliable. They retain moisture and are able to recover after changing shape.

True, they are painted and painted only after installation is completed, which significantly complicates the work. In addition, it should be noted the high cost, due to which they are in very little demand among buyers. Therefore, they are rarely found on sale, and deliveries are made only to order.

Fiberglass in a roll.

Surface texture

Possible types of surface can be divided according to texture into the following groups:

• smooth;
• embossed;
• perforated.

Smooth glossy surface have PVC films with high reflectivity. In most cases, such ceilings resemble a slightly tarnished mirror. This quality visually expands the space, making the room wider, but is difficult to perceive psychologically when large quantities objects and furniture in the room.

Glossy PVC ceiling.

Matte surfaces made of PVC, polyester or fiberglass are considered classic version ceiling design in residential premises of any size. Matte canvases can have a variety of color shades or patterns. Built-in lamps and other design elements look good on them.

Matte ceiling.

Only polyvinyl chloride films have volumetric embossing satin texture. Therefore, this texture can be considered an intermediate option between a glossy and matte surface. At the same time, such materials are quite expensive, but still popular.

Web fastening systems

The appearance of a stretch ceiling largely depends on the quality of its installation and the fastening system used. To tension and fix the material, 2 types of fasteners are used: harpoon and wedge.

Harpoon- a special profile that is welded along the edge of the polyvinyl chloride film and hooked to another profile attached to the floor slab. A separate type of harpoon system is a gapless fastening, in which the stretched canvas is closely adjacent to the wall.

Advantages of the harpoon system:

• fast execution of installation work;
• possibility of fixing in hard to reach places without rearranging furniture;
• discreet bypass of heating risers;
• low cost.

Flaws:

• a lot of time is spent on cutting the blade and welding the harpoon;
• sagging suspended ceiling with time.

Typically, sagging of the canvas begins after 3-4 years. Restoring the shape of the surface by heating it with an industrial hair dryer is only possible for a short time, no more than a year.

Since it is impossible to weld polyester and fiberglass to a plastic profile, they are used to tension these materials. wedge system. In this case, the canvas is fixed by inserting a profile bead, wrapped in canvas, inside a baguette attached to the wall or ceiling. The materials of the wedge system are more expensive than the harpoon system, but it can be assembled many times and is used for any type of tension fabric.

Advantages of the wedge-shaped system:

• no preparatory work required;
• the ability to regulate the tension of the web, both during initial installation and during operation;
• the presence of a plinth insert that additionally performs a decorative function;
• installation of any type of canvas.

Flaws:

• difficult installation in places with limited access;
• visible bypasses of heating risers;
• the need for installation experience.

Comparing the two systems, we can say that the wedge-shaped system has the best performance and installation qualities. In addition, wedge fastening can be applied to any type of material. However, installer services will cost more.

Material Manufacturers

The dishonesty of individual sellers of suspended ceilings is, unfortunately, an obvious fact. Buyer deception is most often associated with the real origin of the material. Wherein:

• cheap linen from China is sold as a Russian product of the middle price sector;
• medium-priced Russian and Chinese materials are sold as expensive ones from Europe;
• sales of suspended ceilings from non-existent product brands are carried out;
• certificates are forged or other false documents are presented.

It is almost impossible to know the exact manufacturer, since mandatory certification has been abolished since 2010 and no one will now be punished for counterfeiting. Most manufacturers do not put any labels on the material or even the packaging. They are written in cutting shops or dealerships.

Therefore, the solution to the issue can only be to contact trusted suppliers who are well known in the companies that perform installation work. You can order a really high-quality ceiling from them.

Comparison of manufacturers.

Choosing suspended ceilings for different rooms

Features of operation and length of stay of people must be taken into account when choosing a specific ceiling design.

Living room or hall. Usually this is the most a large room family members gather in a house or apartment where there are guests, and everyone should like the look of the stretch ceiling. Therefore, it is recommended to use neutral, calm colors. The canvas is best matte or textured like satin.

Satin ceiling.

Bedroom and children's room. In these rooms it is best to use polyester fabric, which will provide improved ventilation and the possibility of any color and color options. design design. Photo printing on canvas will look very good.

Matte ceiling with photo printing.

Kitchen and bathroom. The peculiarity of these rooms is high humidity and odors. Therefore, the best option would be to use PVC film, which is not susceptible to moisture and, when reflected, will visually increase the space. It is easy to wash if necessary. In addition, the film can protect the room from water from above during flooding. In the kitchen, the texture of marble or high sky looks very stylish.

Hallway. At small sizes hallway, you can use any type of suspended ceilings. The main criterion for choosing is your imagination and financial capabilities.

Finally

A lot depends on who will do the suspended ceilings. You must be confident in the competence and professionalism of the performer. He will help you with the right choice material, but the design decisions and choice of colors should be yours.

They have been present on the modern market for quite a long time, and every year they are gaining more and more popularity. This is not at all surprising. After all, in addition to wide design possibilities, they are durable and reliable. Today we will help you figure out which material for suspended ceilings is best suited for your premises.

Design features of suspended ceilings

Stretch ceilings are a whole structure that consists of a specific fabric and a fastening system. The latter is represented by plastic or metal profile. With its help, the canvas for the stretch ceiling is placed at a certain distance from the base one.

Such designs allow you to quickly level absolutely any surface and create a new smooth one. Also, with their help, you can realize a wide variety of design solutions. Other advantages of suspended ceilings include the following:

• they allow you to hide various communications laid from above;
• their installation will be much cheaper than installing drywall;
• installation is carried out in a short time without construction waste (even if the ceiling has several levels, installation takes on average from two to six hours);
• it is not at all necessary to prepare the base ceiling before installation, and this minimizes not only time, but also material costs;
• The ceiling can be installed after other repair work has been carried out;
• The service life, depending on the type, varies from 20 to 50 years.

The main disadvantage is that they do not “eat up” the height of the room.

Modern materials for stretch ceilings are presented in three types:

• made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC);
• fabric;
• made of fiberglass.

Let's look at each type in more detail.

PVC stretch ceilings

PVC is a material for suspended ceilings that first appeared in the sixties in France. During this time, the technology of its manufacture was improved, and accordingly, the quality of the product itself improved. By the way, this type is also called film.

Film for suspended ceilings comes in sizes from 1300 to 3200 mm. If this size is not enough, then several pieces are welded together. The seam is neat, small and almost invisible. Installation is carried out using heat guns, which heat the room to 60-70 degrees.

PVC stretch ceilings can be of the following types:

• depending on the texture: glossy (reflections, varnish texture and shine are visible) or matte (reflections are not visible, the ceiling is perfectly smooth);
• depending on the type of fastening: with a plastic insert (the technological gap is covered by a bead) or gapless fastening (there is no gap between the flow and the wall, the joint is perfect).

Advantages of PVC material

• PVC film for suspended ceilings has a very wide color palette(more than 130 shades).
• The material takes a wide variety of forms.
• Large range of permissible web widths.
• It is possible to select the type of surface.
• Excellent value for money and quality.
• The surface is perfectly smooth and has high moisture resistance.
• This material is suitable for stretch ceilings in any room.
• The coverage covers all communications.
• The material is characterized by high fire resistance.
• PVC ceilings do not absorb odors and dust and have high level thermal insulation.
• Such ceilings minimally reduce the height of the room.
• PVC stretch ceilings are very simple and easy to clean and do not require painting.
• The material can withstand loads of up to 100 kg per square meter.
• PVC ceilings can be dismantled and reinstalled if necessary.
• A wide variety of lighting systems, as well as hood sensors, can be built into the ceiling fire safety and so on.

Disadvantages of suspended ceilings made of PVC material

• Is not best material for use in rooms with air temperatures below +5 degrees.
• In the first hours after installation, an unpleasant odor emanates from such a ceiling.
• This ceiling is very delicate and is easily damaged by mechanical stress.
• There is a barely noticeable seam when welding several panels.
• If weld performed poorly, there is a high risk that the welding line will diverge.
• The pattern of the material is made in production, so accurate measurements are necessary.
• When choosing a manufacturer, you must carefully study the availability of quality and safety certificates, since cheap and low-quality fabrics are not only for a long time They emit an unpleasant odor, but are also unsafe for health.

Fabric stretch ceilings

In the manufacture of such ceilings, a special polyester mesh fabric is used, which is impregnated on both or only one side with polymers. The fabric fabric for the stretch ceiling is released directly from the roll, that is, installation occurs without preliminary cutting of the material.

The texture is very similar to ordinary fabric, the fibers are visible. Roll width - 4000 mm. Thanks to this size, it is possible to make a ceiling without seams. But if the width is not enough, then the canvas is connected to each other using a special profile.

Advantages

• It has higher strength compared to PVC fabric.
• This material is resistant to temperatures below five degrees Celsius.
• Fabric ceilings can withstand more severe mechanical stress than PVC structures.
• Fabric material for stretch ceilings has high sound insulation.

Flaws

• Fabric ceilings have a limited color palette.
• Painting can be done only after installation.
• An original design can only be created using photo printing.
• Such ceilings are not able to completely retain moisture in the event of flooding.
• Cleaning dirt from a fabric ceiling is not an easy task and takes a lot of time.
• Fabric ceilings cannot be installed a second time.
• Such ceilings are characterized by high cost.

Fiberglass ceilings

Fiberglass is a new material. It began to be used for stretch ceilings quite recently. Therefore, the warranty on such structures is short - about five years. For other types, the warranty period is about ten years. Also, not all companies are yet engaged in installing fiberglass ceilings.

The fabric is stretched similarly to the fabric type, that is, without heating. Painting and drawing are carried out after installation. The material is characterized by high water permeability and sound insulation, it is very durable and more environmentally friendly in comparison with PVC stretch ceilings.

Types of stretch ceilings by design

Regardless of what material suspended ceilings are made from, they can be presented in the following design:

• Starry sky: fiber optics and Swarovski crystals are installed in the ceiling. Thanks to this, the effect of a starry sky is achieved.
• Illuminated ceiling: installed behind the ceiling LED Strip Light. Helps create additional lighting.
• Two-level glossy and matte canvases at different levels. It will help to zone the room.
• Tensioner ceiling W-D: various three dimensional shapes, arcs, waves, arches or flowers.
• Photo printing on the ceiling: the ability to print any image on a matte or glossy finish.

Guide to choosing a stretch ceiling

1. First you need to consider everything existing species materials for suspended ceilings and become familiar with the advantages and disadvantages of each.
2. Decide on the design of the ceiling and the color scheme of the material.
3. Determine the maximum budget allocated for repairs in general and separately for ceiling installation.
4. Choose reliable specialists who will install the ceiling.

Choice of colors

The white ceiling is universal. But sometimes you want to create an unusual interior design that will not only delight you with color, but also perform some function (for example, visually enlarge the room). Moreover, the material for stretch ceilings is characterized by a wide color palette. Here are some recommendations to help you choose the right one:

• If you have low base ceilings, then you should not experiment with color. It is better to opt for light shades: white, beige, pastel, blue. They visually enlarge the space and fill it with air.
• For high ceilings, feel free to choose dark colors of tension material.
• Light shades will suit any interior style.
• Bright and contrasting colors of suspended ceilings should not be chosen for living rooms. Such colors only cause anxiety, and not an atmosphere of comfort and tranquility.
• For the bathroom and children's room it is good to choose turquoise tones.
• Photo printing on a stretch ceiling will bring a unique flavor to the interior.
• A ceiling in the “Starry Sky” style will look great in the bedroom. This will help create an atmosphere of relaxation.

Selection criteria by room

For the bathroom you should choose PVC material with a glossy texture. This is due to the fact that usually the bathroom does not have a large area, but is characterized by high humidity and temperature changes. Also, a glossy PVC stretch ceiling will become great solution for kitchen.

Any type of stretch ceiling looks equally good in the living room. Therefore, it all depends on your aesthetic preferences. But remember that it has the ability to visually enlarge a room, and the matte look will look very good if there is a lot of daylight entering the room.

Matte PVC or fabric ceilings are usually chosen for the bedroom. They are the best conducive to an atmosphere of comfort, tranquility and relaxation.

As you can see, each has its own characteristics, advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it is impossible to select the best material for suspended ceilings. It all depends on the room where the ceiling will be installed, the customer’s personal preferences, his design solution and financial capabilities.