How to finish the ceiling in the apartment. How to finish the ceiling in a residential area: an overview of current solutions and how to implement them

Uneven ceilings with crumbling whitewash and cracked plaster are a thing of the past. Today's ceiling repair options allow you to get a fairly smooth finish with any result.

The most difficult thing is to choose the best option from a variety of ways and stop at one of dozens of finishing materials.

When choosing, you should take into account almost everything: the humidity of the room, the height of the room, the style of interior design, as well as the repair budget.

Wallpapering

There are different options for finishing the ceiling with your own hands, but even today the wallpaper has not lost its popularity. In fact, any kind of this material is inexpensive, and the preparation of glue and gluing of canvases is within the power of an inexperienced master.

When you work with wallpaper, you need to consider the following facts:

• Their advantage is a wide range in comparison with whites and paints. You can choose wallpaper with the desired color and structure. In addition, photo wallpaper will help to apply a variety of images and paintings to the ceiling.
• In order to quickly change the design of the room, you can buy wallpaper that is not afraid of paint. This will create a real canvas on the ceiling, where you can depict virtually anything. These types of ceilings in the apartment are very popular today.
• Paper wallpapers should not be used, because there are many problems with them even when pasting walls. The ceiling always complicates the process itself at times. The best option for pasting the ceiling with wallpaper is interlining, which is much denser than paper and is not afraid of moisture.
• If you want to use some unusual variations in the design of the ceiling in the apartment, you should think about liquid wallpaper for the ceiling. The latter are applied to a pre-dried surface with a special gun. Then they are smoothed out, creating a special relief. On the other hand, the patterns will be of the same type, and dirt is the eternal companion of this option.

paper wallpaper

This material is used very rarely. The ceiling trimmed with paper wallpaper will not last long, but it will take a lot of time and effort to equip it.

Currently, these wallpapers are used to decorate rooms for children and other rooms where frequent cosmetic repairs are needed.

Paper wallpapers hide significant defects in the ceiling, are cheap and do not "steal" extra space.

Of the shortcomings:

• Short service life.
• The need for careful preparation of the ceiling surface.

Liquid Options

Liquid wallpaper hardens very quickly, is easy to apply, and does not fade when exposed to the sun. In addition, they are highly wear resistant. In addition, it is possible to replace any damaged area without completely removing the entire coating. This makes them very much in demand.

At the same time, it should be remembered that all these properties apply only to materials that are made using a clear technology. Different artisanal wallpapers may not have them. The key disadvantage is the high price. Also, this coating is very poorly tolerated by moisture.

Textile

What is currently possible to decorate the ceiling so that it is not at all the same as everyone else? For all lovers of the original, there are such options for finishing the ceiling: pasting with chintz, silk, linen, tapestry and special furniture fabrics. In addition, even burlap is suitable for finishing the ceiling.

These ceiling design options will appeal to all creative people who will choose combinations, patterns, colors and so on. And if you involve professionals in the business, then the price of the project can turn out to be quite high. The key advantage is the exclusive appearance.

Flaws:

• Short service life.
• The fragility of this coating.

Stretch ceiling

Stretch ceilings are a design, the main element of which is a canvas. The latter is mounted right under the ceiling on plastic or metal profiles. Variants of stretch ceilings: made of PVC films (matte canvas, glossy or satin ceilings), as well as fabric canvases.

Characteristics of modern stretch ceilings:

• Excellent hydro and thermal insulation. With this ceiling, a flood suddenly caused by the neighbors above is no longer a problem at all, since the coating will hold water, which can then be drained.
• They don't take up too much space. Therefore, the height of the room will not suffer.
• You can choose shapes and colors for every taste.
• They are afraid of any sharp objects.
• High price.

Whitewash

The very name of this type of finish already says a lot. Whitewashing is the decoration of ceilings with a lime or chalk composition, which gives the ceiling a snow-white texture (provided that the base is properly prepared).

The key words here are “prepared base”: before starting such a ceiling finish, it is necessary to do a number of laborious and troublesome work (plastering, leveling), the quality of which will certainly affect the final appearance of the coating.

Advantages:

• Low cost of materials.
• Technological simplicity of all works.

Flaws:

• Labor intensity.
• The need for good protection during the whitewashing of the walls of furniture, as well as one's own person.
• The rapid loss of a beautiful view of the ceiling finish in direct contact with water (if the neighbors from above arrange a flood in their own apartment, then you will have to re-finish the ceilings).

Painting

This way of decorating ceilings is very familiar to the eye. The painted ceiling looks attractive, and the cost of finishing it is low. In addition, you can paint the ceiling in a variety of colors, guided only by its harmonious participation in the interior of the room, as well as your own tastes.

Advantages:

• Low cost of materials.
• The practicality of the coating in everyday life.

Flaws:

• The dependence of the decorative coating on the professionalism of the finisher.
• Tendency to crack.
• Fragility (service life - no more than two years).
• The complexity of preparatory work.

Dropped ceilings

This ceiling design option has gained popularity due to the simple installation system. During installation, profiles for fastening are necessarily used, which are fixed on the ceiling surface and walls. Therefore, preliminary alignment is not required, and the work is quite clean.

Plasterboard

Plasterboard finishing is the most popular type of ceiling decoration in an apartment. By means of GKL plates, you can make not only an ordinary ceiling, but also an amazing multi-level structure, or a niche. The plasticity of this material allows you to create the most strange and bizarre shapes for different interiors.

Of the advantages, it should be noted the ease of installation - even an inexperienced person can sheathe the ceiling with drywall. In addition, the material is inexpensive.

The main drawback is the “fear” of water. Under the influence of moisture, such a ceiling quickly collapses. Before you cover the ceiling with drywall, you need to consider the heat-insulating layer and the lighting system. Another drawback is the need for subsequent finishing of the coating with putty and paints.

Tiled

This method of finishing the ceiling is one of the most affordable and budget. That is why it is often used in hospitals, offices and other buildings where practicality is a priority, and an attractive appearance is not necessary.

The installation of the material is carried out as follows: a special mesh frame is fixed on the main cover, where sheets of minfiber of various shapes are fixed.

The main advantage of this type of ceiling design in an apartment is the ability to disguise all engineering communications under the plates. In addition, the product is very easy to replace if damaged. Tiles today are produced in a large assortment. Therefore, finding the right texture and color is very simple.

Of the shortcomings:

• Not the prettiest look.
• Brittleness of the material.
• Tiled construction reduces the height of the walls.

Cassette

This type of ceiling design is similar to the previous one. True, instead of fragile minlists, durable cassettes made of plastic or metal are used here. The advantage is that there is a heater between the metal sheets. Due to this, the entire installation does not take long. The disadvantage is the price.

Rack

If there is a difficult dilemma of what to make ceilings in the kitchen or bathroom, it is advisable to pay attention to this option. In this case, not tiles are installed on the frame, but special long slats made of wood, plastic or galvanized aluminum. The result is a beautiful imitation of lining, although this finish is much cheaper.

Another advantage is the quick installation and easy repair of the material. Of the shortcomings - a fairly short period of use of the coating - usually five years.

Combined

Currently, when creating a project for a house, designers often use several design options and two-level ceilings at once. Often combine stretch and suspended ceilings. Sometimes a mirror is installed in a niche of a plasterboard structure, or a suspended ceiling is used as a border, and the main surface is leveled with plaster and then painted.

Glued ceilings

Here we are talking about the ceiling, which is covered with tiles with one adhesive side. These products are very easy to install and have good moisture resistance. In this regard, they have gained popularity among the Russian user. In addition, with the help of adhesive tiles, you can save a lot on expensive stucco.

The main disadvantage of this ceiling design option is the need for careful leveling of the coating. In addition, such a tile is very fragile.

Ceilings made of natural materials

Recently, natural options for finishing the ceiling are gaining more and more popularity. Every year, more and more new methods of impregnation and processing of products are invented, which increase their performance.

Wooden lining

Wooden lining - thin wooden boards, or MDF boards. The latter are attached to the frame by means of self-tapping screws, kleimers or nails.

The main advantages of these materials:

• Attractive appearance.
• Environmental friendliness.
• Durability and strength.

Flaws:

• Limited color range.
• The need for impregnation for wood.

Beam ceiling

This type of ceiling is more suitable for a country house or cottage. In the apartment, it will look somewhat out of place. However, some lovers of natural materials find it useful here as well. The beam has all the characteristics of lining, but it lasts much longer and is particularly durable.

Flaws:

• Pretty complicated installation.
• The need for ventilation.
• Before finishing the ceiling with such material, it will have to be impregnated with special compounds for a long time.

Cork

Cork ceilings, alas, are not widespread enough. Nevertheless, this material has certain advantages: the presence of a wax coating reliably protects the surface from dust and water settling, and also increases the service life.

Of the shortcomings:

• Complicated installation.
• High price.

Plastic lining

When finishing the ceiling on the balcony, it is advisable to pay attention to the PVC lining. The resulting coating will be durable and strong enough, under it it will be possible to hide the heat-insulating layer and engineering communications.

In addition, the material is available in a large assortment, it is resistant to the development of fungi, mold and bacteria, as well as ultraviolet radiation. At the same time, this ceiling is very fragile, it can be easily damaged by light mechanical action. A couple of days after installation, there will definitely be a special smell in the room.

Layered structures

This ceiling can be decorated using any of the finishing materials listed above. However, it differs in its installation technology. In this case, we are talking about a variety of suspended structures that will be installed at different distances from the ceiling surface, stretch ceilings of different levels, plasterboard niches and their combinations with plaster and paints.

In order to correctly choose this method of finishing, you first need to think carefully about the general concept of the interior of the room, and then think over the budget for the purchase of material and payment for work.

As for the choice of a supplier, it is desirable to work with proven and reliable companies that can confirm their business reputation with numerous positive reviews from their customers.

Conclusion

We really hope that this article was useful to you and significantly expanded your knowledge about the possible options for finishing the ceiling in an apartment or house during their repair. Applying the important knowledge gained here, anyone can choose one, the most optimal and suitable only for him, way to finish the ceiling of his house.

The days when the ceiling in a house or apartment was simply whitewashed are already far in the past, updating the coating every year. Now there are a large number of building materials that will allow you to create a beautiful cladding of the room.

This article, illustrated with a photo, tells how to finish the ceiling in the apartment. The instructions will be especially useful for those who want to do all the work with their own hands.

A variety of materials - their feature and basic installation rules

Finishing the ceilings in the apartment is a simple process. The main thing is to choose one or another facing material. Let's look at the main options for finishing the ceiling in the apartment, the use of various products.

Choosing a wallpaper

Wallpaper has been used for a long time.

And the reason for this popularity of this material is as follows:

• low price;
• ease of pasting.

Advice. Before pasting the wallpaper, it is necessary to level the surface, as well as qualitatively close up all the cracks and holes, joints between the floor slabs. This is necessary because the wallpaper itself is very thin, and therefore even the slightest irregularities of the ceiling will be visible under them.

The wallpaper itself should be chosen depending on what type of room is being repaired:

• ordinary, paper wallpapers are suitable for the corridor;
• for the kitchen, the so-called glass wallpaper is best suited.

This coating has a lot of positive characteristics:

• hide surface irregularities;
• have a reinforcing property;
• durability;
• fire safety;
• moisture resistance;
• the possibility of multiple staining.

Advice. The choice of wallpaper color depends on the overall interior design of a particular room. However, experts recommend paying attention to models that can subsequently be repeatedly painted. Thus, when changing the interior design, you do not have to change the ceiling covering, but it will be enough just to repaint it.

Choosing polystyrene panels

Ways to finish the ceilings in the apartment are varied. For example, more and more people are using polystyrene panels for this purpose.

This material has a rich color range and can be:

• white;
• blue
• green;
• pink;
• cream, etc.

And this is not to mention such types of products that almost perfectly imitate natural materials:

• wood;
• metal;
• stone, etc.

However, polystyrene panels have one very negative point, which is that they are very difficult to glue. It is extremely difficult to do this work on your own, especially without experience in carrying out repairs.

Before you start pasting the surface with panels, you need to prepare it by removing and patching:

• cracks;
• joints;
• protrusions, etc.

After all, even if one panel is glued a little unevenly, then all subsequent ones will “skew”.

Choosing stretch ceilings

If we are talking about the kitchen, then in this case, all of the above types of ceiling finishes in the apartment will not be relevant, due to the fact that both wallpaper and polystyrene panels absorb dirt, and it is very difficult to wash such material.

In the kitchen, the release of soot, moisture, which, settling on the ceiling, pollutes it, is constantly observed.

Tensile structure installation

The optimal solution in this situation will be a stretch ceiling. Experienced craftsmen will perform the installation quite quickly, literally in a day, since there is no need to carefully treat the surface to install the tension material.

The installation itself is not a dusty job, and therefore you don’t have to worry that you will have to clean and clean the room for a long time. Indeed, to install the tension facing material, only a few holes should be drilled.

1. First, the frame is mounted - for its manufacture it is necessary to use a metal profile, which is attached to the ceiling by means of a quick mounting system.
2. After creating the frame, immediately distribute the wiring - this is especially important if you plan to install built-in lights, through which it is easy to perform zoning of the room.
3. Next, you can proceed to the installation of drywall sheets. If you are still going to install spotlights, then holes for them are drilled in drywall after it is fixed on a metal profile frame.
4. Sheets of material are also fastened with self-tapping screws.
5. After all the sheets are fixed, they are held

Repairs in an apartment traditionally begin with finishing the ceiling. There are many ways to give the ceiling a fresh and stylish look, so choosing the type of finish can sometimes be difficult, especially if you are starting a renovation for the first time. Our article will help you understand the features of different materials.

Ceiling repair and decoration

Repair work should include sealing cracks, seams and joints, plastering and puttying the ceiling with its alignment. Depending on the type of further decorative finishes, the amount of repair work may be different.

Ceiling decoration methods can be divided into several groups according to the finishing technology. The choice of materials for each group is quite wide, while the sequence of work is generally similar.

The most popular finishes:

• coloring or whitewashing;
• pasting with wallpaper or fabric;
• ceiling tiles;
• hemming and hanging structures;
• stretch ceiling.

Its properties and durability depend on the material and design of the ceiling. For this reason, it is worth not only relying on your taste and wallet capabilities, but also taking into account the characteristics of the materials. To repair the ceiling, it is not necessary to involve specialists, you can do everything yourself.

Ceiling repair technology

Repair work is carried out to preserve the heat and sound insulation properties of the floors, as well as to prepare the base for further decorative finishing. The table describes the ceiling repair technology with a description of each stage. The need to perform each operation should be evaluated after choosing a decorative finish.

Table 1. Repair of the ceiling before the start of finishing work.

Stages, illustrations	Description of actions
	Ceiling repairs traditionally begin with the complete removal of the old coating. In new buildings with a rough finish, this stage is skipped. Whitewash and paint from the ceiling are removed with a spatula, angle grinder or a special wash. They clean the ceiling to putty or plaster, and in case of poor adhesion - to concrete. Wallpaper and ceiling tiles are removed, the remaining glue is cleaned. Suspended or hemmed structures are dismantled. The ceiling is washed with water with the addition of detergent.
	Spots often appear on the ceiling, for example, from leaks. If you plan to paint the ceiling or paste over it with light wallpaper, the stains must be removed. For other finishes, this step can be skipped. Rust spots appear, as a rule, when the reinforcement of the concrete slab is close to the surface. They are cleaned with a solution of weak acids, and later they must be puttied to exclude the possibility of wetting the metal during finishing. Grease stains are easy to remove with dish detergent or slightly alkaline solutions - soda, laundry soap. The solution is applied to the stain, wait a while and rinse with water. Salt stains are removed with a whitewash remover or table vinegar.
	To repair ceiling defects with plaster, it is necessary to embroider seams and cracks to a solid foundation. To do this, you can use a spatula or a puncher with a special nozzle. Old plaster and putty are removed from the seams, crumbling edges are cleaned in cracks. Check the strength of the plaster in the corners between the wall and the ceiling, if necessary, also embroider them.
	Deep and wide seams and cracks must be foamed with a mounting gun. To do this, after the jointing, dust is removed from them, moistened with a spray gun and filled with foam to 1/3 of the depth. After expansion, the foam fills the entire crack. The excess is removed after the foam has completely dried - not earlier than in a day.
	With a small depth of seams and cracks, they are sealed with plaster or putty mixtures. Cracks are carefully treated with a deep penetration primer, dried, and then filled with a cement or gypsum-based plaster. The solution fills the defects with a narrow spatula and level the surface of the ceiling with a wide one. Sometimes it is necessary to apply several layers of putty, while the maximum thickness of each of them depends on the mixture chosen and, as a rule, is indicated on the package.
	This stage of ceiling repair is performed for painting or wallpapering. For leveling, a fine-grained gypsum-based finishing putty is used; in damp rooms, a moisture-resistant cement or polymer-based putty is required. The putty is applied to the pre-primed surface of the ceiling with a wide spatula, carefully leveled and rubbed with a trowel or fine-grained sandpaper after each layer dries.

Video - Do-it-yourself ceiling plastering

Painting and whitewashing the ceiling

An affordable, cheap and very common way, suitable for any room, including a bathroom and a balcony. Painting does not affect the height of the ceilings, so it is often used in old-style apartments - "Khrushchev" and "Brezhnevka". The durability of the finish, depending on the selected coloring composition and the type of room, ranges from 2 to 10 years.

Popular lineups:

• chalk and lime whitewash;
• water-based paint;
• interior paints based on acrylic and latex.

Whitewash compositions are distinguished by their low price and good environmental performance. Chalk and lime are natural materials and have a positive effect on the microclimate in the apartment. Whitewash is not afraid of high humidity, the coating does not support combustion, after drying it has no smell. The solution can be tinted in any shade.

Unfortunately, this list of whitewashing pluses is exhausted. The durability of whitewashed ceilings is low: in rooms from three to five years, and in the kitchen - no more than two. Chalk whitewash is afraid of water leaks and pollution - in this case, spots are formed, which can only be washed off together with a layer of chalk.

Lime is more resistant, it can be gently wiped with a damp sponge, but it will not work to wash difficult stains. Over time, the whitewash turns yellow and flakes off, and the repair of the ceiling has to be done again, including the laborious preparation of its surface.

To prepare a ready-made whitewash solution from quicklime, it is quenched with water. This process requires special precautions, as it may be accompanied by a violent reaction, boiling water and splashing of the mixture.

- a more resistant composition, it can be gently washed and small dirt removed, otherwise it does not differ from whitewashing. The water emulsion also turns yellow over time and becomes stained with leaks, flakes and crumbles after several years of operation.

Modern interior paints based on acrylic and latex are more expensive than whitewash, but they allow you to get a fairly stable and durable coating. The paint is tinted in any shade, you can choose a matte or shiny composition. With the help of various rollers, the desired texture can be given to the paint layer.

Before proceeding with the application of paint or whitewash, you must complete. It includes removing the old coating, sealing cracks and joints, leveling and puttying. Otherwise, the surface will turn out to be uneven - the paint does not hide the defects of the ceiling, and in some cases even emphasizes them.

Whitewashing and painting the ceiling is a great option for inexpensive repairs. For rooms, it is better to choose water-based compositions, for the bathroom and kitchen - on latex, they absorb moisture and odors less and allow wet cleaning.

Whitewash prices

Pasting the ceiling with wallpaper or fabric

Another finishing method that does not affect the height of the ceiling, which is why it is used in the repair of typical apartments with small dimensions. use in dry rooms - from high humidity, the wallpaper quickly peels off.

The preparation of the ceiling for wallpaper should be very thorough: you need to remove the old paint, seal the seams, cracks and prime the surface to remove dust. The durability of such a repair depends on the chosen wallpaper, for cheap paper it is 3-4 years, non-woven and vinyl can last more than ten years.

Types of materials for pasting the ceiling:

• paper wallpaper;
• vinyl wallpapers;
• non-woven wallpaper;
• silk or satin fabric.

Paper wallpapers are the cheapest on this list, they can be smooth or embossed and come in almost any shade and pattern. Due to their light weight, they hold well on the ceiling, they are easy to stick. However, their durability is low, after a couple of years the paper coating burns out and loses its appearance. In addition, thin paper wallpapers are unable to hide even small irregularities and defects, so the preparation of the ceiling for them must be very thorough.

Prices for non-woven wallpaper

non-woven wallpaper

Vinyl wallpapers are produced on a paper or non-woven basis.

Two types of vinyl wallpaper are suitable for finishing the ceiling:

• silk screen printing- refers to smooth vinyl wallpaper and has a shiny smooth surface that imitates natural silk;
• foam vinyl- wallpaper with a relief pattern that repeats the texture of different finishing materials - wood, stone, tile or plaster.

Vinyl wallpapers have good moisture resistance, they can be gently wiped with a damp sponge to remove dust and stains. Due to the denser structure, vinyl hides minor defects in the ceiling.

Non-woven wallpaper can be both colored and white. Colored ones are used as an independent finish, plain white ones - to give the ceiling a relief pattern, they are painted with any interior paint using a roller or spray gun. The advantage of such wallpapers is that they can be repainted up to seven times without wasting time and money.

Pasting the ceiling with natural silk or satin is not so common due to the high price of these materials. At the same time, fabric trim allows you to create a unique stylish interior, so this method deserves attention. The fabric can be combined with other types of finishes, for example, with interior paint, pasting certain areas or niches with it.

Note! In order for the wallpaper to adhere well to the ceiling, it is necessary to use glue designed specifically for this type of material. You can also use universal glue, diluted according to the instructions for this type of coating.

Ceiling tiles

- a budget type of finish, allows you to get a washable ceiling covering, smooth or patterned. Ceiling tiles can be both white and colored, more often pastel shades, and its surface is rough or laminated. Thanks to moisture resistance, the tiles can be glued in the bathroom and in the kitchen, as well as on the balcony. The durability of polystyrene tiles is from 2 to 10 years, depending on the operating conditions.

ceiling tiles prices

ceiling tiles

The surface of the draft ceiling for tiling must be cleaned of old coatings and dust. Cracks, defects and small irregularities can not be repaired, the tile completely hides them. If the differences are significant, a leveling frame is built under the tile from wooden slats or plaster is used.

Glue the tiles on a special glue - "Moment", "Titan" - or use liquid nails. During installation and adjustment, the tile is easily cut with a knife. The joints of the ceiling and walls are additionally decorated with a ceiling plinth to complete the finish. You can also use elements that imitate stucco - they will give the ceiling originality.

Note! Polystyrene is a combustible material, the use of tiles increases the fire hazard of the room. Therefore, when sticking, you need to pay special attention to the quality of electrical wiring and fixtures.

In you will find detailed instructions for pasting the ceiling with tiles! Tiling is one of the most popular ways to finish a ceiling. It is economical and provides the room with an excellent appearance. At the same time, it is not difficult to glue the tiles, and you can cope with the task on your own.

False and suspended ceilings

The main feature of this type of finish is the installation of facing materials on a special frame fixed to the ceiling. The frame of the false ceiling is attached directly to the floor slab using anchors or self-tapping screws. Suspended structures are mounted using guides installed along the perimeter of the walls, and suspensions fixed to the ceiling with a certain step.

Preparing the ceiling for this type of finish is quite simple: you need to remove peeling elements and close up large gaps in order to maintain the soundproofing properties of the floors. The level of the finished ceiling during the installation of false ceilings changes by 2-5 cm, suspended ceilings lower it by at least 10-15 cm. The durability of the finish depends on the material and is at least 10 years.

Materials for suspended ceilings can be different, but the most popular are:

• wood;
• decorative panels;
• drywall;
• metal rails;
• tile type "Armstrong".

How to make a frame for a false ceiling

Suspended ceilings are mounted, as a rule, on a frame made of metal profiles designed specifically for this purpose. Profiles are distinguished by purpose for rails, ceiling and wall. They are connected using self-tapping screws or special clamping devices. The price of the finished frame at the same time turns out to be quite high, it is commensurate with the cost of the finishing material itself.

Prices for tiles "Armstrong"

tile "Armstrong"

In some cases, it is easier and cheaper to assemble a frame from a wooden bar. The latter is used when finishing balconies and loggias, as well as when mounting the frame directly to the ceiling. For the frame, you need a bar of dry wood with a section of 40x60 or 50x50 mm, as well as wood screws and dowels.

Step-by-step instructions for mounting the frame are given in table 2.

Table 2. Step-by-step instructions for making a frame for false ceilings from a wooden block.

Stages, illustrations	Description of actions
	Marking is necessary so that the final ceiling is strictly horizontal. The easiest way to do it is with a laser level. It is fixed in one of the corners and a line is drawn on the walls along the light beam.
	Holes are drilled in the bar in increments of 40-50 cm, while the distance from the ends of the bar should be 5-7 cm so that it does not crack when fastened. The diameter of each hole is 2-3 mm, a wood screw should be screwed into it (hole) with force, with which you will fasten the bar. Apply the bar horizontally to the wall, aligning it with the lower edge along the drawn line. Using an awl, mark the attachment points through the drilled holes. Holes for dowels are drilled in the wall, they are driven in and the bar is fastened to the wall with long self-tapping screws. If the walls are wooden, the bar can be fixed with self-tapping screws without drilling.
	The rails on the ceiling are parallel to the short wall. The step of the guides is usually chosen in the range of 50-60 cm, while the joints of the panels or boards should lie on the bar. If necessary, the step can be reduced. Mark the position of the bars on the wall guides. Measure the distance between the wall guides. It is better to do this in place, and not with a tape measure - so the accuracy will be higher. They cut the bars of the desired length, apply them to the ceiling and draw a line. Holes are drilled on this line in increments of 50-60 cm and a U-shaped suspension for drywall is fixed.
	The bar is brought inside the suspension and the horizontalness is checked using a hydraulic level, if there are irregularities, they are leveled, after which the bar is fixed in the suspension using self-tapping screws. Thus, all the guides are fixed and the horizontalness of the frame is checked again. Wall and ceiling rails are connected using corners and self-tapping screws. The free ends of the U-shaped suspension are cut or bent so that it does not interfere with the installation of a false ceiling. With the help of suspensions, heat-insulating mats can also be fixed.

After mounting the frame, you can proceed to the final stage of finishing - the installation of a false ceiling from the selected material.

wood finish

Ceiling sheathing with natural wood is more often used in a country house or in a country house, but it can also take pride of place in an apartment. Wood planks and panels can be used on their own or combined with other materials.

Advantages of wooden ceiling finishes:

• environmentally friendly material;
• high decorative properties;
• simple installation;
• can be painted with any kind of paint;
• durability over 10 years;
• when using special impregnations, it can be used in wet rooms and on the balcony.

Flaws:

• flammable material;
• wood is susceptible to rotting and fungal attack, requires regular processing.

Wooden filing is mounted on a frame made of a bar or directly on the floors. The boards are fixed with self-tapping screws or nails, the attachment points are later rubbed with special mastic or covered with planks.

MDF and plastic panels

A fairly popular material for finishing the kitchen, bathroom, hallway and balcony. The range of decorative panels is quite large. They are plain, colored, patterned or imitating natural materials - wood, stone, mosaic or stone.

Advantages of ceiling panels:

• plastic panels have high moisture resistance;
• panels are easy to clean;
• a large selection of colors allows you to choose the right decor;
• they can be installed at any level through the use of wall profiles;
• allow you to hide electrical wiring and ventilation ducts, as well as install built-in lights.

Flaws:

• low-quality panels emit extraneous odors;
• plastic is combustible, releases toxic substances in case of fire;
• the panels are quite fragile, they are easily damaged.

The panels are mounted on a frame or special guides located along the perimeter of the walls. Between themselves, they are connected using the "thorn-groove" system, which allows you to make the joints almost invisible. The service life of the panels is from 5 to 10 years.

Drywall

One of the most popular materials for suspended ceilings. With the help of drywall, you can create bold designs and shapes, make multi-tiered shelves with built-in lighting and other decorative elements. After sheathing with drywall, the ceiling is puttied and painted with interior paint or wallpapered.

Drywall prices

drywall

Advantages of drywall:

• natural material, it does not have a harmful effect on the microclimate in the apartment;
• with its help, you can quickly and efficiently level the ceiling without excess dirt and dust;
• under the finishing ceiling, you can hide any communications, as well as sound and heat insulating materials;
• you can make complex built-in lighting and backlighting;
• moisture resistant types of drywall can be used in the bathroom;
• for processing and installation does not need a complex tool.

Flaws:

• the material is quite fragile and does not withstand shock;
• afraid of leaks, when wet, it exfoliates and collapses;
• for the installation of complex structures and further finishing, painting and finishing skills or the help of specialists are required.

Drywall sheets are mounted on a frame made of a bar or a metal profile, fixed to the walls and ceiling with self-tapping screws. Further finishing consists of two stages - puttying and applying a decorative coating. The service life of plasterboard ceilings depends on the type of finish, the structure itself can stand for at least 25 years.

A suspended ceiling made of metal slats is a good choice for a loggia, kitchen or bathroom, as well as other rooms subject to changes in humidity and temperature. The rack ceiling consists of aluminum strips mounted on rails. Planks can be single-colored or interspersed with decorative inserts; recessed lights can be installed in them.

Advantages of rack ceilings:

• high resistance to moisture;
• aluminum is not subject to corrosion and does not lose its appearance for a long time;
• the low weight of the structure allows it to be used for any floors;
• slatted ceilings are easy to clean;
• you can assemble the rack ceiling with your own hands.

Flaws:

• the design of slatted ceilings is rather monotonous and does not fit into any interior;
• if one of the strips is damaged, the entire ceiling will have to be disassembled to replace it.

The ceiling is assembled from separate rails on special traverses - strips with grooves for fastening. Traverses are fixed to the ceiling with adjustable suspensions. The ends of the rails lead into guides fixed on the walls - they close the end cut. The service life of rack ceilings is at least 10 years.

Ceiling "Armstrong"

It consists of individual tiles laid on a metal profile frame. Ceiling tiles "Armstrong" have a standard size of 60x60 cm, can be either from light organic materials, or from metal, glass or wood panels. Using this technology, you can create complex structures with built-in lighting, mirrors and stained glass windows.

Advantages of ceilings "Armstrong":

• do not affect ventilation and air exchange;
• provide good thermal insulation and protection against acoustic noise;
• a large selection of plates with different textures, colors and properties;
• frame elements are equipped with standard fasteners, thanks to which the ceilings are easy to mount;
• dismantling and replacement of individual plates is possible;
• easy access to elements embedded in the ceiling for repairs and maintenance.

Flaws:

• Armstrong ceilings are difficult to install in non-standard shaped rooms;
• the design does not protect against leaks, and organic tiles can get wet and fall, so Armstrong should not be installed in the bathroom and bathroom;
• significantly lowers the level of the ceiling.

The Armstrong ceiling frame consists of profiles with standard fasteners, making it quick and easy to assemble. The frame is attached to the ceiling with the help of spring suspensions, to the walls - with self-tapping screws. The tiles are brought inside the frame and simply laid in the cells. Due to the simplest design, Armstrong ceilings will last you more than 15 years, and individual elements can be replaced in a matter of hours.

Note! All suspended ceilings successfully hide irregularities and defects in the ceiling, communications and electrical wiring. Under them, you can also hide sound and heat insulating materials.

Stretch ceiling

One of the most popular ways to repair a ceiling is to stretch a special fabric onto a pre-mounted frame. The result is an absolutely flat smooth surface with the desired shade and texture. Stretch ceilings are durable and easy to use, they are suitable for any premises, only the correct selection of the canvas is required.

Fabrics for stretch ceilings are:

• based on PVC film;
• fabric, polyester coated with polyurethane;
• from natural fabrics.

The latter type of stretch ceilings is rarely used due to the high price and complexity of installation. But the ceilings of specialized paintings are easy to install and operate. What material to give preference?

PVC sheets have a number of features, the list of advantages is quite large:

• absolute moisture resistance and the ability to hold hundreds of liters of water in case of leaks;
• due to antistatic properties do not absorb dust and odors;
• not prone to condensation;
• A wide selection of shades and textures from matte to mirror allows you to choose a canvas for any interior.

They also have a number of disadvantages, as well as installation restrictions:

• PVC sheets do not tolerate sub-zero temperatures, crack and collapse;
• they are easily damaged by sharp objects;
• the width of the paintings is not large and is not more than 3.5 m;
• installation requires special equipment.

Unlike PVC sheets, fabric ceilings:

• allow you to create a seamless ceiling up to 5 meters wide;
• are not afraid of temperature changes.

Cons of fabric ceilings:

• cannot hold a large volume of water, with strong leaks they collapse;
• absorb odors, so it is better not to mount them in the kitchen;
• the color palette is significantly smaller, and the texture is reminiscent of woven fabric.

Stretch ceiling installation

Stretch ceilings can be single-level or multi-tiered and, at the request of the customer, combine different colors and textures of the canvases. Sometimes additional effects are used - photo printing, imitation of the day or night sky, water, and others. The service life of stretch ceilings is from 10 to 25 years.

Having chosen the method of finishing the ceiling, it is worth studying in more detail the technology and features of the material you like. In most cases, ceiling repairs can be done without the involvement of specialists, creating comfort and coziness in the house with your own hands.

Video - Repair of the ceiling in the apartment

To figure out how to give the ceiling a unique appearance and at the same time make it as reliable as possible, you need to figure out what methods of finishing the ceiling exist today.

The most commonly used ceiling finishes

To do this, it is necessary to consider in detail the materials used in this process, their technical characteristics and performance, in order to once and for all decide how to finish the ceiling in the room. If you have any questions regarding the features of certain samples, you can always seek help from professionals who are ready to provide photo and video materials for their installation.

Film-type stretch ceiling, as one of the finishing methods

Arguing on the topic of what you can finish the ceiling in the room, we can say that the use of a stretch ceiling would be an excellent solution in this case. Their production is carried out using durable materials based on polymers, represented by polyvinyl chloride film (PVC). As a rule, only environmentally friendly materials are included in the composition of high quality stretch ceilings, and, speaking about their technical characteristics, it is important to note that they are an excellent sound insulator, and are also resistant to fire and moisture.

Among the advantages of a stretch ceiling, there are such as, for example, a rich selection of shades of color, a variety of textures and reliefs, as well as a wide range of their application. The warranty provides for a service life of 10 years, but in fact stretch ceilings can last about 25 years.

As already mentioned, only pure materials are included in high-quality stretch ceilings, so such systems can be installed without any fear in children's rooms and bedrooms.

When deciding how to finish the ceiling in a room using a tension structure, you should also not forget that during its installation, a part of the height, equal to about 20 centimeters, will be hidden.

Finishing the ceiling with plasterboard slabs, cassettes and slats

Speaking about what modern methods of finishing the ceiling exist, it is imperative to mention suspended structures, which have gained no less popularity today than stretch ones. This is due, first of all, to a wide range of their functionality. So, for example, a suspended ceiling is perfect if you want to hide some of the communications of the room, as well as eliminate visually noticeable defects or surface flaws. In general, ceiling finishes can be very different, which allows you to choose the right option for yourself.

At the heart of the manufacture of slatted and cassette suspended ceilings are zinc-treated steel or aluminum, and the material itself is of fairly high quality. These designs have earned their popularity also due to their high aesthetic performance, a wide selection of color shades, as well as the possibility of applying various images. The surface of the rails and cassettes is completely mirrored, which has a positive effect on the visual perception of the room, as its height visually increases. In addition, ceilings made of cassettes and slats tolerate high temperatures and high humidity well, so they can be mounted, for example, in a bathroom or pool.

Among the disadvantages of such suspended ceilings are a low degree of sound insulation, the relative difficulty in operating communications located in the inter-ceiling space, as well as a very high cost. Despite this, their advantages still outweigh the negatives: such ceilings are easy to clean and dismantle, they can also be used to create multi-level systems without any problems and use them to decorate arches indoors, and their service life is very long.

Ceiling finish with lime, chalk or paint is an economical option

Many owners, in the process of choosing what to finish the ceiling with, opt for traditional and economical ones. One of the most commonly used methods is whitewashing the surface. It is only important to use this material in rooms where there is no high humidity, that is, in corridors, utility rooms and other utility rooms.

The basis of whitewashing is a solution that has a snow-white color, which includes lime or chalk. This shade can fit well into the interior of any character. However, do not forget that with excessively bright lighting, whitewashing loses its color intensity. In addition, this finishing material does not tolerate moisture and can be used in rooms with a high level of humidity.

As a replacement for whitewash, you can use ceiling paint.

As a rule, these compositions include:

• water-dispersion paints;
• water-based paints;
• silicone paints;
• latex formulations;
• silicate paints.

So, for example, silicone paint has an increased resistance to steam, which, accordingly, explains its high price. Typically, ceilings are painted in areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, garages and other utility rooms. A wide range of shades of color will allow you to decorate the interior according to your own design and give this or that room the desired design.

Considering the methods of finishing ceilings, one cannot fail to mention such an option as pasting the ceiling surface with wallpaper. Moreover, this procedure can be performed not only with the help of paper samples, but also with vinyl or non-woven wallpaper. In this case, glue acts as a fastener, but only paper and vinyl material can be covered with it, and this cannot be done with non-woven wallpaper. It is most preferable to use such a finish in those rooms where the level of humidity is high, and it is not possible to use other methods of finishing.

So, we can conclude that ceiling decoration is a process that can be done independently, it is only important to strictly follow all the rules for their installation and observe the necessary conditions characteristic of certain materials.

The ceiling plays an important role in the interior. The thematic design and the impression of the entire room depend on the quality of its design and the choice of style. There is furniture on the floor. The defect can be covered with a carpet. The walls are hidden behind cabinets and shelves. Pictures and decorative ornaments are hung on them. Finishing the ceiling, its quality catches the eye from the threshold.

When decorating rooms in new houses and overhauling apartments, I always pay special attention to the overlap. Designers draw it last, as the final chord of the interior. Finishing builders generally start at the top and gradually descend towards the floor.

Types of ceiling finishes and materials used

Modern technologies create new materials. Builders use them for decoration, including interiors in apartments and private houses. You can endlessly list the ways of decorating the premises. In old buildings, the traditional method of whitewashing with chalk or lime has been preserved. Materials and floor preparation are familiar to everyone. Any housewife can refresh her kitchen on her own in a few hours. Wash the floor and walls for much longer.

In addition, there are new and improved old ceiling finishes:

• Hemming, when finishing materials are screwed directly to the surface of the floor. This is done mainly with the help of self-tapping screws.
• Suspended mounted on a specially designed frame made of metal profiles and wooden slats.
• Stretch ceiling is attached around the perimeter. The material is stretched and clamped into a special aluminum baguette.
• Wallpapering is done directly on the surface. Various decoration methods are used.
• Slatted and cassette ceilings are made of aluminum strips and plates with a color and mirror finish.

Many types of design and materials are missing. The list of options for finishing the ceiling is endless.

Finishes requiring quality surface preparation

All defects are highly visible on the painted ceiling. The paint flows into the cracks, highlighting every unevenness. To prepare the floor in the apartment, I cover the plane with 2 - 3 layers of starting putty with stripping and a primer that improves adhesion. I use a ruler to check. After complete drying, I apply the finishing composition. Then the ceiling is finished with acrylic paints.

Wallpaper can be glued without finishing putty. They will hide small cracks and bumps. But all the bulges and depressions will be visible. The drawing will only emphasize them. When the question arises of how to finish the ceiling, and even in the apartment, without wasting time fixing minor defects, I advise “wet wallpaper”. They can be applied using a special device that evenly covers the plane. The textured colored surface will hide the roughness, give a decorative look to the room.

Ceiling decoration with aluminum and plastic materials

Bedroom ceiling decoration

The apartment has high ceilings found in old buildings. Aligning them is difficult. But you can make suspension systems. The living room looks luxurious with slatted ceilings. Materials are almost eternal. Aluminum strips are coated with a special paint. They bend into desired shapes. The alternation of colors creates the illusion of a holiday, fireworks. In matte and glossy stripes of the same tone, intrigue and volume.

The design method excludes amateurs. I work only on a project developed by designers and constructors. I make a frame from a profile in accordance with the drawing. Aluminum strips are bent and cut to order by the manufacturer. Mounting without equipment can only be a flat ceiling without fixtures.

An affordable way to finish the ceiling with aluminum is cassette. Rectangular and square light metal blocks are hung on a special mount. The bottom surface has a decorative finish. Spraying and powder coating give the surface a different look. Mirrors reflect the room, making it tall and spacious, adding light. You can combine colors and textures to create unique patterns.

Stretch ceilings and material for self-finishing

A distinctive feature of stretch ceilings is their installation after finishing the walls and floor. The most common materials are PVC film and its analogues. To decorate a room in an apartment, I use a profile and drywall. I take measurements after plastering the walls. The cover can be left as it is. I remove the old mortar, which does not hold well, crumbles, and fix it with a primer.

The PVC film is fully prepared by the manufacturer. It is decorated according to a sketch, made plain or with a pattern, cut to the ordered size. There are three types:

• satin - matte smooth surface;
• mirror gloss, reflects light and contrasting colors in the interior, increases space;
• matte - a classic option, in harmony with all styles and finishes of walls and floors.

Having fixed a profile around the perimeter - a baguette, I lay out the film with an assistant and start heating the room in the apartment with the help of a heat gun. Close the door and window first. I make a multi-tiered ceiling, starting from the uppermost section.

White or slightly bluish water-based paint will give the kitchen a classic look.

PVC materials become soft and stretch when heated. Having fixed the edges in the clamps, we stretch the film, heating individual places with a stream of hot air. Everything must be done quickly. After all, you can’t stand the heat of 70 degrees for a long time. I mount a stretch ceiling of any complexity with helpers in a few hours.

I am often asked how to finish the ceiling on my own. For those who want to have tension structures, I recommend fabric. Materials for registration are used standard:

• cable laying profile;
• plastic tube;
• self-tapping screws;
• curtain natural fabric.

The profile is attached around the perimeter. The finishing fabric is pre-cut and stitched. Natural fabric is immersed in water. Wet it stretches. The edges are tucked into the profile around the tube and stretched. Fixed with screws through the canvas. You can make such a ceiling in an apartment when the heating is turned off and it is not hot outside - spring and autumn. Otherwise, you will have to use a spray bottle with water so that the fabric does not dry out ahead of time.

Drywall is indispensable in the design of stylish interiors

Pressed boards made of cardboard and gypsum are strong enough and have a smooth glossy surface. They can quickly level surfaces in an apartment and a private house, in any room. It is enough to screw it with self-tapping screws to the ceiling or mount it on the profile. Slots and recesses can be leveled immediately with a finishing putty.

For finishing wet and damp rooms, green drywall with blue markings was created. It is resistant to water. Gray made sheets of additives that prevent ignition. The markings on these boards are red. Finishing materials should be used to decorate the ceiling in accordance with their qualities.

The ability of the material to take any shape makes it indispensable for finishing multi-tiered stretch ceilings and figured ones. You can create entire compositions over your head.

Options for finishing in the country house and country house

Outside the city, you want to take a break from the noise and breathe clean air. I am often asked the question of how to finish the ceiling in the country. Natural materials are environmentally friendly. They breathe and do not emit harmful substances. Wood can retain its fragrance for years and create a warm atmosphere of clean air.

In the country house and in the cottage, it is desirable to hem the ceiling with veneer or board. Coated with wax or natural varnish, it will enchant with the natural pattern of wood. It is enough to apply a new layer of protective coating on wood every 3 to 5 years and it will stand without repair for several decades. Wood protected with varnish can withstand temperature fluctuations if a stove is heated in the room in winter sometimes when people come to rest. A budget option for giving is painting and a plastic false ceiling.