What is the difference between a stretch ceiling and a suspended ceiling? The difference between suspended ceilings and stretch ceilings.

To decide which tension or suspended ceiling, you need to understand what both design options are, what features they have, and most importantly, how they differ.

Suspended and stretch ceilings - design features

False ceiling refers to a system fixed to the main ceiling. Use the design for decorative finishes, increasing the level of acoustics with improved sound insulation, as well as for arranging a hidden niche for masking cables, pipes and other elements of lighting equipment and communications.

For facing ceilings, a variety of materials are used, but most often - drywall. As a more expensive alternative for finishing systems, slats and tiles are allowed.

Stretch fabrics mounted on an aluminum frame plastic profiles under the main ceiling. Most often, the designs are made using PVC films, not so often, but there are - fabric stretch ceilings.

To clearly understand which ceiling is better and why, it is worth studying comparative characteristic with an analysis of the main parameters.

Installation - features and difficulties

It is possible to install stretch ceilings with your own hands only until the web is stretched. At this stage, for high-quality performance, you will need a special gun that allows you to flawlessly stretch the material under the influence of a warm air stream.

Suspended ceilings during installation become a source of huge amounts of debris and construction dust, which complicates the process. To carry out work without harm general repair, furniture and other interior items must be protected with a special film.

It will take no more than four hours to install a standard tension web if the work is performed by specialists. The classic version of the plasterboard false ceiling will require at least two days to install.

Preparing for the installation of a suspended ceiling

What you need to know about lost centimeters of height and backlight

It is equally important to clarify stretch or suspended ceilings - which is better for small spaces, where every centimeter of height plays key value. In this regard, stretch fabrics are a more acceptable option, since they will take no more than 5 centimeters in height, while traditional suspended structures made of plasterboard or slats will make the height of the room 10-12 centimeters less.

Both design options suggest the possibility of mounting hidden lighting equipment. It can be spotlight using:

• plates;
• "glasses";
• rings, etc.

All these elements are simply mounted in the fabric of the structure, easily removed for replacement or repair. When it comes to planning stylish lighting, both ceiling options offer the same wide range of possibilities. It is only worth considering the fact that it will be more difficult to get to devices mounted in suspended structures for repair than to devices in PVC fabric or textile trim.

Which ceiling is easier to maintain and maintain

Fabric and PVC ceilings are unpretentious in care, they are easily cleaned with a dry brush or a damp cloth. Plasterboard suspended structures can also be cleaned with a dry brush and vacuum cleaner from dust, from time to time arranging wet cleaning. Serious pollution and greasy coating it will be possible to remove from the surface of drywall only by re-staining.

In turn, structures based on aluminum or wooden slats can be cleaned and washed with ordinary soap solutions, glass cleaners, dishwashing detergents and a solution with the inclusion ammonia to remove greasy deposits.

Thus, with regard to care, both options for paintings will not cause concern.

Resistance to mechanical damage - which ceiling is stronger

Is there a difference between tension and suspended webs in terms of resistance to mechanical damage? If we talk about PVC ceilings, then yes - they are not resistant to any kind of damage due to the special structure of the film, which easily becomes unusable even when it comes into contact with a bullet from a children's gun. At the same time, the canvases are simply repaired with their own hands. Fabric finish more resistant to damage and no less easy to repair.

Suspended structures based on plasterboard, wood or aluminum finishes are more practical.

Resistance to fire and moisture - what to expect from canvases

It will be useful to know about the difference between stretch ceilings and suspended ceilings in terms of fire resistance. Both designs have enough high level fire resistance. A fire in the room will damage the canvases, but will not completely destroy them. Although, if we compare film and fabric webs with aluminum ones, the former are more vulnerable in terms of fire resistance. In the same time wooden slats and drywall used for finishing suspended ceilings will withstand a fire with the same share of preservation as stretch ones.

In terms of moisture resistance stretch PVC ceilings are out of competition. These canvases will not only not suffer from a flood, but will also help prevent water from entering the room, holding up to 150 liters without the risk of rupture. A suspended ceiling will not cope with this task. Through it, water will penetrate into the room along the walls and through the canvas, damaging not only the finish, but also the contents of the room. The ability to retain water in such an amount is the main difference between a stretch ceiling and a suspended one.

Service life - which ceiling is more practical and durable

Both design options are practical and serve with careful operation for many years. For suspended ceilings, the manufacturer gives a guarantee of up to 10 years with the need to carry out the so-called restoration work as necessary.

Film and fabric ceilings can last up to 15 years, again with careful use and delicate care.

How they behave with temperature changes

Film ceilings are not able to withstand cold tests, therefore they cannot be installed in rooms without heating. Suspended structures finished with drywall, wood or aluminum are more resistant to temperature fluctuations. For loggias and balconies the best option will be the installation of the ceiling based on aluminum panels.

A variety of textures and colors - about the decorative component

Both ceiling options are available in different options execution. Suspended plasterboard canvases can be painted in any color, pick up slats with imitation natural materials, experiment with shades of wooden elements for decoration. In turn, film ceilings provide an unlimited choice of possibilities for realizing the most striking design ideas. Fabric canvases are a little inferior to them in this, however, they will also bring the necessary freshness, creativity and a sense of style to the interior.

And last important point- what is cheaper tension or suspended structures? It is difficult to give an exact answer here, given that the final cost is formed based on the design features of the canvas:

• the number of levels;
• finishing materials;
• lighting equipment;
• decorative elements, etc.

In addition, the price will depend on the quality. finishing materials, installation, which can be ordered from specialists or done by hand.

Many consider the ceiling not the most important element when repairing, however, it also plays a huge role. Now the most popular type of finish is a stretch or suspended ceiling. They differ in beauty, durability and price. The cost of a stretch or false ceiling is not small. But which ceiling is still better? We will analyze this question in the article.

Before choosing one thing, you need to decide what are the pros and cons of each type?

Stretch ceiling. The stretch fabric covers the entire ceiling, which means that all the flaws and wiring will be hidden. The canvas is installed quickly, it is possible to install it yourself, but you will need a heat gun.

The service life of stretch ceilings exceeds 20 years. With careful care, some of them can last up to 30 years. Cloths are made of PVC, high quality product allows it to be installed in children's and medical institutions. However, they may contain harmful substances which can respond to high temperatures. To avoid this, do not expose the canvas to overheating. Fabric ceilings are absolutely safe.

The variety of ways to design the canvas will not leave anyone indifferent. You can choose a single-color canvas, you can color. Even photo printing, which will allow you to create a unique themed interior in the nursery.

Ceilings are not afraid of water. They can be installed in the kitchen and bathroom. The canvas can withstand up to 100 liters of water, which will save your apartment from flooding.

The downside is the price. This is not the most expensive type of finish, but not cheap either. The stretch fabric is afraid of mechanical influences, so you need to make sure that no one pierces it or throws something at it. Especially if you have children and animals. Fabric ceilings are more durable and devoid of this drawback.

Stretch ceilings can only be installed in heated rooms, they do not tolerate low temperatures and are afraid of temperatures above 50 degrees.

Dropped ceilings. There are several varieties, but they are all installed in one way: using a frame. But the material that is attached to the frame is different.

Rack ceilings. Made from metal or plastic. Plastic does not differ in long-term operation and quality characteristics. But it is cheap and easy to clean. He will live in good condition for 5 years, over time he will begin to turn yellow, fade. It should not be installed in the bathroom and in the kitchen. It will lose its appearance in a year.

But aluminum rails will last a very long time. They fit well in any room. Aluminum undergoes a special treatment: it does not oxidize, does not rot, does not react to temperature changes and high humidity. Such ceilings will last more than 15 years. Caring for them will not take much time, just periodically wipe them with a cloth. It is cheaper than other types, but still not cheap. Rack ceilings can be installed independently.

The color spectrum of the rails allows you to choose. There is different coatings: matte, glossy. As you know, hinged structures take centimeters from the ceiling, but for slatted ceilings aluminum is little problem, as the mirror surface visually enlarges the space.

Along with the rails are cassette ceilings. Structurally, they are basically the same. They are also made of plastic and metal, the same characteristics. Just instead of long slats - cassettes.

Suspended plasterboard ceilings. Drywall is not afraid of high temperatures. You can install it yourself, it is not expensive. The design of the structures is also full of variety. But he is afraid of moisture. This disadvantage does not allow it to be installed in the kitchen or in the bathroom. If you want to install it, then you can cover it with a moisture-resistant varnish.

Comparison of suspended and stretch ceilings

Stretch and suspended ceilings are able to hide all the flaws of the ceiling: appearance, communications. In this they are not similar to each other.

Installation of suspended structures takes place using a frame. First, they fix it and only then the slats, strips, cassettes, sheets. The frame is the same for all types. It is built from profiles and suspensions. There is practically no garbage during operation, only when holes are drilled for dowels.

Stretch ceilings are fastened with a harpoon, wedge or cam method. The baguette is installed on the walls and the canvas is already stretched over it. When installing, use heat gun and heated to 60 degrees, fabric ceilings are installed using the "cold" method. There is not much garbage, but due to the temperature, everything that can be damaged will have to be taken out of the room.

The complexity of the work. You can install stretch ceilings on your own, but you will need a gun and at least some idea of ​​\u200b\u200bthe work process. If you ruin the canvas, then you can throw it away. The installation will take more than 4 hours.

Suspended ceilings can be easily installed by yourself, you do not need any special tools or specific knowledge. But in time, their installation can take several days.

Bulky. Stretch ceilings will take away 10 centimeters from the room. As well as suspended ones. It all depends on the choice of lighting. The width of the body of the lighting device is equal to the indentation of the structure from the ceiling. But in both cases, this drawback can be hidden with a glossy surface. Glitter and bright hues help expand the space.

Ceiling maintenance. PVC stretch fabrics do not require special costs cleaning power. You just need to buy special remedy and wipe the ceiling. But if for some reason you have a stain, then it will be quite difficult to wipe it off. But with fabric ceilings will have to be more difficult. They need to be vacuumed.

Aluminum ceilings do not require maintenance. They are simply periodically wiped with a rag. Plastic is also not difficult to clean. But drywall constructions require periodic updating. They will need to be painted or varnished.

Strength. PVC fabric is not durable. It is afraid of mechanical influences. If you have children or pets, you will need to keep an eye on them. But the fabric canvas is much stronger and is not afraid of small blows.

Suspended structures are also afraid of shock. But other damage to them is less dangerous. Aluminum ceilings are not afraid of anything at all.

Fire resistance. Both types of coating do not support combustion. But in the case of a PVC ceiling, with strong heating, the canvas begins to release phenol - a toxic substance that is harmful to health. When buying, check the material for its content, it should not exceed acceptable standards.

Moisture resistance. PVC stretch ceilings are resistant to moisture. If you get flooded, they will withstand the water. But the fabric is afraid of her. In the case of suspended structures, nothing will save you from flooding. And drywall ceilings are damaged by water.

Life time. Stretch ceilings will last more than 15 years. Like hanging ones. But drywall will have to be updated periodically.

Temperature. Stretch ceilings are installed only in heated rooms. They are afraid of low and high temperatures. Suspended structures are devoid of this drawback, but still they can be deformed from dampness.

Price. What is cheaper tension or suspended structures? There is no clear answer here. It all depends on the materials. Fabrics for stretch ceilings are of different quality - the higher the price, the better the canvas. Of course, installing drywall will be cheaper, but it will require additional waste to update it.

What is better to choose

There is no universal answer to this question. It all depends on your funds, preferences and the room itself. PVC stretch fabrics will fit into any room, but they are less safe. When heated strongly, they can release a toxic substance.

In this regard, there is a risk of stumbling upon a low-quality fake, which will include phenol in amounts more than acceptable. It can be installed in apartments under the roof, if it leaks, then the ceilings will be saved from flooding. The fabric canvas is absolutely safe, but is afraid of water. Install it in the kitchen and bathroom is not worth it.

But it is ideal for a child's room: safe, durable, you can apply any pattern.

Suspended structures can be installed in unheated premises. Suspended ceilings allow access to the main slab at any time. This applies to those who have problems with wiring. Aluminum ceilings can be installed anywhere, but some are intimidated by their glare. Plastic ones should not be installed due to their short service life. Drywall is not suitable for rooms with high humidity.

All aspects should be considered for selection the right material. Despite the high cost of stretch ceilings, you will save if you install them, because they do not require additional materials and updates. Their service life exceeds the terms of all other types.

Before making repairs in an apartment or a private house, any owner carefully considers each stage of the work. One of the most difficult moments can be called the choice of materials and type of construction for the design of the ceiling space. Among a large number options, many consumers prefer suspended or tension structures.

To make the right choice between stretch and suspended ceilings, you need to evaluate several points. First, you should study the advantages and disadvantages of both systems, understand the difference between stretch and suspended ceilings. Secondly, you need to determine the style in which the decoration of the room will be performed. Thirdly, it is important to evaluate the amount of expenses so that they fit into the family budget.

There are many questions for beginners in the field of repair, including finishing technology, choice of materials, order of execution. installation work, similarities and differences between a particular design. What is the difference stretch ceiling from a false ceiling - this issue should be analyzed in more detail.

Comparison of suspended and stretch ceiling

Doing comparative analysis, it is important to consider the basic similarity of designs, and also to understand what is the difference between stretch and suspended ceilings.

Similarity of systems

In search of an answer to the question of which is better, a stretch or suspended ceiling, the following common features can be noted:

• The same principle of installation. Suspended ceiling and stretch ceiling is installed at a certain distance from the main ceiling, wooden or metal carcass. Baguettes are used as an addition and decoration.
• Reducing the height of the room. Design features both designs require location at a lower level than the main ceiling.

• Regardless of whether a stretch or suspended ceiling is installed indoors, it is possible to hide significant defects on the ceiling surface. During the shrinkage of the house, both systems are not deformed. Once these systems are installed, you can long time forget about carrying out repairs in the ceiling area.
• The possibility of disguise electrical wiring, as well as pipes and cables of other communications. It can be a ventilation and air conditioning system, as well as a complex shape of the base ceiling.
• Suspended ceilings and stretch ceilings allow you to realize various design ideas, including the creation of the most bizarre forms. Therefore, it is very difficult to determine which is better, suspended or stretch ceilings.

Distinctive features

To understand the difference between a stretch ceiling and a suspended ceiling, you should pay attention to the following points:

• Installation time. If the stretch ceiling can be completely ready for operation in a few hours, then suspended structures in some cases require enough more time. For example, rack and cassette ceilings can be mounted in a few days, but to create a plasterboard structure complex shape may take several days to several weeks.

• Possibility self assembly and installation can play a decisive role in choosing which is better, stretch or suspended ceiling. Suspended ceilings, including modular structures, can be assembled and installed by hand. As for the stretch ceiling, only qualified craftsmen with special equipment can do the work here.
• There is a difference suspended ceilings from stretch ceiling structures in terms of performance. The stretch ceiling does not require repair or painting, it must be wiped periodically with a damp cloth. When flooded from neighbors from the top floor, the stretch ceiling is not deformed and also does not require repair. In the case of suspended structures, the situation is much more complicated. Cutting from the top floor can damage plasterboard ceiling, therefore, it will have to be completely dismantled. When deciding which false ceiling is better, it should be noted that plastic and aluminum structures in this case, they will not be affected by moisture, but the walls and floor will have to be updated.

• Possibility of partial repair. Stretch ceiling in case of damage to any area is subject to a complete replacement of the main fabric. In a similar situation with a suspended structure, it is possible to replace a damaged fragment, for example, rails, panels or cassettes.
• The cost of structures can be called the main criterion for the question of how a suspended ceiling differs from a stretch ceiling. The initial price of a stretch ceiling is much higher than that of a suspended ceiling structure. However, taking into account many years of trouble-free operation of a stretch ceiling, we can say that such systems will cost much less than a rack or cassette design.

Ceiling selection rules

Suspended and stretch ceilings are characterized by their individual advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it is necessary to consider a certain situation in order to understand which system is better in certain conditions. There are several factors that determine the choice of stretch ceiling or false ceiling.

Ceiling height in the room

Low ceilings in the apartment, up to 2.5 meters, make the owner of the living space fight for every centimeter of height. In this case, preference should be given to stretch ceiling structures that do not involve the installation of recessed lighting. Gypsum board constructions need to create a massive frame, which significantly reduces the level of the ceiling. The main fabric of the tension structure can be attached directly to the ceiling, which leads to a decrease in the ceiling plane by only 2-3 cm.

Purpose of the premises

Of great importance when choosing between suspended and stretch ceilings is the purpose of the room. If it contains moisture high level or there is a risk of flooding from neighbors from the top floor, then it is better to give preference to stretch film structures. In this case, the likelihood of damage to the interior of the room is minimized.

However, such ceilings are not at all suitable for rooms in which the air temperature can drop to negative values. Such premises include country houses without heating, balconies and loggias.

If the interceiling space requires regular access, then it is better to opt for modular structures that are easy to assemble and disassemble.

The rest of the premises special attention does not attract, therefore, a suspended and stretch ceiling can be installed in them.

The style in which the room is decorated

When choosing the type of ceiling depending on the style of the room, many nuances should be taken into account. However, in most cases this applies to appearance ceiling, and not to its design features.

Repair budget

The costs associated with the purchase and installation of false ceilings and stretch ceilings largely determine which ceiling structure will be installed in the room. With a limited budget, it is better to opt for inexpensive designs and those that you can assemble and install yourself. Such ceilings include ceilings based on plastic panels.

However, by choosing a stretch ceiling structure, you can get overall savings. This is possible due to the durability of the main canvas and easy care behind him. When purchasing a stretch ceiling, the consumer pays a large amount once for the material and installation work, while forgetting about repairs for 10, 20 and even 30 years, subject to proper operation.

When choosing a design for decorating the ceiling space, it is important to study all the similarities, as well as to understand how stretch ceilings differ from suspended systems. In addition, it is necessary to study the advantages and disadvantages of both types of ceilings.

Today, when updating the ceiling, the use of paint or whitewash is not required. New technologies have replaced obsolete ones, and the installation enjoys in great demand. These types of modern ceiling coverings will bring zest to any interior. In our article we will answer the question: stretch and suspended ceilings - the difference between them.

Both surface design options will help hide irregularities and defects in the base.

Suspended and stretch ceilings can include several levels. Due to this, you can fully realize the design ideas. Both coatings allow you to choose the way the room is illuminated. So, you can change the traditional central light to spotlights located in different zones rooms. Of course, you can hide the wiring that runs along the wall. Another important advantage of ceilings is their excellent isolation of street noise.

Suspended ceilings and their installation

After talking about the similarities, consider the difference between suspended ceilings and suspended ceilings. And the first thing that can be distinguished is the material from which they are made. In the first case, we are talking about the frame, covered with a special PVC film. Suspended coating is represented by plasterboard or mineral panels. A suspended ceiling is quite difficult to mount, and the work will require special knowledge and skills.

Materials and tools:

The assembly of false ceilings begins with marking around the entire perimeter of the room. This requires the use of a hydraulic level. Then, adhering to the marks, attach the UD profile guides. Next, the installation of CD profiles is carried out. The elements are installed in the main frame, located around the perimeter of the room. Insert the profiles into the suspensions, and then secure them with self-tapping screws. Plasterboard sheets will be fixed in a checkerboard pattern. Install jumpers from sections of CD profiles between the supporting profiles. The step of their location must be strictly 50 cm. To fix the jumpers to the carrier profile, use single-level connectors.

The next step in the installation of suspended ceilings is the sheathing of the frame with plasterboard material. Fix the sheets exactly in a checkerboard pattern. In other words, they should be located parallel to the supporting profiles and across the longitudinal ones. When installing drywall sheets, make sure that a small gap is maintained between the joints. At the end of the work, you can seal them with reinforced paper. Finally, the finished coating is completely puttied. final touch in the transformation of the interior of the room - pasting the ceiling with wallpaper or painting it.

Stretch ceiling and its installation

The installation of stretch ceilings differs significantly from the installation of suspended ceilings. The main role is played here professional quality. Under these conditions, it is quite difficult to carry out work on your own. We recommend contacting experienced professionals and entrusting them with this matter. If you wish, you can always find photos and videos on this topic in order to control the installation work.

Materials and tools:

Installation of a stretch ceiling, in detail on the video:

Stretch or false ceiling: pros and cons

Let's see what advantages and disadvantages stretch and plasterboard ceilings have.

1. Elimination of various defects (irregularities and cracks) - both coatings perform these operations equally effectively.
2. Safety of use - stretch ceilings that can withstand a lot of large amounts of water in case of flooding from above are the winners. Plasterboard ceilings will become unusable, however, damaged sections of the canvas can be easily replaced with new ones.
3. Assorted colors and new textures - both types of ceilings have in their arsenal everything you need to create real masterpieces. However, stretch ceilings are inferior in reliability of operation, since PVC film is not difficult to damage. In this regard, it is best to give preference drywall sheets.
4. The speed of installation work is undoubtedly higher for stretch ceilings. The hinged cover is much more difficult to install.

Thus, we told what a suspended ceiling is. Note that both finishes have their pros and cons (read: ""). Ultimately, only you choose the model of the future ceiling. Do not forget about harmony with the interior, and then you will bring new design touches to the ordinary space of your home. If you suddenly can not do all the work yourself, be sure to contact the experts. They are for a short time will install a stretch or suspended ceiling. Happy repair!

Ceiling design today allows you to implement a wide variety of ceiling design options, starting with the simplest and most budget ways ending with the construction of stylish suspended structures. Thanks to the emergence of new materials on the market, completely new technologies began to be used to finish the ceiling surface. Painted ceilings are gradually becoming a thing of the past, whitewashed ceiling surfaces have practically sunk into oblivion. Today, suspended and stretch ceilings, models that are distinguished by high technological and aesthetic properties, have come to the fore.

Both design options are in demand. The reasons for this popularity are more psychological character. Always wet finishing work was considered the most time-consuming and dirty work process. A plastered or whitewashed ceiling, although not so expensive, was associated with a considerable amount of work. Ceiling finishing work included the preparation of the ceiling surface and the mandatory cleaning of the room, caused by a large amount of dirt and debris. Today, almost nothing remains of the hinged structures after installation. All work on the installation of suspended ceilings and tension systems is carried out quickly and, most importantly, dry.

The choice in favor of new technologies is obvious, despite the fact that between suspended ceiling systems and stretched canvas there are significant differences. Consider how both finishes differ, and which way of decorating ceilings is preferable today.

The main characteristics of suspended ceiling structures and tension systems

Both types of ceiling design, and stretch and suspended structures are considered elite ceiling design options. Compared to painting or whitewashing ceilings, such systems are expensive. The difference lies in the construction of new types of ceiling design.

A significant and almost the main difference is that stretch and suspended ceilings can be installed without pre-training. In other words, instead of having to putty and polish the rough ceiling surface, eliminating defects and height differences, new technologies allow you to bypass this process. The suspended structure will completely close the existing flaws on the ceilings. A stretch ceiling performs a similar function, skillfully masking the height difference and defects in the base surface.

Second and no less an important factor that plays in favor of new technologies is their versatility.

For conventional ceilings simple design is characteristic. The main thing is to get a smooth and clean surface. Suspended or stretch ceilings allow you to create a wide variety of shapes in the upper part. The surface in this case is not only smooth and smooth, but also original form, one, two and multi-tiered. This technical solution provides excellent opportunities for creating a stylish and original interior. In addition, due to new technologies, it became possible to hide communications in the upper part of the room, to organize the lighting system accordingly.

The last argument in favor of new technologies is the aesthetic content. Suspension systems, ceilings made of PVC film or fabric have excellent aesthetic properties and characteristics. Such a ceiling surface radically changes the appearance of the room, increasing the level of comfort inside.

In both cases, the new design options significantly improve the quality finishing works with ceilings. Any of the options is perfect for finishing the ceiling surface, however, there are small technical subtleties and nuances that affect the choice of the consumer.

What is the difference between a stretch ceiling and a suspended ceiling

Both the first and second finishes have their own distinctive features. home distinguishing feature— system design and installation technology.

Stretch ceiling

Let's start with stretch ceilings. In this case, we have a rather delicate product that is stretched in the upper part of the room. Fastening and fixing of the canvas is carried out on special profiles - baguettes installed around the perimeter of the room. The following methods of fixing the canvas in a baguette are used:

• harpoon;
• wedge;
• cam.

Depending on the design of the ceiling part and the technological purpose of the ceiling, one or another method of fixation is used. As the main surface, a canvas with a fabric base or PVC film is used. In the first case, we are talking about matte, textured coatings, while film coatings mainly have a smooth glossy surface.

Even with a superficial examination, you can see how structurally the stretch ceiling differs from suspended structures. A bulky frame is not being built here, which occupies a significant internal space. The canvas usually spreads in the upper part of the room on minimum height 4-5 cm, which is quite enough to hide height differences and install lamps.

On a note: despite the relative simplicity of the design, stretch ceilings can also be in one, two or several tiers. Thanks to the ability to use metal profiles of various lengths, it is possible to create a variety of shapes and compositions with a stretched canvas.

The tension of the fabric or film is carried out due to the action of a heat gun. The unit heats the fabric to a temperature of 60-65 0, after which it is stretched. During the cooling process, the film or fabric returns to its usual state. There is a natural stretching of the material, resulting in a smooth and even surface. Such coatings are not afraid of moisture and dirt. However, stretch ceilings are very sensitive to a sharp change in the temperature regime inside the room.

Suspension systems

Now let's move on to suspension systems. One word - suspended, suggests that we are dealing with a structure that is suspended in the upper part of the room. The main construct in this case is a frame made of metal profiles. Cassettes, strips or plasterboard sheets are then installed on the assembled frame.

For reference: in some cases, at the household level, it can be used to build a frame wooden blocks and slats. This greatly reduces the cost of installation, however, it is necessary to install such ceilings only in dry rooms.

Frame in both cases, with metal or with wooden elements has longitudinal and transverse guides, which are attached to the floors with suspensions. The latter resemble brackets in shape. It is due to their design that the height of the suspension system is regulated. In the corners of the room, moldings are used to assemble the frame.

At the final stage, the frame is sheathed with drywall or plastic panels. Thanks to the profiles, it is possible to create suspension systems not only in one tier and in a rectangular shape. aluminum profiles, as well as drywall sheets, you can give any curvature, eventually creating curved surfaces and radii.

It is important to note that the plasterboard ceiling is much more difficult in terms of design, as it consists of a large number individual parts and accessories. The suspension system requires care during marking. All profiles must be located in the same horizontal plane. Otherwise, when sheathing the GKL frame, there is a high probability of bending the sheet in places of stress and, as a result, the appearance of cracks.

The new surface is subject to puttying and grinding, after which it is already possible to proceed with the decoration of the ceiling with wallpaper or prepare it for painting.

Based on the assessment of the structural part and installation methods, you can already make a preliminary conclusion which system is right for you, what will be better in your case, a suspended ceiling or a stretch ceiling.

Comparison of both systems in terms of key parameters

Having an idea of ​​how the design of tension and ceiling suspension systems looks constructively, you can try to compare them in terms of basic parameters. Let's take for comparison the most common type of ceiling design, PVC film stretch ceilings and drywall constructions. The comparison criteria are as follows:

1. The complexity of installation;
2. Loss of height indoors;
3. Opportunities for installation of lighting equipment;
4. Aesthetic qualities;
5. Operation and care.

Difficulty of installation

Ease and speed of installation is one of the main criteria used for comparison. If we talk about tension systems, then installation requires skill and experience. It is rare when you can normally make such a ceiling on your own without the involvement of specialists. However, in terms of technology, installing a stretched canvas on the ceiling is much easier and faster. There is no need to remove all the furniture from the room, and installation time will be two, three times less than for working with a suspension system.

Plasterboard ceilings can be installed independently, however, in this case, a large amount of work remains to be done, both preparatory and basic. In terms of installation speed, frame structures are significantly inferior to work with a stretched canvas. If in the first case we can talk about one-day work, then with the installation of the frame and the installation of drywall fragments, the whole process can take 2-3 days.

How harder design(two-level or multi-level), the longer it will take to install a plasterboard ceiling.

Indoor height loss

In any case, a suspended or stretch ceiling will steal precious centimeters of room height from you. The thing is that both the first and second options involve the creation of an interceiling space used in technological terms. Both ceilings hide defects panel ceilings and provide the necessary space for laying communications and installing fixtures.

However, the height parameters for each of the ceilings are different. A stretched canvas will steal only 4-5 cm, while a plasterboard ceiling will eat 12-15 cm of usable internal space. From this follows the scope of ceiling structures. Stretch ceilings can be placed in any room, while suspended structures are best placed in large, high and spacious rooms.

This also includes parameters regarding technological capabilities for installation. lighting fixtures. Both types of ceiling design are equally suitable for installing spotlights and central lighting chandeliers.

The only negative when working with the canvas is that in the event of a short circuit, it is more difficult to get to the damaged section of the electrical wiring.

Operation and care

Stretched PVC film ceilings are distinguished by long service life. According to passport data, such structures serve 10-15 years without losing their basic qualities. Gypsum board systems require periodically, once every 5-7 years, surface renewal.

Caring for a stretched canvas and a prefabricated structure is quite simple. Enough periodically, twice a year to do wet cleaning ceiling surface, but stains are washed off better. Drywall needs to be touched up to remove heavy dirt.

Finally, one should note important detail, which radically distinguishes stretch ceilings from suspended systems. It's about about moisture resistance. A suspended structure made of drywall is afraid of water, while a stretched PVC film is not only not afraid of water, but is able to provide the necessary protection against flooding.

conclusions

Choosing for yourself the type of ceiling design, make the decision yourself. Assess your own capabilities and preparation, the technological parameters of the premises. Both options are equally attractive, both structurally and aesthetically. Note for yourself the following parameters that differ between tension and suspension systems:

1. The service life of film ceilings and plasterboard structures does not differ much
2. Both ceiling design options are multifunctional
3. Tensile and suspended structures are equally convenient for installing a lighting system
4. Fabric and film ceilings are more suitable for small spaces, while suspended systems are oriented towards high and large rooms.
5. Distinguish both options installation speed, working conditions and cost
6. PVC film is moisture resistant, while drywall constructions have poor moisture resistance.
7. Stretch ceilings are subject to temperature fluctuations, while drywall is resistant to climate change indoors