/ What is the difference between stretch and false ceiling?

What is the difference between stretch and false ceiling?

Many people are mistaken, believing that tension and dropped ceilings have the same design and installation principle. In fact, these are two completely different types of repair with different materials. To make it easier to decide which one suits you best when choosing, we will further consider how a stretch ceiling differs from a suspended ceiling and what disadvantages or advantages they have.

Same Features

Both designs have not only differences, but also common features. Regardless of which option is chosen, it will have the following features:

• Installation is carried out at some distance from the base floor
• The height of the room in which the installation is carried out will become slightly less due to the nature of the installation.
• Finishing of both types will mask even very significant flaws or overlap defects.
• Both options allow for hidden laying of communications or electrical wiring.
• Both the membrane and the hinged structure can be made multi-level
• Both types of coatings make it possible to use recessed lighting or backlighting.
• The appearance of the composition depends on the selected material

Differences

The hinged solution assumes the presence of a rigid base, to which fragments of the external decorative coating. Textile or PVC fabric is attached only to baguettes installed on the wall, if installation of several levels is not expected.

Installation time different types compositions will be very different. If textiles and PVC film are mounted in a few hours, then the hinged system may require up to several days of work. The installation time of the hinged structure directly depends on the type of external coating. If it's drywall, then Finishing work may even take up to a week.

The cost of these types of finishes also differ. In the overwhelming majority of cases, stretching the canvas is much cheaper if the most expensive material is not selected or if it is not planned to create many levels. A suspended solution may cost slightly less than a tension one, if as exterior finish selected cheap plastic panels. However, in this case, the composition will not look very attractive.

The suspension system can be installed by hand, without the use of complex tools or special knowledge. With membrane coatings, everything is much more complicated. Without a special tool, only textile types of fabric can be mounted. PVC films are stretched using a special heat gun, which not everyone has.

A hinged solution will not save from flooding by neighbors, while PVC will perfectly hold all the leaked water. In addition, after draining the accumulated water, the film can simply be re-tensioned, but the drywall will not tolerate contact with water - it will have to be partially or completely replaced.

The possibilities of designers in the case of rigid solutions are significantly limited, especially when it comes to panels. There is no such problem with film or textiles - a variety of textures and colors will allow you to choose an option for any interior or make a completely unique composition.

The option with plasterboard or panels makes it possible to partially replace or repair the damaged area. With a stretched canvas, this will no longer work - if it is damaged, in most cases you will have to make a complete replacement, which practically means a new repair. In rare cases, local damage repair can be dispensed with.

If a textile version of the canvas is mounted, it can be repainted if desired, however, the films cannot be dyed. With frame solutions, the situation is similar - except for drywall, no surfaces can be repainted.

Examples

To more accurately imagine how a stretch ceiling differs from a suspended ceiling, a few photos below will help. They showcase some of the most interesting options suspended and stretch ceilings.

To decide which stretch or suspended ceiling to choose, 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 ceiling cladding, a variety of different materials, but most often - drywall. As a more expensive alternative for finishing systems, slats and tiles are allowed.

Tension webs are mounted on a frame made of aluminum or plastic profiles under the main ceiling. Most often, designs are made using PVC films, not so often, but they are found - fabric stretch ceiling.

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.

For mounting a standard stretch fabric it will take no more than four hours 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, dishes 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 unrivaled. 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 wooden elements for finishing. 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 on the basis of design features canvases:

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

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

The modern market of stretch ceilings is able to satisfy the demand of even the most demanding customers. Often, however, many of us have a question: “How are they different from each other?”. This question can hardly be called idle, since the answer to it can greatly facilitate our choice. Having the necessary information, we will be sure that we give preference to those designs, the acquisition of which in our case will be most appropriate.

It is worth noting that there are several differences between stretch ceilings, therefore, when choosing one or another type and type, it is necessary to be guided by the following criteria:

• Classification of stretch ceilings;
• The presence or absence of seams;
• installation features;
• Scope of application;
• Manufacturer's trademark.

Classification of stretch ceilings.

You may have already guessed that in this case we are talking about materials used for the production of stretch ceilings. The most common material is still PVC film. In everyday life, such ceilings are called "stretch PVC ceilings».

The film made of polyvinyl chloride is characterized by absolute smoothness. When choosing a tension structure, you can give preference to one of several textures - matte, satin or glossy. PVC ceilings are ductile, flexible structures that are typically installed with shrinkage to provide maximum tension once installed.

Also on the market there are stretch ceilings made of polyester fabric. The material is a durable synthetic fabric of particularly complex knitting, which is impregnated with special polymer compounds to ensure better performance. A ceiling made of fabric has only a matte surface structure.

For the production of stretch ceilings, the thinnest reinforced composite fiber, also impregnated with polymer compounds, is also used. As in the case of fabric stretch ceilings, reinforced fiber structures have only a matte surface structure, which, however, in no way affects the attractiveness of their appearance.

Ceilings are seam and seamless.

The presence or absence of seams also determines the differences between stretch ceilings from each other. Traditionally, seam ceilings are made only from PVC film, the width of which is no more than 2 meters. In seam structures, PVC strips are welded together using a special technology: a seam is formed at the welding site, which is hardly noticeable on matte and satin ceilings and is almost invisible on glossy structures.

Installation of seam ceilings is carried out using a heat gun, with the help of which the PVC fabric is heated to a temperature of +55 ... +60 ° C and stretched to the desired size. Despite the presence of a seam, such ceilings are exceptionally moisture resistant, as they are able to hold up to 100 liters of water in one square meter. In addition, such ceilings do not need any special care, but they have excellent decorative effect.

Until some time, only fabric structures were considered seamless ceilings, but a few years ago, seamless structures made of PVC film began to be mounted in the homes of our compatriots. Seamless PVC ceilings have all the same advantages as ceilings with seams, but they are more expensive.

As for fabric ceilings, they are able to withstand low temperatures, therefore they can be used even on covered terraces, loggias, balconies and in houses with seasonal residence. Not to mention the high strength of such ceilings.

Differences of stretch ceilings by brand-manufacturer.

As you already understood, stretch ceilings can be constructed from different materials. The most popular PVC film stretch ceilings are manufactured at enterprises in Russia, as well as in France, China and even in the UK. There are enterprises that are responsible for the production of films for imported stretch ceilings - these are Malpensa, Renolit and some others.

As for fabric stretch ceilings, they are mainly manufactured in Germany and Switzerland, Italy and the UK.

There are many offers on the market from PVC film manufacturers from Taiwan or China, however, according to their performance such ceilings are largely inferior to French or German canvases.

Scope of stretch ceilings.

The area of ​​use is another factor that determines the differences between stretch ceilings. On the market are universal ceilings, which can be used not only in residential premises, but also in offices, business centers and other institutions, as well as ceilings, the operation of which is impossible in individual premises.

Thus, on the market you can find ceilings that can be installed in kitchens, bathrooms, nurseries, on loggias and balconies, in bedrooms. They are distinguished by increased performance properties, for example, greater moisture resistance, ease of maintenance (which is especially important for bathrooms, kitchens and dining rooms), as well as relative environmental friendliness and safety (which is important when installing ceilings in children's rooms or bedrooms).

Such different installation methods.

In addition to all the above differences, tension structures are also divided according to installation methods. The most popular are still single-level stretch ceilings, mounted in the traditional way - along the perimeter of the room in which they are used. They are also ready to compete with multi-level structures, which are most often mounted using special installation technologies - arches, waves, dunes, etc.

Using these or other installation methods, you can play with the appearance and design of stretch ceilings.

Now, when about stretch ceilings, their varieties, applications, trademarks and methods of fastening, you know, if not all, then very, very much, your choice will be simple, and the purchase will be expedient.

When making repairs in an apartment, the owners often face the choice of design and decoration of the ceiling. This is an important part of the overall picture. Entering the room, no one pays any attention to the ceiling, if it is decorated correctly and harmoniously coexists with the rest of the room. If the balance of matching colors and design is disturbed, it is the ceiling covering that gives it away.

The ceiling is important tool in building home comfort and an atmosphere of relaxation and security. Answering the question which ceiling is better: suspended or stretched and which one is suitable for this particular room, you need to understand all the intricacies of the production and use of different ceiling covering. We will talk about this later in the article.

Stretch and suspended ceilings have long replaced the old wallpaper and painting. Their quality characteristics have proven themselves in the process of operation. To date, it is impossible to imagine a repair without updating the ceiling covering with one of the options: a stretch or false ceiling. You can decorate a room in a completely different style, visually expand it or extend it. Give the room warmth and homeliness, or, on the contrary, focus on bright, flashy colors.

So, what is the difference between a stretch ceiling and a suspended one?

Stretch ceiling

This is a design consisting of a fabric or film, which is fixed along the edges on a metal or plastic baguette. The installation of such a ceiling is quite easy. To begin with, the edges of the canvas are fixed, and then they are stretched with the help of heat drying. PVC film, cooling down, take desired shape. This is the case with the film ceiling. If the material is fabric, then drying is not needed. In order for the stretch ceiling to look beautiful, you need to use a solid canvas. But if the ceiling area is too large, then its refining is sectional. You can use both PVC and fabric. The second option is more expensive, but it is also more resistant to temperature changes. The disadvantage of woven stretch ceilings is that if damaged, they cannot be repaired. In addition, the fabric is very susceptible to moisture.

Suspended ceiling

It is a decorative surface. This surface is attached to a special frame, additional elements later mounted into it. :

• rack, on guides;
• plasterboard, solid.

The frame of the ceiling are metal pendants that are attached to the ceiling. The frame held by suspensions serves as the basis for fastening facing panels. The cladding material is drywall, microfiber, metal and hardboard.

The type of suspended and stretch ceilings (photo attached) is completely different, and the choice always remains with the owner of the house or apartment. In order not to make a mistake in choosing, you should know all the nuances of the system service and its installation.

Mounting Features

To understand how a stretch ceiling differs from a suspended ceiling (photo in the article), you should consider the installation of each type.

To install a false ceiling, you will need to prepare in advance the right materials and tools.

What you need for installation

• drywall or other material, if the ceiling is mounted in the bathroom or in the kitchen, then a moisture-resistant material will be required.
• starting profile for fastening, the material is metal;
• brackets for the formation of suspensions;
• fasteners for connecting joints;
• self-tapping screws are used for drywall, and anchor bolts are used for suspensions;
• paint and putty for interior decoration;
• screwdriver, meter, level, puncher and metal shears;
• brushes, spatula for final finishing;
• For lighting, spotlights and wires are additionally needed.

Consider the difference between stretch and suspended ceilings in installation.

Installation begins with the installation of profiles processed by special means for corrosion protection. They are attached to the walls. Suspensions, which are attached to the profile and the ceiling, are the main regulator of the ceiling height. All work is completed by sheathing the system with drywall or other materials. After the fastening process is completed, the ceiling is painted, and the joints of the sheets are closed with putty.

A feature in the installation of a false ceiling is its value, which depends on the lowest point of the ceiling. Given that ceilings are rarely even, the anchors will be lowered by different amounts so as to form an even ceiling sheet. If lighting is installed, then the distance between the base and drywall should not be less than 10 cm. It is important to mark the ceiling and install a correct, even structure.

Installation of stretch ceilings is somewhat different. This is also an indicator of how a stretch ceiling differs from a suspended one.

The tools you will need are the same as for the false ceiling. The only difference is that a PVC stretch ceiling will require an air heating gun. Installation is carried out only in a well-heated room. The temperature should tend to 40 degrees. Cleaning the ceiling old paint or plaster is required, otherwise, crumbling, it will spoil the whole look of the film.

The first step is to fasten the baguette to the walls of the room with dowels. In this case, the distance from the ceiling is up to 7 cm. After that, the base angle is fixed using methods such as:

• harpoon;
• wedge;
• clip-on.

The use of harpoon fasteners is the most expensive, and installation is carried out only by specialists. The clip system is used for fabric ceilings.

The baguette serves as a fastener for the film, it is simply inserted under the baguette bar, so it is stretched, forming an even canvas.

Not only installation, but also the characteristics and the possibility of placement in different rooms What is the difference between a stretch ceiling and a suspended ceiling?

Advantages of false ceilings (according to reviews)

Advantages and disadvantages can be found in each of the ceiling covering systems. The advantages of false ceilings are the following:

• the design is convenient in that it is removed as needed, it will not be difficult to hide communications behind it;
• no alignment required old ceiling when using suspended;
• long service life;
• excellent insulator of noise and heat loss, allows you to lay an additional layer thermal insulation materials;
• absolutely harmless, odorless;
• installation is simple, can be done independently by a person who does not have skills and abilities in construction.

Main disadvantages

The main disadvantages of suspended ceiling designs, according to reviews, is that when they are installed, the height of the walls is significantly reduced, about 15 cm. These are not suitable for apartments with low ceilings. The cost of ceiling coating is quite high, this is due to the installation frame system. If the installation is not carried out correctly, then over time the junctions of the panels will become noticeable.

Advantages of stretch ceilings

The main advantages in installing stretch ceilings, according to reviews, are:

• The range of films and their colors, it is possible to create a ceiling exactly according to the sketch or drawing of the customer.
• Works are carried out quickly and do not require special skills and abilities. The quietest and clean work for installation ceiling system.
• Moisture resistant. Even if the neighbors from above began to fill in, the water will accumulate in the tank from the film, while the film will not tear, and after draining the liquid it will return to its previous state. Moisture is not afraid of only PVC suspended ceilings, fabric in this case will become unusable.
• Very convenient to use. They are easy to clean, you can use a damp cloth to collect dust or a vacuum cleaner. Soot is also easily removed from the surface.
• Easy to install, no condensation.
• They don't burn.
• Long term services, do not fade if it is a PVC ceiling. fabric ceilings more susceptible to ultraviolet radiation.

disadvantages

Stretch ceilings still have disadvantages, namely, they are not resistant to temperature changes, if it is too cold, they can crack. If mechanical damage to the ceiling has occurred, then it is almost impossible to eliminate a scratch or a small puncture. Requires special care in operation. Stretch ceilings will cost more than suspended ceilings.

Suspended or stretch ceiling - which is better?

When choosing the type of ceiling, you should initially be guided by which room it will be used, as well as the height of the walls. Stretch ceilings require less space from the main ceiling. The cost of construction also varies. If funds are limited, then it is better to choose a false ceiling. But it is also worth considering the warranty period, for example, stretch ceilings can last up to 20 years.

There are also many controversial points, such as the replacement of a damaged part, which can only be done on suspended ceilings, damage to stretch ceilings leads to unsuitability. Having chosen the type and figured out how the stretch ceiling differs from the suspended ceiling, you can stop at one, but combine them in different rooms of an apartment or house. Both options will only decorate the ceiling and delight the owners of the house with their qualities and performance properties.

The choice of materials for finishing the ceiling is a difficult and crucial stage of repair. It depends not only appearance, but also the service life of the decorative surface. In addition, I want the ceilings to be easy to care for. The leaders are tension structures and hinged systems. To understand, stretch or suspended ceiling, which is better to compare both options in several ways.

General characteristics of suspended and stretch ceilings

The peculiarity of suspended stretch ceilings and suspended structures is due to the fact that they reliably mask engineering communications passing under the base base. At the same time, careful preparation, alignment is not required before installation. draft ceiling, since the frame is mounted at some distance from the ceiling. enough to remove old finish and peeling plaster, prime the surface. This will help save time during repairs.

Whitewashed or painted ceilings are simple in design. The main condition for such a finish is to obtain a flat and smooth surface. With the help of tension and suspension structures, it will be possible to realize different forms at the top of the room. As a result, it becomes possible to create complex multi-level ceilings, which opens up prospects for creating modern interior. Additional advantage- the organization of interesting lighting, the use of any devices.

Aesthetic content is another aspect for which consumers value suspended and stretch ceilings. Aesthetic properties and decorative characteristics film canvases, a variety of types of hanging systems will change the look of the room, make the interior soft and cozy.

Thus, both methods are equally suitable for decorating a room. But, before choosing one, you should familiarize yourself with the differences in detail.

The main differences between tension structures and suspension systems

Stretch ceiling

Surface decorative ceiling represented by a film or fabric web. Cloths are stretched on a specially mounted frame made of metal or plastic profile. Such baguettes are attached around the perimeter of the room and differ in the method of attaching the canvas:

• harpoon;
• wedge;
• cam.

The design of the stretch ceiling is more lightweight. It does not require the construction of a bulky frame that takes up a lot of space and interior space. Baguettes are installed at a distance of 4-5 cm from the base floors. This gap is sufficient to mask communications and wiring, install lighting devices, hide height differences or other defects in the draft ceiling.

In spite of simple design, stretch ceilings are mounted in several levels, with smooth or sharp transitions. Flexible metal profiles, in which canvases are refueled, are used to create a variety of shapes and figures.

The film is stretched after preheating the room (up to 40°C) and the canvas (up to 60°C) using a heat gun. The material becomes elastic, easily stretched. As the decorative ceiling cools, it levels off, forming a flat and smooth surface.

The fabric is assembled by hand, first tucking along the edges, then from the center into the baguettes with a spatula. To smooth out small wrinkles, the coating is heated building hair dryer or a cannon.

Suspension systems

The procedure for installing a suspended ceiling depends on what materials are used for finishing: drywall, fiberglass boards, plastic panels, aluminum slats, etc. It is the material that affects the choice of fasteners, the type of profile, the type of lighting devices.

Measurements and preparation before installing a false ceiling are carried out by analogy with the installation of a tension structure. The main difference is a complex and bulky frame base, on which finishing materials are attached.

For the construction of the frame, metal profiles or wooden beams are used. However, the tree is not suitable for finishing wet rooms.

The frame in both cases consists of longitudinal and transverse guides mounted to the ceiling with the help of special suspensions, which are used to adjust the height of the decorative structure.

Due to the variety of profiles, it is possible to create not only single-level, but also multi-tiered ceilings of rounded, rectangular and other shapes. aluminum profiles bend easily, therefore they are used for mounting arches, semicircles, bends.

It will not be difficult to mount a false ceiling, despite large quantity fasteners that make up the frame, if properly marked. In this case, the profiles must be located in the same horizontal plane.

Stretch and suspended ceilings in comparison

materials

Stretch ceilings are made of a special PVC film or fabric, which are attached to a frame made of a metal or plastic profile, mounted around the perimeter of the room. Thanks to modern technologies, high-quality coatings are produced that retain their original appearance for a long time.

For the installation of suspended ceilings, several materials are used. The basis of the design is a frame made of metal or wooden beams holding rails, plastic plates, cassettes. But most often, drywall sheets are used for cladding.

Service life and care

The plasterboard suspension system will last a long time if you periodically update the surface of the decorative ceiling - putty the seams, cracks, paint. For other types suspended ceilings requires regular maintenance wet cleaning, decontamination).

As for stretch ceilings, manufacturers give a guarantee for them for a period of 10-12 years. However, if damaged, it is not always possible to restore the coating, and it becomes necessary to replace the canvas or structure. However, such ceilings are also not demanding to maintain. It is allowed to wipe film sheets with a damp cloth, remove dust from fabric coverings with a vacuum cleaner.

Complexity and speed of installation

Ease of installation and speed of installation are the main criteria that people pay attention to when comparing two ceiling finishes.

If we talk about stretch ceilings, they are easy and quick to install, but it is unlikely that you will be able to install them yourself. For example, to stretch a PVC film web, you need a special tool - heat gun. Fastening a fabric panel requires skill and knowledge in this area. Errors in installation can cause sagging of the material, slipping of the coating from the fasteners.

The installation of suspended structures also has some peculiarities, but from a technological point of view, it is easier to carry out. Therefore, often the owners of apartments or houses prefer to cope with the installation of drywall or rack ceiling with your own hands.

The masters install the stretch ceiling in 3-4 hours, and it will take at least two working days to erect the frame structure. Moreover, the more complex the suspension system, the longer the installation will take.

Another question asked by people who choose between two options is which ceiling (suspended or suspended) will take more height from the room.

As before installation, they count to a decorative canvas.

The ability to install a baguette under the stretch fabric close to the floor slabs will deprive the room of 3-5 cm in height. If ceiling profiles are used, the loss will be even smaller, about 1.5 cm.

A plasterboard suspended ceiling or slatted structure will lower the ceilings by at least 10 cm if the system is to be level. Bunk or multi-level ceilings are mounted at a distance of 15-20 cm or even more from the base surface.

Therefore, stretch ceilings are suitable for all rooms, and suspended ceilings - only for high spacious rooms.

Lighting

In this regard, both types of ceilings are equivalent. Under a stretch fabric or drywall, it is easy to hide the bases of lighting devices or led strip. When installing spotlights, the stretch fabric is protected with special thermal rings. Therefore, when a lamp or chandelier fails, the device can be easily changed. But it will not be easy to get to the faulty area covered with a stretch fabric or drywall. But the slatted panels or plastic plates can be easily removed from the frame, freeing up access to the ceiling space.

Price

At the price of a suspended ceiling for a client, it is not always more expensive than installing a tensile structure. However, in terms of design, there are many more perspectives. Thanks to modern finishing materials you can mount even planes, curved lines, boxes, niches, arches, etc. The price depends more on the materials. But on the installation it will be possible to save if the installation is carried out independently.

A simple single-level stretch fabric ceiling will be inexpensive. But again, the final price is affected by the installation method, the type of coating, the complexity of the design, the presence or absence of photo printing. Today, stretch ceilings are no longer as expensive as 5-7 years ago. This is due to the growing demand for them.

moisture resistance

In this regard, the leader is a stretch ceiling made of PVC film. Vinyl coating is not afraid of moisture, withstanding large volumes of water (up to 100 liters per 1 m²). Therefore, when the apartment is flooded by neighbors, you do not have to worry about other decoration of the room, furniture or interior items. Masters will merge the water, dry the canvas, then install it in its original place.

If a plasterboard suspended ceiling is installed in the room, the finish will have to be changed. When wet, the material loses its shape and swells. Even moisture-resistant GKL, which is used for sheathing the frame in rooms with high humidity, will not save from flooding. Rack structures are not afraid of water, like plastic panels, however, they will not provide protection for the interior from flooding either.

Temperature regime

Film webs are afraid sub-zero temperatures. Already at zero on the thermometer, the coating begins to crack. Fabric cloths withstand the range - from -50 to + 50 ° С.

Suspension systems are resistant to sharp temperature fluctuations, they are used for finishing loggias, balconies, open verandas.

PVC film sheets are distinguished by an assortment of colors and textures (glossy, matte, satin). A glossy canvas will expand the spatial boundaries of the room, a matte one will make the room cozy. Unusual interior will add a ceiling, which combines several textures and colors. The palette of fabric coverings is much poorer, but canvases are allowed to be painted, decorated with artistic painting.

For clearance plasterboard ceilings use different materials - gypsum stucco, decorative plaster, wallpaper, etc. But these works are carried out at the stage of finishing.

So you better choose

It is impossible to give an exact answer to the question. The final decision depends on several factors: the price, the preferences of the owners, the parameters of the room.

For example, stretch film sheets are used for finishing ceilings in different rooms. Including a bathroom or kitchen, as the material is not afraid of moisture. However, with strong heating, PVC film releases toxic substances that are dangerous to humans.

The fabrics are made from environmentally friendly clean materials but the material is water permeable. Therefore, it is better to refuse such ceilings in rooms with high humidity.

Suspended structures are installed in unheated premises, they allow you to quickly get to the ceiling space. Aluminum surfaces will suit any room, but many are repelled by the bright sheen of the panels. Use drywall to finish rooms with minimal humidity.

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