Stretch ceilings: what is the best material to choose? Which suspended ceilings are best to choose?

In a very short period of time, stretch ceilings have moved from outlandish novelties, expensive, mysterious and affordable units, to ordinary finishing materials - they have become part of the interior design of an apartment (house). When faced with a problem for the first time, many customers do not know what suspended ceilings are, or how to choose high-quality, beautiful and functionally suitable canvases for a specific type of room. This is discussed in this article.

The aesthetic perception of the ceiling and its service life are determined by many factors: the type of canvas, its texture and color, the presence of seams, etc. All this depends on the manufacturer.

Manufacturer

An unusual situation has developed in the market for services for installing suspended ceilings: next to decent performers, unscrupulous companies have appeared that mislead customers. Unfortunately, their number is increasing every year. Deception is associated primarily with the origin tension fabric and therefore with price and quality.

1. Cheap fabric is passed off as the product of Russian enterprises from the middle price sector, in particular, the Kazan plant artificial leather, which stopped producing PVC in 2012. In fact, Russian enterprises register the brand of canvas on the territory of the Russian Federation, and products manufactured in a makeshift way, - very cheap, imported from China.

It is not possible to check the manufacturer - on PVC film and polyester well-known manufacturers no inscriptions, signs or logos are applied. If they appeared, they were delivered much later and not in production.

Only the company Pongs (Germany) began to label some types of film in the fight against forgery, and even then, since 2017, it has been doing this irregularly and for certain types of products.

Attention: the inscriptions on the tube or packaging can be anything - manufacturers often do not wind the film into rolls themselves and certainly do not pack it in bags for specific premises. This is done in dealerships or when preparing the material after measurements in special workshops.

2. Medium-priced materials, for example, HALEAD (China), are passed off as expensive ones from Europe. In action are:

• Non-existent companies and brands (Belgian POLYPLAST - there is no official website confirming the existence of production, MALPENSA S.R.L. from Italy - ceiling films are not listed among the types of products);
• Certificates of conformity allegedly confirming the French or German origin of the goods - mandatory certification in Russia has been abolished since January 1, 2010 (the documents presented were received at the initiative of the seller (installation company), and therefore their reliability does not always correspond to the true state of affairs, and bearers bear neither administrative nor criminal liability for this);
• Sale of products that do not enter the Russian market (German RENOLIT profession or French BARRISOL, which can only be purchased via the Internet at a price of 90 Euro/m2).

To protect the buyer from counterfeits and suggest which suspended ceilings to choose for an apartment, we provide a table with a list of manufacturers, countries of origin and some product features.

In Russia, PVC film is produced only by IVNIIPIK, which is of low quality and inexpensive. Experts do not recommend using this film in an apartment.

If stretch ceilings from Europe do not require any comments regarding the quality of the product, its color and other consumer parameters, then special mention should be made regarding the painting from China. There are two groups of producers here: small artisanal workshops producing “consumer goods” that can be bought inexpensively and several powerful enterprises that have caught up with the quality of the fabric, and in some indicators have surpassed France and Germany. For example, the Chinese company MSD is the only one in the world that produces PVC film wider than 5 m, which does not require welding.

Texture

You can achieve proper organization of space while maintaining the style of the interior using the texture of finishing materials. Based on the texture, the surface of all types of stretch fabric can be divided into three large groups.

• smooth;
• embossed;
• perforated (used for special types of lighting located in the space between the ceiling and the stretched film).

Manufacturers diversify the texture, as a result of which the ceiling can be classified into three more groups:

• Glossy (PVC film). The reflectivity of this type of surface is 95%, so the shiny ceiling acts like a slightly dim mirror. On the one hand, it visually expands the space, on the other hand, it is difficult to fit into an interior with a lot of furniture. Disadvantages also include the reflection of street light, headlights of passing cars, a working TV, i.e. everything that causes glare, which negatively affects nervous system person;

• Matte (polyester, PVC film and fiberglass - a new type of material on the construction market)- a classic design of the ceiling space, suitable for any size room and interior. The choice of synthetic fabric allows you to realize any fantasies - unusually paint or apply an image, use a variety of lamps, decorating the room with an unusual luminous flux;

• Satin (PVC with embossing resembling satin fabric)- a middle option between gloss and matte surface. It has absorbed all the best from all types of stretch fabric - creates an atmosphere of comfort and tranquility. Many users on the forums note that under such a ceiling it is best to indulge in relaxation and meditation. Perhaps that is why the satin ceiling is one of the most expensive types tension fabric made of polyvinyl chloride.

Experts identify several additional subspecies:

• metallic, with a characteristic shine of metal, changing shades and color saturation under different types of lighting: daylight and artificial;
• mother-of-pearl, with the iridescence characteristic of pearls;
• suede - imitates genuine leather with very short hairs;
• marble with a smooth surface and veins characteristic of this ornamental stone;
• silk - resembles natural fabric with a muted pattern.

To figure out which stretch ceilings are better in texture, we recommend looking at the work: “”. Conducted here comparative analysis PVC films and polyester fabrics according to consumer parameters.

Number of levels

Play up the ceiling space and design ideas it is possible not only by the texture or color of the stretched material, by the lighting of the ceiling, but also by the different number of its levels.

Single-level Ceilings - the most common form of finishing the ceiling space - are easy to install and can be installed in absolutely any room. In this case, they can be combined with drywall. It won’t work to combine with other types of fabric, for example, PVC with fabric fabric: you can’t glue them together or stretch them over a baguette.

Multi-level ceilings make it possible to combine different materials and lighting designs, play with color contrast, visually change the size of the room in any direction: up, in width or in length, divide the room into zones, etc.

Some publications claim that not all types of fabric can be used for multi-tiered ceilings. However, if you look closely at the figure below, you cannot find at least one reason why this cannot be done.

Special mention should be made of the 3D ceiling, one of the variations of the multi-level design of the ceiling space. Its installation is very complicated and therefore expensive, but the effect covers any costs.

Color

The color scheme of the ceiling space also affects the completeness of the adopted design style of the room - to mask interior imperfections or to emphasize design solutions, and influence the psycho-emotional state of the apartment owners.

How to choose the right suspended ceiling based on color? White color visually increases the height of the room, but does not negatively affect a person’s mental state, unlike glossy ceilings.

Combines with any interior design style, from classic to modern. Suitable for the corridor, hallway, living room, nursery, etc. Applying a drawing or photo printing diversifies the appearance of the ceiling, giving it in many cases a weightless, airy, “floating” appearance.

Beige color fits well in the bedroom if you want a calm emotional tone. To create a romantic mood, psychologists advise choosing different shades of blue and pink. Light brown canvas will emphasize the business style of the office.

WITH in red and its variations must be very careful. On the one hand, he is credited magical properties evoke love and fill the body with energy, on the other hand, it is the color of aggression. As an option - small inserts into canvases of other colors.

Bright colors are good for children's rooms, kitchens and bathrooms: blue purple, orange, green. At the same time, in the nursery they should be muted with white paint, in the kitchen and bathroom - in rich tones. Dark purple, steel and black Glossy ceilings look good in high rooms. On dark blue The banner in the nursery is very impressive “starry sky”.

Type of canvas

The service life of a stretch ceiling and its aesthetic perception are influenced by the choice of fabric type:

• polyvinyl chloride film (PVC);
• polyester (synthetic fabric);
• fiberglass

Film ceilings, as finishers call them PVC cloth, are most in demand among customers. They are made from polyvinyl chloride with a thickness of 0.15 to 0.35 mm, a width of 1.2 to 5.1 m. They have many advantages over other types of fabric:

• variety of colors and shades - more than 100;
• large selection of textures: glossy, matte, satin, metal or marble, etc.;
• high level of elasticity, despite the small thickness, according to the passport they can withstand pressure of 100 kg/m2;
• waterproof - capable of holding up to 200 liters of water when flooded from above for 7-8 hours;
• versatility - fit harmoniously into any style and room;
• effectively combined with other types of ceiling decoration: stucco, plasterboard;
• affordable for all segments of the population, with the exception of satin material;
• practical - due to the lack of static voltage, they do not attract dust and soot and are easy to clean;
• environmentally friendly - do not emit chemicals harmful to health;
• can be restored when sagging - just warm it up with a heat gun (in fairness, it should be noted that this method is not used in practice, as it does not give a long-term effect).

PVC film also has disadvantages:

• requires careful care - there is a high probability of damage to the highly stretched surface;
• care skills are needed - stains may appear, which are very difficult to remove on your own;
• afraid of detergents containing alcohol;
• small punctures are repaired and then decorated, but the repair will still remain noticeable; the best solution is to completely replace the canvas;
• the glossy surface has a negative impact on the psycho-emotional state of a person, so its use is recommended in rooms where the presence of people is limited in time;
• presence of seams;
• under the sun or exposure powerful lamps yellow spots form on the ceiling, regardless of the texture and color of the canvas;
• afraid of low temperatures, cracks - manufacturers do not guarantee the preservation of the canvas consumer properties at temperatures below 5 degrees Celsius.

Synthetic polyester fabric, impregnated with polyurethane, is available in a thickness of 0.25 mm, a width from 1.5 to 6 m. It is a seamless material, only with a matte texture. Among other advantages, it should be noted:

• higher strength compared to PVC - about 20 times;
• good sound insulation properties;
• simple installation - no heat gun needed;
• wide temperature range of application, from +80 to –40 degrees Celsius;
• does not support open combustion;
• allow air to pass through (breathe), which prevents the formation of condensation;
• ideal for artistic painting and repeated painting;
• possibility of installing powerful lamps.

Among the disadvantages:

• high cost (mostly 3-4 times, in some cases several dozen times);
• absorb odors, which precludes its use in the kitchen;
• only dry wipe to remove dust and cobwebs - not recommended by manufacturers wet cleaning due to possible stains, which are almost impossible to remove on your own;
• there is no possibility of re-installation, unlike PVC film;
• does not retain water during flooding from above;
• does not glue or weld, and therefore in rooms more than 5 m wide a combination with plasterboard or a device is needed multi-level ceiling;
• poor color due to matte texture;
• in rooms with high humidity (bathrooms), special antibacterial impregnation does not always protect against mold and fungi.

Fiberglass ceilings have high strength and are waterproof. Designed for painting after installation. They are very expensive. Rarely found on sale.

Lighting type

Lighting in suspended ceilings is one of the essential elements interior design of rooms. Separate works will be devoted to it on our website. Here we note just a few points:

• possibility of using built-in lamps and LED strips;
• limiting the power of incandescent lamps for film is 40 W, for fabric - 60 W;
• for halogen lamps, the permitted parameters are: 20 W for PVC and 35 W for polyester;
• There are no restrictions or recommendations for LED lamps.

Fastening system

Quality stretched ceiling and its price also depend on the ceiling installation system. The PVC film is stretched using a harpoon - a special device welded to polyvinyl chloride and a wedge. Fabric ceiling only using a wedge-shaped system (there is no possibility to attach a harpoon). Both systems have variations:

• harpoon slotless;
• clip-on (in wedge-shaped).

Installation companies actively promote the harpoon system, explaining to customers that it is the best and the only real one (European). At the same time, the price factor is included - the work of installing the ceiling with a harpoon system is cheaper. But such a promise is not entirely conscientious in all respects, including the total cost of the work. Let's figure it out.

Advantages harpoon system:

• work on stretching the fabric is completed within 3-4 hours, i.e. very fast;
• worker training is carried out in an accelerated manner - 2 weeks is enough, which, in our opinion, is decisive for large companies;
• invisible bypass of heating pipes;
• the possibility of re-fastening after flooding (unfortunately, the resulting sag in the ceiling can no longer be removed);
• possibility of installation in hard-to-reach places, for example, above cabinets, air conditioning, without resorting to dismantling or moving furniture around the room.

Flaws:

• long preparatory period associated with cutting the canvas and welding the harpoon - 6-8 days;
• more expensive cost stretch ceiling in general, due to the increase in the price of a canvas with a welded harpoon (the stretching work itself is cheaper compared to a wedge-shaped system);
• large sagging of the canvas after 3-4 years of operation due to the inability to adjust the tension during ceiling installation;
• fabric sheets do not stretch;
• the narrow rubber insert does not cover the gaps between the profile and the wall everywhere - very often the rubber looks wavy in the corners or even falls out of the baguette.

The main problem with the harpoon system is sagging of the canvas. There are no technical or technological ways to eliminate sagging. Warming the ceiling with a heat gun restores the level ceiling surface, but for a short time (several months). Conclusion: approximately from the middle of its service life, the ceiling begins to sag noticeably, like a bag.

Advantages wedge-shaped system fastenings:

• lack of a preparatory period as such. Measurements are taken, and on the second day the ceiling is installed;

• lower cost of a stretch ceiling in general compared to a harpoon system;
• the degree of tension is regulated, and therefore the sag formed during operation is not visually noticeable;
• suitable for all types of fabric;
• the insert (plinth) is much wider than the elastic, which allows you to hide all the flaws of the wall - it fits close to it, without gaps or cracks.

Disadvantages of fastening the ceiling sheet using wedges:

• requires a lot of experience from workers - they must feel the degree of tension of the canvas with their fingertips;
• it is not possible to stretch in narrow spaces between the ceiling and furniture - it must be moved;
• pipe bypass is always noticeable;
• does not re-tighten.

The baguette can be plastic, which is cheaper, or aluminum. The service life of metal fasteners is longer and the appearance is better.

Our advice: based on the positive and negative aspects of each type of ceiling installation, it is necessary to order a wedge-shaped system for attaching the canvas to aluminum baguettes. It is suitable for all types of fabric (over time, without changing baguettes, you can switch from PVC to fabric), it is cheaper, it is installed very quickly (no time is wasted on welding the harpoon), and the quality of the ceilings is higher. But this is only if the fabric is stretched by professionals.

Design

Decorating the ceiling space with stretch fabric allows you to use a wide variety of shapes and design methods. It is not possible to consider them all in one work. Let's focus on the most spectacular: photo printing.

This method has no restrictions on the flight of fancy of the designer or customer. On the ceiling you can depict blooming garden or the sun setting in the sea, beautiful birds or butterflies, various, including fantastic, patterns, copies of famous frescoes from cathedrals and temples, photographs and pictures from a personal archive and much more.

Modern technologies allow you to print a picture with high resolution for seamless fabrics up to 5 m from PVC or polyester impregnated with polyurethane. A wider pattern can be applied to polyvinyl chloride film, but the sheets will have to be joined by welding. Experienced specialists have learned in such cases how to precisely join the pattern and hide the seam. All photo printing work consists of three stages.

1. The fabric is cut in accordance with the measurements of the room - the process is no different from the usual installation of a stretch ceiling.
2. An image is selected. Its reduced copy is transferred to the canvas that will be installed in the apartment to see how accurate and bright it will look. If necessary, the color scheme is corrected to obtain a high-quality, beautiful picture. In extreme cases, the image changes. After approval of the printed copy, the most important moment comes: printing the full-scale drawing.
3. The image is printed very quickly using special machines, after which the canvas is sent to a special dryer. The drying time depends on the print depth and color saturation. After this, harpoons are attached to the canvas if you plan to use a harpoon tension system. If another fastening option is chosen - wedge, the canvas is packaged and taken to the apartment for installation.

The drawing is applied using a special wide-format printer in three possible ways:

• eco-solvent;
• latex;
• ultraviolet.

The “eco-solvent” printing method received its name due to the ink used: solvent. They are resistant to fading and do not fade. Allows you to achieve high image detail. Used when printing 3D drawings. This is the most popular method of photo printing.

The method also has a drawback - slight toxicity. Therefore, it is not advisable to install drawings made using this technology in children's rooms. Latex printing uses ink that is harmless to human health. Therefore, drawings made using this method can be used in any room: children’s room, bedroom, kitchen, etc.

The ink is of such density and contrast that the texture of the fabric is not visible through it, and the image looks bright and rich, the smallest details of the design are visible on it. There are no restrictions on width other than the size of the room. Photo printing is carried out using special equipment.

There are both pros and cons to using the UV printing method.

• the quality of the canvas does not matter;
• paints do not fade in the sun;

• the composition of the dye is safe for humans, which allows UV drawings to be placed in any room;
• Can be washed with chemicals.

There is one minus, but a significant one - the print width is 2 m. This requires adjusting the design, welding the canvases and masking the seam if the image is wider, which significantly increases the price of the work performed. Applying a pattern to a matte and satin texture will cost from 1500 rubles/m2, glossy ones are more expensive - from 1800 rubles/m2. The cost of printing and application technology will also affect the cost, but this needs to be clarified with specific contractors.

Presence of seams

Professionals and customers have an ambiguous attitude towards the presence of welded seams on PVC fabric (fabric materials cannot have them in principle). Some consider them to be the main drawback of the entire system - they are visible on monochrome painted ceilings, however, from a certain viewing angle, which spoils the whole look. Others, on the contrary, consider the ability of film ceilings to be welded as their great advantage, allowing:

• stretch the fabric in rooms of any width;
• glue films of different colors together, achieving different visual effects - here the seams already act as decorative elements;
• increase the strength of the film surface in the middle of the ceiling - it sags less.

For those who consider the weld seam a problem, Chinese manufacturers have supplied PVC film with a width of more than 5 m to the construction market.

Tips for choosing a stretch ceiling for specific rooms

Discussed above general principles selection of suspended ceilings. However, each room has its own requirements. Therefore, when determining which suspended ceiling to choose for a hall, nursery, bathroom, etc., it is necessary to take into account various nuances, which we will discuss below.

Hall

The largest room in the apartment is reserved for the living room. This is where household members spend significant time. Therefore, special attention should be paid to the design of the ceiling space in the hall - it should not irritate any family member and at the same time fit harmoniously into the surrounding environment: floor, walls, furniture.

Any type of fabric with any texture is suitable. You need to choose a color solution from calm, neutral tones. Floating ceilings are very impressive and calming - a squeak of fashion in recent times.

Bedroom

Here, as in the hall, you can use any type of material, but the texture must be handled very carefully. Not everyone will like to see everything that happens in bed on the ceiling, plus the glare of street light. Therefore, before installing glossy ceiling you need to think more than once.

The priority is calm or romantic colors on satin. Photo printing looks very stylish, but the images should be soothing, made in pastel colors.

Children's

It is advisable to pull it into the children's room fabric ceiling. There are three advantages here:

• polyester is difficult to damage during noisy games;
• the canvas breathes, providing natural air ventilation;
• Bright patterns look impressive on the matte surface, and the “night (starry) sky” looks beautiful on such a canvas.

Kitchen

Which suspended ceilings are best for the kitchen? Here it is easier to make the right choice. Only glossy PVC film. It does not absorb odors, is waterproof, does not attract dust and volatile grease, and is quite easy to clean. The color scheme is bright and rich.

Bathroom

Bathroom - small room(unless we are talking about a cottage). Therefore, here the glossy surface of the film will visually expand the scope of the room and allow you to create bright, cheerful images. The marbled texture looks very respectable. The use of film also has practical significance:

• will retain consumer properties in difficult conditions;
• will protect you from a flood, where the risk of flooding is greatest - due to its small size, after the water is drained, the film sags, but you can only see this if you look closely.

Hallway

Hallway, with their small in size, is the only place in the apartment where you can use all known ceiling design solutions: a different number of levels, play of light, any type of fabric with different textures, the effects of a floating ceiling space, etc. There are only two restrictions here: the level of imagination and the financial component.

Choosing the type of stretch ceiling does not mean that there will always be a holiday in your soul. Much depends on who will do everything and how.

Choosing a contractor - pitfalls along the way

Many may shrug their shoulders in surprise at what problems may arise when hiring performers. Look, in various advertisements there are dozens of companies offering their services. Don’t be lazy and call a dozen. But not everything is so simple here.

In France, with its population of just over 65 million, only about 20 companies install suspended ceilings. In Russia, in a city with a population of about 300 thousand people, there are much more of them. It is very difficult to exist in conditions of fierce competition.

Therefore, competing installers use different marketing moves, while not always conscientious, bordering on deception. Therefore, in the Russian Federation, more than anywhere else, it is important to know how to choose a stretch ceiling installation company that performs work quickly, efficiently and without overpayments from the customer?

1. In advertising, as well as in telephone conversations, the very low cost of the canvas is indicated: from 90 rubles/m 2. The main task here is very simple - to convince the customer to call a surveyor to their home. During measurements of the premises, a representative of the company will very convincingly explain why you can’t install cheap film.

Practice shows that this trick almost always works. The most interesting thing in this situation is the following: the company has such a canvas, but it does not intend to install it, even if the customer insists. Under various pretexts, the installer will most likely avoid the order.

To avoid getting into a similar situation, we will present the cost of high-quality canvas from European and Chinese manufacturers. Average quality canvas from European companies costs:

• PVC film - 300-500 rub./m2;
• polyester (synthetic fabric) - from 600 rub./m2 to 6,000-7,000 rub./m2;
• PVC with photo printing - 800-2,000 rubles/m2.

Chinese products from well-known companies (MSD, HALEAD) are 20-30% cheaper.

2. The price indicates only the cost of installation of the canvas. Upon completion of the work, it suddenly turns out that you need to pay extra for the baguettes and their fastening to the wall. This is a hidden deception of the customer. Unfortunately, it is impossible to prove the fact of fraud in court - formally the executor of the rights. It is the customer’s fault that he did not fully understand all the conditions for installing the suspended ceiling.

For your information: the price of a linear meter of a metal molding is from 180 rubles, a rubber insert is from 120 rubles/m, the cost of attaching a molding to the wall is from 120 rubles/m. The minimum price for turnkey work is from 700 rubles/m2.

Yes, we shouldn’t forget about lighting. It is also not included in the price.

3. When installing a stretch ceiling in 2 rooms, it is proposed to install the canvas in the third room for free. The key word here is canvas. You will have to pay for the work. And the cost of film is only 12-15% of the price structure.

4. If among the offered types of tension material there are no Chinese-made products, it is better to refrain from cooperating with such a company. Here the probability that all the material is from a Chinese manufacturer tends to 100%.

5. It is not advisable to enter into contracts for the installation of films of Russian brands - they do not exist in nature (do not seriously consider IVNIIPIK products as a brand). Some companies register their own trademarks and sell Chinese stretch ceilings under their brand. The authenticity of the material can only be confirmed by quality certificates ISO9001 and ISO14001, and not of Russian origin.

6. Last and most important: never make an advance payment.

Conclusion

In this work, we looked at how to choose a suspended ceiling, what types of lighting there are, fastening the canvas, design, etc., which will allow you to carefully choose the most effective and efficient material for your project, based on financial capabilities and the design of the room and apartment as a whole. ceiling.

You should be no less responsible when choosing an installer. Almost all the pitfalls along this path are discussed above, which will help you avoid many troubles. We hope that the time spent reading the material will bring practical benefits.

Stretch ceilings have long moved from the category of new products to the category of ordinary building material. Although not so long ago they were something expensive, mysterious and accessible only to a few. Now, like plastic windows, suspended ceilings are becoming an integral part of a modern home.

Advantages of stretch fabrics

The main advantage of tension structures is the leveling effect. The canvas creates a flawless surface, while hiding ceiling imperfections and utility networks.

Besides, tensile structures differ in a number of other advantages.

In addition, the canvases are fire resistant, easy to care for and environmentally friendly.

Criteria for choosing suspended ceilings

The finishing industry offers a wide range of suspended ceilings. In order not to get lost in this variety, you need to decide on the basic selection criteria.

1. Type of stretch ceiling. First you need to understand which material is preferable - film or fabric.
2. Texture of the material(glossy, matte, fabric).
3. Design. The choice here is extremely varied; you can choose either simple white or colored material, or apply drawings or three-dimensional images to the canvas.
4. Ceiling design(one- or two-level, acoustic design).
5. Ceiling manufacturers(European, domestic or Chinese companies).

Types of suspended ceilings

There are tension fabrics fabric or film(PVC based). In the first case, a special impregnated fabric is used for the tension structure. This is an elastic material that does not collect dust and has high water-repellent properties. The required color of the canvas is achieved by applying a special polymer to its surface. It is lightweight, safe and attractive material. The width of the canvas can be any (up to 5.1 m), and such a ceiling will serve for many years.

Vinyl film canvases are particularly elastic, but cannot boast of such strength as fabric structures. However, they have no equal in terms of moisture resistance. Vinyl ceilings are more finicky than fabric ones, but are distinguished by a variety of colors and textures (matte, glossy, mirror, satin, suede).

On a note! This type of ceiling is often called “French”, since it is believed that the idea of ​​​​creating tension structures first appeared in France.

Table. Comparative characteristics of fabric and film canvases.

Prices for suspended ceilings

suspended ceiling

Texture of the material

The texture of suspended ceilings comes in three main types:

• matte;
• glossy;
• satin.

Separately, you can select textured fabrics like leather, velvet, stone or suede.

Matte ceiling

The matte texture looks like an ordinary well-plastered ceiling. This finishing option is suitable for lovers of the classics. Matte canvases are made from vinyl or polyester textiles. The finishing industry offers a huge number of shades for every taste. White and other calm shades fit perfectly into the interior of any room. At the same time, the matte canvas leaves a lot of room for imagination and experimentation: the material can be painted and imaged.

Glossy ceiling

A glossy or varnished ceiling has a reflective surface and a characteristic shine. Externally, gloss looks elegant and original, but it is worth considering that it will not always fit into an interior design with a lot of furniture. In the bathroom, for example, a glossy ceiling creates a fabulous and relaxing environment. Gloss visually expands the space. This design option is optimal for small spaces and rooms with low ceilings.

Prices for glossy stretch ceilings

glossy stretch ceiling

Often varnish canvases are used as one of the elements two-level ceiling. The choice of gloss here is justified and will be an interesting solution, especially if you plan to get a reflective effect not over the entire area, but only in some areas of the ceiling.

Separately, there are ceilings with an extra-glossy surface that have one hundred percent reflective ability. This coating resembles a mirror.

Satin ceiling

Satin can be called a kind of compromise between the classic matte surface and glossy fabric. The structure of this material resembles satin fabric, hence the name. The canvas contains micro-reliefs formed by interweaving the finest threads.

Thanks to its special reflective characteristics, satin shines with a fabulous mystical light. In the evening, the effect of a pleasant brilliant glow is especially noticeable. Satin texture is well suited for spacious rooms.

Prices for satin stretch ceilings

satin stretch ceiling

Stretch ceiling design

The ceiling covering is selected taking into account the interior of the room. Gloss and light colors will visually enlarge the room; the matte surface is ideal for children's rooms and bedrooms. Glossy canvases look good only in well-lit rooms; if there is not enough light, the room will seem gloomy and uncomfortable.

Ornaments and patterns on the ceiling are always unique and interesting. But drawings, collages and images can only be applied to matte surfaces. For the bedroom, the ceiling can be decorated in the form of a night sky with many stars and celestial bodies- beautiful and unusual, this design creates a romantic atmosphere. In the nursery, you can distribute images of fairy-tale characters and create unusual lighting.

Stretch ceilings make it possible to create a surface of almost any shape: arches, waves, cones. The canvases can be mounted at any angle and even in different planes. And if you add to this an almost unlimited number of color shades, a variety of textures, and the ability to combine different fabrics, then it becomes clear that a stretch ceiling allows you to realize almost any fantasy.

Design features

All tension systems are mounted using a baguette - a special profile that is installed around the perimeter of the room. Fastening is carried out using harpoon (film ceilings only) or harpoonless (fabric and film ceilings) methods.

Single-level ceiling

The simplest and least expensive option is single-level ceiling, when the canvas of the selected texture and color is simply stretched evenly around the perimeter of the room. The design lasts a long time and is easy to maintain. An almost endless variety of shades and patterns allow you to create a truly interesting and original option.

Multi-level ceiling

This is a more complex structure, which is created using drywall or special profiles. Typically, a multi-level ceiling consists of various canvases, which may differ in both texture and color. Thanks to interesting combinations, it is possible to achieve a truly spectacular ceiling design.

Prices for ceiling lamps

ceiling lamp

Sectional design of a multi-level stretch ceiling (harpoon-type fastening):
1 - upper level of the tension structure;
2 — separator plugs;
3 - separator;
4 — bump stop;
5 — internal frame;
6 - base ceiling;
7 — Lower level ceiling;
8 - walls;
9 - wall profile and plug for it.

Acoustic design

This best option when soundproofing a room is necessary. Ideal for cafes, bars, clubs, studios, or simply when isolation from noisy neighbors is required. To create an acoustic structure, first special mineral slabs, and then a fabric made of special polyester fiber is stretched.

System "Starry Sky"

This design in your own bedroom will allow you to admire the starlight every night. The system is created on the basis of fabric or film, most often in dark shades (black, blue, purple, chocolate), imitating the night sky. Lacquer surfaces look impressive: this makes the night sky seem mysterious and limitless.

Stretch ceiling “Starry sky”

Modern technologies make it possible to create a ceiling in which “stars” will appear only in the dark. In most cases, the system is installed using fiber optics and a light generator. The stars are arranged randomly, in a certain order or in the form of constellations.

Ceiling device "Starry sky" with fiber optics and light generator

Manufacturers of stretch fabrics

When the type of fabric, color and texture is chosen, you need to decide with the manufacturer. Let's look at the most popular companies

Prices for the ceiling “Starry Sky”

ceiling "Starry sky"

France

One of the famous French manufacturers is the company Clipso, which produces fabric ceilings with a special knitted weave. Wide canvas (up to 5.1 m) is made of polyester and impregnated with polyurethane. The Clipso product line consists of both dazzling white and colored canvases, there are translucent and shiny options. It is possible to apply an image using photo printing or painting acrylic paints. The panels are fastened using a dry, cold method using snap-clips - a clean, quick and harmless installation option.

Germany

German ceilings mean impeccable product quality. The main manufacturer is the company Pongs, offering an assortment of 130 canvases of various colors with a width of up to 3.25 m. Within the brand, products are divided into several lines depending on the type of canvas. Pongs produces glossy, satin and matte canvases. All of them are distinguished by high elasticity, expressive color, complete absence of creases and odor.

Pongs company owns the brand Descor, which specializes in the production of fabric canvases.

Lackfolie- Another one German manufacturer and the leader in the stretch ceiling market not only in Germany, but also in the world. Eco-friendly raw materials, unique technologies and advanced equipment allow the company to produce durable, beautiful and reliable canvases that are suitable both for decorating residential premises and for finishing a cafe, restaurant, sauna, hospital or retail space.

Russia

Russian paintings are distinguished by reasonable prices. But compared to European products, domestic canvases do not have a wide range of colors and variety of textures, but in terms of quality and strength they are not inferior to material from Europe. One important point: Russian stretch ceilings are made from budget material up to 1.42 m wide; the film fades quite quickly and does not have a long service life. But if you need fabric at an affordable price, then domestic products will be a good alternative to European material.

China

It is generally accepted, not entirely justifiably, that Chinese products are not distinguished by their quality, and their main advantage is their low cost. But the company's stretch fabrics MSD meet high European standards. Distinctive feature brand is the width of the material exceeding 5 m, which completely eliminates the need for seams. Affordable prices and high quality allow MSD stretch ceilings to compete with leaders in the finishing industry from Germany and France.

Which manufacturer should you choose?

French ceilings are a special style and quality. They are aesthetic, strong, durable and environmentally friendly, but they are expensive. Germany also produces excellent tension structures with great variety colors and textures, but the price of the products will please few.

Russian ceilings are a budget class. Externally, the canvases look no worse than European ones, but differ in a small selection of colors. And the design will not last as long as its foreign counterparts from Europe.

When choosing a Chinese manufacturer, the buyer can purchase a completely acceptable product, but it is worth making sure that the canvases have the necessary quality certificates. The material should not contain phenol-containing components that are hazardous to human health.

Let's sum it up

When choosing a stretch ceiling, you need to consider several points. Firstly, choose the right canvas taking into account the design of the room, deal with color scheme and the texture of the material, take into account the nuances of one or another option. Secondly, you need to choose the right manufacturer. The health of the owners of the premises where the tension fabric will be installed depends on the quality of the purchased products. It is important to ensure that the material has the necessary quality certificates. Thirdly, take care of high-quality installation of the ceiling (do it yourself or contact a specialist). These are three aspects that will help you navigate correctly when choosing a stretch ceiling.

Only a few years have passed, and stretch ceilings have rapidly gained popularity. Today, their diversity amazes our imagination; they not only have luxurious beauty, but also have a long service life.

However, only high-quality suspended ceilings can be truly not only beautiful, but also safe for health. This sometimes confuses us when choosing a stretch ceiling. In this article we will try to tell you in detail about how to choose the best stretch ceilings and not run into a fake.

PVC or fabric ceiling, what to choose?

The first thing you need to decide on is the material of the stretch ceiling. The canvases are made either from polyvinyl chloride or polymer fabric. Both types of suspended ceilings have their advantages and disadvantages. PVC ceilings make up 90% of the total volume of fabrics offered, let’s note their main advantages:

1. are able to withstand the load of water during flooding without letting it through, thereby saving the furniture from getting wet;
2. a huge range of colors with the possibility of photo printing;
3. variety of textures;
4. possibility of partial dismantling;
5. safety for human health;
6. no difficulties in care.

Speaking about fabric stretch ceilings, it must be said that their less popularity is explained by the fact that they are three times more expensive than PVC film. But thanks to their advantages, they also find their consumers.

In addition, it is necessary to say about the width of the canvases. Fabric stretch ceilings can be 5.10 m wide, and PVC films up to 3 m, so for large rooms they have to be welded on a special machine. However, no matter what material you choose, both ceilings are afraid of sharp objects. But at the same time, the main disadvantage of PVC ceilings is that they are afraid of low temperatures, and a significant disadvantage of fabric ceilings is that they cannot be dismantled.

We select a suspended ceiling according to the type of room

When choosing a material for a stretch ceiling, you should take into account the room in which you want to install the ceiling. The conditions that are most worth paying attention to are the following:

• Firstly whether the room is heated or not, because on a cold balcony the PVC ceiling is unlikely to last long, since the film will simply crack due to low temperatures.
• Secondly, humidity in the room, for example, for a bath or swimming pool, fabric sheets are a less suitable option. While PVC ceilings have properties that ensure less condensation accumulation, mold and mildew do not grow on them. When flooded, due to its high elasticity, the film will not break through and will retain a large volume of water.
• Third, conditions in the room itself, the presence of odors, etc., for example, in the kitchen, fabric sheets will absorb the smell, and greasy stains may appear, which are more difficult to remove from fabric ceilings. PVC film is more practical in this regard; it can be washed, but you do not need to clean it with brushes and products containing solid particles and acetone.

In general, you can install any suspended ceilings in residential premises, it all depends on your taste and wallet. However, for a children's bedroom it is worth giving preference to fabrics from European manufacturers, because they are of higher quality and safer. Such ceilings are installed even in medical institutions. In children's ceilings, they are more susceptible to mechanical stress, so it is better to install a matte fabric rather than gloss, which will quickly lose its appearance. Glossy PVC films are best installed in living rooms.

Matte or glossy, or maybe suede or how to choose the texture?

After choosing the material for the stretch ceiling, you need to decide on its texture. In addition to the usual: glossy, matte or satin texture, there are also:

• suede (suide);
• metallic;
• tree;
• marble;
• translucent.

It cannot be said that any texture is better or worse; when choosing, you will mostly be guided by your taste. The choice will also be influenced by the style of the interior in the room, so suspended ceilings with wood or marble textures are suitable for eco style, and matte and satin ceilings in white or light shades will fit well into the classic style. Suede ceilings can most often be found in restaurant halls, billiard rooms or libraries. But you can’t do without translucent stretch ceilings if you decide to decorate a luminous stretch ceiling.

Of course, from a practical point of view, it is better to give preference to glossy or satin stretch ceilings. Such fabrics are less demanding to maintain. In addition, in the event of a break in the canvas, they will be easier to dismantle and will look less noticeable. From the point of view of designers, such canvases are also good, because they visually increase the height of the room, and reflections and reflective properties give the room a special atmosphere.

Variety of colors and photo printing

Today you can often find colored stretch ceilings; this enlivens the interior of the room. But choosing a color can be a daunting task. Here you should not forget about the effect color has on a person, because some colors can promote relaxation, while others can cause a feeling of anxiety. The modern color palette of suspended ceilings includes about 300 shades. Let's look at some of the popular colors:

Don’t forget that when choosing a colored stretch ceiling, it should be in harmony with the walls, floor, and furniture. You can combine several colors on the ceiling, or design a canvas with photo printing, especially since you can depict anything: nature, still lifes, animals. The main thing is not to overdo it with colors; the impression of a “pressing ceiling” should not be created, but on the contrary, there should be some kind of lightness and airiness.

Traditional ceilings or multi-level designs?

When choosing the best stretch ceiling, you put into this word not only the meaning of quality, but also the best - the one that you like. In addition to the variety of colors and textures, you can choose the shape for the stretch ceiling. Of course, classic single-level flat ceilings are a standard solution chosen by many. But those who want to create something individual and impressive in beauty give preference multi-level structures of various shapes.

Multi-level structures are the embodiment of a wide variety of design fantasies. They can be curvilinear, wavy, dome-shaped. Such ceilings allow you to zone the space of a room without installing unnecessary partitions; it is enough to play with color and shape. Multi-level ceilings reduce height in rooms that are too high. Ceilings made from PVC film are not afraid of moisture, which means they will serve you for ten years without requiring special care.

Trade marks

Without exaggeration, Europe is the leader in the production of suspended ceilings. European stretch ceilings are of high quality at an appropriate price. Budget and inexpensive option suspended ceilings can be purchased from Russian or Chinese manufacturers. Most often, preference is given to the following manufacturers of suspended ceilings:

• France – CTN, Barrisol;
• Germany – Pong produces three types of stretch ceilings: Lackfolie (glossy), Mattfolie (matte) and Descor (fabric),
• Italy – Malpensa and Cerutti;
• Belgium - Polyplast and Mistral;
• Switzerland – Clipso.

To summarize: general recommendations for choosing the best suspended ceilings

To summarize, we will highlight several main recommendations for choosing the best suspended ceilings in terms of their quality, external design– it’s still a matter of everyone’s taste.

1. It is best to order suspended ceilings from reputable manufacturers, and not from intermediary companies that have just appeared on the market.
2. Be sure to ask about the country that produces the stretch ceiling; when purchasing a Chinese-made stretch ceiling, be more vigilant.
3. Familiarize yourself with all quality certificates; if they refuse to show them to you, this should alert you.
4. When choosing the texture and type of material, ask for a sample of the canvas so you can touch it, and not just admire it in a printed catalog.
5. The warranty period for high-quality canvases must be at least 5 years.
6. Ask about all the necessary components and installation; you must clearly know what you are paying for. In case of any contradictory and dubious answers, do not risk your money or your nerves.

So, we hope that after reading this article, you will learn something new or important to you. When choosing the best stretch ceiling, of course, you should be very careful, because you want the result to be truly liked and to be, as they say, to the soul. But don’t be overly meticulous and don’t trust anyone, otherwise you won’t get any pleasure. Listen to yourself and you will surely make the right choice.

Photos of the best suspended ceilings