Installation of a finished stretch ceiling. Stretch ceilings: installation tips

In that step-by-step master class we will tell you about installing a suspended ceiling. Let us examine in detail an example with spotlights and a ceiling cornice. We will install a stretch ceiling with a vinyl sheet using a gas gun for stretching.

Step 1: Marking the level and attaching the baguette

Before you start installation suspended ceilings, carefully prepare the surface. Filming old plaster, treat the ceiling with a primer and antiseptic. This will prevent mold and mildew from forming underneath the unventilated area. Next we perform the markings. Using laser or building level we beat off the horizon. We find the lowest point of the ceiling and calculate the height that would allow us to install spotlights with all fasteners and wiring, but not less than 7 cm. The marking line can be drawn with a pencil or use a plumb line. We attach the baguette.

On the back side of the baguette we make a notch in those places where it will adjoin the corners of the wall. It is preferable to choose a baguette made of aluminum rather than PVC. This design is stronger and after the installation of suspended ceilings is completed, the likelihood of the material sagging is minimal. We secure the baguette with self-tapping screws, first driving plastic dowels into the wall. We do not recommend using wooden dowels; they dry out over time. The fastening step is 20 cm for strong walls, for all others – 8–10 cm. We seal the joints with masking tape.

Step 2: Wiring spotlights

Next, the wiring and mountings for spotlights are installed. Here are embedded platforms made of resistant thermoplastic for lighting fixtures, selected to match the diameter of the selected lanterns. However, you can also purchase universal platforms that are cut to the desired size of the light bulb. To attach the mortgages to the ceiling, we use metal hangers used in the manufacture of the frame for plasterboard ceilings. We secure the hangers with self-tapping screws measuring 3.5 by 11 mm.

After assembling the mortgages, we make marks on the ceiling where the lamps will be located. One 35 W light bulb will be enough for 1 m2. Install branch boxes for each group of lamps. Route the wires to the places where they will be installed lighting. To avoid friction and damage to the wires, pull them through corrugated tubes. We fasten the mortgages with the wire to the ceiling, first hammering the choppers into the holes. We secure the second edge of the metal hangers. The lower part of the suspension should be level with the suspended ceiling.

We place the loop with the wire 10–15 cm below the embedding platform, cut it in half at the bottom. We strip and insulate the wires and connect them by color. We install terminal blocks to connect the wires. We do this in such a way that the insulation extends slightly under the plastic platform to avoid short circuit.

We lay the wire with the terminal block on the embed so that it does not interfere during tensioning suspended ceiling.

Step 3: Installation of mountings for the chandelier

We mount a chandelier in the center. To install it, you will need a larger diameter mortgage, as well as metal hangers and screws for fastening. Do not forget about the installation level, which must correspond to the height of the stretch ceiling.

Mark the place where the chandelier will be located. We draw a wire from the branch box and pull it through the corrugated tube. We strip and insulate the ends of the wire.

Step 4: Installing the Curtain Hanger

In our version, the curtains will be attached to the ceiling. In order to do this, we first make mortgages. Drill holes and insert dowels.

Using self-tapping screws we attach straight hangers. Then we stretch the painting cord from wall to wall at the same level as the suspended ceiling.

We measure the required length wooden beam and mount it strictly according to the level (painting cord), securing it with metal hangers. To extend the life of wood, we recommend pre-treating it with water-repellent impregnation.

Since our burse turned out to be a little short, it is necessary to saw off the required length and sharpen a piece of wood.

We take measurements and connect the sawn timber with the one already fixed on the hangers. To avoid such errors, calculate everything several times.

Step 5: Preparing to stretch the ceiling

Only after the curtain hanger is installed do we begin stretching the fabric. First, we hang special “crocodile” clothespins in the corners.

Thanks to these clamps, the canvas will not slide off onto initial stage tension, and a special gasket will protect it from damage. Then we take out a gas gun and a spatula with rounded corners to embed the canvas into the groove. We unwind the burner hoses and connect it to the power supply.

Step 6: Unpacking and stretching the ceiling using a gas gun

We unpack and inspect the canvas from all sides, making sure that there is no damage to it. We hook the edges onto pre-fixed clothespins at the corners. Additionally, we secure the canvas in several places with clamps and insert it into the baguette using a rounded spatula.

We thread the canvas from the corners to the center, continuing to heat it with a gas gun. We carefully cut off the hanging strips with a sharp construction knife, making sure that the tension is tight. If you are installing a fabric stretch ceiling using the Clipso type, then installation is carried out according to the principle of stretching the material onto a hoop. A gas gun will not be used; to smooth out uneven areas, use a construction or household hair dryer.

After the corners are completely tucked, we continue to heat the canvas and tuck the middle. When stretching the fabric gas gun should be heated to 60°C, brought to the canvas at a remote distance.

Gradually remove the clamps. When doing work, we try to hold the canvas with one hand and tuck it into the baguette with the other so that it does not slip off. We involve an assistant, so the work will go faster.

Step 7: Cut holes for connecting lighting fixtures

On the stretched canvas we find the places where the mountings for the lamps were installed. We take these thermal rings and coat them with a special super glue. In our case, this is COSMO CA 500.200 glue. Using regular glue can damage the fabric.

Apply thermal rings to the marked areas. The glue sets in a matter of minutes. After this, we cut round holes with inside rings with a sharp construction knife. We do this with all the mortgages for lamps.

We take out the insulated wires of the spotlights to connect them to the lighting bulbs.

We do the same with the wire of the central chandelier.

Step 8: Installing Light Bulbs

We install light bulbs (LED, energy-saving, halogen). It is advisable that their power does not exceed 40 W, otherwise the canvas may deteriorate within a year due to overheating. Spotlights must have a plastic or metal rim covering the thermal ring.

We recommend purchasing GX53 LED lamps with a small projection beyond the rim of the lamp and a wide beam angle. When choosing lamps for suspended ceilings, also pay attention to the presence of a cooling grille and the strength of the radiator. After completing the installation of all the light bulbs, we check the lamps in action.

Step 9: Installing the stretch ceiling plug and attaching the cornice

The final touch of the work is the installation of the cap and cornice. In order to mask the gap formed between the ceiling and the wall, we use it, which will go well with any interior. It must be attached exclusively to the wall, not to the suspended ceiling, otherwise screeds may form. Instead of a ceiling plinth, you can install flexible masking tape. This design is easy to insert and remove from the groove, and has a large palette of colors.

This completes the installation of a stretch ceiling with your own hands. All that remains is to use the pre-made mortgages (wooden burs on metal hangers), hang the curtains and enjoy the result.

They have long ceased to be considered a luxury, but just five or six years ago it was an expensive pleasure. In addition, the installation technology was kept secret by the craftsmen. Today, almost any beginner in this business can do it with their own hands.

This article details the rules for calculating and installing polyvinyl chloride film (PVC). Glossy and matte ceiling canvases have affordable price, and wide color palette The produced material will help transform the interior of any home.

In addition, a PVC ceiling membrane will protect the room in case of flooding from above. It is easy to remove water from under the ceiling, and the canvas will return to its previous shape after heating.

Stretch ceiling installation technology

Do-it-yourself determined by the following action plan:

Measurement and calculation of ceiling sheets and components
Installation of wall profile - baguette
Installation of lighting wiring and installation of chandelier and spotlight fixtures
PVC fabric stretching
Installation of lighting devices

PVC ceiling will protect the apartment from flood

Measuring suspended ceilings with your own hands is a very important operation. It will require maximum precision and diligence from you. First of all, take a blank sheet of paper and draw a room plan (top view) on it. Be sure to display all protruding parts (pilasters) and recesses (niches, bay windows).

Label each corner with a letter Latin alphabet, starting from the bottom left corner (A, B, C, D...). Measure all the walls of the room and transfer the dimensions to the drawing. Be sure to measure the diagonals. List them on paper as well.

Tensioner fastener PVC ceiling produced on a special profile or harpoon-type baguette. A flexible harpoon is welded to the edge of the ceiling sheet. Once the harpoon gets into the groove of the baguette, it clings to the protrusions of the walls (like a harpoon or a fishing hook).

Baguettes are made from aluminum or plastic. The length of the slats is 2 m. To calculate its quantity, you need to add up the length of all the walls of the room.

Installation of baguette

This procedure is no less important than measuring the ceiling. Whether it can hold the tension of the canvas or not depends on how firmly the fastening is made. Before installing the wall profile, the walls are marked.

It is important to know! The stretch ceiling can be lowered 3 cm from the existing ceiling. If point lighting devices are used, then the level of the canvas is lowered by at least 12 cm.

It is convenient to carry out marking using a laser level. If it is not there, then a regular water hose (a transparent hose with two graduated flasks filled with water) will do.

Using the marked marks on the walls, the horizon of the future ceiling is marked. This can be done with paintable masking tape (a cord with blue in a plastic casing). The marking is completed, the baguette is attached to the walls with dowels and screws. The fastening interval should be no more than 10-15 cm.

At the joints of two baguettes, the fastening step should be no more than 2 cm. If the baguette was trimmed, then this place must be cleaned of burrs with a file or sandpaper.

Important to remember! You cannot join the baguette in the corners. All joints are transferred to straight walls. In the corners, the baguette is cut on one side and bent at the required angle.

Wiring and lighting devices

To install the chandelier in the center of the room, you can use a mounting hook. For this purpose in concrete floor a hole is punched with a puncher and a piece of reinforcement with a diameter of 10 mm and a length of 20-30 cm is inserted into the void of the slab. The chandelier hook will later be hung on it.

You can also use self-tightening anchor bolts with a hook. If the chandelier is overhead, then a plywood embedded part must be placed in the place where it is attached. Straight hangers for a plasterboard ceiling are attached to a rectangular piece of plywood 10 mm thick in the corners.

The hangers are bent in the shape of the letter L to the desired height and secured with dowels to the ceiling. Then, after stretching the fabric, the chandelier is installed, but more on that later.

The wiring is placed in a plastic corrugated sleeve and secured with clamps to ceiling. At the points where the lighting points are connected, wire loops 25-30 cm long are released. Adjustable stands of spotlights are also mounted to the ceiling with dowels.

Ceiling stretching

The room is heated with a special gas (propane) gun. The temperature is controlled with a household thermometer (it must be at least 60 degrees C). It is recommended to remove fusible plastic products, live plants and an aquarium from the premises.

First, the canvas is laid out on the floor, and then secured with clips (crocodiles) in two opposite corners. The first angle is the base one (it is marked in the instructions that come with the canvas). The heated canvas is tucked with a spatula into the groove of the baguette until the harpoon clicks, catching on the protrusions of the walls. Below is a diagram of how to fill the ceiling sheet.

When the canvas cools, it will stretch and it will be possible to install lighting devices. Feel for the location of the chandelier or anchor hook with your hand and place it in its place special glue glue a plastic thermal ring. After 4-5 minutes, cut out the film inside the ring with a sharp knife and remove the loop of the lighting wire.

The chandelier is hung on a hook and connected to power. After this, the chandelier cup is mounted under the suspended ceiling. For an overhead chandelier, a large thermal ring is glued on, and after removing the film, the mounting strip of the chandelier is secured to the plywood with self-tapping screws. The installation is complete and if you have any questions, this video shows you how to install a stretch ceiling with your own hands in great detail.

Stretch ceilings are a popular type of decoration both in private homes and in city apartments. If the installation technique is followed, the result is a smooth and durable coating that does not require maintenance. To keep costs down, many people choose to do the installation themselves. Below we will conduct a master class in which we will show you step by step how to make stretch ceilings. A detailed guide will help you understand all the nuances and stages of installation.

What kind of suspended ceilings can you make with your own hands?

There are two types of suspended ceilings:

Film.
Fabric.

The main difference is the material of the canvas. In the first case, a thin polyvinyl chloride film, in the second - synthetic fabric made of polyester impregnated with polyurethane. Each material has both pros and cons.

The main advantages of PVC film:

waterproof - when flooded, the suspended ceiling retains water, and after the liquid is drained, it returns to its previous appearance;
many color variations - more than 250 shades of various textures are available (glossy, matte, satin, textured, with patterns or photo printing);
the ability to carry out wet cleaning - thanks to this, the ceiling is easy to care for and remove even the most stubborn stains.

Advantages of fabric sheets:

frost resistance - polyester can withstand negative temperatures down to -50ºC without losing properties;
large width of the canvas - 5.1 m versus the maximum 3.2 m for film, which allows you to seamless ceilings in almost any room;
durability - withstands an accidental blow or a flying champagne cork;
breathability - thanks to microscopic holes in the structure of the material, the canvas does not interfere with air exchange in the room.

The disadvantages of film ceilings include low strength - PVC breaks from contact with sharp objects and does not tolerate negative temperatures. The main disadvantages of fabric canvases are the high cost and a modest selection of colors - only about 20 shades of mostly pastel colors.

Installing a suspended ceiling with your own hands is possible for both options, but there is a difference in installation technology. PVC film is preheated so that the material becomes elastic and stretches. For this, a gas heat gun is used. After cooling, the film stretches and forms a flat surface. The polyester fabric does not require heating and immediately after installation it has a finished appearance.

We have previously described in detail, in this article we will look at how to stretch PVC fabric.

The principle of installation of suspended ceilings

The technology of the device is as follows: the design is a canvas stretched over a frame made of aluminum or plastic profiles (baguettes), which are attached around the perimeter of the room. PVC film is tucked into the frame and securely fixed. Due to tension, a flat ceiling surface is formed.

Installation occurs in stages. The installation procedure is as follows:

First, the room is measured. Then a sketch of the future ceiling is prepared with the locations of the lighting fixtures. Based on the drawing, the PVC film is cut.
If necessary, the base is prepared for stretching the fabric.
After this, markings are made to attach the frame and the profile is mounted.
Next, the fixtures for the lamps are installed and the electrical wiring is laid in accordance with the installation diagram.
Then the PVC film is heated with a heat gun, stretched and fixed in a baguette.
After this, lighting devices are installed and connected.
On last stage the installation gaps that remain at the junction of the walls and the suspended ceiling are masked.

2 Preparing the base 9 Masking joints

The cutting of PVC film is done in production, so it is better to entrust the measurement and preparation of the drawing to professionals.

The fact is that the canvas is cut exactly to the size of the room, taking into account the stretching of the material. It is important not to make mistakes in the calculations, since it will not be possible to correct the error during the installation process. The film will sag, wrinkles will form, or it will simply not stretch to the required width. The remaining steps are easy to complete on your own, the installation technology is simple, any home craftsman can do it.

General installation rules

Film ceilings retain their properties only at positive temperatures, therefore they are installed exclusively in apartments or houses for permanent residence. PVC is equally suitable for utility rooms and living rooms. It is especially recommended in bathrooms, toilets and kitchens, since the film is not afraid of moisture, protects against leaks from above and is easy to clean compared to other types of materials.

It is recommended to install a suspended ceiling at the last stage of repair, when all finishing and construction work has already been completed. An exception is wallpaper, since when installing baguettes they will most likely get dirty, and it will be quite difficult to remove dirt, especially from textured surfaces.

There is no need to level and prepare the rough floor before installing the stretch ceiling. But if the plaster is old and crumbling, you need to remove everything that could subsequently fall onto the canvas, and then strengthen the surface.

Attention! During the process of stretching the PVC film, the room warms up to +40ºC, and next to the gun the temperature reaches +70ºC. Therefore, it is better to remove furniture, paintings and other items that may be damaged by heat.

Technology of fastening suspended ceilings

To fix PVC film, special baguettes are used, which are mounted around the perimeter of the room at a short distance from the base ceiling. There are different ones. They differ in the material of manufacture, design, fastening system and installation method.

Fastening systems

For film ceilings, two methods of fixing the canvas are used:

Harpoon. Recognized as the most reliable. To attach it to the edge of the PVC film after cutting, a curved plastic edge (harpoon) is welded. During the installation process, the edge is inserted into the baguette and clings to a special protrusion in the profile structure. The canvas is securely fixed and held on like a harpoon, which is why the fastening received its name. The remaining gap is closed with a special masking tape. There is also a gapless profile, but its installation requires perfectly smooth walls.
Beading(wedge). The film is measured with a reserve. The canvas is tucked into the profile and secured with a special plug in the shape of a wedge or glazing bead. The excess film is then trimmed, and the gap is closed with a decorative insert.

The technology for installing ceilings with harpoon fastening requires accurate calculation of the dimensions of the canvas, otherwise there will not be enough film or the ceiling will sag. But installation is quick and easy, since the tension is calculated during cutting; you just need to insert the harpoon into the baguette. Additionally, this fastening system allows you to easily remove the covering and re-install it. This is necessary, for example, to drain water after a flood or to repair the electrical system behind the ceiling.

With glazing bead fastening, the cutting of the canvas is done approximately and mistakes are not so terrible. But adjusting the film tension manually is much more difficult and can only be done by experienced specialists. In addition, this method is non-separable. After dismantling the coating, you will have to purchase a new film.

Thus, for self-installation of a suspended ceiling from PVC is better choose harpoon system fastenings

Profile types

Baguettes are made of plastic or aluminum. Metal ones are more expensive, but stronger and more durable. In premises of more than 20 square meters It is recommended to install aluminum ones. If the room is smaller, plastic ones will do.

Based on the place of attachment, baguettes are divided into wall and ceiling. Which one to choose depends on the height of the structure and the condition of the sub-ceiling. The minimum distance from the floors is achieved ceiling profile(2-3 cm). But in such cases it is impossible to install built-in lighting or. And the rough ceiling must be perfectly flat and strictly horizontal, which is extremely rare in practice.

When attached to walls, more height in the room is lost, but under the canvas you can hide embedded lamps, power supplies or engineering Communication. Also, the wall profile makes it easy to position horizontal level, even with strong differences in the roughing flow.

In practice, ceiling moldings are rarely used and are used only in cases where there is no alternative. For example, there is no access to the wall due to a wardrobe or the material of the partitions does not allow the profile to be securely attached.

Preparation of tools and materials

To make a suspended ceiling with your own hands, you will need the following tools:

ladder;
laser or water level;
roulette;
pencil;
chop cord;
hammer drill (it is convenient to use a tool with a built-in vacuum cleaner, but a regular one will do);
drill;
screwdriver or screwdriver;
grinder or hacksaw;
file;
construction or stationery knife;
a special curved spatula for tucking the canvas into a baguette;
heat gun and propane tank.

Supplies you will need:

fasteners (if the walls are made of foam concrete or wood, use 5x40 screws, for concrete and brick walls - 5x50 dowel-nails);
aluminum or masking tape;
plastic plates for bypassing pipes;
special Cosmofen glue for installing thermal rings and contours (the use of ordinary glue is not recommended, as it can damage the fabric);
cable and terminal blocks for connecting spotlights.

You can rent a heat gun; the easiest way to order baguettes and others is in a specialized online store.

The cutting and trimming of the fabric is carried out in production. You won’t be able to do this on your own; you will need to order it from a company that installs suspended ceilings. The PVC film will be cut to size, an edge will be welded for the harpoon fastening, and the finished canvas will be delivered.

It is worth considering that the width of the film does not exceed 3.2 m (depending on the manufacturer and texture). If the dimensions of the room are larger, the parts of the canvas are joined by welding on a special high-frequency machine, resulting in a barely noticeable seam. If desired, for an additional fee, you can order seam centering so that the film patterns are positioned symmetrically.

Step-by-step installation instructions

Let's look at the process of installing a simple tension flow at one level with built-in spotlights and a pipe surround. We will use aluminum wall moldings with harpoon fastening as a frame. Below are detailed step-by-step instructions for installing a stretch ceiling made of PVC film. It is important to follow the installation sequence and proceed to the next stage only when the previous one is completed.

Preparing the base

The rough ceiling will be covered, so no leveling is required. But falling pieces of plaster or paint can damage the film. For this reason, all parts of the old coating that do not adhere well, including dirt and dust, are removed from the surface.

Then the ceiling is impregnated antiseptic primer. This action has two purposes:

strengthening the base (so that nothing falls off it);
prevention of mold.

There is no need to plaster or paint the surface.

Marking

First of all, you need to determine. For recessed lamps, a distance of at least 7 cm from the base is required. In other cases, the ceiling can only drop by 3-5 cm. But the smaller this distance, the more difficult it is to work with a hammer drill. Sometimes for tension fabric hide utility lines (air ducts, pipes, etc.), then the film is pulled even lower.

Then you need to measure the difference in the height of the ceiling and find the lowest point. The selected distance is plotted from it. Using a laser level and a pencil, the indentations are transferred to the walls and marks are placed in the corners. Then the tapping cord is applied and pulled to connect the marks. As a result, you will get a straight line along the entire perimeter of the room with the required indentation from the rough ceiling. The marking must be strictly horizontal.

Fastening baguettes

Before starting work, it is necessary to determine the location of the electrical wiring; usually it runs vertically from the switches to the ceiling. Installation of baguettes begins from any internal corner.

The work order is as follows:

The profile is applied to the wall so that the lower edge falls on the marking line.
Using a hammer drill, holes are drilled in the wall in increments of 12-15 cm. The places where the electrical wiring is supposed to pass are skipped.
Then plastic dowels are inserted.
The baguette is pressed against the wall and secured with universal 5x50 screws.

The joints must be perfectly level. The maximum permissible gap between baguettes is 3 mm. And so that sharp corners and the edges of the profile have not damaged the PVC film, they are carefully processed with a file and sealed with aluminum tape.

Important! This is the most critical stage on which the reliability of the entire structure depends. The profile must be firmly fixed.

If the baguette is loose, you need to screw in one or more screws to secure the structure. Sometimes this is not enough; in such cases, a spacer is made from a piece of profile, one end of which is attached to the ceiling, and the other presses the molding to the wall.

Installation of internal and external corners

There are some nuances here. One baguette must be used; there should be no joints in the corners.

Installation is carried out as follows:

Using a tape measure, measure the distance from the previous profile to the corner.
The measurement is placed on the new baguette and a cut is made in this place with a grinder or a hacksaw. Cut from the back side (adjacent to the wall).
Then the profile is carefully bent and fixed so that there is no gap between the baguette and the wall.

Features: one cut is made for the inner corner, and three for the outer corner, with a distance of 10 mm between them, after which the cut parts are removed with pliers.

Installation of embedded parts and wiring for spotlights

Next, preparations are made for lighting installation. Mark on the ceiling where the lamps will be located. It is advisable to mark the projections on the floor. Then, after installing the stretch ceiling, it will be easier to find mounting locations for lighting fixtures.

Then mortgages are made. For installation you will need:

universal platform made of thermoplastic (suitable for any lamps with a diameter from 50 to 115 mm);
flexible metal hangers;
short “bug” screws 9-10 mm long.

Installation occurs in this order:

Before starting work, a ring of the required size is cut out; it should be slightly larger diameter lamp
The suspension is bent in the shape of the letter “P” or cut in half and screwed to the platform with short screws (two on each side is enough).
Then the mortgage is applied to the ceiling and places for fastenings are marked.
Holes are drilled using a hammer drill and plastic dowels are inserted.
The mortgage is attached to the ceiling with self-tapping screws 51 mm long.

Note! The lower part of the platform should be flush with the tension fabric. To do this, a thread is stretched between two opposite profiles, along which the mortgages are aligned. If the platform protrudes, just bend the suspension a little.

The next stage is wiring. We will use cable brand ShVVP 2*0.75. It is quite enough to install 20 lamps. Electrical cables stretched to the mortgage. The same hangers are used to install the wire. This way the cable will not fall onto the canvas in the future. For additional protection (especially in wooden houses) corrugated pipe is used.

All lamps are connected in parallel to the circuit using terminal blocks of suitable power. Most often, a rating of 3-5 A is sufficient (for a power of 660-1100 W).

The ends are stripped of insulation and tucked into the terminal blocks. The wires are brought out 10-15 cm below the platform and are tucked behind the embed so as not to interfere with the fabric being stretched. After this, you can move on to the next stage.

Before starting work, all windows and doors in the room are closed to prevent drafts. The film is carefully unpacked and unfolded. Then special “crocodile” clothespins are attached to the corners of the room and the canvas is hung. The surfaces touching PVC are soft and without sharp edges, so they will not damage the film.

It is important to hang the canvas correctly; the strip of the harpoon connection should be directed with the curved part down.

After this, the room is heated with a heat gun to 50°C. It is directed in such a way as to warm up the canvas. The PVC film becomes elastic and stretches well, and the edge softens.

Then the canvas is pulled up and tucked into a baguette. To do this, use a special metal spatula with a curved surface. The edge of the harpoon is put on the tool and carefully inserted into the recess of the profile. Then the spatula is removed.

The installation procedure is as follows:

First, the film is fixed in one of the corners. Then - in the opposite.
After this, the fabric is tucked in the other two corners.
Next, moving from the center of the walls, the film is inserted into a baguette along the entire perimeter of the room.

There is no need to adjust the tension, as it is calculated during cutting. It is important to prevent the fabric from distorting, otherwise folds will form.

Pipe bypass

Often, heating or water supply pipes pass through the ceiling in rooms. In such cases, installation becomes somewhat more complicated. Additional components will be required, namely plastic contours, the size of which exactly matches the diameter of the pipe.

For PVC ceilings, the technology is as follows:

The distance is measured from the center of the pipe to the nearest walls.
The dimensions are transferred to the canvas taking into account the shrinkage of the film. To do this, the resulting value is multiplied by 0.92.
Then the plastic line is cut off and fitted to the pipe. It should not fit closely to the profile; a gap of 4-5 mm must be left.

This completes the installation of the stretch ceiling. You can finish finishing and bring in furniture.

Important: in case of using ceiling plinth, fastening is done only to the walls!

Is it possible to stretch the ceiling alone?

A conventional single-level structure can be installed alone. The basic principles of installation remain the same, although it will take longer. But installation of a two-level ceiling or more complex shapes will require helpers.

If the work is done alone, when marking, the laser level is installed on a platform stand or a special holder (a rod that is fixed directly between the floor and the ceiling). During tapping, a screw is screwed in at the marking point and a cord is pulled from it. You can also attach the rope to tape.

The second likely problem is the installation of a large, heavy chandelier by one person. It is difficult to hold and screw such a lamp at the same time. If possible, it is better to choose something simpler and lighter (a compact chandelier or built-in lamps).

Nuances and secrets of installing suspended ceilings

In the process of work, beginners often encounter various difficulties. If you do not know the nuances of installation, mistakes can lead to irreparable consequences. Let's look at the most common problems that arise during self-installation.

How to properly heat a suspended ceiling

When stretching the fabric, the distance from the heat gun to the PVC should be at least 1 m. The heat gun is not directed at one point for a long time, but smooth swinging movements are made. Heating should be uniform. Otherwise, the film may be damaged.

If the installation of a stretch ceiling is carried out by two people, one person threads the canvas, and the second stands behind and warms it up.

How to tighten a suspended ceiling

Wrinkles may form during installation. To straighten the film, do this:

Carefully remove the harpoon on both sides of the problem area (about 30 cm).
Warm up the fold with a gun.
Fill the middle into the baguette.
Then - the centers of free areas.
Continue until the entire canvas is installed.

Attention! If it is not possible to remove the fold, the operation is repeated, but a larger area of the film is released.

What to do when the canvas collapses

After installing a stretch ceiling, sometimes there is unpleasant problem. When a door or window is opened, the film is drawn in and adheres to the base ceiling. The outlines of mortgages and other elements located behind the canvas become visible.

The reason for the collapse is the difference in air pressure. When air flows in the room, it rises, but behind the ceiling it remains the same.

There are two ways to fix the problem:

Seal all gaps between the film and the walls.
Install ventilation grilles. Then the air will quickly pass into the space behind the canvas, and the pressure will equalize.

In the first case, carefully inspect the ceiling to find all the gaps. The cracks are sealed with sealant.

The second method is more preferable, since additional ventilation will ensure ventilation of the inter-ceiling space, which reduces the likelihood of fungus appearing. To locate the gratings, select inconspicuous places: in corners, behind curtains, etc. A hole is cut in the canvas. For this purpose, a protector ring under the lamp is used. Then a small ventilation grill is glued on so as to completely cover the hole. The product can be matched to the color of the ceiling.

It is enough to install two grilles in opposite corners.

How to choose lamps for lighting fixtures

The film melts and turns yellow from high temperature. Therefore, traditional incandescent lamps are not suitable. For PVC ceilings, energy-saving or LED devices are used. They consume little electricity and have a long service life. When using halogen and incandescent lamps, the power should not exceed 35 W. The most popular are spots with base G5.3 and GX53.

Security measures

To heat the canvas, use a heat gun. But when working with it, there is a danger of explosion or gas leakage. Therefore, it is imperative to follow the safety rules:

Before starting installation, check the connection of the gas cylinder, hose and gun.
Make sure the equipment is in good working order. At the slightest suspicion, it is better to contact the experts.
View the date the cylinder condition was checked (indicated on the body).
Refueling or repairing equipment should only be performed in specialized workshops.
Do not increase the length of the hose yourself.
Do not point the gun at a gas cylinder or place it near a radiator, heating pipe or other source of elevated temperature.

An electric gun is safer to use, although it is more expensive. But warm it up large room using it is more difficult, so it is recommended to use a composite gas cylinder.

Features of operation and care of the coating

Film ceilings are very easy to pierce with a sharp object; you need to be careful during installation. It is also important to take this property into account during further operation.

It is unacceptable to use abrasives or acetone for cleaning. They will damage the coating. It is also prohibited to press hard on the fabric while washing.

Modern film ceilings They are treated with an antistatic agent, dust does not easily settle on them, but sometimes cleaning is still required (especially in the kitchen due to grease and splashes). Wet cleaning is suitable for PVC. Take a soft sponge or rag, lightly moisten it and wipe it without unnecessary pressure. Suitable products include glass cleaning liquid, dishwashing gel or soap solution. Then the surface is wiped dry. Glossy ceilings additionally treated with a weak solution ammonia, this increases shine.

Thus, installing suspended ceilings with your own hands is a relatively inexpensive and durable finishing method. Subject to correct technique Once installed, the coating lasts for decades. And if you have certain construction skills, the work can be done alone without the assistance of assistants.

The first thing you need to learn is that without preparatory work it won't work out. However, if you plan to ruin the canvas, and at the same time the finishing of the walls, furniture and other contents of the room, we cannot prohibit it.

If such a development of events is not included in your plans, we suggest proceeding as follows.

1. Be sure to remove furniture from the room- it can be damaged when heating the air with a heat gun;
2. Swipe preliminary work with walls. Depending on the finish you want, level and plaster them or install plasterboard.
Attention: In the latter case, the corners at the top of the room should be smooth, not rounded.
3. Carefully clean the ceiling from the old finish: remove whitewash or traces of wallpaper, remove dirt and dust.
4. Required treat the floors with primer- it will prevent the development of fungus and mold even in case of high humidity in the room.
5. Conduct electrical wiring.

Careful adherence to all recommendations will allow you to quickly and efficiently install a suspended ceiling without spoiling anything. Once you're sure the space is ready, make a list and head to the hardware store - it's time to stock up on tools!

Selecting Tools

It is best to take care of everything you need in advance - there is less chance that something will be forgotten and you will have to quickly look for the item in nearby stores. To perform stretch ceiling installation work, we use the following tools:

Roulette;
Pencil;
Hammer;
File;
Hammer drill with vacuum cleaner (read more about it below);
A screwdriver (or better yet, two);
Hand mount holder;
Spatula;
Hacksaw (or grinder);
Passatizhi;
Ladder;
Laser axle builder with a rod on which it is attached;
Hangers for the ceiling canvas (“crocodiles”);
Thermal gun (+ propane tank).

Draw your attention to: You can replace the gas heat gun with an electric one. Focus on which device is most convenient for you to work with.

We’ve decided on the tools, now let’s study the installation of suspended ceilings from “A” to “Z” in our step by step photo instructions with video explanations.

Stage 1. Applying markings

If you want to get a smooth canvas, then you cannot do without this item. Marking is a preliminary outline with a pencil of the desired level of the stretch ceiling. We suggest using laser axle builder- it is the most accurate and practically eliminates errors. Shall we begin?

1. First of all, decide where you plan to place the baguette. Everything is quite simple here, if you take into account two nuances:

The minimum height of the laser from the ceiling should be 5 centimeters. If you leave less, then working with a hammer drill will be difficult.
Step back one centimeter from any of the protruding ceiling elements. In our case, this is a junction box.

2. Set up a sting maker to a certain height.

You can do without a telescopic rod. For example, your partner will hold the axle builder, and at this moment you will trace the laser beam with a pencil. But, frankly speaking, this method cannot be called convenient and accurate.

Having finished with the markings, we begin the next stage of work.

Stage 2. Installation of baguette

It can be called one of the key ones - if you make a mistake in installing the baguette, or fix it unevenly, the canvas will become deformed or even tear.

Let's look at an example on an external corner:

1. First, take a measurement with a tape measure.
2. Place it on the aluminum profile.
3. Using a hacksaw or grinder in a special way cut the baguette. Watch how exactly to do this in this video.

Note: Internal corner should have one undercut, and the outer one - three, with a distance of 10 mm from the measurement line in both directions.

4. We clean all cut edges with a file. This is necessary to preserve the canvas.

5. Bend the corners. In the end you should end up with something like this:

Advice from an experienced: A hammer drill paired with a vacuum cleaner is a truly practical and very convenient solution for repairs. Simultaneous drilling and suction construction dust will save you a lot of time on cleaning and your health.

7. All that remains is to drill the holes, insert the dowels there and use screwdrivers and self-tapping screws to secure the baguette itself.

8. We continue to work in the same spirit, installing a baguette around the perimeter of the room.

We pay special attention to the joints, they should turn out as smooth as possible, like in the photo:

Attention: Before starting work, you must decide electrical wires. You need to understand exactly where they are. Typically, wiring runs strictly vertically along the walls to sockets from the floor, and to switches from the ceiling.

But there are exceptions. Therefore, in places where you assume that you have wiring, the baguette should be made approximately according to this model:

One little secret: If you are unable to secure the baguette in the standard way, then you can resort to a trick that will help you press it to the wall. Attach a small strip (10-15 centimeters) to the ceiling, perpendicular to the baguette. Then carefully attach it to the joints.

In order not to damage the ceiling fabric during tensioning, seal all joints with tape as follows (see photo below). You will need a spatula. Carefully glue sticky tape to the joint, and then level it with the flat side of the spatula, removing the smallest air bubbles. We tuck the edges under the baguette.

Let's look at the result of the second stage. You should end up with something like this around the perimeter:

The high flexibility of PVC baguettes complicates installation;
They can become deformed when the canvas is heated with a heat gun;
If the profile is rigid, then there is a risk of breakage during installation;
Durability is questionable: if an aluminum baguette will serve you for 20 years, then the PVC will have to be changed along with the canvas after 5 years.

Stage 3. Preparation for lighting installation

After fastening the baguette, we proceed to installing platforms for chandeliers or lamps. Plastic platforms look like this:

And you need to make the following structure out of them:

To do this, you will need so-called pawns, which are often used in the installation of plasterboard ceilings.

We drill a hole with equal indentations and secure the platform.

When you have installed all the structures, it’s time to move on to the most important thing - installing the stretch ceiling.

Stage 4. Stretch the fabric

You should start by installing “crocodiles”, which are hung on the four corners of the room,

to attach the coating to them.

When unpacking the canvas, pay attention to the location of the harpoon (a hard strip around the perimeter of the canvas that will be attached to the baguette). It must be located bent into the room.

After that we begin to heat the room, using a heat gun - this is done to stretch the canvas, and also to soften the harpoon (which is also made of PVC, only denser).

When the room is warm enough, use a spatula to begin insert the harpoon into the baguette.

Attention: you need to start from the corners (!), and then go along the perimeter.

This technology for fastening suspended ceilings is called harpoon-baguette.

Let us clarify that in addition to this, there is another type of installation - beading, when the strips are initially made larger than the ceiling area. In this case, preheating is not necessary, but...

1. If the master did not tighten the canvas during installation, after six months the coating may wrinkle.
2. Operation of the ceiling. In the baguette-harpoon technique, you can always remove the ceiling to get to the same soldered box or wipe the stain after a flood from above. In a glazing bead, if you remove the ceiling, you will have to buy a new sheet. More differences can be read here.

As you can see, there is nothing particularly complicated. Let's move on to the final stage.

Stage 5. Final work.

After the canvas is stretched and secured, you only have to deal with two points:

cut through holes for chandeliers or lamps;
arrange a decorative insert around the perimeter of the room (we are not talking about ceiling plinth, but about masking tape, which allows you to hide the joints near the walls).

Let's start with lighting. To make a hole in the ceiling you will need special plastic rings that need to be glued to the canvas.

For this:

1. find the center of the hole of the previously fixed platform;
2. coat the surface of the ring with glue;
3. and glue it so that the marked place on the ceiling is exactly in the center of the ring.

When the glue dries, cut a hole around the inner perimeter.

Important: Please note that rings and platforms may be different diameters. Their choice depends on what type of chandelier or lamp you want to hang.

All that remains is a decorative insert around the perimeter. There is nothing complicated here - carefully lay it along the joints using a construction spatula.

The only thing I can add here is: It wouldn't hurt to glue the corners of the insert with white silicone. This will ensure reliable adhesion to the canvas.

By the way, you can see the entire process described above in this cool video. Be sure to check it out.

Features of installing fabric stretch ceilings

Fabric sheets have a different structure and, accordingly, this affects the technology of their installation.

If we talk about what is the difference between the installation process of fabric stretch ceilings and PVC, there are a number of features here:

Clip fastening system. Fabric stretch ceilings are mounted on special plastic profiles- “clothespins” or “clip”. These profiles have a narrow groove into which the web is inserted using a special spatula. At the same time, after refueling there are always excess ends of the “fabric” that are cut off. A caveat: if you need to remove such a canvas, you won’t be able to install it back.
The canvas is stretched without using a heat gun or any heating of the room. Quite the contrary - fabric ceiling shrinks when heated. Therefore, it is better to have on hand construction hair dryer. It can be useful for straightening out small wrinkles that sometimes form in corners during installation work.
Refueling procedure. Unlike PVC, the fabric sheet is first tucked in the center of the wall (usually the one next to the window), carefully straightened out and secured in the center of the opposite wall. This technique makes it possible to center the canvas, which is especially important if it has patterns or photo printing. The process of maximum tension itself may involve repeated “tightening” of the canvas (during installation, and not subsequent operation).
Since plastic rather than aluminum baguettes are used under the “fabric” in most cases, it is recommended to additionally glue them with liquid nails before installation.
Cutouts for lighting fixtures can be done without reinforcement (strengthening) with glue. This ceiling is an order of magnitude stronger than PVC in terms of the rigidity of the stretched surface. Products from Descor (cheaper, Germany) and Clipso (more expensive, France) have proven themselves particularly well.

Preparatory stage, marking and attaching baguettes - all these actions are carried out according to the same principle and the order that we described above for PVC ceilings.

How to install fabric stretch ceilings yourself is clearly shown in this video.

Security measures

Despite the ease of installation of suspended ceilings, it must be taken into account that working with a heat gun requires increased caution. Especially if you decide to choose a gas model.

On each gas cylinder you will find two dates. The first is the date of its manufacture, the second indicates when the cylinder needs to be taken for inspection. This can be done at most repair services for such equipment. Remember that violation of these deadlines is fraught with an emergency.
Before starting work, check the integrity of the connection of the cylinder, hose, terminals and heat gun. This must be done to prevent gas leakage into the room.
If refueling is necessary, under no circumstances do it yourself - contact special workshops where this will be done in compliance with all technical standards.
Check the serviceability of the equipment. At the slightest suspicion of a breakdown, it is better to take it for inspection.
Important: Never leave gas cylinders near heating sources or point a heat gun at them.
Even if you do not have enough hose length, do not try to increase it yourself - this may compromise the tightness of the structure. It's better to spend the extra money and buy a new one.

We are confident that our visual instructions helped you figure out how to install a suspended ceiling with your own hands - there’s really nothing complicated about it.

If you still have any questions or want to read about the installation of structures more complex than a single-level canvas, study this.