Advantages, disadvantages and use of matte stretch ceilings in the interior

Stretch ceiling - a universal tool for creating a modern interior

In the world of interior design, new ideas appear every year, but the key trends used in interior design are always unchanged:

• maximum comfort,
• multifunctionality,
• stylishness.

These criteria are especially important for residents of megacities, which is why stretch ceilings are so in demand in the capital’s market.

When starting a renovation, each person pursues certain goals. Some need to mask errors in the base ceiling and utility lines. Others, despite the small area, want original design and lighting using LED lamps. With the help of modern ceilings you can effectively solve any problems. Implement standard and creative solutions in a short time.

Pros and cons of suspended ceilings

does not engage in self-promotion. Having started our activities at the very beginning of the Russian era of suspended ceilings, our team not only withstood the conditions of tough competition in the capital, but reached a new professional level. We are not afraid to say that stretch ceilings are not ideal. They, like any other finishing materials, have certain pros and cons due to their structural and technological features.

Typically, the installer company advertises the advantages of suspended ceilings, and not their disadvantages. First of all, we will inform you about the disadvantages of this universal finishing material. There are very few of them, and in some cases the disadvantages turn into advantages. A suspended structure with a tension fabric effectively solves a number of practical problems in a particular room.

So, the disadvantages of suspended ceilings:

• all suspended ceilings slightly reduce the height of the room;
• film sheets cannot be installed in unheated rooms;
• It is not recommended to clean any type of cloth with abrasive compounds;
• suspended ceilings must be protected from damage by sharp objects;
• Seamless fabric ceilings will not be able to withstand a large bay; their range does not include a glossy texture.

Perhaps these are all the disadvantages of suspended ceilings. Indeed, today even their higher cost compared to traditional finishing materials is not a clear disadvantage. Every year it becomes more and more democratic. Today, for Russians, such design moves from the category of elite to the category of ordinary.

Due to the long service life and many advantages of suspended ceilings, the economic component is completely eliminated. You will receive a high-quality option for finishing your apartment or office for many years. A fantastically beautiful ceiling, the design of which will be relevant for many years. You will be spared for a long time from such troubles as cosmetic or major repairs.

Advantages of suspended ceilings:

• durability - subject to operating conditions, the suspended ceiling does not require repair;
• strength – a ceiling made of PVC film with an average thickness of 0.13 mm has high strength. It takes a lot of force to break the fabric;
• waterproofness – film ceilings have high moisture-resistant properties. In the event of a flood, they cope with a large volume of water. Also, with such canvases all the problems of wet rooms are easily solved - condensation, fogging, stains on the surface;
• environmental friendliness - stretch ceilings of any kind are non-toxic, absolutely harmless, which is confirmed by relevant certificates;
• easy care – the surface of suspended ceilings does not require special care;
• speed of installation - professional specialists will only need a few hours of work to install a single-level ceiling in a room with a standard layout;
• hiding ceiling defects - the design of a stretch ceiling allows you to hide problems of the base base;
• perfectly flat surface of suspended ceilings at any facility - the suspended ceiling is installed using a laser level, its canvas is perfectly flat;
• masking of utilities - such a ceiling allows you to hide pipes, thermal insulation, sound insulation, electrical wiring, sound insulation, fire alarms and ventilation;
• thermal insulation and sound insulation - by creating an air barrier between the ceiling and the tension fabric, additional heat and sound insulation is provided;
• elasticity - in case of a flood from above, thanks to this property, the film sheet will not tear when stretched;
• large assortment - no other finishing material has such a palette of colors and texture diversity;
• width – today manufacturers offer an excellent size range. Large area and non-standard room layout are not limitations in terms of design. Stretch ceilings made of polyurethane-based fabric allow you to create seamless surfaces.

It is not possible to list all the advantages of modern ceilings in one article. If you have doubts about new finishing materials, the best information for you will be reviews from loved ones or people you know well. Today, stretch ceilings are leading the way in interior design. Among your employees and friends there will definitely be their owners. Having studied the real and imaginary problems of the finishing material, weighing all the pros and cons, you will draw a reasoned and therefore correct conclusion.

Our compatriots often discuss suspended ceilings on forums. Those who have acquired a fashionable new item leave rave reviews. Some people doubt the merits of modern ceiling surfaces. Let's look at the most popular misconceptions.

Order a suspended ceiling

As a result, films are suitable for wet areas and designer interiors, while fabrics are indispensable for specific applications, residential bedrooms, unheated areas and where heat-free installation is required.

The pros and cons of fabric and film stretch ceilings help you choose the most suitable material in each specific case. Our specialists are always ready to give you advice, as well as install high-quality and durable, beautiful and fashionable ceilings at an affordable cost.

Mythical disadvantages of suspended ceilings

For a reason unknown to professionals, there is an opinion among many Russian consumers that suspended ceilings cannot be installed in the kitchen, where there is gas pollution and high temperature. This fact can be explained by a lack of reliable information. Or the fact that producers of traditional materials are trying to resist progressive high-tech products. That’s why there are ridiculous, unfounded reviews about the impossibility of using modern ceilings in the kitchen. It is unlikely that there are many fans of whitewashing or painting left in the 21st century.

When installing film surfaces, a heat gun is used. Under the influence of high temperature (70 degrees Celsius), the elastic fabric is stretched and tucked into the profile. If high temperatures were contraindicated for this material, would the installer take risks by installing ceilings in this installation method - the answer is obvious.

Film ceilings are easily and simply put in order. To do this, use regular dishwashing detergents available in every kitchen, or you can purchase a special gel. The only limitation is to be careful with sharp objects and abrasives. Also, PVC fabric is inert to gas; it not only can, but must be installed in the kitchen to make the life of our compatriots easier and more beautiful.

Disadvantages of matte stretch ceilings

It is necessary to understand that matte ceilings also have certain disadvantages. Currently, there are no ideal products, so before purchasing it is advisable to consider not only the advantages, but also the disadvantages:

• Potential negative impact of low temperatures . It is advisable not to install matte ceilings in rooms that are left without heating during the cold season. At the same time, if the property is heated individually and not on an ongoing basis, ceilings are also not suitable.
• The need to solder the sheets during installation activities. On the modern market, PVC films up to three meters wide are offered. If the width of the room is greater than this indicator, it will not be possible to do without soldering. It is important to note that only fabric stretch ceilings can be produced up to five meters wide, so they are often considered seamless. In most cases, it is necessary to solder the panels during installation activities.
• PVC ceilings require mandatory heating of the canvas and the room during installation, unlike fabric ones. This task is performed using a special heat gun. Thus, it is assumed that it is necessary to take care of the temperature regime, which also involves additional nuances.

Taking into account the above disadvantages requires special attention when using matte stretch ceilings, but the popularity of the products in question still remains quite high.

Safety of suspended ceilings from an environmental point of view

You need to deal with this issue before installing the ceilings. PVC film sheets have a complex multi-component composition. Thanks to this, the developers achieved a high level of film inertness. The European Union has strict environmental requirements, and the material passed all tests with honor.

Fabric ceilings are made from the synthetic material polyurethane. It is found in sportswear; umbrellas and children's overalls are made from it. Polyurethane is also used in the manufacture of shoes. Both types of surfaces, both fabric and film, are absolutely safe when they are made in accordance with the technology. By working with a reliable company that uses high-quality consumables, you will save yourself from these troubles. Just when installing ceilings, ask for certificates of conformity.

The main advantages of suspended ceilings

Design. One of the main advantages of this coating is its various design solutions: you can choose a surface made in a monochrome shade, with a photograph, a 3D drawing, LED backlighting and a starry sky effect. You can choose a perforated surface - a ceiling in which holes of different diameters are placed, creating a bizarre play of light and shadow under lighting of any intensity. Using visual effects to realize any idea, even the craziest and most creative, is not a problem if you clearly formulate the task to the designer.

There are also no restrictions in choosing the number of ceiling levels. You can order one-, two-, multi-level ceilings to:

• create a bright and stylish solution for the bedroom, living room, kitchen, hallway;
• “divide” the room into certain zones: rest, relaxation, work, entertainment;
• mask cosmetic defects: cracks, smudges, stains;
• radically transform the interior of your home or office.

At the same time, changing the style and appearance of the interior will take place in a short time: installing the ceiling with preparing the room before starting work and cleaning after takes from 3 to 7 working days. Material. When choosing a suspended ceiling, it is important to decide not only on the design, but also on its “base”. In total, you have two options: surfaces made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and fabric. Each type has its own advantages. For example, fabric ones have a noble, stylish, elegant appearance, and they will be an excellent decoration for a living room, hallway, or office. But there is also a small minus. In order for these coatings to remain in perfect condition, the room temperature and humidity level must be at the optimal level, otherwise the following will appear on the ceiling:

• black dots;
• divorces;
• stripes of changed color.

At the same time, some manufacturers note that reducing the temperature in the room by 10-15 degrees will not affect the condition and appearance of the material, which means that this coating can also be used in unheated rooms.

As for the second type of material - PVC, it is considered the best replacement for whitewash and wallpaper. Moreover, unlike fabric coverings, it is not susceptible to steam or moisture. It is suitable for rooms where there is never a stable temperature or a certain level of humidity: for the kitchen, bathroom, children's room (in such rooms air conditioners, heaters, air purifiers and other devices that produce liquid steam are often turned on).

Safety. Stretch ceilings are recommended to be installed both in kindergartens and in medical institutions, since they do not contain harmful impurities and toxins that negatively affect the health of children, older people, and allergy sufferers.

Texture. Another advantage that consumers will appreciate is the ability to choose the appropriate texture: matte or glossy. The first one looks discreet, stylish, elegant. It is suitable for a study and bedroom. As a rule, this option is chosen by people who value classic style and do not like excessive “tinsel”: there are no reflections on the matte surface, and it does not distract attention from room accessories and furniture.

Glossy stretch ceilings are a bright solution for the hallway, children's room, and living room. They will transform the interior, make it more stylish and attractive. If you are looking for just such an option for your home or office, then feel free to order a coating with a shiny “gloss”. Designers note that the advantage of the glossy texture is that it visually expands the space. Owners of apartments, houses, and offices with modest square footage can use this technique especially advantageously.

There is an alternative option - satin stretch ceilings, which designers often call universal, since they harmoniously combine chic, luxury, the shine of glossy coatings and the absence of reflections. They look especially advantageous in the bedroom, living room, hallway, emphasizing elegance and creating a cozy atmosphere in the room.

Seams. Stretch ceilings are fixed in two ways - harpoon and glazing bead. The essence of the first is that special clothespins (harpoons) are installed around the perimeter of the room, and the canvas is fixed to them. The glazing bead method involves fastening the panels to special beams: individual parts of the ceiling are “overlaid” on the ceilings and fixed using special devices. In both cases, you get a seamless ceiling - without a single joint, gap or other defects that appear as a result of unsuccessful wallpapering or surface painting.

Repair after the flood. If you have a standard ceiling (made of wallpaper, paint or putty), then after a flood you will have to think about repairs and completely replacing the coating, since the appearance will become unusable.

With stretch ceilings the situation is different: canvases made of fabric can be restored after thorough drying, while those made of PVC can be “saved” if you perform three steps immediately after you notice that a bubble begins to form on the ceiling:

1. Stop the flow of water: turn off the water in the apartment, house, office.
2. Call installers from the company that installed your tension covering.
3. Entrust them with all necessary repair work.

Specialists will put the ceiling in order in a short time and return it to its luster and attractive appearance. Under no circumstances, if you notice the formation of a “defect” on the ceiling, do not try to eliminate it yourself - for example, pierce the “bubble”, glue it and cut out part of the canvas. After your actions, the coating will have to be changed completely, and this will add additional costs and time. Practicality. To maintain a ceiling made of wallpaper or paint in impeccable condition, you need to ensure that its surface is not exposed to direct ultraviolet rays, moisture, puffs of smoke and steam, since after contact with them the following appear on the surface:

• faded spots;
• black dots;
• divorces;
• stripes of a dark shade and other defects that spoil the aesthetics of the coating.

In the case of stretched fabrics, you don’t have to worry about such trifles, since contact with moisture, steam, and ultraviolet rays has virtually no effect on their appearance.

Cleaning. This is a plus for people who value their time: after installing suspended ceilings, you will spend only 10-15 minutes a week cleaning them. And all you need for this is a dry cloth and a mop with a long handle to remove stains from dust or dirt.

You can also entrust ceiling cleaning to professionals who use special equipment to gently but effectively remove stains, stains and other contaminants.

Life time. With proper care, a stretch ceiling will last for several decades, will please the eye, maintaining its excellent appearance and quality.

Presence of seams and odor

Now on the market there is a large selection of film sheets of large width. Also, in high-quality welded surfaces, such a defect as a seam is barely noticeable. If a seamless surface is a must for you, use fabric ceilings, but their price is slightly higher. As you can see, these conditional problems are easily solved. In this case, the disadvantages depend only on the correct choice of the type of ceiling and the specific characteristics of the room.

When installing a high-quality ceiling, a specific chemical smell may be present for several days. If it does not disappear, you have purchased a low quality fake. You should not work with unverified companies whose prices for supposedly branded ceilings are significantly lower than the market price.

Collapse, separation and melting of a stretch ceiling

These problems are not obvious disadvantages of suspended ceilings. It’s just that mistakes were made when installing them due to inexperience or lack of qualifications. Collapse of the ceiling is typical for film canvases; seamless fabric surfaces are not subject to it. To prevent this from happening, you need to equalize the pressure in the room and under the ceiling. The need for pressure equalization is regulated by installation technology.

Melting of PVC film occurs when the height of the structure, power and lighting angle of the lamps are selected without preliminary calculation. All these parameters are determined by technological requirements. The choice of lamps and their placement should be trusted to specialized specialists. In this case, no problems simply will arise. The list of additional services provided by Potolkoff specialists, their cost is indicated on the page

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Where to buy suspended ceilings?

Once you have assessed all the pros and cons of PVC film and fabric coatings and made a choice in their favor, proceed to analyze proposals from contractor companies. We recommend choosing a full-cycle company that sells, installs, and dismantles tension coverings. You can turn to them with any problem and solve it in a short time, and also entrust the development of a unique design solution for your apartment, country house or office.

If you want to buy high-quality and stylish ceilings, use the services of our company by filling out an application on the website or by phone.

Repair of suspended ceilings

Like any other types of finishing surfaces, stretch ceilings can be damaged. They can be repaired, but not in all cases. Depending on whether your surfaces are film or fabric, the method of their installation, as well as the nature and size of the damage and its location from the wall, specialists will suggest a way to eliminate the defect.

A small hole in the fabric ceiling can be carefully sewn or sealed. More significant damage can be eliminated with the help of an application, installation of an additional lighting device, or a false grille. For the film, it is critical that the damage is located more than 15 cm from the wall. Otherwise, it is dismantled from the profile on the side of the defect, the damaged area is cut off, and then the material is re-stretched and tucked into the profile.

Even if the canvas is significantly damaged and the entire ceiling has to be replaced, in most cases it is possible to use the old profiles; they do not need to be repaired. Consequently, the price of the restored surface will be lower than the original structure.

has no doubt - both in terms of practicality and aesthetics, the best finishing material is stretch ceilings.

Suspended ceiling - advantages

As for the positive aspects, they clearly prevail over the disadvantages:

1. Any defects inherent in the base will be reliably hidden by the suspended ceiling. This is a good solution in the case of an old design. Cracks in plaster are a common occurrence and there is no need to leave them.
2. The variety of materials used in production, the range of prices, and artistic design options facilitate the choice in accordance with your tastes and wallet sizes. If the family budget is extremely limited, you can even cover the base of the ceiling with polystyrene.
3. Homeowners are usually guided by their whims when designing a ceiling, choosing a shape, color or type for it. The material is metal or glass, the surface is matte or shiny, a volumetric effect is applied. A person endowed with design abilities has a huge field of activity at his disposal.
4. Installation is relatively quick. Depending on the complexity, this takes from one to several days. Dismantling will also not take much time.
5. A suspended ceiling will always look elegant; you don’t need to take special care of it or make any special efforts. There are ceilings on sale whose coating has a dust-repellent effect.
6. The space between the base and the suspended ceiling is sufficient to accommodate electrical wiring and other types of communications.
7. There are no difficulties regarding the installation of any lighting fixtures. This could be a spotlight, LED lighting, or a regular chandelier. Lighting will add even more splendor to the ceiling.
8. Suspended ceilings are durable. They serve thrifty owners for years, most often even longer than stated in the instructions.
9. Most suspended ceilings retain heat well, do not allow sound to pass through, and can withstand temperature changes.

Everyone who is tired of straight lines and classic design wants to install a suspended ceiling.