Do-it-yourself stretch ceiling: installation rules and features. How to make a stretch ceiling with your own hands - step-by-step guide Installing a finished stretch ceiling

The first thing you need to understand is that you cannot do without preparatory work. 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 are sure that the room is ready, make a list and go to 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 fastener 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 cylinder).

Please note: 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.

Please note: The inner corner should have one undercut, and the outer corner - 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 of 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 on 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 a standard way, then you can resort to a trick that will help press him 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 apply the adhesive 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;
place a decorative insert around the perimeter of the room (we are not talking about the ceiling plinth, but about masking tape, which allows you to hide the joints at 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.

To do 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 can be of different diameters. Their choice depends on what type of chandelier or lamp you want to hang.

All that remains is decorative insert along 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 their installation technology.

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 attached to special plastic profiles - “clothespins” or “clips”. 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 a hair dryer on hand. 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 fastening 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 situation.
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.

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. 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 is used, 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 stretch 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 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.
At the last stage, the installation gaps that remain at the junction of the walls and the stretch 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.

Stretch ceiling It is recommended to install at the last stage of repair, when all finishing and construction work have 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 for 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 electrical systems 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 a harpoon mounting system.

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 ceilings is achieved by the 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 communications. Also, the wall profile makes it easy to set the horizontal level, even with strong differences in the roughing flow.

In practice ceiling molding It is rarely used and is 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.

From consumables 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 connection 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, the edge for the harpoon fastening will be welded, 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 with an 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 utility lines (air ducts, pipes, etc.) are hidden behind the tension fabric, then the film is stretched 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 is cut out the right size, it should be slightly larger than the diameter of the 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.

Pay attention! 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 are pulled 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 ceilings made of PVC technology next:

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 the finishing touches and move in the 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 laser level installed on a platform stand or a special holder (a rod that is secured 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 consider the most common problems 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.
Tuck 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 an unpleasant problem arises. 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 stick a small ventilation grille so as to completely close 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 are different long term services. 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 it is more difficult to warm up a large room with its help, 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 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. If the correct installation technique is followed, the coating will last for decades. And if you have certain construction skills, the work can be done alone without the assistance of assistants.

The ceiling is not as visible as other surfaces in the room, but its design is very important when renovating. High quality and beautiful ceiling will attract attention, it can be turned into a work of art, because it is the only empty surface in the house. Stretch fabric will be an excellent solution for finishing your ceiling. How a suspended ceiling is attached and what types of suspended ceilings there are, we will look at in this article.

Features of suspended ceilings

The tension fabric is made from different materials, it is different in its texture. The main material for the canvas is PVC. This is the most common type and the cheapest.

The appearance of a stretch ceiling is different from others. The smooth, pleasant surface looks much more impressive than others. In addition, you can choose any color or pattern and make a multi-level design. There are practically no restrictions here.

A stretch ceiling in a Khrushchev building can become indispensable, as it will hide old ceiling, will give the room modern look. All wiring can be hidden under the ceiling.

You can make a stretch ceiling with your own hands. It all depends on whether you know how to work with a heat gun or not. But you can install the canvas using the “cold” method without any special skills.

The service life of a stretch ceiling is significantly higher than other types of finishing. Some ceilings last more than several decades. PVC materials have recently become viewed with suspicion. But in in this case no need to worry. The canvas is safe and can be installed in children's institutions.

Tension fabric universal remedy from flooding. It can withstand up to 10 liters of water per 1 sq.m. Those who have repeatedly encountered careless neighbors choose such ceilings. But then the water will have to be pumped out by specialists.

The main drawback is the price. Stretch ceilings do not apply to budget types finishing. And among the expensive ones they are not in last place.

The canvas is not durable. It is afraid of sharp objects and blows. They can only be used in warm rooms.

Which stretch ceilings are better?

There is no universal ceiling. It all depends on the type of room, its area, and purpose. To figure out which ceilings are right for you, you need to know what types of suspended ceilings there are.
Types of materials for suspended ceilings: PVC and woven fabrics. The differences between them are fundamental. They also differ in texture.

If you are planning to install suspended ceilings in the kitchen, then a glossy PVC sheet will fit perfectly. Fabric ceilings They do not tolerate moisture, and the matte surface is difficult to clean. The same goes for the bath.

Any type is suitable for the living room. But for the bedroom you should choose woven or matte fabric. The point is that glossy surface reflects 90% of light. Such ceilings attract attention; they will not give rest to the eyes and head. Choose calm colors.

For children, the main selection criterion is safety. PVC fabric contains phenol, it is safe at normal temperatures, but if the fabric is overheated, the phenol reacts and begins to be released. If this bothers you, then choose woven fabric, it is absolutely safe and environmentally friendly. In its production, only natural materials are used. But it’s still very easy to fake; when buying, pay attention to the smell. The fabric does not smell of anything. That is, there should not be any pungent odors, but it cannot emit a pleasant aroma either. If there is one, then most likely the manufacturer tried to mask other unpleasant odors in this way.

When choosing a finish, you need to base your choice on the size of your room. The woven fabric does not have a special color spectrum; nevertheless, it is designed for applying a pattern. Therefore, it must be installed in spacious rooms. On the contrary, glossy and satin ceilings are suitable for small rooms. Their shine will visually expand the room. The matte canvas will fit perfectly into the recreation area: it does not shine, and is not overloaded with patterns and details.

Required tools and materials

Depending on the material you choose, you may need different tools.

Setting up a profile

The device of suspended ceilings allows you to hide the ceiling completely, but this does not mean that it is not required preliminary preparation surfaces. First, remove all loose old coating. It will fall onto the canvas, which can lead to its deformation. Old whitewash and wallpaper can be removed using a warm soapy solution and a spatula. But the paint will need to be removed with a special solvent. Fill all cracks and depressions. Treat the surface with a primer. Subsequently, it will save your ceilings from the formation of mold and mildew. They are not harmful to the canvas itself, but it does not breathe, which means that moisture can collect on the ceilings, which will lead to the formation of mold and mildew.

Before installation, markings must be applied. Measure all corners with a tape measure from floor to ceiling. The horizontal line is drawn from the lowest angle. Make a mark in it, retreating the distance required for the canvas. Having remembered this distance, measure the same length from the floor in the remaining corners and make marks. You can connect them using a level, ruler or rope. If you have a laser level, then simply place it level and, according to the required parameters, draw lines along the location of the lasers.

The baguette is attached along the marked lines from the corner. First make holes in the profile, and then mark their location on the wall by placing the profile against the wall. Drill holes and hammer dowels into them. Then screw the baguette to the wall using self-tapping screws. Then attach the remaining parts of the baguette in the same way. Baguettes are joined in the corners. Then seal the profile joints masking tape. It is important that the joints converge, there should not be deviations even by a millimeter. Check the work with a level and do not deviate from the marking line.

Technology for installing suspended ceilings

How are suspended ceilings made in a room? Types of fastening suspended ceilings differ in their technology.

Bead method

The simplest and cheap way. The canvas is secured with glazing beads to the baguette. But this method does not imply re-installation of the canvas - it is deformed. Not suitable for creating multi-level structures.

Clip method

Used for woven fabric. Works like a clothespin. It just fixes the canvas. In this way, multi-level structures can be created, but reuse of the canvas is not possible.

Harpoon system

The most difficult method of fastening. Suitable only for PVC sheets. Requires the most careful measurements. The canvas is secured at the corners with clamps and heated by a gun. Next, it is attached to the profile using a spatula at the corners. And it is secured with a spatula along the entire perimeter of the profile. Most best method, but because of this it costs more.

Today, PVC film, due to its variety of colors, beautiful appearance, and the ability to be installed in almost any room, has gained immense popularity as a material for finishing ceilings. In this article we will touch on the pros and cons of such finishing, and we will look at how to install a suspended ceiling with your own hands.

Types of suspended ceilings

The material for PVC suspended ceilings is a heavy-duty polyvinyl chloride film, sewn together by welding. Due to its small thickness and strength, the PVC sheet can be stretched onto a frame fixed to the ceiling. PVC ceilings are used in interior design of private houses, apartments, offices, shopping centers and other premises.

Stretch PVC ceilings can be divided into several types:

translucent ceiling that looks like frosted glass;
glossy ceiling with mirror reflection, making the room visually larger;

Glossy ceiling.

matte or classic ceiling, which has neither shine nor gloss;
mother-of-pearl ceiling;
satin - smooth ceiling without texture;

Satin ceiling with a slight light reflection effect.

textured ceiling with a printed pattern;
ceiling with a “metallic” effect, as well as the most popular one - “starry sky”;

translucent ceiling that allows light and pattern to pass through. Most often used in large design projects.

Advantages of PVC ceilings

The benefits include:

various colors;
width from 1.2 to 3.2 m, which allows you to make almost seamless ceilings;
affordable prices compared to fabric stretch ceilings;
safety;
microcracks do not form on the surface;
resistant to deformation and destruction by chemicals;
provide an absolutely flat and moisture-resistant surface;
speed and ease of installation;
does not require subsequent painting;
due to its small thickness and weight, PVC film does not put pressure on the walls;
installation of the structure does not require removal old whitewash or putty, which saves time and money;
dust does not settle on the surface of the polyvinyl chloride film;
aesthetic appeal;
durability. The minimum service life is 15 years.

Disadvantages of ceilings

Despite the impressive list of advantages, PVC stretch ceilings still have some disadvantages:

installation of a suspended ceiling requires a heat gun;
at temperatures below 5°C, the polyvinyl chloride film loses its elasticity and begins to crack;
The roll width is limited to 3.2 m, so large rooms PVC ceilings are made with seams;
the possibility of damaging the ceiling with sharp objects.

Required Tools

To install a PVC ceiling you will need the following tools:

water or laser level. Water is preferable, as it greatly simplifies the marking of a long profile;
crocodiles - universal clamps for fabric;
painting upholstery thread;
hammer;
drill;
thermal rings for suspended ceilings;
heat gun (some companies offer for rent);
special spatula;
roulette;
grinder or hacksaw cutting metal;
pencil for measurements;
stationery knife;
sandpaper or file.

Installation technology for suspended PVC ceilings

Installation of PVC ceilings can be divided into several stages, which we will discuss below.

Taking measurements

Installation of PVC ceilings requires the most accurate measurements of the room. To apply dimensions, take a blank sheet of paper and measure the perimeter of your ceiling with an accuracy of 0.5 cm. Next, take measurements of the diagonals of the ceiling surface: from each corner of the room, use a tape measure to measure the distance to the other corners, then put the dimensions and locations on the drawing window openings, doors, as well as all communications. This will help you choose good placement soldering seams.

Installation of the fastening profile

PVC stretch ceiling technology involves attaching PVC film to a baguette harpoon type, which can be either plastic or aluminum. You choose the number of profiles based on the perimeter of your room, but it should be noted: it must be taken with a margin of 15 cm, since when trimming its length can be significantly reduced. The standard profile length is 2m. Before attaching it, level it. If you have a low ceiling, you can mount the profiles end to end, but if the height of the lamp exceeds the height of the profile, retreat this distance from the ceiling.

A PVC ceiling edging is inserted between the canvas and the wall of the room - a plug equal to the perimeter of your room, which, as in the case of a baguette, must be taken with a margin of 10-15 cm. Thermal rings are selected according to the number of lamps, which are glued to the film using special glue. It is preferable to use luminaires for suspended ceilings with an external light bulb.

The profile is installed using 6x30 mm dowels in increments of about 30-40 cm. When installing spotlights, U-shaped aluminum pendants are used, and for chandeliers, thick plywood or timber is used.

Horizontal marking

For horizontal marking of the plane, a water level is often used. If you don't have one, you can take a laser one. The necessary marks are made with a pencil along the walls of the room, and then using a drill, self-tapping screws and dowels, the baguette is attached along the marked line at a distance of 7-15 cm. Do not connect in the corners. Like joining skirting boards, joining profiles is carried out with cutting at an angle of 45°.

If you plan to hang one chandelier in the center of the room, you need to install an embedded part on the ceiling.

To do this, hangers are attached using dowels, and mounted to them with self-tapping screws. plywood blank. In the center of the square blank, you need to make a small hole through which the wire for lighting will be output.

Fastening the blade

After this, using hanging clips, starting from the corner indicated on the canvas, fasten the PVC film, then in the opposite corner.

Using a heat gun (you can also use a hair dryer), the room is heated to 60-70° in a circular motion, which makes the film elastic. Subsequently, the heated fabric can be easily stretched onto the frame of the PVC ceiling. Heating with a heat gun is carried out until the stretching of the PVC film is completed. Using a special spatula, place the welded harpoon - a special profile - inside the baguette until it clicks. According to established standards, first the corners are tucked evenly, then the middle. The film stretches under the influence of temperature, and the harpoon system securely holds it on the structure. The remaining part of the film can be cut off. Small folds or stripes can be straightened by heating the ceiling with a hair dryer.

Installation of lighting fixtures

Installation of a chandelier on a suspended ceiling is carried out after the room, and with it the canvas, has cooled to the original temperature. Next, in the place of the embedded part, which can be easily felt by hand, plastic thermal rings are glued. After waiting some time for the glue to dry, a small hole is cut inside the thermal ring through which the chandelier is attached with self-tapping screws.

The light source can be installed behind a suspended ceiling.

In this case, the ceiling is illuminated from the inside along the surface, and the light bulbs must be installed in such a way that they do not come into contact with the film.

After installing the chandelier, the PVC sheet is wiped clean from dust and dirt.

Correct installation is the key to excellent quality work! Installation of suspended ceilings requires patience, composure, and, if you want, diligence. It is very easy, in a hurry, to irrevocably damage the stretch fabric, which requires special, careful handling. But, having installed such a ceiling, you will enjoy its beauty for many years, together with your family, friends, colleagues.

Stretch ceilings are one of the most successful types of finishing for basic ceilings, which, as a rule, are not an example of evenness, aesthetics and technical beauty. But, as practice shows, this problem can and should be corrected by installing suspended ceilings, for example.

Many companies produce ready-made structures for various ceilings.

It happens that it is quite problematic, for example, to arrange 2-level ceilings, both with and without lighting.

In order not to “reinvent the wheel,” it is better and easier to purchase a ready-made frame, which many companies are able to produce in 24 hours. Frames are produced according to the latest technologies made of durable aluminum alloys.

Advantages:

The finished modules are delivered to the site, and then the installation lasts only a few hours, and we are talking about the installation of a two-level ceiling;
A high-quality frame is the key to long-term operation of the coating itself and the impeccable appearance of the ceiling covering;
Standard products are produced quickly, to customer sizes, due to automated production;
Assembly is noticeably faster;
The absence of plastic, timber and plywood instills in the customer some optimism and respect for the manufacturer. The “rating” of one’s own ceiling in the eyes of the consumer skyrockets, and not without reason.
The most daring design solutions are easily achievable.

Various frame shapes, with various types transitions open up new opportunities, this is especially valuable for two-level ceilings, where there is “piecemeal” and very labor-intensive work to be done.

Installing a stretch ceiling with your own hands: everything is doable

Having made such a decision, especially since you have never done this before, you decided on some kind of labor feat. However, there is no feat in this, since the whole matter is solved quite simply. But determination alone is not enough.

The canvases are divided into two types.

Types of paintings:

Polyvinyl chloride or PVC - simply vinyl film. It is mounted using the following methods: harpoon, glazing bead or wedge.
Fabric. They are a special fabric impregnated with polystyrene.

Looking ahead a little, it is worth noting that fabric canvas is easier to install, since it is not as easily damaged as PVC fabric. In addition, the fabric sheet, as already mentioned, is mounted without the use of a heat gun, that is, in a cold way.

Stretch ceilings: installation methods are given below

There are several ways to install suspended ceilings.

The method that is most suitable for the consumer is used.

After watching a lesson on this topic, in the form of a video, and also, having studied the secrets and the structure of the stretch ceiling itself, the features and nuances of this work, in order to eliminate all kinds of mistakes, you can safely take on self-installation. It would be a good idea to study the reviews of those who have done this work themselves. Don't waste your time on this!

Available methods:

Beading system. The principle is simple. The bead is inserted into metal profile. The glazing bead holds the canvas quite firmly. Budget method. Most main drawback of this installation method is that frequent dismantling of such a system is simply contraindicated, which is not always good, especially if you are often flooded by neighbors from above.
Wedge system. It has some similarities with the previous one, only instead of a bead, a wedge is used - it is also inserted into the profile, and thus the canvas is held in place. This method is not used very often, and is mainly used in damp areas. The development is imported, and quite expensive, but undoubtedly of high quality.
"Clothespin." They are used only for the installation of suspended ceilings where seamless fabric is used. There are no glazing beads or wedges - everything is designed on the principle of a self-clamping lock. Such a system is also not cheap, therefore, the design is also not often applicable. This technology was conceived and developed so that you could install the ceiling with your own hands, however, this idea simply did not take root.
Harpoon system. IN this method, instead of a glazing bead, a harpoon edging is used, which is welded to the ceiling panel. There are different types of harpoon systems, but basically only one of all available is applicable. The harpoon system is not a simple one, however, it does not require super-qualified performers. However, everything is based on very accurate measurements.

So, after all, the most popular methods of installing suspended ceilings are the glazing bead system and the harpoon system.

The procedure for installing suspended ceilings: step by step

The procedure for installing suspended ceilings is a process that does not tolerate haste and fuss. All work, from start to finish, must be done thoughtfully and slowly.

The speed of work, and, of course, a good result in the end depends on how well all the installation rules are followed, as well as whether the sequence is followed.

Correct installation has a clear sequence of all stages that make up the described installation work.

Stages:

Marking. It all starts with marking the walls, and it starts from the corners. Markings should be made based on the fact that there should be fastening lamps or chandeliers under the suspended ceiling. The base angle is the lowest angle in the room. After the corners are marked, all that remains is to connect them with a straight line, and this is where the laser level comes to the rescue. The baguette will be attached along the resulting line.
Profile fastening. The profile is attached to the walls using dowels or self-tapping screws, the distance between which should not exceed 8 cm. Correct installation profile is 50% of the work, and the key to successful, subsequently, stretching of the canvas.
Installation of canvas. The canvas is mounted only if the temperature in the room has reached +40°C. The conditions cannot be called comfortable for an installer, but, nevertheless, this condition is stated in a document such as an instruction.

Thus, you see that there is nothing impossible here; everything given above is quite within the capabilities of even the average apartment owner.

The installation process of suspended ceilings: step by step

Remove the canvas from the packaging with clean hands. It is laid out on the floor, which must also be clean, where there is no debris, dust and small metal parts, say, dowels.

These so-called “little things” can ruin the canvas even before installation!

The process of installing the canvas is quite a responsible undertaking, therefore, it is very important to follow the strict order of each step in the installation.

Step by step:

The canvas is attached starting from the corners (diagonally!), from the base corner, and next corner, as already mentioned, will be the opposite, etc. Should gas gun warm up the corners. To better understand the whole process, you need to use the instructions included with the material.
The corners are fastened using so-called “crocodiles” - special clamps with a gasket that protects the canvas from possible damage.
Carrying out further heating of the film, you need to remove the “crocodile” from the first corner, and, using a spatula, which is inserted into the groove of the edging of the canvas, we tuck the canvas into the baguette. Thus moving to the next section, we hold the previous section with our hand, preventing the involuntary return of the film from its seat.
The other corners are attached in the same way. Since all the difficulties lie closer to the end of the work, therefore, you would need an assistant, perhaps more than one.
After this, we attach the film to the walls using a straight spatula. Places where there are seams are secured with locks, the number of which varies from 2 to 3. You can understand the process more accurately by studying photo and video materials.

In addition, it is better to study the step-by-step instructions using in parallel special drawings that complement it well.

Installation instructions for suspended ceilings: read carefully

Correct, high-quality installation system is unlikely without studying the appropriate instructions.

In order to prevent defects in work, despite the fact that the deadlines for completing repairs are running out, it is necessary to study the characteristics tension fabric, components. In addition, you should not neglect safety precautions at all.

Installation of suspended ceilings involves some difficulties, which are present due to the specificity of the ceiling material, the accuracy of measurements, and also due to the use of a gas gun.

Instructions:

During all the work, it is necessary to ensure that all kinds of wrinkles and folds do not appear on the canvas. A mistake noticed in time is not so terrible, and, as a rule, it is completely correctable. If it does happen that you notice the defects with some delay, then you can and should try to eliminate them using a heat gun, warm up the area, and then lightly smooth it with your hand.
At the final stage of installation, when the installation of the lamps remains (they are installed on special racks, which are not at all difficult to detect under the canvas), carefully make holes in the places where they are needed.
Installing the ceiling cap is the last step in the work. The plug is a masking tape of the most various colors and shades. It is installed in the gap between the walls and the ceiling, which was formed due to the thickness of the profile. Easy to install with just your fingers.

Instead of a plug, a wide baguette is often used.

Material on how to choose a profile for suspended ceilings will also be useful:

When choosing a fabric ceiling, installation is practically no different from installation from PVC fabric, with the difference that there is no need to use a heat gun, nor is there any need to solder the sheets.

Installation of suspended ceiling structures (video)

In conclusion, it is worth summing up everything that has been said. Installation of ceilings, of course, can be done by yourself, since the scheme is simple, which is confirmed by numerous reviews of people who have already done this on their own, without the help of craftsmen. And yet, installing a stretch ceiling of any design requires special care and diligence in order not to damage the film of the canvas. As already mentioned, before this you need to review the relevant materials in order to avoid all kinds of errors. And, of course, it is worth remembering about technology fire safety when working with a heat gun! Various things happened: a fire, and even an explosion. However, this should not happen if all safety measures are taken and taken into account. And one more thing: if you invite a team, check with them the OKVED codes that are given to them when registering an emergency, in order to know whether they have the right to engage in this activity. Good luck with the renovation!