Quality film for suspended ceilings: the subtleties of production

12.12.2016 house 7,713 Views

A large number of people are thinking about purchasing and installing suspended ceilings. Due to the high operational properties and features, suspended ceilings are installed in different rooms: bathrooms, kitchens, bedrooms, restaurants, entertainment complexes and in other institutions.

Consumers do not even know the features offered by the market material, hence the difficulty in determining the choice of product. For the manufacture of suspended ceilings, several types of material can be used. Depending on the type, the technical characteristics of the tension web will depend.

In this description, technical characteristics, features, chemical properties will be provided and we will discuss applications, working conditions, operation and maintenance for each type of material. The main difference is the material of manufacture. You can divide the variety of ceilings into two types. Each of the presented options has a special design. This makes it possible to perform installation work by ourselves.

Features and types of stretch ceilings PVC

PVC sheets are recognized as the most versatile for ceiling structures. The manufacture of paintings is made of polyvinyl chloride film. The main criterion for installation is the performance of work by heating. Often heat guns or hair dryers are used for heating.

When exposed to heat, the material forms a perfect, even surface. A design is being prepared for fasteners around the perimeter of the room. The edges of the film must be fixed with a profile. The mounting gap from the ceiling plane to the ceiling is about 250-300 mm. If necessary - use insulation or noise absorbing materials.

Benefits of Film Ceilings

They are divided into glossy and matte canvases. The option with frosted ceilings is cheaper, but PVC fabrics have the following advantages:

with a qualified installation you get a smooth and even surface,
This is a budget solution. The price is an order of magnitude lower than other types,
the pluses include the speed of installation work, it takes no more than one day,
a variety of colors is an important feature; for more demanding customers, drawings, paintings, photographs can be applied to the surface.

Having considered a number of advantages it is impossible not to note the practical side:

It can be said that the presence of garbage will be insignificant in the performance of work.
This material does not absorb fat. It does not smell. Well susceptible to burning, mold. The canvases are easy to care for. The film is washed perfectly even with a normal rag and household cleaner. The film ceiling is antistatic, so dirt and dust do not settle on it.
Sound insulation indicators in the room increase.
This material is moisture resistant, does not deform when exposed to direct water or condensate, so it is installed in rooms with high humidity.
Such a ceiling is well applicable in new buildings. Perfectly closes the unevenness of the ceiling and walls, so you save on plastering and finishing work.
PVC ceiling is very flexible in dismantling and replacing components with further installation.

Disadvantages of PVC ceilings

Considering all the advantages of this ceiling, we can not say about the shortcomings. This will provide an opportunity to objectively approach the choice of coverage. Perhaps you should consider other materials.

The main disadvantages:

One of the distinguishing features is that such a ceiling is very vulnerable. It is easy to damage and restoration will not give the desired effect. The repair locations will be visible
One of the disadvantages is the visible seam. In the manufacture of the web, the film is welded together. There is no escape from this seam. In this case, the cutting of the film must be done with pre-designed seams. So it is not noticeable and if you do not look closely, it is difficult to see. This is most pronounced with vinyl materials, but for most rooms a canvas width of 4.5 meters is enough,
Like any other polyethylene during installation and heating emits extraneous odors. After a few days, the smell disappears. Even material from foreign manufacturers will smell
One of the features during installation is that the temperature can reach 70 degrees, so it is recommended to remove things that could be damaged. Avoid flammable substances in the room,
One of the significant drawbacks is that the ceiling can be damaged at temperatures below 0 C. In this regard, it is not recommended to use the design on open terraces, country houses. Under these conditions, consider the ceiling, which is made of fabric. By its properties, the fabric is not susceptible to large temperature differences,
With this design, mounting alone is possible, but very difficult. It is very difficult to heat alone. It also requires special equipment.

Technical characteristics and types of paintings

Here are the main parameters of a film with PVC material:

width up to 4.5 meters,
film thickness 1.3 mm, 0.1 mm error possible
options: gloss, mat, satin,
for fire safety, the material has the category NG, which does not support combustion,
resistance to low temperatures to 0 C.

Next, let's make a comparison of the film material with the fabric. In comparison, it will be clear what are the advantages of a particular product.

The benefits of fabric ceilings

This design differs from the film material in several features, which are described below:

The first is the size. Dimensions reach 5 meters in length and a width of 3.5 meters. With such an area there are no seams,
Much stronger than film ceilings. Not susceptible to significant mechanical damage,
They do not emit odors and harmful substances, so it is an excellent material from the ecology side. Due to its structure, the material breathes well,
At low temperatures it is not brittle and is well mounted in an unheated room,
It does not collect condensate, it is not resistant to moisture. When water enters the ceiling, it can hold it well, but water partially penetrates through the pores of the fabric,
Cloths are very easy to install. Installation does not take much time. No heating is required, respectively, there is no need for equipment to install the structure. This makes the job easier. Mounting is carried out using a baguette, which is installed around the perimeter of the room,
The fabric behaves well in use. Easy to care. You can get rid of all kinds of pollution yourself. No special chemistry required.

Cons of fabric ceilings

When choosing a fabric option, there are also negative sides. Perhaps these parameters will not suit the client when choosing a design and material:

The fabric is strong enough. There is no great elasticity. If water gets in, the fabric ceiling will not be able to retain a large amount of moisture. There are several mounting features. The fabric attaches worse to the film ceiling. Fastening is performed by snapping the fabric behind a profile baguette. When the pressure just breaks out, and there is no way to fix it back. In such cases, it will be necessary to replace the canvas,
The fabric ceiling provides for the presence of micropores. They let water through, leave traces of pollution. It’s very difficult to wash,
By variety, they are only in matte finish,
No matter how strong the fabric ceiling is, it can be damaged, after which it is necessary to replace 100% of the ceiling. The fabric does not provide for repair,
When compared with the film. A small variety of colors, textures,
The cost is significantly higher when compared with film models,
With such roughness, grease and soot are very difficult to remove. It is also difficult to clean, hence the dubious practicality of the material. For high rooms it is not recommended to use this design,
The production of the canvas provides for a length of 5 m. If the room is larger, then you have to do a joint. It is very noticeable and is done through a baguette,
The harpoon fastener system is not applicable during installation. The harpoon is simply impossible to stick. Since this is the best fastener that allows you to speed up installation.

Fabric Specifications

Now you can consider the main parameters of a stretch ceiling made of fabric and make a choice:

The width of the strip is limited to 1 to 5.1 meters,
Film thickness is made 0.25mm. Error tolerance 0.1mm,
The density of the fabric is 0.16-0.32 t / m2,
The material is water permeable,
The calculated sound absorption coefficient is 0.4 at a frequency of 1000 Hz,
As with the film, the fabric is antistatic, which prevents the accumulation of volatile, finely dispersed substances,
The choice is only between matte or transparent products,
For fire safety, the material has the category NG, which does not support combustion,
It is steady against temperature difference and keeps the properties from -50 to +80 hail,
Not susceptible to mold and mildew. It does not emit toxins and is an environmentally friendly material,
The manufacturer provides a guarantee of 10-12 years, with a service life of up to 20 years:
No need for heating during installation work,
The distance to the ceiling is recommended 90 mm,
It is applied in all rooms.

I would also like to note the possibility of installing multi-level ceilings. Mounting can be straight and curved. Such designs will allow the installation of a ceiling in a design style.

The above specifications can help in choosing the ceiling material and in the choice of design. On the Internet there are many photos and video materials, as well as explanations of the work, both alone and in the presence of a partner.

Film stretch ceilings: features and variety of material

Beauty, convenience, hygiene, safety are the main features that make stretch ceilings so fashionable. The very idea of a stretched coating was used for a long time, the transformations touched only the base material.

The system design consists of two components:

Profile
Canvases that form the surface of the ceiling.

If the frame has the same type of device and is made of metal or plastic, then the canvas is distinguished by a variety of options. The base can be made of film or fabric material.

Variations of films:

Gloss or varnish surface,
Matte base
Metallic film
Satin film,
Textured surface.

Each type of film used in tension systems decorates the ceiling in its own way and has its own advantages. For example, thanks to the varnish film, you can use the reflection effect in the interior, and the white matte film imitates the ceiling whitewash, but it has more advantages.

Optimum width and film thickness for stretch ceilings

In addition to decorative and external parameters, PVC films have a number of characteristics that determine the quality of the material.

Technical properties:

100% waterproof
The film can withstand high temperatures up to +50 degrees, but not lower than +5 degrees,
Very light material weight (up to 250g per square meter)
High resistance to burnout (according to an estimated 10-point scale, the film stability coefficient is above 6).

The width of the film is determined by the width of the machine. The wider the machine, the more expensive the equipment and the more difficult the production. So the width of the film for the ceiling is in the range from 1.3 to 5.1 meters.

Not all manufacturers produce a wide film, most often the average size is about 2 meters, and since the width of the rooms is larger, the sheets have to be soldered, forming a seam.

Standard film is made with a thickness of 0.13 mm or more. The thicker the material, the stronger it is, however, even the thinnest film can withstand pressure up to 100 kg per square meter or everyday moment - a cork from champagne. Also, the thickness of the film affects the aesthetic appearance of the seam. The thinner the film, the less visible the welded seams.

Stretch ceiling film manufacturers: major brands

The production of polyvinyl chloride material for ceiling coverings is a popular and widespread industry that is developing in Europe and in the Asian direction. Therefore, only the name of the country of producer will not give anything to the consumer, it is necessary to clarify the brand.

Most popular film-making plants:

Alcor Draca (France),
Malpensa (Italy),
Pongs (Germany),
Renolit (Germany),
Botai (China),
MSD (China),
Heilide (China),
Longway (China),
Yuli (China),
Polyplast (Belgian brand).

The manufacturer of the brand Alcor Draca is located in the Netherlands, North Holland, and its head office is in France, so French production, Dutch or Dutch can be attributed to the film. The film of this brand meets all quality standards and is certified in accordance with ISO. The plant produces matte film with a maximum width of 2 meters, and glossy up to 1.65 meters. Therefore, Alcor Draka branded film is used in standard rooms only with a seam.

Until 2008, the Italian Malpensa factory worked in the automotive industry, and after reconstruction and re-equipment began to produce high-quality film. However, the film is available up to 2 meters wide.

The German film produced at the PONGS factory is appreciated for its high quality and environmental friendliness. The manufacturer offers products up to 3.25 m wide, which significantly increases the demand for film.

Pongs has never demonstrated its 3.25-wide machines; only information for standard machines up to 2 meters is publicly available.

Close attention is paid to Chinese manufacturers, who initially produced films of dubious quality. However, over the past decade there has been a significant development of this industry, and worthy film manufacturers have appeared on the market.

Two main differences between the Chinese film from the European:

Price (Chinese-made film is much cheaper than other brands),
Film width (Chinese film wider).

The main leaders of the Chinese market that produce high-quality film are MSD, Heilide, Longway, Yuli.

The Chinese Heilide plant has been operating since 2001. It produces products up to 5 meters wide. In order to save money and to reduce prices, the film is thinned to 0.15 mm, and cheaper plasticizer is used as raw material. But in general, the quality of the film meets the standards, which is confirmed by certificates.

MSD film: decent quality and explainably high demand

The company has been operating since 2002. Since 2011, the plant was the first to produce 5.1 m wide film, which caused a great stir in Moscow at the 2012 exhibition. MSD products are most often faked or appropriated to themselves under a different brand.

Qualitative characteristics of the film:

Antibacterial and antifungal qualities,
Water resistant
Wear resistance
The absence of heavy metals such as mercury and lead
The lack of chalk, which makes the film more durable,
The presence of components B1 and B2, which do not support the burning of the film,
The absence of phosphorus, benzene and potassium,
The film is produced in an optimal thickness of 0.18mm,
The use of environmentally friendly and safe plasticizer dioctyl terephthalate.

The company does not hide the fact that it produces films for other brands, for example, 3.25 m film for the German company Pongs.

In addition to qualitative characteristics, the MSD film has a wide selection of design solutions: a color palette of more than 2000 copies and a wide range of different textures.

Types of film for suspended ceilings (video)

The production of polyvinyl chloride material for ceiling coating continues to develop. Already today they are working on a cold stretch film, the stretching and installation of which does not require heating. However, in parallel with the development of the industry, the number of low-quality products and fakes is growing. Therefore, before the final choice of the manufacturer of tension systems, it is worth making sure of the authenticity of the film used, having studied its compliance with all the specified standards and certificates.

Benefits of PVC Film

Cloths made of polyvinyl chloride have a large number of advantages.

Regardless of the length of the period of operation, such a ceiling will not lose its original shape and retain its original appearance.
The material in question is environmentally friendly and hypoallergenic. Therefore, such ceilings can be installed in children's rooms and medical facilities.

It is a waterproof material that can hold a large amount of water. Thus, you can protect the room from flooding and at the same time save the ceiling, since when it is partially dismantled, you can drain the accumulated water and return the canvas to its place. The view will not change in any way.
PVC does not absorb odors and does not need special care. You can put the ceiling in order by wiping it with a damp cloth.
If we compare the stretch ceiling of PVC film and a fabric canvas, then the first option costs relatively less.
Through the use of PVC sheets, you can create all kinds of multi-level designs.
With the help of the existing variety of such canvases, various design ideas can be translated into reality.

You can choose monophonic film or use the photo printing method. The latter option allows you to create structures with the effect of volume, simulate the structure of natural materials and much more.

Disadvantages of PVC Cloths

The material in question has several drawbacks.

The ceiling is able to "breathe", which can adversely affect the water resistance of the material.
Negative temperatures are poorly tolerated by polyvinyl chloride, so in the cold its fragility increases. If you do not touch the coating, then it is able to withstand temperatures up to -30 degrees.
Touching with a sharp object can easily damage the film.
Such a cloth can be made only 3 meters thick, which is associated with the features of the machine for production. If the width of the room exceeds this indicator, then building is required, or you can split the area into several sections.
To date, the construction market is focused on many unscrupulous manufacturers of PVC cloths.
For installation, a heat gun is required to be able to stretch and stretch the canvas on the fasteners.

Varieties

PVC to create suspended ceilings may vary in texture.

Glossy model. It is characterized by the presence of a mirror surface, with the help of which a reflective effect is created. It allows you to visually increase the room and improve the lighting in it.

Matte film. With its help, it creates the feeling that the surface of the ceiling is perfectly painted.

Satin fabric. Visually looks like fabric. Using this texture creates a certain overflow of light and reflections.
With the addition of metallic. Such a ceiling is visually similar to glossy, but it is distinguished by a metallic luster.
Translucent film. It is capable of transmitting up to 50% of the light. If the lighting in the room is installed correctly, it will be possible to create a frosted glass effect on the ceiling surface.

Suede surface. In this case, the used film completely imitates the structure of suede, while you can purchase a similar fabric in various colors. The aesthetic possibilities of the presented material are quite wide - you can translate all sorts of design decisions into reality. PVC film allows you to uniquely design a room, and is also able to visually increase the height of the walls.

It should be noted that in addition to PVC film, you can use fabric, which also has a rich list of advantages. Its main advantages include:

the ability of the ceiling to “breathe” through the fabric, as a result of which no ventilation grille is required in the ceiling,
can be installed in an unheated room,
resistance to mechanical damage (this material cannot be damaged as easily as a PVC ceiling),
the width of the canvas is 5 meters, which is 2 meters higher than PVC (such a width is quite enough for most rooms),
the fabric can be dyed by changing the interior of the room.

Despite the good properties, disadvantages of fabric cloths are also there. They are:

are relatively expensive
unable to retain water in case of flooding from above,
cannot be used to create complex forms, because they do not differ in their ability to stretch,
if you stain the surface with grease or soot, then cleaning it is problematic,
the material absorbs odors well.

Renolit

Renolit is a German company that has been around for quite some time. The products of this manufacturer are expensive, while the width of one canvas does not exceed 1.3 meters. The high demand for these products is due to the excellent quality of the film, which was achieved through the use of modern equipment and a unique production technique.

Pongs

Pongs is also a company that was founded in Germany. It produces not only PVC fabrics, but also fabric models. The company has existed for more than a hundred years, while the prices of its products are not overstated, but are kept at an optimal level. The company provides high-quality stretch ceilings at various prices, therefore You can definitely find a canvas that fits into your budget. The width of one roll is 3.25 meters.

CTN is a French organization that is one of the leaders in the construction market. A distinctive feature of the product is its high quality. Over the years of operation, this manufacturer has managed to establish itself with an excellent hand, demonstrating its reliability. PVC films are available in rolls, the width of which is within 2.4 meters.

SEF is another company that was opened in France. This is a leader in the production of stretch PVC ceilings, which produces an excellent canvas with a velvet texture. The manufacturer uses a unique manufacturing technology, so that the product is strong and durable. It should be noted that the manufacture of suspended ceilings is not the only profile of this company.

Installation

Installation of a stretch ceiling made of PVC film is carried out in several stages.

When placing an order, it is necessary to take measurements of the ceiling so that the installation is carried out correctly. It is important to note that in this situation it is best to invite the measurer, as this requires special equipment. At the same time, if you turn to companies that are engaged in the installation of a stretch ceiling, they will independently carry out all measurements completely free of charge.
This is followed by a direct order of the canvas, after which you need to wait for its arrival at the object.
It is necessary to note the places where baguettes or special fastening profiles will be placed.
It is required to prepare the canvas for installation. To do this, it must be steamed by heat drying. This will make the film more viscous and elastic.
Directly mounting, which provides for fixing the canvas on a baguette / profile in the corners. The stretch ceiling stretches diagonally, while again it must be heated by means of a heat gun. Next you need to fill the baguette around the perimeter.

It is worth noting that we presented only the basic technology, however, when it is planned to create complex multi-level structures, you first need to create a frame on which webs will be attached in the future. This process is more labor intensive and lengthy.

This material has good technical characteristics, therefore, it can withstand heavy loads.

Based on the information presented, we can conclude that stretch ceilings made of polyvinyl chloride with a side appear a great option for decorating the ceiling. They allow you to create the perfect surface that can hide existing bumps in the base ceiling and hide communications. Using this coating, you can place accents in the room, visually divide it into zones and much more. In general, this is a practical acquisition.

The main varieties of PVC films for suspended ceilings are presented in the next video.

Characteristics of PVC film for suspended ceilings

As already mentioned, polyvinyl chloride has many advantages and benefits. You should carefully consider the list of quality characteristics and advantages of PVC film:

the PVC film increases its elasticity with increasing temperature to 50 degrees Celsius, which completely eliminates the possibility of deformation, and also increases the ductility of the material. The heated film can double in size,
when the temperature is cooled, the PVC film returns to its previous size and becomes elastic again,
PVC film is waterproof, which allows you to hold a large amount of water in case of leakage of the roof or flooding from the top. The apartment, repairs and furniture will be guaranteed protected thanks to this material,
PVC material is anti-allergenic,
does not absorb odors. Read about the features of combined stretch ceilings on this page.
throughout the entire operation period it retains its original appearance, structure and color,
UV resistant, does not fade in the sun,
does not require special care, it is cleaned quite simply, with a damp cloth the dust is easily removed,
PVC film ceilings are environmentally friendly, do not emit toxic substances and do not harm people and animals,
PVC material meets all the requirements for building materials, which is confirmed by international certificates of quality, safety and ecology. That allows the use of suspended ceilings in medical and child care facilities.

Announce the entire list, or Types of PVC stretch ceilings

A stretch ceiling is a fabric fixed to a metal or plastic profile under the main ceiling. Canvas stretch ceiling is fabric or PVC (vinyl film). This article will focus on the latter.

PVC ceilings are made by welding 1–5 m wide polyvinyl chloride cloths. During installation, the cloth is heated with gas guns, softening and making the material rigid and flexible by nature, and fixed to a profile mounted under a normal ceiling. As it cools, the film stretches and transforms into a perfectly smooth surface.

By the way

The prototype of modern stretch ceilings is the fabric that draped the ceilings in their homes by wealthy residents of ancient Rome. PVC ceilings appeared in the middle of the XX century.

Stretch ceilings are glossy and matte, suture and seamless. What are their features?

Distinctive feature glossy ceilings are considered their ability to reflect objects - like a mirror. Due to this, glossy stretch ceilings are often chosen by owners of small apartments with low ceilings. What do we do when we want to visually expand the room? We decorate it with mirror surfaces. Glossy ceilings seem to “stretch” the space, creating the impression that the ceilings are higher than they actually are. Glossy ceilings are good in classic white, and in unexpected bright colors, such as azure blue. On glossy surfaces sparkles look advantageous, the effect of a sparkling surface will give the ceiling a resemblance to a bewitching heavenly distance or a pacifying sea surface. Glossy stretch ceilings made of PVC - this is a good solution for rooms in the modern or high-tech style, for living rooms, offices, bars, nightclubs and so on. The disadvantage of glossy paintings is a noticeable seam line, if the ceiling is sutured. So in advance you need to think about whether there will be a seam, if so, in which place and whether there is an opportunity to close it or make it less noticeable.
Matte PVC stretch ceilings are a classic. Nobleness of matte shades will be emphasized by any room, while such ceilings will not draw attention to themselves, but will advantageously complement the interior. Matte ceilings are suitable for large rooms with mirrors in massive frames, furniture on curved legs, elegant designer items. They are also good for bedrooms and guest rooms - those rooms where matte pastel shades are the best suited for rest, relaxation, peace. The indisputable advantage of opaque stretch ceilings is their low cost.

Stretch ceilings are sold in rolls with a width of not more than 5 m. If the width of the room does not exceed this indicator, then mount seamless the canvas. Otherwise, the fabric is welded from two or more cuts. Suture stretch ceilings are not suitable for glossy, especially dark, surfaces - the seam becomes noticeable. In other cases, if you do not know exactly where the seams lie, it is almost impossible to see them.

On a note

Stretch ceilings reduce the height of the room by 3-5 cm. If fixtures are required to be mounted in the ceiling, the canvas will drop even lower - by 5-7 cm.

Versatility

PVC stretch ceilings are suitable for installation in any room - both residential and public. They are not afraid of moisture, so they can be installed even in the bathroom. The only limitation for such ceilings is temperature. Cloths are not recommended for installation in rooms with high or low temperatures - in baths and saunas, on glazed balconies and loggias.

Appearance and opportunities for the implementation of design ideas

Let's talk in more detail about what the original can be thought of using PVC stretch fabrics. Perhaps among this list you will find an idea for yourself - the one you wanted to realize, but did not know that this was possible.

Photo printing. Today this solution is applied everywhere - in decorating furniture, clothes, cars and so on. And the ceiling is no exception. In the living room in the Rococo style, it will be appropriate to depict angels, cupids, as well as motifs of the early Renaissance period - stucco moldings and frescoes. The ceiling in the bedroom, which shows the azure sky and the crowns of palm trees, will give you the feeling that you are on the sunny shore of the Pacific Ocean. Imagine: waking up on a chilly November morning, and above your head - the radiant sky and the lush greenery of southern trees ...

Multi-level ceiling. The so-called steps on the ceiling will allow zoning the room, visually expand it, spotlights are usually placed at the junction of the levels. In order to visually raise the lower level, the canvas for him can be selected glossy. Remember that the distance between the levels should not be too large - 5-10 cm is enough.

Different colors of PVC sheets. Such a decision, again, will help divide the room into zones. So, the living room can be divided into two: a zone with a dining table and a zone with a sofa and a TV. And the nursery can be distinguished by highlighting the play area and the sleep and rest area. Of course, such ideas are best embodied in spacious rooms with high ceilings. In addition to the zoning problem, the use of several colors in the design of the ceiling solves the problem of compatibility with the walls.If you like colored ceilings, but you are afraid to go too far with brightness, then you can use the idea of a two-level multi-colored ceiling. At the same time, the lower level that runs along the walls should match the color of the walls (for example, white, beige, pinkish), and the upper level, the one in the center of the room, can be decorated in your favorite color.

Slanted stretch ceiling. From such a decision, children and adolescents may be delighted. If you live in a house, and the nursery is on the top floor, then the sloping ceiling will create the feeling that the roof of the house is sloping and the room is in the attic. Not everyone, of course, will like this option. But how happy the children will be, who will imagine that they equip their hut or an unusual tower in a fantasy castle.

Glowing ceiling. Part of the ceiling is made of translucent film, which will be illuminated from the inside. This solution will create the effect of a window on the ceiling. And in combination with photo printing - the sky above your head, the water column or an airplane flying right above you - the backlight will look even more impressive. Using the LED strip placed above the translucent film, you can draw patterns that will glow in the dark.

Starry sky. This is one of the most popular and most expensive options for decorating a stretch ceiling made of PVC. A classic option for a bedroom or a nursery, which is unlikely to soon go out of style.

Sustainability and safety

Stretch ceilings made of PVC film are environmentally friendly, do not emit harmful substances, do not cause allergies, so they can be installed in any room at home and in public places.

In addition, the material is waterproof, no condensation settles on it, so PVC stretch ceilings are installed even in pools and bathrooms. Some canvases are additionally covered with a special bactericidal film, which allows them to be used in medical facilities.

Speaking about the fire safety of PVC, we note that a quality material must be impregnated with a refractory substance and have a fire safety class not higher than KM-4. The lower the class, the safer the PVC film - less combustible, more difficult to ignite, worse supports combustion and is not capable of self-ignition, has a low smoke-forming ability and does not emit toxic substances during combustion.

Reliability and durability

As a rule, the manufacturer gives a guarantee for stretch ceilings made of PVC for 10-12 years. In fact, the service life of these structures is unlimited. Replacement of the stretch ceiling may be required only if the canvas is morally outdated and does not correspond to the new look of the apartment, or if the material was badly damaged. The keyword is strong. Mechanical stresses such as hitting the ball or cork from champagne will not harm your ceiling.

It is important!

Remember the rules for choosing lighting fixtures for suspended ceilings. If you decide to install recessed light sources, note: the power of halogen lamps should not exceed 35 watts, and incandescent lamps - 60 watts. The threshold of permissible lamp power in ceiling lights is 70 watts. If you have chosen a chandelier, the fixtures of which are directed upwards, then the distance from the lamps to the ceiling should be at least 40-50 cm. If these rules are not followed, the PVC cloth can overheat and, as a result, yellow spots and other defects will appear on it.

Performance characteristics

One of the features of PVC stretch ceilings is that many manufacturers treat the canvas with antistatic solutions. Due to this, the dust practically does not settle on the ceiling, therefore, it does not require maintenance. Once a year, during general cleaning, you can wipe the ceiling with a damp cloth without using detergents. If you still want to wash with some special product, use a liquid to clean your glasses and mirrors.

Another feature of stretch ceilings is that they eliminate acoustic effects such as echoes, but cannot provide good sound insulation. That is, the scandals of the neighbors behind the wall will not let you fall asleep at night, and their dogs barking will wake you up in the morning (does not apply to those who sleep soundly). Therefore, if you do not live in a private house, it is advisable to think about laying soundproofing material before installing the tensile structure.

Note!

If you were flooded by your neighbors, this does not mean that the stretch fabric will have to be changed. The ceiling can withstand up to 100 liters of water. Due to flooding, the material will sag. But in time, the called team of specialists will be able to drain the water through the holes for the fixtures, dry the canvas with the heat gun and return it to its original form.

Technologies for the installation of PVC stretch ceilings

The most correct decision will be the installation of a stretch ceiling at the final stage of repair. You need to invite the measurer before wallpapering. And installers - when the wallpaper is already pasted, the tile is laid, the wiring is ready.

If a stretch ceiling is installed in an already lived-in apartment, then before calling specialists, you should prepare the room: free from furniture, seal the cracks, clean the surface of the ceiling.

Directly mounting a stretch ceiling involves installing an aluminum or plastic profile (baguette), which is fixed to the walls or to the real ceiling using a dowel-self-tapping screw system. The canvas in the roll is heated with a heat gun, straightened and attached to the baguette using clip-clips. After that, the canvas is heated even more - to a temperature of 70 ° C and stretch it over the entire area of the ceiling. A decorative patch made of hard or elastic PVC is glued around the perimeter of the junction of the stretch fabric and the walls, which hides the formed gaps.

Installation of a stretch ceiling made of PVC, as a rule, takes about three hours. However, if you want to mount a large number of fixtures in the ceiling or install a multi-level design, then it will take more time.

Prices for PVC sheets and installation work

On average, installing glossy stretch ceilings costs 450–1500 rubles per m 2, depending on the manufacturer and the complexity of the work. Installation of 1 m 2 matte canvas will cost slightly lower - 380–1300 rubles. In addition, the installation of a wall profile (about 240 rubles per linear meter), pasting with masking tape (approximately 60 rubles per linear meter), corner processing (about 90 rubles per linear meter) are paid for.

As a rule, the departure of the measurer is a free service.

Pros and cons of PVC stretch shelves: summarize

So, the main advantages of PVC cloths are considered to be a long, almost unlimited period of their service, safety and environmental friendliness of materials produced by reliable companies. Stretch ceilings made of PVC are not afraid of moisture, care for them does not require any effort. In addition, the canvas allows you to hide engineering structures, such as wiring and ventilation. And, of course, one cannot fail to note the variety of design decisions that can be brought to life with the help of suspended ceilings, and thus turn the room into a masterpiece.

The disadvantages of PVC stretch ceilings include a low level of sound insulation (up to 30 dB), a ban on their installation in rooms with excessively high or low temperature (the reasons for which have already been noted above), the rather high cost of products from leading manufacturers.

Despite the fact that the tension structures have some drawbacks, the entire progressive world has refused painting and especially the whitewashing of the ceilings in favor of the first option. However, in order for the new ceilings to really please the eye, it is important to carefully choose the specialists who will be engaged in their installation.

How to choose a company to install stretch PVC ceilings?

The question is answered by the representative of NikoMax, a company engaged in the wholesale and retail sale of paintings for suspended ceilings:

“Any self-respecting and trustworthy company will present certificates of compliance with Russian and international standards on its products. Everyone knows that polyvinyl chloride is a safe material, even toys are made of it for the smallest children! But no one will guarantee you the safety of the product if it does not have the appropriate certificates, which means that the product may turn out to be an ordinary fake.

Choosing a company specializing in the installation of suspended ceilings, browse the forums on the Web, contact your friends. During installation, the film undergoes intense heat and can cause a specific odor. But he should disappear in one or two days. If this does not happen, then you have been provided with a service of inadequate quality.

Our company has been operating since 2009, we sell ceilings from leading world manufacturers (Germany, France, Belgium). And the work experience of NikoMax specialists is seven years or more. Therefore, it should not be doubted that our ceilings will be mounted quickly and will last for many decades. ”

P. S. NikoMax is one of the leaders in the wholesale and retail sale of suspended ceilings. It has its own production and warehouse base for the preparation of fabric and PVC ceilings, as well as its delivery service and service and warranty department. Company address: Moscow city, 2-nd Main deadlock, house 7A, building 2.

Types of PVC film for suspended ceilings

The photo shows a PVC film for stretch ceilings in blue

Glossy - has a mirror surface and creates a reflective effect.
Matte - creates the feeling of a perfectly painted ceiling surface.
Satin - the surface of the ceiling resembles a satin fabric, creates a special play of light and reflections on the surface of the ceiling.
Metallic - outwardly, this film resembles a glossy one, only its sheen is metallic.
Translucent - such a canvas transmits up to 50% of the light, if lighting is done correctly, the effect of frosted glass on the ceiling will be created.
Suede - the surface of the film completely repeats the structure of suede, and has a wide range of shades.

The Chinese holding MSD has been manufacturing PVC films since the beginning of the 2000s. For production, high-quality modern equipment of Japanese and German origin is used. All products have international quality certificates. Chinese PVC film ceilings are the market leader in low-cost ceilings, contrary to existing stereotypes about Chinese products. This material quite successfully competes with European-made film. Also, Chinese goods have been successfully tested by the Russian Technical Supervision. Read about the benefits of single-level stretch ceilings here: http://etopotolok.com/vidy-potolkov/natyazhnye/preimushhestva-odnourovnevyx-natyazhnyx-potolkov.html.

All products of the Chinese concern have excellent quality characteristics. These are durability and elasticity, water resistance and fire safety, environmental friendliness and hypoallergenicity. The MSD holding assortment includes a matte, satin and glossy film. Many companies and private firms use PVC film made in China, since it is of high quality and does not differ from its European counterparts, and the cost is much lower.

In the photo stretch ceiling made of PVC film suede texture

during installation there is no need to heat the room, it is tightly installed using the cold method,
has high strength, resistant to mechanical stress,
the width of the canvas reaches 5 meters, which allows you to install stretch ceilings in large rooms without creating additional seams,
the material is breathable, due to the special weaving of the material there is a natural air circulation,
the fabric of the stretch fabric is impregnated with a special composition that gives the material fire-resistant properties.

The device of stretch ceilings made of polyvinyl chloride film

Installation of stretch ceilings made of PVC film is made using a heat gun. The material becomes more elastic and stretches well, and after cooling, the film returns to its previous dimensions, due to which there is tension, which creates a perfectly smooth surface. The canvas does not sag and is not covered with dust. In addition to the heat gun, a baguette is required for installation, which is installed along the perimeter of the ceiling, then a film is stretched and fixed on the baguette. The design of the stretch ceiling allows you to hide any communications and wiring. Read how to make a two-level stretch ceiling and see photos of options for finished ceilings.

Where to buy PVC film for suspended ceilings?

Where to buy in Moscow:

The company "Modern Solutions", Moscow, Lobachevsky Street, 98. Office 29, tel .: +7 (495) 984-39-36,
Stretch Ceilings Factory "AstaManufaktura", Moscow, st. Rodnikovaya, 20, tel.: 8 (495) 641-23-23,
Company "Natyazhnoy.ru", Moscow, st. Foldable, 1/5, tel .: 8 (495) 542-73-07.

Where to buy in St. Petersburg:

Stretch ceilings "Celeste", St. Petersburg, st. Olkhovaya, 16, tel .: 8 (812) 336-63-27,
Stretch ceilings "White Castle", St. Petersburg, Prospektov Avenue, Building 11, room B-12, tel .: 8 (812) 980-82-62,
LLC "Master", St. Petersburg, ul. Pushkarskaya B., house 54, lit. Aster, tel.: 8 (812) 385-59-88.

Video

Video review of the characteristics of PVC film for suspended ceilings from China, see below:

Stretch ceilings made of PVC film are an excellent option for creating an ideal ceiling surface and hiding all irregularities and communications. Depending on the choice of the texture of the canvas, you can place accents in the room, visually expand the space or divide it into several zones. About stretch ceilings Master Beaver read on this page.