Types of stretch ceilings, their pros and cons, which are better and for what purpose

Stretch ceilings are the easiest way to decorate the surface of the ceilings. Like any method of finishing, it has advantages and disadvantages. Consider what materials are used to make stretch ceilings, possible design options. This will help to decide what to choose.

Types of stretch ceilings

Types of material from which stretch ceilings are made:

• PVC film. A thin film of polyvinyl chloride is welded from individual strips on special equipment. It is waterproof and elastic. Masters prepare the frame in advance and install it under the ceiling. During installation, the room is heated to a temperature of 60-70 °. In such conditions, the PVC material stretches. It is placed on the frame. When the film cools down, it is stretched perfectly even.
• Special fabric. The canvas is made of synthetic material. It is covered with a polymer and varnish. This gives durability, insulation from moisture. The peculiarity of fabric stretch ceilings is that the canvas does not stretch. It is cut out exactly in accordance with the dimensions of the ceiling.

For both types of stretch ceiling materials, different colors, patterns and textures are available. The peculiarity of PVC-film is that you can put prints, drawings and patterns on it. It can be matte, glossy or satin with a slight glow.

Design of stretch ceilings

Canvases are arranged in several ways:

• A level single-level ceiling. The canvas is stretched along the entire perimeter of the room and fixed on the frame.
• Multilevel ceiling is mounted on plasterboard structures or installed on special profiles. Use materials of different colors and textures.
• A stretch ceiling made of PVC film can be installed in the form of a semicircle arch or dome.
• Polymer material can be installed in the form of waves of different ranges. Especially stylish and beautiful such a surface looks, if the material is glossy and dark.
• PVC canvas can be stretched in the form of a cone. Usually such a decor is located in the place of installation of the main lamp.

Pros and cons of stretch ceilings

The advantages of stretch ceilings:

• Quality stretch ceilings last 10-15 years. If the operating conditions are suitable, they retain an attractive appearance and durability longer.
• Polymer material and coating of fabric ceilings are considered safe for health.
• No preparation of the room is required. When installing stretch ceilings, there is no dust and dirt.
• If the neighbors from above flood, PVC stretch ceiling will hold the water and protect the property.
• The stretch ceiling is easy to care for. The polymer material is periodically wiped with a damp cloth.
• Under the stretch ceiling you can hide communications pipes and wires.

Disadvantages of stretch ceilings:

• A stretch ceiling is easy to damage with something sharp.
• If the stretch canvas is mounted without gaps, a high tightness is obtained, especially if PVC material is used. This can lead to condensation. Fabric ceilings are permeable to air.
• On the PVC canvas, a seam is visible under certain lighting. Fabric ceilings are made from a wider fabric, so there is no seam on them
• For a few days, a stretch ceiling can emit an unpleasant odor, like any new thing that is made with synthetic materials.

Which stretch ceiling is better

It depends on personal preferences in design and conditions in the room. Some people like the more natural textures of fabric. In some types of room design, a glossy ceiling surface is more appropriate. Matte PVC film looks like an acrylic coating. If you want to create a unique design with a pattern or print, choose a stretch ceiling made of polymer film.