The ceiling surface as such does not indulge in the breadth of possibilities for decoration. Traditionally, it was ennobled with paintwork or lime coatings, but in recent years the situation has changed radically. The innovations were introduced by the concept of a suspended frame, which allows implementing a variety of design ideas from the point of view of external design. We can say that such designs replace the main surface, which favorably affects the quality of installation operations. At the same time, there are different types of suspended ceilings, each of which focuses on one or another technical and operational characteristics. But, almost all variations of this finish require providing an aesthetic appearance of the surface and improving the insulation quality in the room.
What does a suspended ceiling consist of?
The basis of the structure is formed by a frame made of metal profiles. Usually they make aluminum suspended ceilings with a small mass, which allows them to withstand both their own load-bearing elements and the finishing material. The second important component of the system is the coating itself, which forms a decorative surface. There are two ways to finish: through traditional panels or through stretch materials. As for the usual finish, it is represented by gypsum boards, panels made of plastic, and the same aluminum in the form of battens or rectangular modules.
A separate category is suspended ceilings, which include fabric material based on polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Such a solution, although it seems rather fragile and fragile, but in practice, the operation shows very good indicators of wear resistance. Tests by manufacturers demonstrate that a suspended ceiling made of PVC is able to withstand a load of up to 100 liters of water. The construction will withstand such a volume in flood conditions.
Varieties of drywall boards
The group of tile finishes for suspended ceilings is mostly plasterboard. This is due to the fact that this material is characterized by an almost impeccable appearance and resistance to stress. However, tiled types of suspended ceilings also vary in technical and operational characteristics. Standard panels are inexpensive, provide a smooth surface, but can only be used in rooms with normal levels of humidity.
Special types include fireproof and moisture resistant boards. In the first case, this is a material that is resistant to open flames. If you plan to arrange suspended ceilings in the kitchen or in the bathroom, then you should use moisture-proof drywall. Such plates are not only resistant to moisture penetration, but also inhibit the formation of fungi and mold.
Cell Ceilings
The original decorative effect of the ceiling allows you to get a cellular texture of the materials used. By and large, these are panel types of suspended ceilings, which can be made of aluminum or plastic modules. The fundamental difference between this finish is the presence of cavities that are closed by the background substrate. Moreover, the shape and size of the cells can be different.
Typically, such ceilings are formed by separate panels, the installation of which involves the formation of a continuous cellular surface. But this is the complexity of installing elements in complex configuration rooms. If a plastic suspended ceiling is used, then it can be manually adjusted to specific sizes, ensuring smooth joints. If an aluminum module is used, then it is better to perform high-quality edge processing on order in the factory.
Slatted ceilings
In the decoration of the ceiling surfaces of private houses and apartments, rack elements are used infrequently. This is a practical solution, but its decorative capabilities are not so high compared to alternative options. Externally, the surface resembles a clapboard cladding or a plank floor, though made of more attractive plastic. Public spaces and offices are traditional places where slatted false ceilings are used. Prices in this case are quite affordable - about 200 rubles. for 1 m 2 . For comparison, standard plastic panels cost about 400-500 rubles. for 1 pc. The most common aluminum rails, since this material is resistant to mechanical damage and humidity with temperature. By the way, these characteristics allow you to mount the ceilings in the bathroom or in the kitchen, where performance is the first priority.
Design Options
Ceilings also differ in the type of frame, which determines the technical structure of the base for decoration. The simplest option involves the creation of a single-level system based on galvanized profiles. Bearing elements are suspended from the ceiling by means of steel suspensions. Thanks to the height adjustment, such a structure can be lowered and raised depending on the requirements of a particular room. Suspended ceilings are highly soundproofed, since vibration waves are transmitted only through point-fixed metal suspensions. Also common types of suspended ceilings that are installed on a biaxial frame. The supporting base in this case is formed by two levels, but with sections of the transition to a standard design with a single lift. In the zones of connection use crosswise clamps. The ends of the supporting elements are placed in the wall profiles of the UD system. Exterior decoration is also formed by panels, slats or cellular modules, but the effect of level transitions undoubtedly distinguishes this configuration in a decorative sense. Now it’s worth considering the installation of suspended ceilings in more detail .
Installation of false ceiling
Work begins with the fastening of the frame. The lower part of the profiles is installed horizontally, after which slats, plates or other finishing material are fixed to the finished base. In the case of single-level structures, the carriers are located in the same direction parallel to each other. Direct mounting of the false ceiling is carried out by means of anchor elements or ceiling dowels. In addition to the parallel configuration of the location of the profiles, cross-shaped installation is also practiced, in which the frame elements are installed perpendicular to each other. Finishing decorative materials are attached to the profiles using self-tapping screws so that the caps do not deform the top layer.
Ceiling decoration
Finishing completion without fail provides for filling seams with putty in the color corresponding to the base material. Reinforcing strips are recessed into the gaps, which also add rigidity to the structure. Next, grinding the joints. Coating is not always required. For example, if you installed a suspended ceiling in which the texture itself creates a decorative effect, this operation is not required. But ordinary gypsum boards look boring and monotonous, so it will be useful to use paint to transform their surface.
Additional features
From an engineering point of view, suspended structures are advantageous in that they allow you to hide communication routes in your niche. By adjusting the height of the suspensions, in the formed channel, you can lay a telephone cable, electrical wiring, and integrate the basics of the lamp housings there. This opportunity is especially valuable, since it is planned to install suspended ceilings in the kitchen, where ventilation ducts also pass. In addition, insulating materials are often placed in the subceiling space. Mineral wool or foil insulation, for example, is laid at the stage of installation of the supporting structure, after which the material is hidden by facing panels and does not spoil the appearance of the room.
Conclusion
With all the advantages of suspension systems, one should not underestimate their complexity and high demands on the rigidity of the frame. And the plates themselves can be subjected to loads that are made up of a mass of profiles and attached communication elements. Carefully calculating the characteristics of the materials, experts install durable and stable suspended ceilings. Prices for structures with a reliable power base are quite acceptable: 300-400 rubles. On average, there is one profile element of high quality. Finishing a small room with such a frame as a whole will cost about 2-3 thousand without taking into account the facing material, which will cost about the same amount. Of course, if we are talking about a simple design, undemanding to aesthetic characteristics, then less expensive means can be dispensed with.