Dropped Ceiling - What exactly is a stretch ceiling?

Dropped Ceiling - What exactly is a stretch ceiling?

Repairing an old and damaged roof could cost too much money and effort. In such a case, you might consider a dropped ceiling to hide the blemishes. One such solution, which is becoming more and more popular, is the stretch ceiling. It is much lighter than plasterboard. It also allows for faster installation. The fabric roof is an alternative worth considering.

What is a stretch ceiling?

Stretch ceiling is a kind of dropped ceiling. This method is one of the oldest techniques in the interior design category. Hanging a cloth under the ceiling was popular in many countries over the centuries. The ancient Romans used silk, the Egyptians linen, while the Armenians preferred cotton.

A perfectly even surface was achieved by hanging a damp cloth, which reduced in volume and stretched in the drying process.

• Over time, the stretch ceiling became a shortage, only to return in the 20th century. Today this type of dropped ceiling is made of PVC fabric. It is installed on special boards fixed to the walls. There are many patterns that may be suitable for a particular interior design. The most popular pitched roofs of this type are:

• 3D stretch ceiling - a 3D image is printed on the canvas, which creates the illusion of depth. The most common designs are images of water, space, or the sky. This solution is very impressive and fits into modern interior design.

• Mirror stretch ceiling - the glossy surface of the material reflects light like a mirror. These dropped ceilings can be any color. It is most commonly used in luxurious royal interior designs.

• Matte stretch ceiling - made of a fabric that does not reflect light. Although there are many colors available, white is the most popular as it fits into most interior designs.

Why choose a stretch ceiling?

Dropped ceiling is a perfect solution for any place that requires concealing imperfections and damaged surface. Unsightly finish, external pipes... can easily be covered with fabric.

This method brings the ceiling to a lower level, so it cannot be used in rooms with low ceilings.

They are perfect in traditional homes and in any other room with a high ceiling.

Extendable roof - advantages

The fabric roof is very quick to install, which is the main strength of this solution. Other advantages of stretch ceilings are:

• Durability - stretch ceilings are quite resistant to mechanical damage. Due to this it is one of the most durable designs. They can last even several dozen years - manufacturers usually offer a 10-year guarantee.

• Perfect finish - a stretch ceiling creates a perfectly even surface. It is not possible with traditional finishes. Manufacturers offer a wide range of designs that can also be customized. You can choose a uniform surface or a 3D print with a chosen pattern. If you don't want a smooth finish, you can choose a fabric ceiling in any shape.

• Resistance: the fabrics used for stretch ceilings are resistant to humidity, fire and dust. If installed correctly, such a roof is waterproof, therefore the fabric will not let anything through in the event of a leak from the upper level. As many manufacturers claim, depending on the construction, a stretch roof is capable of withstanding up to 100 liters of water. The fabrics used in such constructions are fireproof.

• Sound insulation - a dropped ceiling made of a perforated membrane is capable of absorbing noise from a room. It is particularly useful in large conference rooms as well as in private apartments, especially bedrooms.

• Easy to clean - once installed, a stretch ceiling does not require any special attention. It can be vacuumed and the entire construction allows it to be removed, for example to clean the pipe system located above it.

Stretch roof - disadvantages

Apart from the advantages, each drop ceiling made of fabric also has its weaknesses. You have to take them into account to be aware of the limits related to this method.

• Problem with size: Although stretch ceilings are quite versatile, they are not suitable for all types of rooms. Fabric ceilings can be difficult to fit evenly into unusually shaped spaces or if the walls have many niches and alcoves. Although the boards can be adjusted to such conditions, it can be quite expensive. Another problem is the fact that the maximum size of the fabric is 5 meters. Larger surfaces require the use of two separate cloths, which do not create a perfectly even surface.

• Lighting options - the power of the lamps used for a stretch ceiling cannot be greater than 40 W. They also have to be protected from heating - the high temperature could cause discoloration of the fabric.

• High price - the total price obviously depends on the size, the chosen material and the complexity of the room, however, such a stretch ceiling is usually quite expensive. Costs increase along with customization of the project, particular design of the print, and adaptation of the building to unusual rooms.

A stretch ceiling might be a better idea than sheetrock. Its installation is much faster, requires less materials and less work. Unlike plaster ceilings, fabric solutions require the hiring of a team of specialists. The fabric is easy to be damaged during installation.

Stretch ceiling - how is it installed?

Stretch ceilings do not require the preparation of the main ceiling. The only thing to keep in mind is to make sure that nothing (for example, dust or plaster) falls out of it. The walls on which the boards are to be installed must be smoothed. Furniture may remain indoors during installation. The room must be heated. The minimum temperature is 18°C, while 40°C is the most optimal. If it is a PVC ceiling, the material must be heated up to 60-70°C before stretching. The fabric ceiling does not need to be heated.

Before installing the structure, the fabric is attached to the corners of the construction with special fasteners. The ceiling is heated and fixed to the boards installed on the walls. The heat causes the fabric to contract and stretch, creating a smooth, even surface. The last stage is to hide the grooves between the boards and the walls.

What is the cost of a stretch ceiling

The price of such a roof depends on many factors. The most important is the area of the room. Another important issue is the unusual shape of a room, any alcoves or niches - all these difficulties contribute to the growth of prices. The price is also determined by the customizations - used material (PVC or polyester), selected pattern, custom printing. Lighting is also important - you can choose an LED strip or a traditional lamp, suitable specifically for the purpose of such a ceiling.

All of the aforementioned aspects mean that the price of such a project is quite an individual matter. Manufacturers usually offer a basic price, however all individual additions increase the price.

The stretch ceiling is definitely more expensive than the dropped ceiling made of plaster. Despite this, you should consider choosing this solution, for example because of its high durability.

This type of drop ceiling is quite different from traditional methods. Its biggest advantage is the fact that it is a great decoration. You can choose from many patterns that will help you create a stunning ceiling. Considering all the advantages, a stretch ceiling could be worth its price.

Are you interested in other interesting solutions for the home, apart from the stretch ceiling? Check if you can build a mezzanine in your house. Learn quick methods to plaster walls and ideas to paint them cheaply. Practical tips will help you transform your interior for little cost and effort.

Dropped ceiling - FAQ

How to cover a roof with fabric?

To decorate a ceiling, you need a large piece of fabric, a stapler, scissors, and a ladder. Staple the fabric down the center of the roof first, then pin the corners. Cut off any excess material.

How is the fabric hung from the ceiling?

You can attach the fabric to the lamp located in the center of the room or simply staple it to the ceiling. Several long strips of fabric are easier to hold than one large piece.