The ceiling surface as such does not indulge in the breadth of finishing possibilities. Traditionally, it was ennobled with paintwork or lime coatings, but in recent years the situation has changed radically. Innovations were introduced by the concept of a suspended frame, which makes it possible to implement a variety of design ideas in terms of external design. We can say that such structures 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 such finishes involve providing an aesthetic appearance of the surface and increasing the insulating qualities in the room.
What is a suspended ceiling made 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 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 tension materials. As for the usual finish, it is represented by gypsum boards, panels made of plastic, and the same aluminum in the form of rails or rectangular modules.
A separate category are stretch ceilings, which include fabric material based on polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Although such a solution seems rather fragile and fragile, in practice it demonstrates very good wear resistance indicators. Manufacturers' tests show that a PVC suspended ceiling can withstand loads of up to 100 liters of water. The construction will withstand such a volume in the conditions of the flood.
Varieties of drywall boards
The group of tiled finishes for suspended ceilings is mostly gypsum boards. 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 differ in technical and operational characteristics. Standard panels are inexpensive, provide a smooth surface, but can only be used in rooms with normal humidity levels.
Special types include fire-resistant and moisture-resistant boards. In the first case, this is a material that is resistant to the effects of an open flame. If you plan to arrange suspended ceilings in the kitchen or bathroom, then moisture-resistant drywall should be used. Such plates are not only resistant to moisture penetration,but also prevent the formation of fungi and mold.
Honeycomb 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 such a finish is the presence of cavities that are closed by a background substrate. In this case, the shape and size of honeycombs can be different.
Usually such ceilings are formed by separate panels, the installation of which involves the formation of a continuous cellular surface. But this is the difficulty of installing elements in complex configuration rooms. If a plastic false ceiling is used, then it can be manually adjusted to certain dimensions, ensuring even joints. If an aluminum module is used, then high-quality edge processing is best done on order at the factory.
Rack 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 possibilities are not as high compared to alternative options. Outwardly, the surface resembles clapboard lining or a plank floor, though made of more attractive plastic. Public spaces and offices are traditional places where slatted suspended ceilings are used. Prices in this case are quite democratic - about 200 rubles. for 1 m2. For comparison, standard plastic panelscost about 400-500 rubles. for 1 piece Aluminum rails are the most common, since this material is resistant to both mechanical damage and humidity with temperature. By the way, these characteristics allow you to mount ceilings in the bathroom or in the kitchen, where performance comes first.
Design Options
Ceilings also differ in the type of frame, which determines the technical arrangement of the base for finishing. The simplest option involves the creation of a single-level system based on galvanized profiles. The load-bearing elements are suspended from the ceiling by means of steel hangers. Thanks to the height adjustment, this structure can be lowered and raised depending on the requirements of a particular room. Suspended ceilings are distinguished by high sound insulation, since vibration waves are transmitted only through point-fixed metal suspensions. Also common types of suspended ceilings, which are installed on a biaxial frame. The supporting base in this case is formed by two levels, but with areas of transition to a standard design with a single lift. In the connection zones, cross-shaped clamps are used. The ends of the bearing elements are placed in the wall profiles of the UD system. Exterior finishes are also formed by panels, slats or cellular modules, but the effect of level transitions undoubtedly favorably distinguishes such a configuration in a decorative sense. Now it's worth taking a closer look at the technology of installing suspended ceilings.
False ceiling installation
Work begins with fixing the frame. The lower part of the profiles is installed horizontally, after which slats, slabs 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 fastening of the false ceiling is carried out by means of anchor elements or ceiling dowels. In addition to the parallel configuration of the profiles, cruciform installation is also practiced, in which the frame elements are installed perpendicular to each other. Finishing decorative materials are attached to the profiles with self-tapping screws so that the caps do not deform the top layer.
Ceiling decoration
Finishing without fail provides for sealing the seams with a putty mass in a color corresponding to the base material. Reinforcing strips are recessed into the gaps, which also give the structure rigidity. Next, the joints are sanded. Coatings are not always required. For example, if a false ceiling was installed, in which the texture itself creates a decorative effect, this operation is not required. But ordinary drywall boards look boring and monotonous, so it would be useful to use paint to transform their surface.
Additional features
From an engineering point of view,suspended structures are beneficial in that they allow you to hide communication routes in your niche. By adjusting the height of the suspensions, it is possible to lay a telephone cable, electrical wiring in the formed channel, and also integrate the bases of the luminaire bodies there. This opportunity is especially valuable if 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 requirements for frame rigidity. And the plates themselves can be subjected to loads that are made up of a mass of profiles and attached communication elements. By carefully calculating the characteristics of materials, experts mount durable and stable suspended ceilings. Prices for structures with a reliable power base are quite acceptable: 300-400 rubles. on average, one high-quality profile element costs. Finishing a small room with such a frame as a whole will cost about 2-3 thousand, excluding facing material, which will cost about the same amount. Of course, if we are talking about a simple design that is undemanding to aesthetic characteristics, then less costly means can be dispensed with.
