Everyone strives to recreate a cozy interior in their home. It is important to choose the right finishing materials for walls, floors and ceilings. Initially, the Armstrong ceiling was designed as a simple and inexpensive product for installation for large areas. But thanks to its aesthetics, it has also begun to be installed in apartments.
To correctly complete the finish, you need to take into account the basic rules for installing the Armstrong ceiling.
Features
Tile ceiling "Armstrong" is considered one of the most popular types of suspended structures. These products are used for decoration of residential buildings, as well as shopping centers and business offices. They look great in almost any interior and stylistic direction. The Armstrong ceiling device is as follows:
- wire and string suspension system;
- framework;
- plates;
- clamping mechanisms.
Modular ceiling slabs are divided into modern and classic. The first type is characterized by the fact that the cells snap into place when mounted from the outside. The classic version of the plates implies that such cells are inserted into the frame from the inside.
They are made from various materials such as glass, metal, plastic, mineral fiber. Often, suspended ceiling models have drawings. Therefore, this design is used to create a stylish and original design.
Main pros and cons
The Armstrong ceiling device is quite simple, but such designs are in demand. Among the main advantages of such coverage, it is necessary to highlight such as:
- high fire resistance;
- low cost;
- good sound insulation;
- light weight;
- aesthetic;
- reflective surface;
- possibility to cover additional details.
The design is highly fire resistant, as it is made of non-combustible elements, which makes it possible to avoid fire. These ceilings are affordable.
Armstrong products are lightweight, making installation easy. Ceiling structures have good sound insulation. This is a very important property that allows you to decorate a room with slabs even with loud sound reproduction.
The Armstrong ceiling device is characterized by ease of installation, which does not take too much time. According to experts, such ceiling coverings look elegant and stylish. In addition, the market offers a variety of different models and colors, decorated with prints.
Armstrong suspended ceiling allows you to install communications inside without spoiling the overall appearance of the coating. Thanks to the reflective surface, you can expand the overall space.
Despite all the advantages, the suspended ceiling "Armstrong" has certain disadvantages. These should include:
- low moisture resistance;
- height loss during installation;
- monotonous arrangement.
When water gets on the surface, the ceiling may swell and lose its original appearance. The coating may become completely unusable and will need to be completely replaced.
A lot of height is lost when mounting the structure. When installing, you must step back from the base of the ceiling covering, otherwise installation will not be possible. Armstrong products can be stacked in a strictly defined order. Curvilinear and diagonal types of design from such material will not work.
Specifications
Technically, you can characterize the standard Armstrong ceiling models:
- Aluminum or plastic frame;
- main color is white, but bright colors can also be used;
- one ceiling slab weighs 4-6 kilograms;
- Typical slab dimensions are 600 x 600 mm and 600 x 1200 mm.
The Armstrong ceiling device is distinguished by the fact that the most minimal costs of the raw materials used provide the required level of system resistance to mechanical stress. The cassettes are attached with hangers to the base, and this allows you to mountdesign even on a heavily deformed surface.
Slats can be different. They are selected depending on the main type of configuration of the end face of the product. The Armstrong suspended ceiling device is quite simple, which is why everyone can independently carry out the work of mounting it.
Views of Armstrong ceiling
The composition of the ceiling panels can be very different, which is why you can choose from the list of available materials. Often used:
- mineral fiber;
- aluminum;
- polycarbonate;
- steel.
The Armstrong suspended ceiling device is of interest to many. The design is divided into certain types, namely:
- Prima type ceilings;
- moisture resistant;
- designer item;
- acoustic;
- hygienic ceiling (medical).
Economy line ceilings are made of mineral fiber. This material is one of the most affordable. But at the same time, it has a low level of moisture resistance and is unsuitable for mounting in rooms with high humidity.
Prima-type ceilings are characterized by fire resistance, high resistance to damage, and decorative structure. Moisture-resistant product is used for interior decoration, where temperature changes or simply high humidity are often observed.
Acoustic ceiling is required to design a room with a high levelsound absorption. Designer products differ from the usual office structures in that an original pattern is created on the surface. There may be transparent panels that have a rather extravagant look and are suitable for decorating the ceiling area in a residential building.
Hygienic ceilings are characterized by the fact that in their manufacture all the requirements of GOST are taken into account. They are often installed in hospitals. The installation technology is the same for all models, which differ somewhat in their technical characteristics and device. Ceilings such as "Armstrong" will make your office or business not only comfortable, but also beautiful. The main thing is to correctly choose the required option, taking into account all the features.
Position options
An important feature of the Armstrong type ceiling device is that it has a block system. It is not necessary to have only a row of mineral fiber panels. You can add air conditioners, lamps and ventilation grilles, as well as other equipment to it. This will improve the overall practicality of mounting the grid.
Together with conventional panels, mirror or metal inserts can be placed to give more aesthetics. This will not add functionality to the ceiling, but it will help transform its appearance. There are also special panels on which drawings are applied. They are made not only from metal and PVC, but also from glass. Similar options are somewhat more expensive, but they look beautiful and aesthetically pleasing.
Through diversityoptions for panels on the ceiling, you can create a whole ornament. This will help to add bright colors to the room in which it will be located, and make it more beautiful and unique. A look at such a ceiling will be pleasant for the owners and guests of the house.
System elements
When installing, it is very important to pay attention to federal unit prices (FER). The installation of Armstrong ceilings involves the use of different elements of the system, which will affect the final cost of the entire structure. It is necessary to calculate how costly it will be to install such a ceiling covering. In addition, it will help to choose the right material for the panels.
Let's give an example of what should be considered when compiling a FER.
Device:
Armstrong suspended ceilings
Elements and accessories:
- profile;
- framework;
- panels;
- suspension;
- fixing knot;
- fixing the web.
The value of the price includes not only the price for the material, but also the wages of workers, as well as the operation of equipment.
When choosing components, please note that the panels can be hard or soft. The first are made of glass, metal or various mirror surfaces. Soft panels are made of mineral and organic material. The first version of the plates is massive and heavy, which is why it will require reinforced guides. The second does not require expensive or large elements. However, it is worth noting that soft structures emit harmful substances.
The profile is often made of metal. The profile has a small special hole for suspension. Basically, the connection of the rails is carried out using locks.
The suspension consists of two small twigs connected by a curved leaf spring. It is worth noting that the suspension can be adjusted very easily using the connecting spring.
The frame is created so that the main cassettes of the product, as well as various required elements, are easily integrated. Often wires and many other items for communication are mounted in it. In addition, fixtures and lamps are installed in the frame system.
The fastening unit is presented in the form of a conventional dowel for a self-tapping screw. It should be noted that for a more durable and reinforced suspension, it is recommended to use a metal collet. Such mechanisms are required not only for the ceiling itself, but also for areas with increased loads.
The fastening of such a ceiling covering is carried out using a small, even twig, which is screwed using tools so that a fastening unit is obtained. In this case, it is not necessary to disassemble the suspension of the structure. Also, when attaching ceiling tiles, you need to put a profile on the hook of the second twig and, firmly holding the leaf spring, carefully adjust its position and height.
Calculation of required material
Before mounting the suspended structure, you need to carry out all the required calculations in the HPES of the Armstrong ceiling device. This is necessary in order to determine exactly how much material is required. Calculate tot althe perimeter of the equipped room can be quite simple. For this, a special formula was developed. It is necessary to initially measure all the walls around the perimeter. Then add together their size and round the total so that the result is divisible by 3.
Such simple and reliable calculations can be ideal for a room of 8-150 square meters. m. If you want to decorate the ceiling in a larger building, it is best to contact the experts. In such cases, additionally, the norms of SNiP should be taken into account. Armstrong ceilings are made in accordance with all TTC rules.
Many experts recommend paying special attention to the grate. When mounting, it is not recommended to cut it by more than half. Otherwise, when arranging the ceiling, you will have to spend a lot of materials. However, it should be noted that this does not affect the strength and quality of the structure at all.
Mounting Features
Before installation, it is important to study the technological map of the Armstrong suspended ceiling device, as well as the main features of this product. Many install cassette ceilings on their own. Assembling such a structure is quite simple. Moreover, the products are produced with instructions that describe the installation features.
Before starting work on the installation of the Armstrong suspended ceiling, the estimate is prepared first of all, as this will allow you to calculate the costs. Installation is divided into three stages, namely:
- Preparatory.
- Installation.
- Finish.
Installation begins with measurements. If the floor is flat, then you need to measure the total height of the room in the corners. The smallest value is taken as the basis. If the floor is warped and uneven, it is advisable to use a laser building level.
In the selected corner from above, measure 15 centimeters. If installation of additional communication under the ceiling tiles is required, then the distance must necessarily be slightly increased. By level, mark marks in all other corners of the room. Having decided on the height, you need to indicate exactly where the ceiling suspensions will be mounted. For this you need:
- Find the center of the room.
- Draw a line through the obtained point across the room.
- Measure 1.2 m from the marked line in both directions and put a mark.
In exactly the same way, measure the distance again, and so on until the end of the wall. A carrier profile is attached to these marks. If you neglect the exact implementation of this stage, then the ceiling may be fixed unevenly, distortions will occur and the installation of the product will be of poor quality.
The Armstrong ceiling device and the technology for their installation are quite simple, but they must be taken into account. The phased implementation of all the required work serves as a guarantee that it will be possible to independently mount the product with high quality.
Need to mount spokes for fasteners. To do this, according to the measurements previously applied to the wall, holes are drilled and spring-loaded knitting needles are attached to them with dowels or self-tapping screws. To make your work easierit is recommended to fasten the knitting needles with hooks in one direction. Attach a supporting metal profile to them.
Then you need to assemble the frame. To do this, fix 5-6 main elements on the wall, and mount the crossbars on them. Only then can the remaining main beams be fixed. This method of assembling suspended ceilings will save time and promptly identify distortions that occur due to labeling errors. If the misalignment is slight, then it can be adjusted using the fastening spokes.
When all the elements are installed, you need to snap the locks into the grooves. This is the easiest way. If the base is installed correctly, the locks will snap into place easily. After that, you can begin to install the corners. This is to ensure that the ceiling tiles are evenly spaced.
After fixing all the guides on the surface of the ceiling, a lattice is formed. It is filled with ceiling tiles and lighting fixtures. Most experts recommend starting the installation of cassettes from the middle of the room.
Light options
It is important to take into account not only the TTC of the Armstrong suspended ceiling device, but also to choose the right lamp. Among the main types, it is necessary to highlight such as:
- raster;
- LED;
- spot.
Raster luminaires are specially produced in the size of 600 x 600 mm. They can be staggered. The only requirement is that additional hangers are installed on the rack frame in the places where the luminaires are mounted. Such lighting devices are equipped with lampsdaylight.
LED lights are available in 600 x 600mm or 600 x 1200mm sizes. They are equipped with LED lamps. Spotlights can be used in suspended ceilings. Holes are made under them in the center of the ceiling tiles.
Tips & Tricks
The Armstrong suspended ceiling device and its installation technology are so simple that even a beginner can handle it. However, in any case, you must strictly follow the recommendations of experts.
If you need to install a strong and reliable ceiling, it is recommended to use cassette metal structures. They differ from other types in durability and reliability. They are also highly resistant to damage and mechanical stress.
In rooms with high humidity or a lot of steam, it is worth mounting a plastic ceiling coated with a special solution. It gives parts special properties that protect the coating from the harmful effects of moisture.
