Now on the market large selection not only building materials for repairs, but also constructive solutions, which make remodeling a creative process. Drop ceiling is one such element that helps transform residential and commercial spaces.

What is a suspended ceiling

Suspended ceilings are a type of constructive solution for decorating a room, consisting of a frame and covering material, which can be:

• drywall;
• plastic panels;
• synthetic and natural fabrics;
• metal sheets;
• wood and other types of base.

It is very simple to understand what a suspended ceiling is and how it is installed. To do this, there is no need to undergo long training: you only need to have minimal knowledge and skills. Installation involves the construction of a structure that is attached to the floor slab. It is made of wooden blocks or galvanized profiles. Installing a suspended ceiling requires the participation of at least two people, since it will be very difficult for one person to do it.

Types of suspended ceilings

As mentioned earlier, for mounting ceiling surfaces, various materials, so it’s worth mentioning the types suspended ceilings. All designs can be divided into the following types:

By configuration:

• planar;
• curvilinear.

By functionality:

• moisture resistant;
• acoustic;
• fire resistant;
• impact resistant;
• decorative;
• hygienic.

According to installation option:

• collapsible;
• non-separable.

Separately, it is worth mentioning Armstrong ceilings, created from mineral fiber. They are installed more often in office spaces than in living rooms or residential spaces. They come in white and colored. The most widespread is the Baikal variety from the Armstrong company. It is easy to install lamps in them; the components are available, and you can order calculations and assembly from many companies. Armstrong ceilings do a good job of sound insulation. They are lightweight, so they do not require reinforcement of the floors.

From plasterboard

Often used in residential areas plasterboard ceilings. Simple installation and relatively low cost consumables allow the construction of unique and inimitable coverings. Since drywall is considered an environmentally friendly and anti-allergenic material, such designs are allowed in children's bedrooms. Their price is low and affordable for most consumers.

To the kitchen

Installation possible in damp areas plasterboard structures. For this, a special type is used: moisture resistant. He has green color. In kitchens, you can also use fire-resistant or moisture-resistant plasterboard sheets. Such options will increase the level of protection. With their help, you can hide communications (wiring, ventilation ducts) in the kitchen and level the surface itself. In addition, you can highlight functional areas or design multi-level structures by painting the surface in different colors.

In the corridor

The use of material in the corridor helps to organize the correct lighting. In this case, it is arranged double design. Since the corridors in most apartments are small, the solution will help to direct the light correctly. The suspension in the corridor can be multi-level, dividing the room into zones, or combined (with tension elements). Since the hallway is the first thing that guests see when entering the house, it is worth paying attention special attention suspended ceiling.

Installation of plasterboard ceiling

Installation can be done on our own or by hiring skilled workers. Since suspended structures can hide all the unevenness of the floor slabs, there is no need to level the surface. To build the frame, you will need two types of profile: ceiling and guide. They are attached to each other using metal screws or a special tool that will connect them.

After constructing the suspended frame, plasterboard sheets are screwed onto its surface: to do this, take a screwdriver with a bat, which prevents the screws from being sunk deep into the sheets, thereby maintaining their integrity. After the installation is completed, all joints between the sheets are glued with sickle tape and carefully puttied (including the places where the screws enter the drywall). When the putty is dry, you can begin finishing.

There is an option for attaching gypsum sheets with glue, but this design is rare. It is easier to use gypsum or foam tiles (smooth or patterned) that have square or rectangular shapes and characterized by a small thickness. They are attached to special PVC glue or putty. They are inexpensive and can be easily purchased in an online store or on the market.

Plasterboard ceiling designs

Due to the fact that the material is considered easy to work with and bends easily during pre-processing, it is possible to create unique and unique designs. Designs can be single-level, two-level or even three-level, combined with other finishing materials, complemented by spotlights and LED strips.

In the photos in specialized magazines you can see many ideas for using gypsum boards in landscaping. IN classic interiors More often you can find flat or two-tier options. Photos of European-quality renovations are often striking with multi-tiered ceilings. In projects modern apartments more often bet on design solutions.

Rack and pinion

As you can tell from the name, a slatted suspended ceiling consists of slats 3-5 meters long and usually 10 cm wide. Based on the installation method, a distinction is made between closed and closed flows. open type. The panels themselves are either solid or perforated. The latter are ideal for arranging ventilation behind them. By design, the slats come with rounded or right angles.

In the bathroom

Since the bathroom is a zone high humidity, the choice of ceiling, as well as all finishing, requires attention. The slatted ceiling covering in the bathroom is best option, since it is not exposed to moisture, it is easy to care for - you just need to wipe it with soapy water, it can hide communications. The price of such a product is low, and the work will take minimal time.

Installation and Installation

Prefabricated structures, which include this type, easy to install. Installation of a slatted ceiling will include the assembly of a product that consists of four elements. This:

• slats;
• pendants;
• wall profile;
• stringer (supporting tire).

DIY slatted ceiling

Assembly consists of several operations. Assembling a rack structure with your own hands is not difficult. Assembly instructions and an example of device technology can be found on the Internet. You can also see the photo there original designs. When arranging it, it is important to correctly calculate the distance between the walls in order to accurately trim the slats.

Initially, markings are made on the working area, identifying the places where the wall profile will be attached. Then, using dowel nails, hangers are attached to the ceiling so that their edges do not extend horizontally beyond the wall corner fixed to the wall. After this, a comb is attached to the hangers. The main stage of work has now been completed. All that remains is to level the structure and install the slats, pre-cut to the length of the room.

Wooden

If earlier wooden structures were the prerogative of baths and saunas, today such structures can be found in many rooms. Wooden slatted ceiling covering is divided into classes - the higher it is, the wood is better is used in it. Installation is easier with a partner, since the wood is heavier aluminum profile. Wood is environmentally friendly and natural, but at the same time it is easily flammable and susceptible to rotting. For installation, you must purchase panels that have passed pre-treatment.

Grilyato

Popular and installed in most modern office premises the cellular structure is called grilyato. Cellular ceilings of several types are presented in the table:

Standard	A single-level structure in the form of a lattice consisting of identical cells. This is the cheapest and simplest type.
Pyramidal	The cells have a special shape in the form of pyramids. Two special profiles are used for installation.
Louvered	Profiles of different heights are mounted so that it is possible to hide communications running along the surface of the floor slabs.
Multi-level	Profiles used different sizes, which are mounted according to a pre-selected pattern.

From metal panels

Such panels have great advantages over other materials. Metal ceilings is a designer find and a bold decision for extraordinary individuals. Such designs serve very well long term, are not afraid of fire and do not deform over time. They can be smooth and perforated, or they can have a shape that can delight any average person.

Made from galvanized steel

Stylish and durable structures are made from high-quality rolled steel, which is treated with a special primer and coated with paint. This processing method makes the surface even more durable and resistant to aggressive environments. Hanging structures made of galvanized steel will look impressive in offices, gyms, in shopping centers, etc. In addition, they are distinguished by low price.

Aluminum

Aluminum structures have many advantages. Their only drawback is the relatively high price. Advantages of the material:

1. The weight is very light, so the panel can be installed in large areas.
2. The metal is not affected by either water or fire.
3. Stores sell ready-made prefabricated elements with which an aluminum suspended ceiling can be quickly formed.

Mirror

The ability of a mirror to visually expand a room and bring additional light makes this material in demand in the manufacture of ceiling structures. A mirrored ceiling covering would be appropriate in small spaces. It can be made directly from mirror plates or reflective plastic. The latter is not only lightweight, but also low in price, which cannot be said about ordinary mirrors.

Made of plastic

If cash is not enough for installation of other types of floors indoors, then the suspended structure made of plastic panels– a suitable option for budget renovation. Thanks to the rich color palette, ease of installation and low price, it enjoys continued popularity among the majority of the population. Plastic is practical material. It is easy to care for - you need to periodically wipe it with a damp cloth.

How to choose a suspended ceiling

Before choosing a suspended ceiling, you should decide on its design and material of manufacture. The financial aspect is important, so when choosing pompous mirror or aluminum options, you should be prepared for the fact that you will need to shell out a large sum for installation.

At the first stage, it is worth studying the catalog of proposed options in several companies. There you can also see a sample of each of the proposed options. The combination of textures can highlight the interior favorably. In addition, if you are not sure that you can cope with the task of selection and installation yourself, then you should turn to professionals for help.

Price

Prices for materials used in the construction of the suspension vary. The total amount will change depending on the chosen solution. The cost of a suspended ceiling may depend on prices installation work. Below is a table with prices (with installation):

Video:

The article will discuss different types of suspended ceilings, their characteristics, advantages and disadvantages. You will learn about what types of panel and profile fastening systems there are, about the types of suspensions with a description of their properties. The article provides a table with prices for suspended ceiling systems.

The ceiling is the most difficult area of ​​installation, because access to it is difficult due to its height. Suspended ceiling systems allow for error-free installation, quickly and literally without waste - after finishing, only a few pieces of profile and slabs will remain.

Classification of suspended ceilings

There are several hanging systems. They differ in their functional and decorative features.

Based on the shape of the panel, there are three types:

1. Slab panels. Essentially, it is simply slab material (usually pressed), factory-cut to size. The easiest option for installation and budget friendly. Typically has an unassuming appearance(profile flanges of 20-30 mm are visible) and noise-insulating properties.

2. Cassettes. These are panels that contain a system of fastening to the frame. The finish of the front surface is usually glossy and can have a huge variety of decor, including mirrors and engravings. At the same time, the joint of the panels is thin - 10-15 mm, and must be finished with special fittings.

3. Rake. This is the conventional name for a long panel with a width of 30 to 500 mm, which is attached to a special frame with hooks and latches. The base of the rail is metal, so the latches are bent from the panel sheet.

Based on the type of facing material, ceilings are divided into types:

1. Functional. Sound-absorbing panels - pressed, mineral fiber, PVC, PE, PPR.
2. Decorative. Spectacular appearance without additional functions. Metal base with finishing applied. Often requires careful maintenance.
3. Combined. Utilitarian panels that combine decor and heat and sound insulation. Basically, these are metal cassette systems with a polyurethane foam layer.

According to the connection method, they are distinguished:

1. Related to the frame. The panel contains a fastening that is often only suitable for the frame of the same company. This is how manufacturers protect their products.
2. Not related to the frame. The panel simply lies on the shelves of the frame.

Suspended ceiling elements

This design consists of three main combined elements. They are interconnected by level marking and structural compatibility. That is, for the selected size you should select the corresponding parts of other elements.

The most common suspended ceiling system is produced by Armstrong, manufactured in Great Britain (which is why any prefabricated ceiling is simply called “Armstrong”).

Suspensions

This load-bearing elements the entire system. There can be many options for vertical fastening - each company offering the system has its own fastening. Since he bears (or rather hangs) all the responsibility for the strength of the structure, this is literally “ business card» manufacturer:

1. Suspension on cables. Difficult to adjust and strengthen.
2. Hard suspension. Does not compensate for vibrations, transmits vibrations.
3. Standard "butterfly". The Armstrong system element is reliable, convenient, and at an average price.
4. Double butterfly. Quick and easy adjustment, for light to medium weights.
5. Threaded hanger. Easy to adjust, reliable, durable heavy weight, but expensive in cost.
6. Adjustable rigid suspension. Same as “hard”, only with adjustment.

In real practice, “butterflies” account for 70-80% of the entire installation. This is explained by the fact that suspended ceilings, in the vast majority of cases, are installed in industrial, commercial and public buildings, which involve huge areas. Convenience and speed of installation come to the fore. The first and second varieties are made on site from available material, option 6 is part of the cassette system and is supplied with it. The threaded hanger is universal and is used for heavy ceilings.

Guide rails

Their difference from other types of straight long profiles is that they have retaining elements in their design. These could be:

1. Shelves. The most popular type for ceilings made of individual cells. The panel is simply placed on the shelves and can also be easily removed. Convenient dismantling is well suited for places with many communications - they are easy to service by removing the necessary panels.
2. Latches. Elements of a cassette system in which the cells have mating latches. The panel is inserted into the prepared frame and is also removable. The panel finish can be anything - metal, fabric, mirror, etc.

Such guides have additional latches at the ends, which allow them to be spliced ​​in length and ensure ideal (in these conditions) joining.

Fundamentally, the guide system is a rigid frame suspended by fastener hooks. Moreover, in the case of a non-separable finish (for example, mirror), it is permissible to make it from ordinary UD and CD profiles and cover it with plasterboard.

Fill panels

As can be seen from the previous descriptions, the type of panels follows from the requirements for ceiling system. They come in three types.

Regular quick release panels. Have standard size(from 400x400 mm to 600x600 mm and 10-20 mm thick), mass-produced in factories. As a rule, the material is lightweight and relatively inexpensive. It has a familiar, unpretentious appearance and is easy to process and replace.

Advantages:

1. Most cheap option from suspended ceilings.
2. Even significant movements of the base are compensated (seismic resistance up to 3 points).
3. They have a standard size, which simplifies the installation of large volumes.
4. Free access to communications in the ceiling niche.
5. A variety of lamps to suit the panel size.

Flaws:

1. Simple appearance (squares).
2. The wide shelves of the frame are visible.

Panels with hidden fasteners (cassettes). The design of such panels includes a latch, which makes them more complex and expensive products. The rigid fastening allows the panels to be washed in place.

Advantages:

1. Large assortment exterior finishing panels.
2. Maintenance without removal.

Flaws:

1. Fixed structure (conditionally). Dismantling and access to communications is difficult.
2. Higher cost.

Panels for pasting. They can be made independently from the selected material, or according to a unique design project. These can simply be individual squares or figures made of mirror, PVC, polyurethane foam, etc. In this case, the frame is made from a gypsum plasterboard profile on adjustable hangers and covered with plasterboard.

Advantages:

1. You can implement any artistic solution, including non-standard elements.
2. There is no dependence on the location of the frame ribs; they are not visible.

Flaws:

1. Non-demountable design.
2. When the base vibrates, cracks at the joints are possible.

Suspended ceilings made of plasterboard sheets

It is not entirely correct to call a gypsum board ceiling on a rigid frame suspended. The fact is that when creating a gypsum board frame, rigid fastening of connections on U-hangers is used, which is also connected to the walls. The self-tapping screw pierces through the walls of the profile and compresses them. The difference between a suspended ceiling is that the plane frame is hooked onto adjustable hooks driven into the floor slab.

Advantages of a suspended ceiling made of gypsum plasterboard:

1. The minimum ceiling space is from 30 mm.
2. Durable solid base, ideal for pasting (for unique interiors).
3. The cost of the frame is several times cheaper.
4. Possibility to create any shaped three-dimensional elements.

Disadvantages of a suspended ceiling made of gypsum plasterboard:

1. Non-removable system. The ceiling space is blocked for access.
2. Requires further finishing.
3. Less precise adjustment of gimbals.
4. Fastening the suspension to 2-3 points (according to technology) versus 1 point for Armstrong type suspensions.
5. Limited distance from the slab to the plane (maximum for the length of the suspension up to 350 mm). Suspensions of collapsible ceilings can be lowered to any distance.

Functionality of collapsible suspended ceilings

A plane suspended at a certain height creates a niche between the floor slab and the finishing layer, the height of which can be calculated and set in advance. This gives an advantage in terms of the location of various highways and communications, which can be hidden in a niche under the ceiling:

1. Ventilation box.
2. Wires.
3. Water supply and sewerage pipes.
4. Lighting fixtures.
5. Heating devices.
6. Video surveillance systems, acoustic and others.

This advantageous “plus” inevitably demonstrates its reverse side— the space required to accommodate communications will be allocated from total height premises. That is, the ceiling will become lower by at least 100-120 mm. This is not entirely convenient when finishing an apartment in a panel house with a ceiling height of 2.4-2.5 m, but it is quite suitable for a height of more than 2.7 m.

Care and use

Any system of any suspended ceiling is suitable for all rooms that provide the technical possibility of installing a frame. According to the requirements, the panels are made from material with the best fire resistance and toxic safety characteristics, so they are suitable for children's institutions and rooms.

There are two types of maintenance for suspended ceilings:

1. Removal and cleaning. This option is suitable for panels laid on the “shelves” of the frame. Allows you to quickly and safely clean all panels on the floor - no need to constantly rearrange the ladder.
2. Cleaning in place. Suitable for conditionally non-removable (cassette) and non-removable (under pasting) ceilings. In this case, the panels represent a rigid plane that does not become loose when rubbed.

Advice. When choosing cassette or mirror panels, pay attention to glossy surface and antistatic coating. Dust and grease settle less on such a surface. This will increase the interval between cleaning the ceiling up to 3 times (once every 6 months versus once every 15-18 months).

Another undoubted advantage of this system is the ability partial replacement section of the plane. If damaged or dirty (for example, by accidental splashes of champagne or paint), the panels can be replaced independently (this does not require special skills or tools).

Prices for suspended ceilings*

*Price includes guides and hangers.

Suspended ceiling - not only decorative element. For example, thanks to adjustable hangers, it can be lowered to a given height, thereby reducing the volume of the room and reducing heating costs. In this case, the space above the finishing will not be lost - communication routes will be located there. It’s also difficult to overestimate the design capabilities decorative finishing rooms provided by the use of a suspended ceiling.

The ceiling surface as such does not offer a wide range of finishing possibilities. Traditionally, it was refined with paint or lime coatings, but in recent years the situation has changed radically. Innovations were introduced by the concept of a suspended frame, which allows the implementation of a wide variety of design ideas, from the point of view of external design. We can say that such structures replace the main surface, which has a beneficial effect on the quality of installation operations. At the same time, there are different types each of which focuses on one or another technical and operational characteristic. But almost all variations of such finishing involve ensuring the aesthetic appearance of the surface and increasing the insulating qualities of 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 are made of aluminum with a low 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 decorative surface. There are two finishing methods: using traditional panels or using tension materials. As for the usual finishing, it is represented by plasterboard slabs, panels made of plastic, and the same aluminum in the form of slats or rectangular modules.

A separate category includes fabric material based on polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Although this solution seems rather fragile and fragile, in practice it demonstrates very good wear resistance. Manufacturers' tests demonstrate that PVC suspended ceilings can withstand loads of up to 100 liters of water. The structure will withstand such a volume in flood conditions.

Types of plasterboard boards

The group of tile finishes for suspended ceilings is mostly represented by gypsum plasterboards. This is due to the fact that this material It has 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 and provide smooth surface, but can only be used in rooms with normal humidity levels.

TO special types include fire-resistant and moisture-resistant boards. In the first case, it is a material that is resistant to impacts. open flame. If you plan to install it in the bathroom, then you should use such slabs that not only are resistant to moisture penetration, but also prevent the formation of fungi and mold.

Cellular ceilings

The original decorative effect of the ceiling is achieved by the 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 covered with a background substrate. At the same time, the shape and size of the honeycombs 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 difficulty of installing elements in complexly configured rooms. If a plastic suspended ceiling is used, it can be adjusted manually to certain dimensions, ensuring smooth joints. If an aluminum module is used, then high-quality processing It is better to make edges to order in the factory.

Slat ceilings

In finishing the ceiling surfaces of private houses and apartments, slatted elements are rarely used. This practical solution, but it decorative possibilities not as high compared to alternative options. Externally, the surface resembles clapboard paneling or a plank floor, although it is made of more attractive plastic. Public premises and offices are traditional places where slatted suspended ceilings are used. Prices in in this case quite affordable - about 200 rubles. for 1 m 2. For comparison, standard plastic panels cost approximately 400-500 rubles. for 1 piece Aluminum slats are the most common, since this material is resistant to both mechanical damage and humidity and temperature. By the way, these characteristics allow you to install ceilings in the bathroom or kitchen, where performance comes first.

Design options

Installation of a suspended ceiling

Work begins with fastening the frame. Bottom part profiles are installed horizontally, after which slats, slabs or other finishing material are fixed to the finished base. In the case of single-level structures, the load-bearing structures are located in one direction parallel to each other. Direct fastening of the suspended ceiling is carried out using anchor elements or ceiling dowels. In addition to the parallel configuration of the profiles, a 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

The finishing touches must include sealing the seams with putty in a color that matches the base material. Reinforcing strips are embedded in the gaps, which also impart rigidity to the structure. Next, the joints are sanded. Application paint coatings not always required. For example, if a suspended ceiling was installed, in which the texture itself creates a decorative effect, this operation is not required. But ordinary plasterboards 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 advantageous in that they allow you to hide communication routes in their niche. By adjusting the height of the suspensions, telephone cables and electrical wiring can be laid in the formed channel, as well as the bases of lamp housings can be integrated there. This opportunity is especially valuable if you plan to install suspended ceilings in the kitchen, where ventilation ducts also pass. In addition, insulating materials are often placed in the ceiling 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 cannot underestimate their complexity and high demands to the rigidity of the frame. And the slabs themselves can be subject to loads that consist of the mass of profiles and attached communication elements. Carefully calculating the characteristics of materials, specialists install durable and stable suspended ceilings. Prices for structures with a reliable power base are quite acceptable: 300-400 rubles. on average it costs one profile element high quality. Finishing small room with such a frame, the total cost will be about 2-3 thousand, excluding the facing material, which will cost about the same amount. Of course, if we are talking about a simple design that is undemanding in terms of aesthetic characteristics, then you can get by with less expensive means.

One of the components of the modern interior of any room is suspended ceilings. Ceilings of this type will not surprise anyone today. They can be seen in public and government institutions, industrial premises and private houses, city apartments. Such designs are successfully used in the reconstruction of old premises.

What is a suspended ceiling?

This special design, consisting of a light frame and a variety of facing materials and elements. In most cases, the supporting frame of a suspended ceiling has the form of a metal lattice, which is held in place by special hangers attached to the ceiling or wall. Only after the initial stage of strengthening the frame has been completed are various facing elements attached. The main condition for these cladding elements is same shape and dimensions with ceiling panels. Experts call these elements differently: modules or registries.

Today, suspended ceilings are the most practical design of ceiling space. Very often, this type of ceiling is used in cases where it is necessary for the ceilings to be “invisible”, but at the same time maintain access to engineering systems and communications – electrical, television and computer wiring; thermal and ventilation equipment. Some lighting devices, ventilation grilles and fire systems are quite easily built into such structures. The acoustics in a room with a suspended ceiling are noticeably improved.

Advantages:

• Aesthetics. A suspended ceiling allows you to hide all the shortcomings of the “host ceiling”. What is very important: there is no need to work on leveling the ceiling surface, and also periodically paint or whitewash the ceiling after and during its operation.
• Durability. Most companies producing and installing suspended ceilings provide a long-term warranty. And this takes into account the fact that the manufacturing company often plays it safe - in fact, the ceiling structure will serve you faithfully much longer without changing its quality and external characteristics.
• High resistance to temperature changes and provision of heat and sound insulation, which is important for residents of high-rise buildings. Now noisy neighbors will be far from your ears, and you can save on heating.
• Simple care that does not require material costs, a lot of time and effort (but more on that a little later).

Flaws:

• The most significant drawback is that the distance between the ceiling and floor is reduced. The suspended structure makes the room 5-15 cm lower. This is especially significant for rooms with a ceiling height of up to 3 meters.
• Relatively high cost. Of course, ordinary whitewashing or painting does not require special material investments, but sealing cracks and leveling the ceiling is a waste of money and additional inconvenience in the form of construction waste, dust and dirt. In addition, such activities will take much longer than installing a suspended ceiling.
• We need to attract specialists. In order to install a suspended ceiling, you need special knowledge, equipment and construction skills. Only highly qualified specialists will clearly, quickly and competently carry out all the stages of constructing a suspended ceiling.
• Cheaper options suspended structures“not friendly” with humidity. If you are regularly flooded by your neighbors, it is necessary to change the structural elements - and this takes time and a significant financial investment.

Main types of suspended ceilings

In order to introduce the main types of suspended ceilings, you need to know that they differ from each other in certain parameters:

• by shape and size;
• by type of facing material;
• according to the connection method.

According to the shape of the facing elements, suspended ceilings can be: modular, lattice, slatted, solid.

Modular suspended ceilings

Modern market building structures and materials offers a wide selection of suspended modular ceilings. The wide variety of these designs is explained by the fact that all their module elements are finished products, manufactured in a factory and do not require further processing.

Based on the shape of the facing modules, the following groups are distinguished: panel or tile, cassette, cellular and slatted. A special type of modules are gypsum frames; they are used for installing slabs of any material.

Cladding modules are made from the following materials: metal, mineral fiber, gypsum, plasterboard, wood and plastic. The shape of the module is determined by the material it is made of. So, cassette and slatted ceilings There are only metal ones.

Suspended ceilings appeared on the domestic building materials market in the early 90s. Since then they have gained enormous popularity. This is due to a number of advantages: attractive appearance, ease of installation, reliability and practicality. With their help you can hide communications running along the ceiling, for example, ventilation duct or electrical wiring. Suspended ceilings are used in the decoration of premises with various purposes.

Suspended ceiling designs make it possible to realize any fantasies and ideas of the owners of apartments and houses.

Today, suspended (or suspended) ceilings are an integral part of the interior of trading floors, offices, restaurants, etc. In addition to their decorative function, their use helps create good acoustics and optimal conditions microclimate.

Currently, depending on what material is used in manufacturing, as well as design features, the following types of suspended ceilings are distinguished:

• gypsum and plasterboard;
• cassette;
• mirrored;
• glass.

Design, application and advantages of gypsum and plasterboard suspended ceilings

Drywall is very flexible, which allows you to create any necessary geometric shapes.

They provide an opportunity to effectively decorate various rooms. Their use is advisable both in residential buildings, and in public institutions: hospitals, beauty salons, exhibition halls, etc. Gypsum ceilings can be used to create an interior in any style due to a wide range of reliefs. They look most impressive indoors large area. The variety of types of panels allows you to choose them both for decorating a room in the style of an ancient palace, and modern interiors. Plasterboards are used to create acoustic ceilings or to give a room a more modern look.

Structurally, such ceilings consist of slabs (they are also called panels) mounted on a suspension system. It, in turn, is attached to the ceilings. The name already indicates that gypsum is the main material used in the manufacture of such slabs. To give greater physical strength, they can be additionally reinforced with fiberglass mesh. Gypsum board uses a cellulose sheath to provide rigidity.

Depending on the weight, they are regular and lightweight. Lightening the design is achieved through a special production technology, in which the material is dried to form granules. The appearance of the panels can be smooth, embossed or perforated. In the process of forming a suspended ceiling, you can combine various types panels. As a result, it is possible to create a decorative surface with a wide variety of patterns.

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Advantages of using this type of ceilings

Drywall is environmentally friendly pure material, does not burn, does not contain toxins and cannot cause allergies.

Gypsum, as well as products made from it, has the following advantages:

1. Highly environmentally friendly. This material is natural and therefore safe. This property allows the use of gypsum and plasterboard boards in medical institutions.
2. High degree of light reflection. It can reach 80%, which makes it possible not to use additional lighting during the daytime.
3. Decorative. The variety of models and their attractive appearance allow you to create interiors in almost any style.
4. High sound insulation. Its appearance is determined by the type of panels: perforated ones absorb sound, and smooth ones reflect.
5. High fire resistance. This material is non-flammable, which allows the use of such slabs in rooms where fire safety requirements are quite high.
6. Efficiency of installation. It is provided by what is not required preliminary preparation floors. Installation takes only a few hours.

Due to the fact that regular and moisture-resistant versions of the slabs are produced, they can be used to cover both the ceiling of rooms with normal humidity and those with high humidity, for example, in a bathroom.

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Application of cassette ceilings, their design and advantages

The main advantage of cassette suspended structures is the ability to install any type of lighting and climate control communications.

Structurally, this type of suspended ceiling consists of cassettes, in the manufacture of which the following materials can be used: aluminum with a bimetallic coating and galvanized rolled metal. Their processing technology differs to some extent. Aluminum cassettes are polished using chemicals, which allows them to achieve a mirror shine, and galvanized steel is painted using powder mixtures. At the base of the ceiling there is a suspension system.

It consists of main and transverse guides, a wall angle and adjustable hangers. Steel or aluminum is used in the manufacture of all its elements. As is known, these materials are highly resistant to the corrosive effects of moisture and can withstand the destructive effects of various chemicals. Thanks to this, the entire structure of cassette suspended ceilings is under reliable protection.

Very often you can find them in office premises, shops, restaurants, laboratories and even swimming pools. In the latter case, their use is advisable due to their high resistance to moisture. They can be used to decorate residential premises, most often bathrooms. Range of coating applications of this type quite wide, which is mainly due to its technical and operational characteristics.

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The advantage of using this design

A very important advantage for designers, which other types of suspended ceilings do not have to the same extent, is the ability to install any type of lighting and climate control communications. To do this, it is enough to dismantle just one panel. In addition, such ceilings have the following advantages:

1. Ease of installation. The entire structure is assembled very quickly and can also be quickly disassembled if dismantling is necessary. If it becomes necessary to replace one element, it is not necessary to dismantle the entire ceiling.
2. Long service life. The materials used in manufacturing are able to maintain their performance for a long time, which explains this advantage.
3. High degree of hygiene. It is enough to wipe such a ceiling with a dry or damp cloth. Due to the fact that the material has a chemical structure that is resistant to the appearance of fungi and mold, their use is advisable in medical institutions.
4. Moisture resistant. The coating, consisting of several layers, reliably protects materials from the destructive effects of moisture.
5. High fire resistance due to extremely low degree of fire.

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Comparison of the considered types of suspended ceilings

Glass and mirror ceilings visually increase the height of the room due to reflection.

The characteristics of glass and mirror structures were not presented above. This is due to the fact that they have the same design as cassette suspended ceilings. The only difference is the material used. Instead of metal, glass and mirror are used, respectively. Their technical and operational indicators are quite close to those of aluminum and galvanized metal.

Comparing the main advantages various designs, you can see that they are very similar. Therefore, the feasibility of using a particular type of ceiling is influenced mainly by the material used, its external qualities and cost. Gypsum and plasterboard ceilings are most suitable for use in residential premises. This is due to the fact that this material is natural, which creates a more comfortable atmosphere. In addition, it is possible to create a truly unique relief on the ceiling. Other types of suspended ceilings are not able to provide this opportunity.

In turn, cassette, mirror and glass structures provide the best performance and practical properties. That's why they found wide application when decorating office premises, restaurants, shopping centers etc. If we consider from the point of view of ease of installation, then plasterboard ceilings definitely have an advantage, because If you have certain skills in working with tools, you can do it yourself. Cassette ceilings are much more difficult to install for a non-professional. This is due to the fact that it is required to produce very accurate calculations, considering large number nuances of the room.