Ceiling panels: how to choose

The ceiling - not only the part of the room that bounds it from above, it plays an important role - determines the general look of the room, makes it cozy. With the right design, it can visually increase or decrease the space, divide it into functional zones. The mood of the household, the impression of the guests when visiting is largely dependent on the chosen decoration, which can both darken and give a solemn look to the interior.

To trim the ceiling must be very carefully, as it is always in sight and the slightest flaw or defect will be noticeable. The construction market offers a huge selection of building materials, the use of which will allow the surface to match any design. Particularly noteworthy ceiling panels, occupying a huge niche. They are popular, it is a great alternative to old-fashioned wallpaper, plaster, drywall.

Features

The use of panels for finishing allows you to quickly update the ceiling in the house or apartment, while the costs associated with the repair work will be minimal. Finishing material is a plate of various sizes. According to the method of attachment, they can be divided into two main groups:

• Elements are mounted directly to the overlap. Connection to the surface occurs by gluing plates to it. Such options include foam, polystyrene, separate PVC strips.
• Installation is made on a pre-prepared frame, crate. Aluminum, MDF, metal, plastic panels correspond to this group.

Panel ceilings are ubiquitous. This is due to the fact that using building materials, the room can be given the necessary style, to combine the type of overlap with the selected flooring and wall decoration, to merge with the general interior of the room.

Advantages and disadvantages

The demand for ceiling tiles due to various factors. They have excellent aesthetic properties, emphasize the interior of the room, made in a variety of styles. They are used in any room, be it an entrance hall, kitchen, living room, balcony or loggia. The main advantages of the material include the following characteristics:

• low cost;
• simple installation, to perform work under the force of almost everyone, without needing to buy special tools, for finishing suitable construction tools, which can be found in every house;
• most of the raw materials used for the manufacture of products, is moisture resistant, which allows you to install structures in the bathroom, toilet, other rooms with high humidity;
• ideally smooth surfaces are created with the help of panels, while under them it is easy to hide the wiring, engineering communications;
• the coating allows you to mask any defects, such as cracks, irregularities, joints of floors;

• if one of the elements is damaged, it can be easily replaced independently;
• many models are distinguished by high heat and sound insulation;
• most materials are easily cleaned by standard means;
• products are characterized as safe, even made of plastic, they do not emit harmful substances;
• The plates are produced in different sizes, which makes it possible to use them in various areas of the area;
• flame retardant components are used for manufacturing.

Ceiling panels have certain disadvantages. With their help, it is impossible to create complex structures in several levels. On large areas, the coating does not look attractive. Quality, respectively, and service life, depend on the price. Panel finish is unstable to mechanical damage, sunlight, some species after a certain time begin to crumble.

Ceiling Panel Materials

Products are made of different raw materials on which their functionality and appearance depend. Mainly used for the production of MDF, glass, metal, PVC, polystyrene foam, wood, aluminum, fiberboard, drywall, and other components. The main purpose of such structures is decoration. However, there are options with heat, sound insulation properties, panels, heaters, moisture-proof models designed for wet rooms.

The proposed range of plates is quite large. It is very difficult to determine among such a variety. After all, not only the appearance but also the method of attachment depends on the material. For example, Armstrong suspended systems are very popular for cassette ceilings, which are used everywhere; they can be combined with products from other manufacturers. Let us consider in more detail the existing types of plates.

Wood

Natural components used for lining are always popular. They give the room a solid look, emphasize the refined taste of the owners of the house. With the help of this building material create a very prestigious interior, which corresponds to the eco style.

One of the main finishing options is a wooden slatted board (clapboard). This type of building material is known to everyone, is also used to decorate the walls. There is a wide variety of models, but they all share a way of installation. All slats are mounted on a wooden or profile frame.

Less common are square plates. Their cost is higher than rack counterparts, installation is more complicated, but the use of such elements gives the room a unique, original image, especially carved models.

Bamboo and cork panels that can give an exotic room deserve special attention. The first option is a woven mat made of thin bamboo slats. Cork, although it has an unconventional design, is not suitable for every monastery.

Wood is best used in dry rooms. To install such structures in the bathroom, the kitchen will need treatment with special paints, impregnations that increase the resistance of wood to moisture.

Metallic

Panels made of metal are used in rooms where it is necessary to organize good ventilation, to mask the fire extinguishing system. For the production of high-quality products, aluminum is mainly used, as well as low-cost options, which are thin-walled steel sheets coated with nickel or zinc.

The line of metal models is quite wide. They may have a matte, glossy, mirror, decorative (stone, wood) coating. There are options with polymer staining, original texture, variations with built-in infrared elements that can heat the space. With the help of them quietly sew communication.

Metal structures are characterized by refractory and moisture-resistant properties. Suitable for cassette and strip coatings. The first method is used mainly in public, commercial, entertainment facilities. The second one has found its use in residential premises, in rooms with high humidity, although the presence of a large range allows them to be used almost everywhere.

Reiki have the form of staples with curved edges, which are attached to special guides, equipped with hooks. Since the metal does not let air through, there is always a ventilation gap between the ceiling and the walls. The gap is masked by a special plinth.

Panels of basalt or fiberglass

A great option for repair are fiberglass plates. They are made of ultrathin glass fibers glued with polyester resin under the influence of high temperatures, which provides the finished product with high strength and uniform structure. In addition, this material has such qualities as moisture resistance, fire resistance, retains heat well, it is chemically inert, impact resistant. In addition, it has good decorative properties, which allows the use of fiberglass not only in residential buildings, but also in offices, office buildings, public canteens, even in production shops.

Basalt panels (stone wool) consist of 95% of stone threads stretched under the influence of high temperatures, the remaining 5% are occupied by special binding additives. Use finished products when creating home interiors, in industrial, medical institutions. This building material perfectly absorbs sound, does not burn, does not even melt, and basalt fiber does not contain organics, which prevents the appearance of mold on the surface.

Plastic and polyurethane panels

The material is easy to clean from contamination, moreover, it is inert in water, so most often such models are installed in the bathroom, corridor, hallway, loggia. Less commonly used in the kitchen, in the bath. This is due to the fact that the plastic under the influence of a temperature exceeding 60 degrees, begins to melt, release toxic substances.

When ignited, melted plastic, it must be extinguished and cooled. Hot material on the skin may cause severe burns.

All polymer structures can be divided into two large groups: lath, square. The great demand for material is related to its properties, such as:

• flexibility; plasticity can be given any shape;
• products are available in different colors and textures;
• the cost is low, which saves on repair work;
• high-quality models do not fade under the influence of sunlight;
• assembly under the force to do it yourself.

The main disadvantages of building materials can be called its low mechanical strength, but at the height of this is not noticeable. It also does not withstand high temperatures, which limits its scope.

MDF panels

They are used in public buildings, offices, commercial premises. The house is mainly used for facing the hallway, loggia, at least - the living room, bedroom. Can be installed both on the walls and on the ceiling. They represent a fibreboard obtained by pressing at high pressure and temperature of shredded wood chips.

Depending on the appearance of the front side, all models are divided into flat and embossed. The first ones are covered with veneer of valuable wood species, a polymer film, the second one has a three-dimensional pattern. Paintwork materials are used as a coating. Rack, square and leaf versions are available.

Products are characterized by low cost and ease of installation, a large selection of colors, the presence of a natural pattern, a decorative image. When installing them, no additional preparation of the walls is required, under them you can hide the wiring and engineering communications.

Glass and Mirror Panels

Such constructions are used in the interior design of public and residential premises. With their help, you can visually expand the space, perform zoning. In this case, not only mirrors have reflective properties, it can be plastic, polyurethane plates, covered with a mirror film on top, aluminum slats, treated with a special reflective layer, which are much lighter than glass.

Analogues of glass tiles, though they have less weight, but do not look so solid. Glass panels, thanks to the application of amalgam, are not inferior to a standard mirror. There is a wide variety of such coatings that can be made of silicate or acrylic plexiglass. At the same time the mirror ceiling can have a matte finish, art painting.

The price of such a finish is very high. But the plates are characterized by a long service life, resistance to moisture and temperature changes. Under them you can place any lighting devices, give the room a unique, unique design.

Styrofoam Panels

Among the wide variety of materials, many prefer foam polystyrene. This is a kind of foam. The raw material is foamed in a special way, due to which the product has a low weight. The coating has good aesthetic characteristics, has a low cost, it can be used to realize different design ideas. The product is environmentally friendly, despite the fact that under the influence of high temperatures produces toxic fumes.

There are several types of this building material. They differ in the method of manufacture. This may be extruded tile, which is produced by mechanical stamping; extruded - obtained in a complicated way using a special unit (extruder); Injection - produced by pouring raw materials into the mold.

Installation can be done by gluing the slab directly to the ceiling. Ideal option for the weak overlappings not capable to maintain considerable loadings. Before starting work, the surface must be prepared, to eliminate defects, cracks, chips. Experts recommend gluing building material from the center of the room, which is determined by marking.

Drywall

Habitual material is often used for the arrangement of the ceiling. For installation requires a powerful frame that can withstand a large load. The substance is environmentally friendly, malleable when processing, with it you can create a smooth, beautiful surface.

There are many types of this building material. Produce standard, moisture-resistant, fire-resistant, arched, acoustic, other models. Thickness varies from 6.5 mm to 12.5 mm. It is not recommended to install thick plates on the ceiling. It is better to stitch the usual, completeness to 9.5 mm.

Before installation, the material should be otlozhatsya a little in a dry place, so that excessive moisture has evaporated from it. Installation can be done without battens, if you have a fairly smooth wooden surface. Basically, it is customary to assemble suspended structures.

PVC Panels

One of the most affordable building materials. PVC panels are easy to install and easy to maintain. Installation under the force to perform any person with minimal construction skills. Finished products are very light, have a cellular structure.

PVC plates are a real find for any designer. Their color palette is diverse, they are able to imitate natural materials. From above can be pasted over with a thermofilm, to have the laminated covering, also the direct press is applied on them. According to the method of connecting the lamellae among themselves, there are three main groups: seamless, embossed, with a bevel.

In shape and size, all PVC panels can be divided into lath, wall, tile, sheet. Installation can be made on a wooden or metal batten, even on a plastic frame. Installation begins with an angle located in the opposite side of the window or door.

Mounting methods

The ceiling can be decorated with panels of various types. Before you begin, all your actions must be carefully planned. It should be noted that the products may differ in thickness, width, appearance of the front part, feature of fastening. There are several ways to attach structures to the ceiling:

• Cassette suspension. Decorative modules and various profiles are mounted easily and quickly on pre-prepared guide rails;
• Rack mounting. Installation is carried out on a special frame. Rack profile is customized in size. Lean against the ceiling and snap fasteners tires;
• Gluing. The method is suitable for lightweight polystyrene, laminated, extruded plates. For fixing it is better to choose special formulations, but simple PVA or Moment glue will do. You can create the effect of a seamless ceiling by treating the joints with silicone sealant;
• Thorn-groove system. With the help of a locking connection, the elements easily and reliably fit together, creating a smooth surface. Mount them on a wooden crate. Installation does not require alignment of the walls. Fastening method is suitable for plastic, MDF models.

Design and colors

Thanks to modern materials, the ceiling can be updated without much difficulty. The easiest way is to use ceiling panels. With their help, you can create both standard and most unimaginable interior design. In addition to traditional materials - metal, plastic, wood, glass, special moisture-proof, acoustic mounted products can be used.

Looks great on the ceiling correctly selected wooden wall paneling. From natural material you can create weighty compositions, giving it a different texture and color. Originally look cork, bamboo plates, mineral lining of sawdust. Such a ceiling would be appropriate in eco interior.

Gray metal panels will look good in the interior of high-tech, minimalism. A popular solution is the alternation of matte and glossy plates. Painted polymer stretch surface complement the art house. The most fantasy design can be realized with the help of designs made of polyvinyl chloride. Products let out various invoices, flowers, forms. Mirror, glass elements sheathe any room. A popular design idea is a voluminous ceiling decor. Оригинально смотрится поверхность с устройством 3D элементов в виде волн, сот, различной растительностью.

Примеры применения в интерьере квартиры/дома

Classic cassette panels made of natural wood always remain stylish. Even an inexpensive equivalent will look beautiful and aristocratic. Rack finishing light colors perfectly fit into the Scandinavian style, minimalism. Such an interior is suitable for a small apartment or a spacious country house.

Acrylic plates will look good in any room. This is a versatile material for the bedroom, toilet, kitchen, hallway. From economical plastic, wooden lining you get a beautiful, smooth ceiling, even on an uneven surface. White foam finish will fill with light and ease any room. With the help of ceiling panels, you can create a surface in a restrained, classic style, or assemble a complex multi-level design with designer lighting.

Tips for choosing

The variety of types and forms of panels makes them difficult to choose. The first step is to decide on the material of manufacture It should fit the general interior of the room, the decoration of the walls, the floor. To design served a long time, the choice should be made taking into account the characteristics of each type:

• Plastic plates should be smooth with a clear geometry, uniform distribution of the pattern. To ensure sufficient strength, the element must be squeezed with fingers with effort;
• Wooden products should not have cracks, chips. For each type of wood, small errors are allowed, which reduces their cost. But it is better to use elements with a clear pattern, without burrs, scratches, blue;
• Foam blocks should be selected only with a smooth, sharp, identical pattern across the surface. Quality tiles do not break when dropped or shaken lightly;
• 3D panels have different features and features. Preferring this type of finish, should take into account the purpose of the room. It can be natural models, fireproof, moisture resistant;
• Aluminum parts should have a minimum thickness of 0.5 cm. If they are thinner, the structure can be quickly deformed at the initial stage of operation.

Conclusion

When choosing a ceiling covering for a home or office, you should pay special attention to panels for the ceiling. The construction market offers a huge selection of materials that will be an excellent alternative to conventional whitewashing, painting. Due to the large variety of plates, you can make a unique interior that will bring warmth and comfort to the house, will always cheer up the occupant