Contents
- Tips for choosing stretch ceilings
- Which ceiling is better – plasterboard, stretch or rack
- Rating of the best manufacturers of stretch ceilings
- The best PVC stretch ceilings
- Alkor Draka
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
- Barrisol
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
- EXTENZO
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
- NEWMAT
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
- RENOLIT
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
- Lack foil
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
- PTMC Polyplast
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
- MSD
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
- SAROS DESIGN
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
- Clay
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
- Arridel
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
- The best fabric stretch ceilings
To install a stretch ceiling, it is necessary to attach a special corner with a groove around the perimeter, and then stretch the roll material itself, heating the air with a heat gun. It takes 2-3 hours per room and does not require furniture rearrangement. Subsequent cleaning of the premises is minimal. The first such ceiling was invented in France, therefore often the products are called “French stretch ceiling”, although over time they began to be produced in other countries. If you are already thinking about choosing such a material for finishing, consider the list of the best manufacturers of stretch ceilings, which will simplify the choice.
Tips for choosing stretch ceilings
To make it easier to conduct your own selection of companies whose products you want to buy, we highlight six key parameters. Knowing them, you will be able to independently evaluate the product and give preference to the most suitable for specific operating conditions.
Material of manufacture
No matter how much there are rumors that stretch ceilings are made of silk and other materials, in fact they are made of either PVC or fabric. Moreover, the latter is called a fabric, since it is not a continuous casting, but a plexus of polymer fibers, visually resembling textiles. Polyvinyl chloride film ceilings are considered less durable than fabric ones, but they are cheaper. Polyester fabric impregnated with polyurethane has increased resistance to stress and lasts up to 50 years.
Thickness
The next important factor is the cross section of the material. The indicator varies from 0.15 to 0.35 mm. The higher it is, the stronger the ceiling. It will be more difficult to pierce it with a champagne cork, a flying toy or long objects. The increased thickness aids shape retention and effectively resists stretching.
Maximum roll width
Manufacturers produce fabrics for stretch ceilings in rolls with a width of 1.4 to 5.4 m. Ideally, you should choose a product that matches the width of the room, then you will close the ceiling with one continuous background without a seam. If you buy a film of 3 m for a room with a width of 1.5 m, then in the middle there will be a joint that is visible from the side and affects the aesthetics of the finish.
Texture
The most common surface types are:
Lacquer is a very smooth PVC with a gloss that reflects objects. Almost mirror film is beneficial in small rooms to visually enlarge the space.
Mat – very similar to a perfectly puttied surface. Some manufacturers have even learned to imitate the roughness of the finish, which is difficult to distinguish from natural to the naked eye. This is the best option for classic design in apartments, classrooms and offices.
Satin is somewhere between a glossy and matte finish, combining a fabric texture with some sheen.
Color
When choosing a ceiling manufacturer, pay attention to the variety of colors, since some companies have only 6 colors, while others have 230 and more. A rich palette will help you buy a product to combine with wallpaper, furniture, flooring, or play in contrast.
Special types of canvases
In addition to design solutions, stretch ceilings also come with special functions. Among them are antibacterial, frost-resistant, acoustic, anti-mud. This makes them more attractive for certain areas of operation, but increases the cost of the goods.
Which ceiling is better – plasterboard, stretch or rack
To finally establish the correct choice of material for decoration, let’s compare the stretch ceiling with other common building products. In the table, the experts highlighted the pros and cons of each option, well emphasizing the difference.
CEILING FINISH MATERIAL TYPE | ADVANTAGES | НЕДОСТАТКИ |
FILM, FABRIC (STRETCH) | + NO MOVING OF FURNITURE REQUIRED + INSTALLATION TAKES 2-3 HOURS +MINIMUM INDOOR AFTER CLEANING + EASY TO WASH + EASY TO HIDE WIRES + THE SUBSTRATE SHOULD ONLY BE CLEARED FROM GARBAGE AND THE TILE JOINTS SHOULDED + LARGE CHOICE OF COLORS + WELL COVERS ALL DEFECTS ON THE CEILING + DOES NOT BE DAMAGED BY MOISTURE | – CAN BE EASILY DAMAGED BY HARD OBJECTS – SLIPS WITH TIME AND NEEDS TIGHTENING – DIFFICULT TO INSTALL YOURSELF -HIGH PRICE -IF THE WIRING LEADING TO THE CHANDELIER BURN OUT, IT IS DIFFICULT TO REPAIR -WHEN LARGE PIECES OF PLASTER ARE SPOWDERING ON THE FILM CEILING, PUNCHES ARE VISIBLE -“STEALS” THE HEIGHT OF THE ROOM – DIFFICULT REPAIR OF punctures or cuts |
PLASTIC RAIL | +EASY INSTALLATION + EASY CARE +VARIETY OF COLORS + UNDER IT IS NOT DIFFICULT TO HIDE COMMUNICATIONS + NO PREPARATION IS REQUIRED + AFFORDABLE COST + CEILING RESISTANT TO MOISTURE + EASY TO REPAIR A DAMAGED ELEMENT | -LOWER ROOM HEIGHT – GARBAGE ACCUMULATES BETWEEN THE RAILS -LONGER INSTALLATION TIME -HARD TO REPLACE DAMAGED COMMUNICATIONS |
Gypsum Board | + BASE DOES NOT NEED PREPARATION + SIMPLE INSTALLATION WITH SELF-TAPPING SCREWS + BEAUTIFUL MULTILEVEL DESIGNS ARE POSSIBLE + ANY DAMAGE CAN BE REPAIRED WITHOUT A SIGNATURE | – GYPSUMBOARD JOINTS NEED ADDITIONAL PUTTY -LONG INSTALLATION PROCESS (ESPECIALLY WITH FRAME) – LABOR-INtensive SUBSEQUENT CLEANING -WILL NEED A REPLACEMENT OF FURNITURE – COMPARATIVELY LOW MOISTURE RESISTANCE |
Rating of the best manufacturers of stretch ceilings
Nomination | Place | Manufacturer | Rating |
---|---|---|---|
The best PVC stretch ceilings | 1 | Alkor Draka | 5.0 |
2 | Barrisol | 4.9 | |
3 | EXTENZO | 4.8 | |
4 | NEWMAT | 4.7 | |
5 | RENOLIT | 4.6 | |
6 | Lack foil | 4.5 | |
7 | PTMC Polyplast | 4.4 | |
8 | MSD | 4.3 | |
9 | SAROS DESIGN | 4.2 | |
10 | Clay | 4.1 | |
11 | Arridel | 4.0 | |
The best fabric stretch ceilings | 1 | Pongs | 5.0 |
2 | Clipso | 4.9 | |
3 | Cerutti | 4.8 | |
4 | discoloration | 4.7 |
The best PVC stretch ceilings
Stretch ceilings with PVC film are the most affordable in their class. Thanks to the matte and glossy texture, the finish can imitate both an ideal putty and a mirror base. Here are a number of manufacturers whose film has the best performance and has received positive feedback from craftsmen and users.
Alkor Draka
Rating: 5.0
In the first place is a company from the Netherlands, which has been specializing in PVC products for over 60 years. But since production facilities are already available in different countries, PVC ceilings can be bought produced in France or another European state. In total, in the manufacturer’s catalog you can find 8 collections that differ in extraordinary patterns. Among them: Shine with a dark purple hue, Fantasy with color drawings for a children’s room, and “Summer”, which imitates a clear blue sky with rare clouds. In all cases, the manufacturer uses a stretch ceiling material thickness of 0.35 mm and all products belong to the KM1 fire safety class, that is, they do not burn at all.
Experts liked the manufacturer with the Suede collection, where stretch PVC imitates natural leather with small villi. This makes the ceiling finish visually warmer and adds richness to the interior.
Advantages
ceilings withstand water loads up to 150 liters per m²;
there are interesting colors and patterns;
the tension fabric has a cross section of 0.35 mm;
availability of all necessary Russian certificates.
Disadvantages
most products are 140-150 cm wide, which is only suitable for making narrow strips on the ceiling or two-tier structures.
Barrisol
Rating: 4.9
Under this brand, tension-type ceiling systems are produced by Normalu in France. The brand itself was registered in 1975. Now it is the world leader in the production of film materials for suspended finishes, and the manufacturer’s catalog contains products for both designers and architects, as well as for ordinary users. Materials are sold in 145 countries. In total, the company produces 20 collections of stretch fabrics with 230 color options. All products come with a 10 year factory warranty.
A clear advantage of the manufacturer is the patented technology for the production of light-diffusing ceilings, where the lighting elements are hidden behind the film. Thanks to this, the light comes from the ceiling itself and is distributed more evenly throughout the room. It becomes a real highlight of the interior and is well suited for both private residences and conference rooms.
Advantages
factory warranty is 10 years;
more than 230 PVC colors available;
there are acoustic stretch fabrics;
most series are suitable for places with high humidity.
Disadvantages
some collections have a thickness of 0.15 mm, which loses to competitors.
EXTENZO
Rating: 4.8
The review continues with the French manufacturer EXTENZO, which began its activities in 1974. It is this company that created the harpoon system for fixing the stretch film, which was then borrowed by other companies. Now the manufacturer’s factories operate both in France and in Germany, Russia, Canada, Algeria, Thailand, Norway, South Korea and Italy. Despite the release in different parts of the world, French quality control operates everywhere, and the production is certified according to ISO 9001:2000. The catalog has collections with a glossy and matte texture, as well as color options. Buyers in the reviews like that the company can order the manufacture of a ceiling with photo printing for every taste. The manufacturer also provides an installation system with both an open type (it needs to be masked with a decorative baguette) and a closed one, which completely makes the joint with the wall “natural”, as if it were a putty ceiling.
The manufacturer’s films are resistant to stretching and sagging. Thanks to this, they are allowed to be removed and pulled several times, which simplifies the repair of wiring if necessary.
Advantages
certificate ISO 9001:2000;
French quality control in any country;
10 year ceiling warranty
complete incombustibility of the material.
Disadvantages
the cost starts from 1100 rubles. per m².
NEWMAT
Rating: 4.7
And here is another French manufacturer engaged in the production of stretch ceiling systems. Since 1997, its official representative has been operating in Russia, and therefore the products have long been tested and have many positive reviews. Customers love that the kids room PVC series has a variety of animal, planet and cartoon prints. Products in the manufacturer’s catalog are divided into categories “Kitchen”, “Bedroom”, “Living room”, “Children’s room”, “Bathroom” and “Swimming pool”, which simplifies the choice and helps to quickly select the stretch film according to the characteristics for a particular room.
The manufacturer has a longer warranty on the suspended ceiling, which is 15 years. At the same time, the material itself can last up to 40 years. To maintain an optimal appearance, it is enough to wipe the surface once a year with a damp cloth.
Advantages
there is an official representative office in Russia;
PVC can withstand 100 liters of liquid per m²;
extended warranty of 15 years;
offers a variety of print options.
Disadvantages
the cost of some items from 18000 rubles.
RENOLIT
Rating: 4.6
The company has been producing upholstery films in Germany since 1946, so with the advent of stretch polymer systems, it was not difficult for the manufacturer to adapt to this industry. Since 1958, the main plant was moved to Worms, and then subsidiary factories were opened in Spain and overseas in Chile. PVC for creating a stretch type of ceiling finish is produced under the Pegulan brand. All production is carried out according to the ISO 9001:2015 system, where full control is exercised from incoming raw materials to finished products. The catalog contains rolled materials with a width of 1.5 to 2.5 m, and the thickness of most of the sheets is 0.17 mm. There are 20 popular shades in color finish options, and other colors are printed on order.
The buyer can choose the texture not only glossy or matte, but also rough, which imitates natural putty even better. Thanks to this design, it is difficult even for an expert to see the stretch finish of the ceiling.
Advantages
operates according to the ISO 9001:2015 quality management system;
20 common shades with the ability to print the rest on order;
variety in the width of the rolls;
there is a silky-matte structure and with increased roughness.
Disadvantages
PVC can be made both in Spain and in China;
the thickness of most polymer tension systems is 0.17 mm.
Lack foil
Rating: 4.5
The next German manufacturer offers stretch fabrics for finishing ceilings in bars, restaurants, offices and apartments. The width of the roll can be 1.5-1.8 m, but there are also wider options. In total, there are 44 collections of decorative ceiling film in the manufacturer’s catalog, which is ahead of other competitors in terms of diversity. Particularly popular is the “Mother of Pearl” series, which imitates the surface of pearls. In this case, the shades can be copper or silver, and not just the classic foil. In the reviews, users note that PVC does not magnetize and does not collect dust on itself, so the ceiling retains a clean look longer.
Among European manufacturers, this one stands out for the manufacture of canvases 325 and 350 cm wide. This allows you to create a seamless tension surface and is suitable for most rooms in standard apartments, where the width of the bedroom and hall is 2.5-3.5 m. The absence of a seam provides increased strength of the ceiling and a longer services.
Advantages
not magnetic;
retains its color for a long time;
in case of fire, the ceiling does not burn;
environmentally friendly polymer.
Disadvantages
the first days after the installation of the ceiling there is a smell of plastic.
PTMC Polyplast
Rating: 4.4
The manufacturer, originally from Belgium, makes stretch ceilings of the highest quality at its own factory in its own country, as well as at production facilities in China. During the global economic crisis in 2008, the company moved production to the Celestial Empire, which made it possible to maintain efficiency and reduce the cost of products. The goods are accompanied by international certificates. Stretch fabrics for mounting on the ceiling are distinguished by the following characteristics: there are two types of film with a thickness of 0.15 and 0.16 mm, as well as a width of 3.0 and 3.25 m. According to the invoice, the manufacturer offers three options in 120 color shades. The strength of the material is 270% at break and can withstand up to 50 liters of liquid per m².
In the reviews, buyers like that even in a long roll, color uniformity is maintained up to 80%, so the ceiling will be without blackouts or enlightenments over a large area.
Advantages
up to 120 different shades;
PVC does not deteriorate from splashes of champagne and other means;
stable color retention;
completely dustproof.
Disadvantages
delivery of goods can be both from Belgium and from China;
small thickness 0.15-0.16 mm.
MSD
Rating: 4.3
The review continues with the manufacturer MSD, which is registered in China, where it produces all products. Experts note the rather high quality of the stretch film and reasonable prices, which contributes to the demand for a budget, but beautiful ceiling repair. The manufacturer’s catalog offers 5 options for the texture of rolled material. Matte provides an imitation of smooth ceilings covered with plaster. Lack contributes to the visual expansion of space due to the mirror surface. Satin looks very similar to silk. Pearlescent shimmers, playing with shades and increasing the interest of the interior.
The experts liked the latest design solution, which is not present in all competitors. The Galaxy canvas has many small inclusions in the structure that shimmer when light hits them. In daylight, this does not interfere with the eyes, because it is hardly noticeable, and when the sconce is turned on, it makes the ceiling fabulous.
Advantages
there are tension materials of a translucent type for organizing hidden lighting;
more affordable cost;
the material contains all the necessary fire-fighting additives.
Disadvantages
only three photo printing options;
some note spots on a large plain area.
SAROS DESIGN
Rating: 4.2
The company has been operating since 1992 and has 17 factories in different countries of the world. In Russia, the manufacturer has established its own production of tension polymer systems, which is located in St. Petersburg, Samara, Yekaterinburg, Moscow and Novosibirsk. The catalog contains PVC with a matt or glossy surface, as well as a satin finish. There are also ceilings with common colors and photo printing. The manufacturer is engaged in the manufacture of acoustic polymer fabrics for studios and halls to provide better sound reflection.
This is one of the few manufacturers who offer suspended carved ceilings. They consist of a two-layer film, where the far part is solid, and the near one has cutouts of various shapes. Thanks to this, the ceiling seems more voluminous and interesting. The use of canvases of different colors in two levels adds color to the interior. In the reviews, users especially like the combination of white and some other option.
Advantages
there are acoustic stretch ceilings;
produces films for luminous ceilings;
rare carved species;
the material is not afraid of moisture drops.
Disadvantages
some have a long lasting scent.
Clay
Rating: 4.1
Next is the manufacturer Gline, which produces a budget line of stretch films for decorating ceilings. Production is established in China, but is carried out according to generally accepted technological standards. The catalog contains more than 100 shades with different textures, whether it is varnish, mat or silk imitation. But the manufacturer’s product lines did not receive memorable names, but are indicated by letter indices GM, GS, GL with the addition of numbers to clarify the color.
The width of most rolls is from 1.48 to 3.45 m, so you can choose the desired length to decorate the ceiling with a continuous PVC sheet without seams. But this manufacturer has gone further and produces stretch fabrics with a width of up to 5.4 m, intended for the most spacious conference rooms and halls. The absence of a seam increases the strength of the suspension system and increases the service life.
Advantages
large format printing on any type of texture;
affordable cost;
choice of color from 100 options;
seamless rolls with a width of up to 5.4 m.
Disadvantages
rarely updated directory.
Arridel
Rating: 4.0
Manufacturer “Genvik” specializes in the manufacture of polymer fabrics for ceiling decoration under the Arridel brand. According to the texture, the company offers satin, matte and glossy options. The brand catalog is conveniently divided into categories according to the scope of the product: “Kitchen”, “Pool”, “Children’s”, “Living Room”, “Bathroom”, “Bedroom”, which simplifies the choice for customers. According to the decoration method, there are colored PVC, with photo printing and imitation of the starry sky.
Most of all, users in reviews like the cost of the product, which is one of the most affordable. In addition to this, the film thickness of a domestic manufacturer from St. Petersburg is 0.17-0.37 mm, which is confirmed by a certificate of conformity dated 05.02.2018/1.35/1.43 and published on the company’s official website. Due to the increased cross-section and density of polyvinyl chloride XNUMX-XNUMX g / cm³, such a ceiling is more durable.
Advantages
more than 90 color options;
color uniformity reaches 95%;
service life up to 50 years;
tensile strength 265%.
Disadvantages
there are no canvases wider than 2.2 m.
The best fabric stretch ceilings
Fabric stretch ceilings are more expensive than film ones, because weaving technology is used that increases tensile and tensile strength. Thanks to this, the system holds better and does not sag, and it is more difficult to damage the surface. Here are the best manufacturers specializing in stretch textile ceilings, which experts have identified.
Pongs
Rating: 5.0
The first place is occupied by the German brand Pongs, whose products are produced exclusively in Germany at the factory in Muhltroff. Goods are delivered to Russia only through three official representatives operating in Moscow. The fabric is sold here under the D-Premium brand, developed specifically for the CIS countries and guaranteeing originality. The manufacturer was recently awarded the IAC Gold certification by Eurofins for having a Sanitized ceiling fabric that improves air quality by attracting flying dust. Tension systems are distinguished by a variety of patterns and resemble tapestries, which customers like in reviews.
This manufacturer stands out with the most complete anti-counterfeit protection for its stretch fabric for ceiling decoration. The inscription D-Premium, together with the phrase Made in Germany, occurs every 500 mm along the edging. Once again, at 100 cm, a factory number appears indicating the batch of the roll. Next to it is the production control code and the CE symbol.
Advantages
fabric density for the ceiling is 0.3 mm;
100% environmentally friendly composition;
high protection against counterfeiting;
improve air quality.
Disadvantages
only three official representative offices throughout Russia (all located in Moscow);
there are fakes.
Clipso
Rating: 4.9
The second place is occupied by a manufacturer from France, specializing in the manufacture of seamless stretch fabric ceilings. The company was founded in 1997 and today, in addition to its homeland, it operates in the UK, India, the USA and Russia. The main production factory is located in Alsace (France), Vieux-Tan. The manufacturer’s catalog contains such types of fabric for the ceiling as: “Standard”, “Shine”, “Decorum”, “Anti-dirt” and “Antibacterial”. The last two types of matter have special impregnations that contribute to the destruction of microbes on their surface and increased smoothness of the microporous structure, which prevents dust and debris from clinging. According to the variety of performance, here you can buy multi-level ceilings, light and with photo printing. On the official website there are many photo layouts of ceiling decoration, which helps to decide on the design.
This manufacturer is the world leader in the manufacture of fabric stretch fabrics with a width of up to 5.1 m. This allows you to create seamless decorative surfaces for large rooms.
Advantages
there are stretch fabrics with antibacterial properties;
sells acoustic canvases;
the material is suitable for creating light ceilings;
possible width, 2, 3, 4 and 5.1 m;
thickness of polyester stretch fabric 0.3mm.
Disadvantages
on the official website you can buy rolls from 50 m.
Cerutti
Rating: 4.8
The debut of the Italian manufacturer took place in 2002, and since then the company has gained a reputation as a manufacturer of high-quality expensive elite-class ceilings. The company specializes more in the artistic finishing of paintings, therefore, in the collections of the manufacturer, you can find images of flamingos, huge butterflies, shells with pearls, ships, flowers and trees. All this allows you to decorate the ceiling of the room with taste and in a special way. The high quality of the company’s materials is recognized throughout the world and contributes to the service on the ceiling up to 50 years.
The manufacturer is distinguished by the use of a special patented technology for weaving fabric for the ceiling, borrowed from Alpine manufactories. It uses the twill method by which ship sails were created in antiquity. Such products require lightness and simultaneous strength with a slight tendency to stretch. It is with these characteristics that stretch fabric ceilings of this company are obtained.
Advantages
non-toxic and anti-allergenic materials;
multilayer phased lamination is used;
many options for decoration with medieval touches;
elite materials.
Disadvantages
high price;
hard to put on by yourself.
discoloration
Rating: 4.7
The German company Descor closes the category of the best manufacturers of fabric stretch ceilings. In the catalog, the company offers classic paintings, color, acoustic and photo printing. To create multi-level ceilings, there are also separate options. In the reviews, users like that photo printing here you can order any image. To do this, you need to provide a high-resolution layout of a drawing on a flash drive, which will be applied to the ceiling using special equipment. The picture does not crumble over time and retains bright colors.
The manufacturer is distinguished by the use of natural dyes for dyeing the fabric used on the ceiling. This increases environmental friendliness and makes the material as safe as possible for health. Even for mounting the fabric on the ceiling, it is not required to heat the air in the room to 60-70º C, and all work is done at room temperature, which simplifies installation.
Advantages
the fabric does not burn;
accepts orders for individual production of photo printing;
there are acoustic ceilings;
faster installation.
Disadvantages
only 6 color options.
Attention! This material is subjective, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a guide to the purchase. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.