Is it possible to install a suspended ceiling in a bathroom?
Since, recently, stretch ceilings are increasingly being used in the construction of apartments, people often wonder whether it is possible to make a stretch ceiling in the bathroom, what good and bad can be expected when choosing this option.
There cannot be a definite answer here, because not every suspended ceiling is suitable for a bathroom. To come to the most correct decision, you should master certain information on this issue.
One advantage can be pointed out right away: this is the best option for the bathroom. But the choice should be taken more responsibly than for other premises.
Rational choice
Manufacturers of suspended ceilings offer consumers a variety of options. They vary in color, patterns, texture, material and price. Companies from Germany and Belgium, China and France, including Russia, are constantly expanding their range. Undoubtedly, the French and German versions are recognized as the best and highest quality; Belgian films are next in the ranking. Budget versions are produced by Chinese factories.
A distinctive feature of German and French film is its small width, only 2 meters; other manufacturers produce 4 meter film. Therefore, when choosing, it is necessary to take such features into account.
Requirements arising from the bathroom microclimate
The microclimate of the bathroom imposes the following requirements on the ceiling material:
- the ceiling material should not change its properties under the influence of a humid environment;
- must have sufficient tensile strength;
- maintain aesthetic properties after washing from dirt;
- do not form static charges, so as not to attract particles of moisture and dirt;
- have a beautiful appearance that complements the interior design of the room.
Pros and cons of suspended ceilings in the bathroom
pros
We list the most significant of them:
- moisture resistance (it is important due to unstable high humidity and contact with splashing water);
- is not afraid of flooding (important in city apartments; it can spoil the finish, cause a short circuit in the electrical wiring, with the ensuing consequences; the PVC sheet will hold water, and draining it is not difficult);
- not susceptible to infection by mold and fungi.
- long service life (15 years or more while maintaining its original properties);
- a varied palette of colors, shades, patterns (wide possibilities for creating a unique design);
- design capabilities of multi-level systems (for example, zoning, application of lighting effects);
- ease and manufacturability of installation work;
- allows for installation of thermal insulation, sound insulation and other communication works in a hidden way (without affecting the design);
- compatibility with different interiors;
- ease of assembly and disassembly of the structure (when working with ceiling communications);
- availability of installation on your own (but it is better to entrust this to a specialist).
- Easy to care for the surface (wipe with a damp or dry cloth).
Minuses
There are not so many of them, but they should be taken into account when choosing the type of ceiling:
- loss of elasticity at low temperatures (cracks form on the PVC surface at temperatures below +5 degrees Celsius, and the film loses its elasticity; therefore, in rural houses, where there is no risk of flooding, textile fabric can be recommended in such cases).
- fragility of PVC film (especially at low temperatures; careful operation is required);
- small width of PVC film (less than 3.2 m; for a bathroom this is not so important).
- reducing the height of the room by several centimeters.
Types of ceiling canvases
Stretch ceilings are divided into two types based on the type of material used - fabric and PVC. The first type is made of fabric impregnated with a polymer composition, which ensures its moisture resistance. This fabric looks attractive, has a long service life, and a wide variety of colors. In addition, the material is very durable and resistant to low temperatures. Despite all these qualities, fabric ceilings are not suitable for bathrooms: they allow water vapor to pass through, which accumulates as condensation on the ceilings.
fabric ceilings
Comparison of stretch ceilings
Colors of fabric stretch ceilings
PVC ceilings are made from polyvinyl chloride film, elastic, vapor-tight, and perfectly smooth. The color range of such ceilings is incredibly rich; any image can be made on film. The strength of the film is inferior to fabric, and it is a little more difficult to attach, but this particular material for the bathroom is the optimal solution.
Film for suspended ceilings
PVC film for suspended ceilings
PVC stretch ceilings
Film stretch ceilings differ from each other not only in color, but also in texture. Thanks to the latest technologies, in addition to glossy and matte canvases, other, more decorative options are now being produced.
Surface type | Characteristics |
Matte | The most budget option, reminiscent of a smoothly plastered surface. It is usually produced in light pastel colors; it does not reflect light and therefore does not irritate the eyes with glare. Ideal for lovers of traditional classic interiors |
Glossy | The canvas is varnished, giving the ceiling a spectacular and eye-catching look. The glossy surface visually increases the space, so it is great for small bathrooms. The color palette is very wide; bright contrasting colors, as well as dark-colored canvases, are especially popular |
Satin | Semi-matte surface with a soft silky shine. The canvas has light reflective properties, which gives the room a very cozy look. Usually available in pastel colors |
Metallic | Surface with imitation gold, silver and steel coating. The material has high reflective properties, almost like a mirror. This ceiling looks very impressive and unusual. |
Perforated (carved) | The film has decorative cutouts of various shapes and sizes, forming a pattern. The ceiling structure consists of two or more such films stretched parallel to each other at different heights. The topmost layer is always solid, which eliminates the accumulation of moisture on concrete floors. This version of the stretch ceiling is the most original and effective |
pvc ceilings
Any of the types described above is excellent for photo printing, but most often the image is applied to film with a glossy surface. The drawing can be absolutely anything, from abstractions to personal photographs, so the choice is limited only by personal preferences and the correspondence of the image to the bathroom interior.
Ceiling with photo printing
Drawing on a suspended ceiling
Which design model to choose?
Important parameters
A comprehensive analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of their types, the materials used and a number of other important parameters will help determine which suspended ceiling for the bathroom is better.
Important parameters to be studied are:
- height, length and width of the room;
- color scheme of the room;
- design of plumbing fixtures;
- features of planning the placement of lamps and ventilation devices on the ceiling.
Significant Recommendations
It is advisable to adhere to the following recommendations:
- It is necessary to take into account the properties of the material to maintain good condition for a long time, without reacting to the effects of moisture, steam, and mechanical loads;
- The texture should be visually compatible with the size of the bathroom and its walls. For a small bathroom, glossy or satin canvases in cool shades are more suitable.
- It is advisable that the color of the ceiling be twice as light as the walls. This will create a three-dimensional perception of the room.
- You should not choose patterned ceilings, they are not very suitable. It is better to limit yourself to simple finishing.
- You can choose any lighting. But spot lighting with zoning lamps is considered more acceptable than general lighting, since it creates a cozy atmosphere.
Choice of colors
Several principles apply:
- To match the decorative frieze.
- The main shade of ceramic tiles.
- Color matching the furniture.
- A trompe l'oeil pattern that helps expand the space.
Assembly of the structure
Assembly work can be entrusted to a specialist, or you can do it yourself.
Having chosen a suitable model and purchased a decorative canvas, proceed to installation:
- Prepare the frame of the structure by fixing the profiles horizontally along the level. Leave at least 15 cm between fasteners, and seal the joints with special tape.
- Conduct electrical wiring for lighting; Having made holes for spotlights, attach the rings.
- Having softened the canvas by heating the air in the room with a gas gun, hang it by the corners.
- Secure the film under the frame with a staple around the entire perimeter.
- Decorate the structure with baguettes. They make the connection to the ceiling even more reliable.
Design Features
The rich colors of the canvases and their textures create great opportunities for unique design solutions. The surface has a matte beige tint and looks nice. The textured effect can be enhanced by installing bright lamps.
The shiny, mirror surface of the ceiling looks especially beautiful. Gloss, scattering light, creates the effect of volume, high ceilings, and causes a visual sensation of weightlessness.
The suspended ceiling in the bathroom looks beautiful with a photo on a satin canvas, made by photo printing with a 3D effect (sea, fish, sand, shells, etc.).
Lighting solution
If good lighting is not thought out, all efforts will be drowned out for this reason, the desired effect will not work. Electrical installation work must be carried out by a specialist in compliance with safety rules in wet areas. The main thing is to fill the space with light to create a feeling of spaciousness in the bathroom.
Color design
Designers recommend using:
- choose a shade of the ceiling that matches the color of the ceramic tiles;
- it is important that the color of the ceiling is in harmony with the color of the plumbing fixtures;
- it is advisable to choose the color of the canvas to match the decorative items present;
- to create the illusion of volume;
- You can create the perfect combination of design elements by installing a black suspended ceiling in the bathroom (a glossy black PVC film will create the illusion of a high ceiling).
Choosing a stretch fabric for the bathroom is an excellent solution, because it has many more advantages than disadvantages.
They are perfect for this purpose in all their qualities.
When choosing a suitable design option for a bathroom, preference should be given to its technological characteristics, operational requirements, and then design.
So, now we can safely answer the question in the affirmative: is it possible to install suspended ceilings in the bathroom? Not only is it possible, but it is necessary!
Types of structures
Classifications of building structures are distributed according to the shape of the ceiling covering. Types of structures:
- Single-level.
- Multi-level.
- Stepped. The levels are arranged in the form of steps. Their shape can have strict geometric or rounded shapes.
Single-level
The ceiling has one level that completely covers the surface. The film follows all the corners and curves of the ceiling. Smooth canvases help create the appearance of precise, clear transitions. The look of the entire room is neat, bright and original. Single-level ones are suitable for three-dimensional drawings, plain materials, and photo printing. This design is simple to use. Installation is quick. The effect is no less beautiful than that of multi-level forms.
Photo of suspended ceilings in the bathroom
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