What is a Stretch Ceiling?
Your possible solution to many problems. The No.1 advantage stretch ceiling systems offer is a perfectly smooth ceiling, which may become a prominent and exciting element of your home’s interior design. You can rest assured that your stretch ceiling will never crack and won’t gather mold or dust. Unlike an ordinary drop-ceiling, popcorn ceiling, or regular drywall ceiling, a stretch ceiling won’t get crumbly or discolored with time. To get a better idea of what a stretched ceiling is, picture a beautiful glass ceiling made of a single piece of glass.
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Read on then. We offer a wide selection of pleasant colors for your future stretch ceiling, so you can pick your favorite or whatever matches your interior best. You can choose the type of finish: glossy, matte, or satin.
It’s a common concern that a stretch ceiling installation may take long or create a mess like other types of construction work. The good news is, with a stretch ceiling installation this is not the case! The entire process takes just a few hours and typically leaves no debris or dust in the room.
What are the benefits of Stretch Ceilings?
Stretch ceilings offer many advantages in comparison with other traditional and modern ceiling options. Here’s a quick rundown:
• the installation doesn’t call for structural ceiling preparation
• installation creates no debris typical for construction/home improvement works
• the installation process is simple and quick
• the ceiling membrane doesn’t discolor or crack with time
• the membrane is moisture-proof and mold-resistant
• smooth surface is extremely easy to clean
• the reflective ceiling works like a ceiling mirror and visually adds space
• can be easily customized with printed designs and various shapes.When it comes to the financial side of things, stretch ceilings are an excellent option. First of all, no prep work on the structural ceiling means savings on both materials and man-hours. Secondly, in many cases the installation is so simple that it doesn’t require professional services, and you can safely DIY. Finally, the durability and low maintenance requirements of stretch ceiling systems translate into even more savings in the long run!
If I install a Stretch Ceiling, how much of my room height will I loose?
As a rule, a stretch ceiling system is an excellent space saver and takes up just 1-2 inches of the room height. However, certain engineering features and appliances may significantly increase this figure. Depending on the particular type of setup and the desired effect, the presence and placement of the following systems and devices must be taken into account before stretch ceiling installation when determining the height of the future ceiling:
• lighting fixtures
• air duct openings
• air ducts and pipes
• high-voltage wiring
• thick or multiple cables
• smoke detectors
• fire sprinklers
• fans
• surveillance cameras.In most cases, engineering pipes and ducts are located beyond the structural ceiling and have no effect on the stretch ceiling installation height. Sometimes, however, the purpose of installing a stretch ceiling is to cover an air duct or pipework for a more pleasant appearance. In this case, the installation calls for more space. Similarly, certain types of lighting fixtures and other appliances may demand installation at a lower level.
What is the best time to install a Stretch Ceiling during room renovation?
Start stretch ceiling installation when all the messier tasks are already completed. This is an excellent way to make sure the delicate ceiling membrane won’t get accidentally damaged with a sharp tool or a piece of construction material. Also, all the work on the walls and floor surface in the room should be finished before you invite the ceiling installers—otherwise it might be hard to install the stretch ceiling parallel to the floor and at the right angle to the walls.If you’re planning to cover the walls with a decorative or functional materials, like wallpaper in the bedroom or panels in the bathroom, it’s up to you to choose and approve which job the contractors do first. However, when installing panels or tilework first, it’s a wonderful idea to double-check that there’s no empty space between the structural wall and upper rows of the tiles.
How do I Clean my Stretch Ceiling?
One of the many advantages a modern stretch ceiling offers is simple and easy maintenance. The stretched membrane of the ceiling system is perfectly flat and smooth to the point of being reflective. In addition, it’s resistant to mold and mildew, which makes stretch ceilings an excellent choice for bathrooms and, with complex framing, for indoor pools. For these reasons, cleaning a stretch ceiling is easy as one-two-three. However, you should keep in mind the following considerations:
• unless your stretched ceiling got stained or splattered, there’s no real need to wash it;
• don’t use solid objects, abrasive surfaces, or hard-bristle mops and brushes to clean your stretch ceiling;
• caustic chemicals or strong solvents cannot be used for cleaning a stretch ceiling.Using a soft cloth with mild dishwasher liquid or warm soapy water for cleaning is a good call. Dust can be alternatively collected with a vacuum cleaner, but in this case you must be extra careful so as not to poke the delicate surface.
Is it possible to print an image in the Stretch Ceiling?
Yes! Stretch ceilings offer a great choice of options, including printed images. This feature opens up boundless opportunities for creative homeowners and professional interior designers—and may make an excellent conversation piece. From simple patterns to sophisticated interplay of highlights and shadows, from bright and lively photo prints to pure forms of abstract extravaganza—any kind of picture you can think of can be printed on a stretch ceiling membrane and add to the look of the room a visual you and your guests will enjoy.Here’s a short list of more common stretch ceiling prints, just to give you an idea:
• a photograph of the sky at noon with a few beautiful clouds;
• a clear midnight sky shot, with the constellations actually visible at your location;
• a simulation print of an old-fashioned luxury molded ceiling complete with cornices, etc.;
• a deep forest canopy photo taken from below.Combining picture prints with stretch ceiling finishes and other features such as LED lighting offers even more great design options.