Which stretch ceiling to choose - PVC or fabric?

Not so long ago, suspended ceilings were a real luxury. Today this is a popular type of finishing, which is often used when renovating apartments. Manufacturers offer PVC films and fabrics. They differ in structure, breathability, environmental friendliness, and also have a different range of colors. Users disagree on which ceiling is better. In the article we will figure out which material is preferable and what to choose for your own home.

Which ceiling is better - fabric or PVC?

There is a well-established opinion in society that PVC films are not eco-friendly and using them in interior decoration is hazardous to health. But I really want to use the presented variety of colors and textures in my design.

To be sure of safety, you need to study the certificates of conformity and consider the procedure for creating fabric sheets and PVC films.

Customer Reviews

Customers who have taken the risk of installing canvas in their apartments leave extremely positive reviews. As it turns out in practice, they practically do not emit an unpleasant odor and add personality to the room.The surface is leveled and looks perfect.

Negative reviews happen. But more often this is due to unscrupulous suppliers and low-quality materials. Alternatively, customers wanted to save on finishing and bought the cheapest material without checking its certificates. Such a ceiling is quite capable of causing irreparable harm to health.

Features of PVC films

Choosing between fabric and plastic sheets is difficult. Despite the names, both of these materials are created synthetically. Natural fabrics are practically not used or are made to order.

Plastic ceilings have a number of unsurpassed qualities. For example, a variety of colors, glossy fabrics with imitation mirrors, absolute tightness, durability.

Appearance and range

Film ceilings have different modifications. The following are considered popular in our country:

• glossy;
• matte;
• satin;
• with imitation of the starry sky;
• translucent.

Their advantages are obvious. The canvases have good heat and moisture insulating properties, help hide communications, are quickly installed and, if necessary, dismantled with the possibility of re-installation.

Externally they are smooth. After installation, a very smooth surface is obtained.

Thanks to its smooth surface and unique impregnations the material does not absorb or allow dust to pass through, dirt, and also prevents flooding.

Production technologies

Films are produced by synthesizing vinyl chloride. Production is carried out on special equipment. Canvases Available in standard sizes and after measuring, a section is cut out according to the parameters of the room and welded on the equipment.

The texture of the films resembles absolutely smooth plaster.It is dense and opaque, with the exception of special types of fabrics.

Environmental friendliness and safety

People's fears are justified. The synthetic base of PVC films is created with impurities of formaldehyde and other harmful components. When heated in small quantities, they can be released into the environment.

For people prone to allergic reactions and suffering from chronic diseases, such a “neighborhood” will be a burden.

Today, production technology has stepped far forward. Harmful substances are used in minimal quantities and do not harm humans. Of course, you should take into account the manufacturer’s recommendations and use the ceilings for their intended purpose.

Durability and insulating properties

Manufacturers promise a service life of high-quality PVC films of at least 25 years with proper use. Insulation is also top notch. If the apartment is flooded by neighbors from above for several hours the film will be able to hold water flows, accumulating them in one place. It is noteworthy that even after a major flood, it is easy to drain the water and mount the canvas in its original place.

Advantages of fabrics

The name “fabric” does not quite reflect the essence of these paintings. They are also made from synthetic threads. But their production is somewhat different; the threads are intertwined, creating the texture of natural fabric.

Such ceilings are several times more expensive than PVC structures.

External data and the possibility of repainting

Visually, the surface of the ceiling after installation will look like natural fabric has been stretched. In addition, during installation, unlike films, the use of a heat gun is not required.

One of the advantages of a fabric ceiling is possibility of repainting it. It is recommended to change the color no more than 4 times. Film ceilings do not provide this opportunity; they are purchased only once and for the entire service period.

Environmental friendliness

From the point of view of breathability and environmental friendliness, fabric ceilings are preferable. They freely allow air flow through them without trapping condensation. When heated, the release of hazardous substances into the atmosphere is minimal and does not harm human health. For your own peace of mind, it is better to ask for quality certificates from the manufacturer or installation company.

Breathability

The interweaving of threads easily allows air flow to pass through without stagnation and reliably ventilate the surface under the ceiling. This makes it possible to be sure that there is no mold or mildew under the structure.

“Breathable” material does not reliably hold back water flows during flooding. However, within the first hour after flooding, you there is an opportunity to save things in the room. The fabric will retain moisture.

Strength

Both fabric and film are not very durable. In case of contact with sharp objects or careless exposure to aggressive detergents, the material will easily tear. Textile reacts poorly to heat and does not tolerate low temperatures. Films at subzero temperatures lose their elasticity and crack.

Installation technology

Fabric ceilings are installed on a pre-prepared frame - baguette. It is drilled level to the wall. After this, special hooks are placed on which the fabric is stretched. Installation does not require exposure to heat, as happens with PVC ceilings.

When choosing between fabric and PVC stretch ceilings, it is difficult to choose the best material. Personally for me fabric ceiling is preferable due to its texture and capabilities. For some, a variety of colors is much more important than an aesthetically attractive appearance.