Eyes for stretch ceilings. Stretch ceilings: what lamps? Spotlights: fixed or swivel

In this article, we will cover:

• how to choose spotlights for stretch ceilings to organize good lighting and create a stylish interior?
• Does the type of canvas affect the choice of lighting fixtures?
• which fixtures are suitable for stretch ceilings, and which ones are not?
• which lamps do you prefer?
• and also try to give detailed answers to these and other questions.

Features of choice

First of all, it should be noted that it is recommended to install spotlights as the main light sources in small rooms. These lamps will provide the desired level of illumination in small kitchens, bedrooms, children's rooms, corridors, bathrooms.

In spacious rooms, it is advisable to mount spotlights in combination with a chandelier.

This option opens up a wide field for experimentation. The chandelier can be hung in the center of the ceiling, and spotlights can be placed around the perimeter of the room. If the design of your interior provides for the creation of several zones in one room, then in this case the chandelier is mounted in one zone, and spotlights in another.

Note: stretch ceilings allow you to create multi-level structures, the originality of which is perfectly emphasized by spotlights.

Today on sale there is a huge number of spotlights of various shapes and sizes.

To choose the right option, you need to consider the following nuances:

1. 1. With constant heating up to 55-60 degrees and above, the canvas stretch ceiling starts to deform. The permissible power of lighting lamps is 35-40 W for film ceilings and 60 W for fabric ones.
2. 2. When choosing a spotlight, pay attention to the presence of a wide side of the structure. With its help, a ring is masked, which is mounted on the edge of the hole in the canvas to prevent tears and wrinkles.
3. 3. The number of landing points on the stretch ceiling depends on the area of ​​the room, the reflectivity of the fabric, the dimensions of the fixtures and the type of lamps they use. To level lighting was sufficient, we recommend placing fixtures at the rate of 1 point per 1.5-2 sq.m.
4. 4. If you want to adjust the direction of the light flux, give preference to models with movable elements. Them location can be arbitrary or correspond to a pre-compiled scheme.
5. 5. To prevent light from entering the interceiling space, illuminating the canvas from the inside, choose lamps that have a mirror finish or a black bulb.

On the Internet, you can find tips on using foil or foil penoizol as thermal and light insulation.

We advise you not to risk and replace the lamps in the fixtures, if they reflect into the interceiling space or heat up, with better ones. Self-made isolation can lead to various unpleasant situations, up to irreversible damage to your property.

Important: follow the rules of electrical safety during the installation of spotlights on stretch ceilings and their operation! Entrust the installation of lighting fixtures to specialists.

As for the influence of the type of canvas on the choice of spotlights, everything is simple here.

Glossy film has a high reflectivity, given which you can create additional effects. If you choose a luminaire model with a polyhedral shade, then the light from the lamp will be refracted in the edges of the shade and reflected on the surface of the film in the form of many rays.

Ceilings with a matte surface are well combined with spotlights, in which the light stream is directed downwards.

In addition, the choice of lighting fixtures is also influenced by factors such as the amount of space between the stretch ceiling and the main one, your requirements for lighting power and its type (main, additional or decorative), electricity costs and the need to install a transformer (as well as options for its installation - in the inter-ceiling space or outside the stretch ceiling).

Types of spotlights for stretch ceilings

According to the installation method, spotlights that are suitable for stretch ceilings are of two types - mortise and overhead.

Installation of mortise-type luminaires is carried out in a specially prepared slot of the stretch ceiling fabric. So that the edges of the hole do not diverge, increasing it, a special fixing ring made of plastic is put on the slot.

For installation, lamps with low weight and small dimensions are used. The model is selected in accordance with the wishes of the owner regarding the level of the lamp - above the canvas, below it or on the same level with the stretch ceiling.

Features of mounting fixtures above the level of the canvas

Models of this type are mounted in such a way as to give the impression that they are “recessed” into the ceiling. This setup has both advantages and disadvantages. The advantages include the original visual effect: the ceiling seems to glow by itself. This option looks good in multi-level ceilings.

Among the disadvantages are the loss of light, which partially goes into the space between the canvas and the main ceiling, as well as strict requirements for the choice of lamps. Air access to a luminaire installed above the level is difficult. To prevent overheating of the case and melting of the film, it is necessary to use energy-saving or LED lamps.

Features of mounting fixtures below the level of the canvas

The luminaires installed below the level of the canvas protrude significantly beyond its outer edge.

The length of the protruding part depends on the design of the model, optimally - in the range of 5-8 cm.

This mounting option provides high level lighting, since the light from the lamps is scattered without loss.

If you plan to install fixtures below ceiling level, choose models designed for a voltage of 220 V. Otherwise, you you will have to mount a transformer in the interceiling space, to get to which then will be quite difficult. If the transformer fails, you can replace it only by dismantling the stretch ceiling at the location of the device.

Installation of fixtures on the same level with the canvas

Lamps mounted flush with the canvas only slightly protrude beyond its edge - by 1.5-2 cm, maximum - by 3 cm. They provide good diffused light and serve as an original decor element. The principle of choosing a model for mounting this type is the same as in the option with installing lamps below the level of the canvas: the allowable voltage is 220 V, the lamp power is 35-40 W.

Overhead lamps

Such lamps are structurally similar to pendant lamps. Before their installation, a hole is prepared in the stretch ceiling, which will be hidden by the body of the device. A bookmark is mounted on the main ceiling, to which the lamp will then be attached.

The range of overhead spotlights is quite diverse: manufacturers offer models with an elongated body, on swivel elements, and there are also models for sale that consist of several lamps in one body.

These lighting devices give a powerful directional stream of light. If necessary, the direction of the light beam can be adjusted by changing the position of the lamp, which is mounted in the housing on a rotating bracket.

Due to the rather large size of the housing, any lamps can be used in lamps of this type. The distance from the light source to the canvas is quite enough to prevent heating of the film and its deformation, even if a conventional incandescent lamp is installed in the lamp.

Types of lamps for spotlights

A variety of options for spotlights allows you to choose suitable model according to your taste and wallet. The type of light source used affects the cost of a lighting device and the features of its operation. In its role can be an LED or halogen lamp, as well as a conventional incandescent lamp.

LED bulbs

The service life of this type of lamp is about 5 years in continuous operation.

They consume less electricity than other lamps, producing a flicker-free panoramic light that is pleasing to the eye.

Modern models of spotlights on LED lamps ah are equipped with a built-in current stabilizer, so that during their installation it is not necessary to additionally connect a transformer.

Halogen lamps

The design of halogen lamps provides a special reflector, which reduces light loss, preventing the luminous flux from going up. The service life of halogen lamps is approximately 4,000 hours.

Incandescent lamps

The main advantage of these lamps is their low cost.

At the same time, incandescent lamps are not very popular as light sources for spotlights, since have a short service life (up to a thousand hours) and get very hot.

The optimal power of such a lamp is 35-40 W, which reduces the range of its application. Such a weak light would be appropriate in small spaces- latrines, corridors, pantries, bathrooms. These lamps are not capable of serving as the main source of light, it is advisable to use them only for organizing additional lighting.

A thoughtful choice of lighting fixtures for stretch ceilings and their competent location will provide you not only with good lighting, but also allow you to create a stylish interior.

Simple and concise, spotlights look great in classic rooms, in interiors in modern, art deco, hi-tech and minimalist styles. With their help, you can visually enlarge the room and turn even the most ordinary room in cozy corner filled with soft light.

It is up to you to decide which spotlights are better to choose for a stretch ceiling, and we hope that our tips will definitely come in handy for you!

Any room will look unfinished and uncomfortable if not done beautiful ceiling. Modern ceiling designs allow to realize any ideas of designers. One of the most popular types of finishes today are stretch ceilings. They have many advantages, including excellent appearance.

Stretch ceilings allow you to apply Various types lighting and even combine them with each other. In addition to the usual hook chandeliers, other types of lamps, including spotlights, can be installed on ceiling structures (read also: ""). However, not all lighting fixtures are suitable for stretch ceilings. Particular attention should be paid to light bulbs. You can install only low-power bulbs in a stretch ceiling so that there is no overheating of the canvas.

Since spotlights are most often installed on such structures, you should understand their types and features of use. Currently, there are four types of spotlights. They can work with incandescent, halogen, energy-saving and. What do they look like different kinds bulbs, you can see in the photo.

Incandescent lamps

Luminaires that use incandescent lamps are inexpensive and easy to replace. Often used lamp minion, mirror E-14. Its power is 40-60 watts. In order to achieve average illumination, there should be one light bulb for every 2-3 "square" of the surface. If necessary, such bulbs for a stretch ceiling can be easily changed.

The benefits of incandescent lamps include:

• low price compared to other species;
• easy replacement - you can unscrew them and put a new one.

The disadvantages of incandescent lamps are:

• power restrictions - no more than 40 W (in some cases - 60 W), but if you install a more powerful lamp, the canvas may be deformed due to overheating;
• the fittings have considerable dimensions, so you will have to allocate 8-10 centimeters to lower the stretch ceiling.

The main reason for choosing them is their low cost.

Halogen lamps

Halogen lamps - great choice for stretch ceilings. They have many advantages over other types. The long service life of the bulbs favorably distinguishes them from other types of lamps for stretch ceilings. This is especially striking when comparing halogen lamps with incandescent lamps.

Advantages of halogen lamps:

• beautiful backlight ceiling structure(due to their own rich glow, halogen built-in bulbs in the stretch ceiling are able to create colorful effects);
• the ability to arrange lighting under any right angle;
• a wide selection of colors and shapes of lamps;
• maximum brightness of lighting immediately after turning on the fixtures;
• long service life.

The disadvantages of halogen lamps include:

• directional glow;
• the emission of light of one type - warm yellow;
• lowering the ceiling by at least 7 centimeters (in rooms with a low height, install halogen lamps Not recommended).

Energy-saving lamps

Energy-saving light bulbs are very popular. Their main advantage is low heat generation, which allows you not to worry about overheating of the stretch ceiling. They are also very economical - their energy consumption is minimal.

Energy-saving light bulbs for stretch ceilings have the following advantages:

• compliance with European standards;
• insignificant heat release, which makes it impossible to overheat the web (for comparison, incandescent lamps emit it several times more);
• economical consumption electricity;
• lack of illumination behind the ceiling (other types of lamps have this effect);
• there is no need to reduce the height of the structure, since the size of the fixtures is only 2 centimeters. But this height is still necessary to install the canvas itself, since the baguette attached to the wall and necessary for mounting the ceiling has a size of 2.7 centimeters.

The disadvantages of energy-saving lamps include:

• lack of choice;
• high price;
• do not turn on at full power immediately - this will take time;
• simple appearance and only a few border color options.

When using energy-saving lamps, it must be borne in mind that the switch should not have an LED. Otherwise, you can observe the flickering of the bulbs when they are in the off state. Quite often it is believed that this effect occurs due to the lack of grounding or phase breakdown to zero, but these judgments are incorrect. The reason for this phenomenon is that the switch has an LED.

LED bulbs

Experts recommend installing LED bulbs in a stretch ceiling in those rooms that cannot boast large area. They look good in the interior of any room, kitchen or bathroom. Their popularity is explained by their numerous advantages: minimal power consumption, durability, ease of installation and maintenance, high quality. Recessed LEDs are easily installed in a stretch ceiling, they are distinguished by accuracy and stealth. Plus, stable and even lighting makes it possible to create ideal conditions how to perform various work as well as for recreation.

Advantages of LED lamps:

• long service life - more than 100 thousand hours continuous work, which is a hundred times longer than the operating time conventional lamps incandescent;
• natural spectrum of lighting;
• the ability to adjust the contrast and direction of light, greater clarity of the illuminated area; with their help, you can illuminate exactly the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room that you need;
• LED bulbs for stretch ceilings are economical. consume 70% less electricity. Also, the savings lies in the absence of high costs associated with the replacement of lamps. Because they last a long time frequent replacements they are not required.

As for the disadvantages of LED light bulbs, they can only be attributed to considerable heat generation and a rather high cost.

Stretch ceilings with light bulbs have their own characteristics. First of all, you should pay attention to their power. So, incandescent lamps should have this parameter no more than 40-60 W, and halogen bulbs should be 30-35 W. The use of more powerful light sources leads to the fact that the housing of the fixtures is very hot, and this is not the most in the best way affects the stretch ceiling.

When installing lighting fixtures at the level of the ceiling structure, a holder is placed in the place of the future, which is attached to the ceiling. The design features of mortgage holders depend on the size and type of light bulbs.

Currently, the choice is not limited to incandescent lamps alone. The ability to use several types of lamps allows you to experiment with lighting, emphasizing the beauty of not only the ceiling, but the entire interior of the room.

Installing lighting fixtures will help transform a room with a stretch ceiling. With their help, you can not only place light accents on various decorative elements, but even divide the room into several zones. It is necessary to choose lamps for stretch ceilings competently and thoroughly, whether it is a spot version or a spotlight bulb. Properly selected light sources will help to design an optimal lighting system and at the same time save on energy consumption.

What lamps can be installed in a stretch ceiling

On the modern market you can find a wide range of lighting sources for decorative lighting and not only. The proposed lighting fixtures differ from each other in design, power, type of attachment and other parameters. At the same time, if on regular ceiling you can install almost any type of lamp, then with a tension analog, not everything is so simple. It is necessary to take into account the heating of the canvas, because the glossy or vinyl surface of the film does not tolerate exposure high temperatures, so there are restrictions on the power of lighting devices. Kinds:

• Point. Such lamps for stretch ceilings will help to illuminate a large and dark space or make the light diffuse. They are mounted in stretch ceilings, as a rule, in several zones at once. Their advantage lies in the possibility of installation on the ceiling of any height. You can find the widest selection of spotlights on the market different colors, types and forms.
• Stationary. Stretch ceilings with lamps look very impressive if done right choice. ceiling chandelier might be great for this purpose. The distance from the ceiling to its light bulb should not be less than 25 cm to prevent overheating of the canvas. In addition, several hanging ceiling lamps can be installed in a row.
• Raster. Recessed luminaires for stretch ceilings of the luminescent type can be distinguished into a separate group. They are made in the form of metal cellular structures equipped with a reflective grating. In most cases, they are used in large rooms.
• LED Strip Light. This lighting element is great for creating spectacular lighting. LED strips are usually used for installation in multi-level stretch ceilings. In this case, they are placed around the perimeter of one of the tiers. Experts recommend using such a tape on a matte surface with a height of at least 2.7 m.

Species

Before you buy lighting fixtures, familiarize yourself with their varieties. Depending on the method of fixation, ceiling and pendant chandeliers and lamps are distinguished. Point lighting sources are divided into overhead and built-in. The installation of spotlights in a stretch ceiling of an overhead type is carried out by mounting special adjustable racks. Recessed counterparts are fixed to the main ceiling before the installation of the tension. As for the types of light bulbs, for stretch ceilings use:

• halogen bulbs;
• fluorescent energy-saving;
• incandescent bulbs;
• LED;
• fiber optic strands.

Point

If you are looking for a more or less universal option that is suitable for any height of the room, then you need to buy a spotlight. In most cases, they are installed at the rate of: 1 device per 1.5-2 sq.m of room area. An inexpensive option that is great for creating a personalized and original design premises is:

• model name: Piano Led 071014R;
• price: 286 rubles;
• characteristics: reinforcement material, ceiling lamp - metal, color - chrome, lamp - LED, power - 1 W, lighting area - 0.5 sq.m, degree of dust and moisture protection - IP20, height - 10 mm, diameter - 38 mm;
• pluses: it is cheap, compact;

More powerful LED ceiling lamp is Maturo 70264 from Lightstar (Italy). Such a lighting device is suitable for a room of almost any size:

• model name: Maturo 70264;
• price: 1342 rubles;
• characteristics: frame material, ceiling - metal, color - chrome, LED lamp, power - 9 W, degree of dust and moisture protection - IP20, height - 15 mm, diameter is 95 mm;
• pluses: excellent performance, good lighting;
• cons: it's expensive.

Panel

These lamps are often installed in public buildings: offices and office space. In a residential interior, they are very rare, but despite this, they are sometimes mounted in stretch ceilings. Panel-type luminaires are a box with a lid made of transparent plastic, with the help of which light is scattered. At the same time, it is possible to choose the scattering of any pattern and color. One of the products in this category:

• model name: Cabrera C0042;
• price: 1461 rubles;
• characteristics: frame material, ceiling - metal, color - white, lamp - LED, power - 6 W, degree of dust and moisture protection - IP20, glow color - cold, lighting area - 3 sq.m, height - 35 mm, diameter is 105 mm;
• pluses: a good area of ​​illuminated space;
• cons: cost, size.

The next option is more compact, but it also costs more. The country of origin is Spain, the device is part of the Saona series:

• model name: Saona C0190;
• price: 1881 rubles;
• characteristics: frame material, ceiling - metal, color - white, LED bulb, power - 6 W, degree of dust and moisture protection - IP20, cold glow, lighting area - 3 sq.m, height - 25 mm, diameter is 90 mm;
• pluses: illuminated area, more compact dimensions compared to analogues;
• cons: high cost.

Embedded

On sale you can find a large assortment of light bulbs that can be built into stretch ceilings. When choosing the right option for a matte or glossy canvas, pay attention not only to the power of the lamps, but also to the brightness of the lighting. In addition, when ordering products in an online store with delivery by mail, please note that the photo does not always correspond to reality. One of the embedded options:

• model name: Lega HI ADJ MR16 011020;
• price: 340 rubles;
• characteristics: frame and ceiling made of metal, color - white, lamp - halogen, base - GU5.3, power - 50 W, illuminated space - 2.5 km.m, height - 5 mm, diameter - 85 mm;
• pluses: power, acceptable cost;
• cons: no.

Recessed lighting sources in most cases are not used in decorative purposes, but to illuminate a specific area. Another good option:

• model name: Defense Piano 006881;
• price: 683 rubles;
• characteristics: metal frame, glass shade, color - matte chrome and matt white, halogen bulb, base - GU5.3, power - 50 W, lighting area - 2.5 sq.m, height - 15 mm, diameter - 95 mm;
• pluses: good lighting, good parameters;

Overhead

Often, overhead lamps are purchased for stretch fabrics. For their installation, adjustable racks are mounted, which are then covered with a cloth. The body of the device and the film do not come into contact with each other due to fixation with a special ring. If desired, you can choose fixed or rotary devices. The latter, after installation, can be adjusted in necessary direction. Alternatively, you may be interested in:

• model name: Elektrostandard 1070 a035973;
• price: 437 rubles;
• characteristics: type - overhead point, style - modern, height - 60 mm, length - 160 mm, diameter - 135 mm, color - white, materials - plastic, metal, power - 13 W, lighting area - 0.7 sq.m ;
• pros: optimal power, view;
• cons: small lighting area.

Check out the parameters of another product from the same brand. The device in comparison with the previous version has a square shape of the ceiling:

• model name: Elektrostandard Dls020 a035325;
• price: 678 rubles;
• characteristics: type - Downlight, style - modern, height - 38 mm, width and length - 225 mm, color - white, material - plastic, power - 18 W, lighting area - 9 sq.m;
• pros: suitable for large rooms;
• cons: it costs more than analogues, it is made only of plastic.

Suspended

Pendant lamps on a suspended ceiling are more common, because. their way of fixing is simpler. A strong ceiling hook made of reinforcement is fixed to the place of installation of the ceiling before stretching the canvas. After installing the ceiling, a chandelier is hung on this very hook. An interesting option with a good degree of dust and moisture protection 20 IP, is a device:

• cost: 6144 rubles;
• characteristics: style - loft, height - 920 mm, diameter - 370 mm, color - yellow, material - metal, general power- 180 W, lighting area - 9 sq.m, mounting method - mounting plate, number of bulbs - 3 pieces;
• pluses: design, good lighting, durability;
• cons: high cost.

More original version is the Luce Solara 5064 luminaire, which can be successfully used in both home and official interiors. The design of the device is thought out to the smallest detail and is made in best traditions modern style:

• model name: Luce Solara 5064/9S Smoke;
• price: 12928 rubles;
• characteristics: style - modern, height - 1000 mm, diameter - 585 mm, shade color - gray, bases - chrome, materials - glass, metal, power - 40 W, illuminates up to 18 sq.m, number of lamps - 9 pieces:
• pros: great for large spaces, superb design;
• cons: very expensive.

LED

If you plan to order the most economical and durable lamps, then pay attention to devices with LED bulbs. They are able to create natural, volumetric and panoramic lighting. Such devices do not emit heat and are great for decoration. With the right choice (photos in online stores do not always correspond to reality), LED lighting devices can visually increase the height of the ceiling. One of the inexpensive options:

• model name: Ecola GX53LED;
• price: 350 rubles;
• characteristics: power - 8.5 W, color temperature - 4200, size - 27x75 mm, color - natural white, average service life - 30 thousand hours;
• pluses: acceptable cost, good durability;
• cons: no.

Another great option for installation in a false ceiling is a downlight. square shape from Albes. With it, you can illuminate large spaces without spending a lot of electricity:

• model name: UNIVERSAL LED Albes;
• price: 856 rubles;
• characteristics: power - 36 W, dimensions - 595x595 mm, degree of protection - 20 IP, luminous flux - 4000 Lm, total thickness - 19 mm;
• pluses: powerful, suitable for overall rooms;
• cons: more expensive than analogues.

energy saving

Such products are characterized by good safety and low energy consumption. They can be placed in the canvas itself, as well as outside it. Compact fluorescent light bulbs do not overheat, which is very important for stretch ceilings. Relatively inexpensive, but suitable option for the most different rooms products from Ecola will become:

• model name: Ecola GX53;
• price: 250 rubles;
• characteristics: power - 9 W, temperature (color) - 2700, color - warm white, size - 27x75 mm, service life - about 8 thousand hours;
• pluses: low cost, compactness;
• cons: service life.

A GX70 energy-saving light bulb from the same manufacturer can help reduce your electricity bill by up to 80% compared to incandescent bulbs. Such a device heats up slightly and does not blind the eyes:

• model name: Ecola GX70;
• price: 364 rubles;
• characteristics: power - 20 W, temperature (color) - 4100, size - 42.5x111 mm, service life - about 10 thousand hours;
• pluses: gives even light, suitable for most rooms;
• cons: it is more expensive than analogues.

How to choose

Each type of lighting device has its own light bulb, for example, an incandescent lamp cannot be screwed into a device for LED models, because. they have different sizes. In this regard, decide in advance on the type and shape of the lamp and lamps before purchasing them for stretch fabric. When choosing, it is important to consider the nuances:

• Recessed-type luminaires should be equipped with internal sides and not heat up more than +60 degrees.
• It is best to give preference to frosted light bulbs.
• To visually increase the ceiling of several levels, you need to build in spotlights at each level.
• Molded built-in appliances are not suitable for installation in a tension web.
• For installation of 20 or more spot elements, it is best to group them in each zone with a separate power supply. This approach will help reduce power consumption.

Video

Spotlights have long ceased to be a luxury item and, perhaps, you will not surprise anyone with them. Devices are used to create suitable lighting, decorate a room, and even as interior elements. There are some features of the selection of products, which depend on many factors. In this article we will tell you about how to choose spotlights for stretch ceilings and plasterboard.

Suspended ceiling

When choosing lighting fixtures for plasterboard ceiling, you need to decide for what purpose you are going to install them:

• decorating the house with the help of the correct arrangement of lighting fixtures;
• creating combined lighting and dividing the room into zones;
• an alternative to full-fledged lighting from a chandelier.

Spotlights for false ceiling can be made from any material, there are no restrictions. You can choose products from aluminum alloys or stamped metal, and the only thing you need to pay attention to is the proportionality of the height behind ceiling space dimensions of the closed part of the lighting device. For different products free space behind the plasterboard ceiling should be from 2 to 10 cm. Before choosing and buying the right model, be sure to find out what gap you own.

Types of fixtures

Of course, in order to choose the right spotlights for a plasterboard ceiling, you need to decide on the types of products, so we will dwell on this issue in more detail.

According to the type of installation, lighting fixtures are divided into:

By design, you can choose the following types spotlights:

By the number of cartridges, lamps can be divided into:

Interesting video on the topic:

Lamps

Choosing the right spotlights for a plasterboard ceiling is, of course, an important event, but do not forget about buying high-quality and suitable lamp. For these lighting fixtures, halogen, LED, mercury (energy-saving) and incandescent mirror lamps are suitable. by the most good option will be despite more high price compared to other light sources. These light bulbs are safe, have a long service life, and when you can easily adjust the brightness in the room.

You can also choose a halogen lamp for spotlights. It is not very economical, but it is ideal for rooms where strong lighting or highlighting of interior elements is needed. Mercury products, on the contrary, are economical to use, but their light is not very useful for vision and they are difficult to dispose of. As for incandescent lamps, we do not recommend using them in principle. They heat up quickly, are not durable and are not particularly effective.

A little about design

Of course, we all want to choose not only effective, but also beautiful spotlights that will fit the interior of the room and it doesn’t matter in which room you want to install them - in the living room, bathroom or kitchen. Everything should always be done with taste! This is especially true in cases where the design of the house is made in a particular style.

If you want to choose lighting fixtures for classic room, we recommend purchasing products in a bronze frame. It is also possible to choose models with ornaments or crystal shades. For the Provence style, an oval golden frame with glass shades is recommended. For such modern styles like hi-tech or minimalism, cool metallic colors, square or round shapes. By the way, it is for this style that the use of cardan models will be successful. As you understand, the choice of spotlights for design is a purely individual process and, of course, everything here depends on your subjective vision and taste.

This issue is discussed in more detail in the video:

Stretch ceiling

As for how to choose spotlights for a stretch ceiling, here you can apply all the selection rules for a plasterboard ceiling space. However, there are still some nuances associated with the danger of heating the stretch fabric (by the way, these tips are also suitable for owners of a plastic ceiling):

If you need to choose spotlights for a stretch ceiling, we advise you to definitely watch a video that compares different versions of spotlights.

This article will useful topics who is going to order stretch ceilings and decided to use spotlights as lighting. We will talk about how to choose the right lighting fixtures for a stretch ceiling, what kind of light bulbs to equip them with, how to mount these devices.

Many people think that it is difficult or impossible to implement functional lighting on fabric or PVC canvases. In fact, stretch ceilings allow you to apply any existing type lighting products: chandeliers, LED strips, spotlights, etc.

There are only two technological problems that tension systems pose to us:

• fabrics and films do not have their own load bearing capacity;
• cloths are afraid of high temperature.

But they are successfully solved, it is only necessary to choose the right lamps for stretch ceilings and fulfill all generally accepted requirements for installation.

How to choose spotlights for a stretch ceiling

It so happened that in the post-Soviet space, spotlights have taken a leading position among all types of lighting. Especially when it comes to suspended (plasterboard, plastic) and stretch ceilings, where mortise models can be used. The thing is that spotlights allow you to solve a wide range of problems, both practical and purely design, and for relatively little money.

Benefits of a point light source:

• can illuminate the entire room or individual zones;
• does not catch the eye, but creates an "atmosphere";
• the mortise version is exceptionally ergonomic (important for low ceilings);
• has a small weight;
• is inexpensive.

Luminaires for stretch ceilings: mortise, semi-mortise or overhead

Built-in lighting products are most widely used, since a stretch ceiling always recedes from the ceiling for some distance. The ceiling space has a thickness of at least 3.5-4 centimeters, often this is enough to “hide” the lamp there. But keep in mind that for some models of point light sources, you have to lower the canvas lower, up to 70-120 mm. Recessed spotlights for suspended ceilings almost do not protrude above the ceiling surface and do not hide the useful height of the room. Such lighting devices, as a rule, illuminate only the room, their rays practically do not fall on the ceiling, do not focus on it.

Attention! Since the lamp is completely hidden inside, the heat generated by it almost completely enters the interceiling space. Choose your lamp power carefully.

Overhead lights, in fact, are miniature chandeliers that are mounted on the ceiling from the outside. Such lighting fixtures are distinguished by a wide variety of designs, the most intricate shades and superstructures (crystals, cut glass) are used here. Many platform options: cast or stamped metal; under a stainless steel, gold, silver, copper/bronze patina. Overhead devices are remarkable in that they illuminate not only the room, but also the canvas of the stretch ceiling, which, for example, on gloss allows you to get very unusual effects.

A semi-mortise lamp is a type of built-in model in which the body of the lighting fixture is located behind the ceiling, but a significant part of the lamp is located below the plane of the canvas. These models are mounted in the same way as recessed fixtures, but similarly to overhead devices, they send a lot of light to the ceiling. In addition, the remote lamp more heat gives back to inner space rooms, which means that a more powerful light source can be selected.

Spotlights: fixed or swivel

Fixed spotlights for stretch ceilings illuminate the area directly below them. In this case, we can only manipulate the arrangement of lighting fixtures, placing them evenly, or some kind of lines.

But sometimes there is a need to focus on a particular piece of furniture, or an area that is important in terms of design, then the best choice will turn lamps. These can be built-in, semi-mortise and overhead structures, in which there is a rigidly fixed part and a movable module that includes a lamp. The most opportunities to direct light to a given point in the room are provided by outdoor spots with fixed hinges or flexible legs. By the way, such models can be very practical if you use them, for example, over a make-up table or over a mirror in the bathroom. They are also good for highlighting shop windows and exhibition areas.

Focused or diffused light

The shape and brightness of the light flux is selected depending on the tasks. Some fixtures give a focused, well-directed light (downlights), while others generate a soft, diffused glow. The first option is good for zoning the interior, and the second is preferable for calm, even lighting, for example, in a bedroom or living room.

As a rule, the type of luminous flux is determined by the design of the luminaire. For example, a recessed fixture with an exposed lamp will typically produce a concentrated beam of light. And if the lamp is enclosed in a ceiling or covered with a frosted glass plate, then the rays soften and scatter, change color, and are partially directed to the ceiling.

Much is decided by light bulbs for stretch ceilings. Open LED models and halogens generate a dense stream, while energy-saving samples and white incandescent lamps shine evenly around them.

Attention! Too "muddy" shades significantly hide the productivity of the lamp, and the level of illumination in the room may not be enough.

Luminaires for wet rooms

Where air humidity can change, conventional spotlights cannot be used, as the risk is too great short circuit and breakdown on the body (unsafe for people). When choosing fixtures for suspended ceilings in the bathroom, for areas near the pool or on an unheated balcony, you need to give preference to special models that have a high second digit in the protection level (IP) marking. The higher it is, the better. For reference, a 4 means splash proof and a 5 means splash proof.

Attention! Luminaires for wet rooms always have an insulating cover for the mechanism.

Types of fixtures by light source

In this case, we will simultaneously consider the types of lamps used and technical, performance characteristics the lighting device itself. The fact is that each spotlight has a cartridge designed for a specific type of lamp. At the same time, some types of cartridges can accept lamps of different power, luminous efficiency, and even different glow technologies.

So, we look at the cartridge and the base. Here you can highlight:

• threaded models (E)
• pin (G)

Threaded cartridges are designed for screwing in incandescent lamps and fluorescent light sources. Not so long ago, LED light bulbs appeared that can be used here. According to the diameter of the thread, products marked E27 (standard Edison class) and E14 (minion class) are distinguished.

Attention! A distinctive feature of such lamps is a large mounting height, which is about 80-120 mm. At this distance, you will have to lower the stretch ceiling.

Cartridge models GU5,3; GU4; GU10; G4; GU6.35 are the most popular in point devices (the numbers indicate the distance between the conductors). Luminaires with pin holders are designed for halogen, energy-saving and some LED lamps. It is the lamp here that determines how much the ceiling needs to be lowered, since the body of these lighting devices itself is quite compact. On average, the height of such lamps, together with the lamp, is about 50-70 mm. By the way, in this regard, semi-embedded rotary lamps with a spherical movable module (they are also called "fisheye") may be somewhat preferable, since the lamp in them is moved down a certain distance.

Some purely LED lamps for stretch ceilings, the so-called "pills", stand apart. Bases and lamps of the famous GX53 model together have the most best performance installation height - about 35 mm. This corresponds to the minimum possible inter-ceiling space for tension systems, so there is no need to take the height of the room.

Attention! Despite the versatility of cartridges, some lamps are recommended by manufacturers for specific types of lamps.

Comparative table of fixtures for stretch ceilings

Light bulbs for stretch ceilings

As you can see, several types of lamps can be selected for the same lighting device. Let's see what characteristics you need to pay attention to, what restrictions can become critical.

Incandescent lamps:

1. They are the cheapest.
2. To replace a failed lamp, you do not need to dismantle the entire lamp.
3. The most serious drawback of such a light source is strong heat generation, therefore, for heat-sensitive PVC sheets, a power of 40 watts is considered the limit, and for fabric ceilings accepts 60 watt light bulbs.
4. Another drawback is that the height of the lamp fittings can reach 120 millimeters.
5. Many incandescent lamps have a "back" glow, which sometimes creates an ugly effect if the ceiling sheet is translucent. Mirror, reflex models do not have this drawback.

Fluorescent lamps:

1. 70-80% more economical than incandescent lamps.
2. They almost do not emit heat, therefore they have no power restrictions.
3. Almost do not illuminate the ceiling from the inside.
4. Allows you to select the temperature / color of the glow (from bluish white to warm yellow).
5. They can have a mounting height of 50-70 mm, like halogen, or up to 100 mm, like incandescent.
6. They are relatively expensive.
7. Sensitive to wiring quality and voltage characteristics. For example, they can flicker, slowly flare up.

Halogen lamps:

1. Give out a compact focused stream.
2. They require 5-7 centimeters of free space behind the ceiling canvas.
3. They are inexpensive.
4. Do not illuminate the ceiling from the inside (we choose models with a high-quality mirror).
5. They get very hot, so use a maximum of 35-watt lamps.
6. The glow temperature corresponding to white daylight is not available.

LED bulbs:

1. Lamps are assembled from LEDs different types cartridges.
2. Much more economical than incandescent bulbs.
3. LED lights for stretch ceilings can be very compact (height 35-38 mm).
4. Do not heat up (you can apply high power).
5. Very reliable and durable.
6. The luminous flux is directional.
7. The glow is white.
8. Differ in high cost.

How are stretch ceiling lights installed?

Whatever type of spotlight is chosen, preparatory work should be done before installing the stretch fabric:

1. A power conductor is supplied to each lighting device and securely fixed to the main ceiling so that during operation the wire does not sag and pull the fabric or film. If corrugation is used, then its color (black / white / gray) is better to choose depending on the tone of the stretch ceiling (dark / light), as there are highly translucent canvases.
2. In place of the mortise luminaire, with the help of adjustable brackets, a universal mounting platform is installed, which is selected according to the mounting diameter of specific lighting fixtures. For overhead models, a solid platform is needed.
3. The platform is set with brackets to the level with the mounting profile (in the same plane with the future web). If the platform is set poorly, then the lamp will either pull the ceiling down, or form a depression directed upwards.
4. After stretching the canvas from the outside, they glue it on right size protective thermal rings that protect the film or fabric from overheating and mechanical impact.
5. And the last stage: holes are cut in the canvas, cartridges are switched, lamps are installed in place, light bulbs are inserted.

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