How stretch ceilings affect health reviews. Harm of stretch ceilings - the safety of using stretch ceilings for human health

Stretch ceiling, which is a panel stretched on holders, has been known since ancient times. Roman patricians draped the ceiling with beautiful expensive fabrics; in the Scandinavian countries, bleached canvas was used for this purpose. Of course, such natural materials could not cause any harm to health.

Nowadays, PVC film is most often used for arranging stretch ceilings; it is a product of the chemical industry, and many people doubt its safety. Of course, you should figure out whether stretch ceilings are harmful to health.

Stretch ceiling must be perfect both in appearance and safety

Why is the harm of stretch ceilings being discussed

The disadvantages of stretch ceilings have been discussed since their appearance on the modern construction market. The fact is that many chemicals are used in the production of a PVC film, most of which are not dangerous, but elements such as formaldehyde, toluene and phenol, when evaporated, indeed, to one degree or another, have a negative effect on the respiratory system, skin integuments and the human nervous system.

It should be understood that everyone’s body is different, some people feel great in rooms decorated with artificial materials, others suffer from allergic reactions, so it’s hardly possible to talk about the absolute safety or harmfulness of the coating for everyone without exception.

It would seem that it is impossible to determine the boundary after which the product begins to pose a danger, but this is not true.
Stretch ceiling installation process

Existing safety standards

Currently, there are safety standards in the development of which many parameters were evaluated. This is the so-called international system of environmental safety ISO. In the event that the manufactured product is in accordance with all its requirements, it does not pose a threat to humans.

That is why, when purchasing stretch ceilings, you should definitely require a quality certificate not only for the products themselves, but also for the performance of work on their installation. Unfortunately, we have to admit that some dishonest merchants forge documents by printing them on a color printer, so it’s better to find out what a genuine certificate looks like in advance.

Guess where PVC film is made

It is not difficult to guess where PVC film is produced - in the People's Republic of China. There are many enterprises for the production of such products. In fairness, it should be noted that among them there are conscientious manufacturers who produce high quality goods.

Stretch ceiling film production

The so-called Belgian film has never been produced in this country, there simply are no enterprises for its production. Just at one time, the Belgian company was engaged in the supply of Chinese products to the domestic construction market, hence the name.

The seller's statement that the film was made in Germany, Belgium or France is not true, it, of course, was made in China. At the same time, no one has yet figured out how to label such material as PVC film, and many have learned how to forge a quality certificate.

How to make sure the quality of the material

The easiest way to verify the quality of the material is by the smell it emits. Three situations are possible:

• The smell after installation of a stretch ceiling is absent at all or disappears after a short time. In this case, you don't have to worry.
• Not a very strong odor is released for about two weeks. Such a film is not recommended for use in the bedroom, it will fit in the toilet or in the kitchen.
• If after two weeks the stretch ceiling continues to emit a viscous and sweet smell, it should be urgently dismantled. This is what undoubtedly harmful phenol smells like.

A sharp unpleasant odor makes you doubt the quality of the stretch ceiling

Of course, it is impossible to determine before its installation how long and strongly the stretch ceiling will smell. Reviews of friends and acquaintances who have already used this product, in practice checked its performance and identified possible disadvantages, can help here.

What does low-quality film carry in itself

Poor-quality film carries toxic substances that are very dangerous for human health. First of all, it is phenol, which has a harmful effect on the cardiovascular and nervous system, affecting the liver and kidneys. Inhalation of toxic fumes can lead to pulmonary edema, infertility, cancer and heart disease - it is not for nothing that in most countries it is under the strictest ban. The situation is aggravated by the fact that phenol forms stable compounds that do not decompose for a long time. True, it is excreted from the human body quite quickly, while causing irreparable harm to health.

The choice of film should take into account both the appearance and the safety of the material.

Belonging to the group of heavy metals, cadmium accumulates in the kidneys and liver, contributing to the formation of stones in them and various pathologies, including oncological ones. At the same time, it lingers in the tissues for a period of ten to thirty years.

Produced from oil, toluene does not dissolve in water, but mixes well with the air. Getting into the blood through the respiratory tract, the toxin affects the organs of vision, hearing and brain. It is especially dangerous for women during the period of gestation, the baby can be irreparably harmed.

Chlorine, which belongs to the second class of danger, when inhaled, strongly irritates the mucous membranes, causing a hysterical cough and increased heart rate. Regular inhalation of toxic fumes provokes the occurrence of cancer.

Stretch ceilings mounted from counterfeit PVC film are undoubtedly harmful to health. You should be wary if the product is sold at an extremely low price, and you should only purchase it from trusted suppliers.

Waterproof: is it good or bad?

The PVC film does not allow water to pass through, the stretch ceiling made from it is able to protect living quarters from a rather serious flood caused by neighbors from above. But, on the other hand, the disadvantages of a stretch ceiling are that it also does not allow air to pass through, the coating does not breathe.

It looks like a stretch ceiling after water leakage from the neighbors from above

This drawback should not be put at the forefront, plastic windows, for example, are also made of synthetic materials that do not allow air to pass through, which made them less used. Well-functioning ventilation, available in every modern home, helps to cope with the problem.

Fabric stretch ceiling is more expensive and definitely safe

A fabric stretch ceiling is more expensive in terms of the cost of products made from PVC film, but it is definitely safe for health. Manufacturers of this type of product label their products, so it is quite difficult to fake them.

Fabric ceiling guarantees environmental safety and original appearance

The cloth does not have any smell at all, substances harmful to health are not used in its production. You can use it in any residential area without restrictions.

The opinion of doctors and specialists

According to doctors and experts in the bedroom and children's rooms, it is better to install fabric stretch ceilings, they do not pose any health hazard. In rooms with a high level of humidity, such as the kitchen, toilet and bathroom, fabric ceilings will quickly lose their original appearance, PVC film is more appropriate here. However, low-quality film cannot be used anywhere: stretch ceilings made from it are urgently dismantled, if this is not done on time, the consequences can be unpredictable for health.

Causes of pollution of the stretch ceiling

The reasons for the pollution of the stretch ceiling are exactly the same as for any other type of ceiling surface finish. Most often, particles of fat and soot are deposited on it, which are formed during cooking and using a gas stove. The first thing you need to do is to clean the ceiling in the kitchen.

Stretch ceiling in the kitchen gets dirty the fastest

Family members smoking in the apartment add variety to the color scheme of pollution - yellow nicotine stains appear on the surface. The installation of a high-quality hood and punitive measures against heavy smokers will help correct the situation.

Yellow pollution also appears due to the high humidity of the ceilings, which occurs due to a malfunction of the pipeline network, as well as due to leaks from neighbors. It is necessary to find out the cause of pollution as quickly as possible and eliminate it, since traces of rust form unsightly yellow spots on the stretch ceiling.

To remove such a stain will have to work hard

In the bathroom, the chemical components of evaporating water leave white spots on the floor. In addition to the above, the surface can be stained by a jet of champagne hitting it, splashes from an exploding container with tomatoes or compote, pranks of children, and so on. At the same time, cleaning the ceiling retains its gloss and original condition.

List of surface care accessories

It is not immediately possible to figure out how to wash stretch ceilings. The list of accessories for the care of the stretch ceiling film includes a strong sliding ladder that does not slip on the floor surface, on which it is possible to sit without the risk of falling. You will need a microfiber cloth that absorbs water well or a sponge made of foam rubber, but brushes with hard bristles should never be used.

Special cleaning chemicals are expensive, but they can be replaced with dishwashing detergent or glass cleaner. In addition, you will need a bucket of sufficient volume and rubber gloves.

General rules for cleaning a stretch ceiling

If we want to wash a matte or glossy stretch ceiling with high quality, without leaving streaks, we must follow the general cleaning rules. We list the most important:

• before performing work, jewelry, watches, bracelets and other items that can damage a susceptible surface are removed from hands;
• do not remove dirt with a knife, a brush with hard bristles or any kind of scrapers made of metal or plastic;
• a soft sponge should be used, making circular movements with it in the direction of the butt joint;
• cleaning products that contain abrasive particles in their composition cannot be used, otherwise they will damage the surface;
• acetone dissolves the material from which the stretch ceiling is made, and is able to make holes in it;
• it is not allowed to press too hard on the surface during cleaning and bring it into contact with the actual ceiling;
• it is most correct to use a glass cleaner with ammonia, after which no streaks remain.

It is easy to spoil the stretch ceiling with a long-handled mop, for the reason that it is difficult to regulate the pressure exerted on the film.

For the purpose of cleaning, you can carefully use a vacuum cleaner with a soft nozzle, trying not to touch the treated surface during operation. It is necessary to take care of the ceiling in the kitchen especially carefully, because it is in this room that the greatest amount of pollution is deposited on it.

Means for washing glossy and matte surfaces

Stretch ceiling maintenance kit

For washing matte and glossy films, it is not allowed to apply products containing abrasive particles and acetone. It will restore the glossy shine, wash the film well and leave no streaks on the glass care composition with ammonia. Good results are obtained by a mixture of mild laundry detergent with laundry soap shavings, dissolved in warm water.

When using a solution, its temperature should not exceed forty degrees, otherwise the coating may be damaged. Whipped foam is applied to the surface to be cleaned, but it is not necessary to lather it. Among the compositions manufactured in an industrial way, preference should be given to brands such as Mister Muscle and Vanish: the proprietary mixture cleans the coating qualitatively.

Methods for dry cleaning the film from dust

Stretch ceilings can be cleaned without the use of humidifiers. Dry cleaning of the film from dust can be done with a soft cloth or napkin in a circular motion, wiping the surface with them. This work can be done more efficiently using a vacuum cleaner with a suction hose of sufficient length, at the end of which a soft nozzle is placed. You should not touch the surface to be cleaned with it, you need to leave a gap of about two centimeters.

Gently using a vacuum cleaner to clean the ceiling is quite effective.

Note that special means help to prevent the deposition of dust, during the processing of which the coating is given antistatic properties. As a result, the surface is not electrified and ceases to attract dust.

How to wash a glossy ceiling without streaks

The stains remaining on the surface of the stretch ceiling after washing will disappoint the cleaning author. In order to prevent their formation as a result of wet wiping, you need to follow some simple rules. You can wash the glossy ceiling without streaks as follows:

• first apply whipped soap suds or a cleaning agent to the surface, and then wipe it dry;
• washing should be carried out in the direction of the connecting seams, and not across them;
• a composition of one part of ammonia, diluted in ten parts of water, will give the coating a glossy shine and remove traces of soap stains;
• The glass cleaner also does not leave streaks after its application.

Glossy ceiling is easy to clean with microfiber

During the operation of the stretch ceiling, it is not necessary to bring it to such a state that the surface requires long and persistent cleaning. Wash, wipe and clean them in a timely manner. It is very difficult to remove old stains that have ingrained into the structure of the material; rubbing them off can damage the coating and spoil its appearance.

Methods for cleaning matte surfaces

Matte surfaces imitate the surface of a ceiling covered with a layer of plaster. Methods for cleaning a matte stretch ceiling involve the following sequence of actions:

• cobwebs and dust from the surface are removed with a rag made of microfiber;
• then, with a soft sponge, a whipped foam of a soapy solution is applied to the coating in a circular motion (without exerting strong pressure);
• the cleaning agent is washed off;
• Use a soft cloth to dry the final wipe.

Matte stretch ceiling is easy to clean with a vacuum cleaner

How to get rid of stains on a stretch ceiling

Spots on a stretch ceiling most often appear from exposure to grease, rust, water leaks, the effects of smoking in an apartment, as a result of household use of paint, felt-tip pens, ketchup, champagne splashes, and so on. You can get rid of grease stains with a soft sponge dipped in dishwashing detergent. After removing the stain, the place of its localization is washed with clean water and wiped dry with a rag.

Stains from water leaks are removed with a mixture of one part of ammonia and one part of planed laundry soap dissolved in it. Contamination with ketchup or tomato paste is removed with hydrogen peroxide, and traces of a felt-tip pen or marker are wiped with alcohol or soapy water.

Drops of paint are very carefully removed with a solvent, and when performing this manipulation, it is important not to touch the adjacent surface of the panel.

What to do if there are circles after cleaning

If, after cleaning the surface of the stretch ceiling, circles from the soap solution remain on it, they should be removed. To do this, the coating must be washed several times with a soft sponge. After each wet wipe, the surface is dried with a rag.

Fashionable, attractive and practical - three words can describe such a popular design element in recent years as a stretch ceiling. The widespread love for this product is growing rapidly, and not only due to the aesthetics of appearance, excellent characteristics and properties. Materials and installation are quite affordable. The only thing that concerns buyers is how harmful are stretch ceilings?

Peculiarities

Do not forget that the human body is a unique system, there are no two identical people all over the world. Therefore, it is impossible to predict what will be the reaction of a person to certain substances. For some, being in a room with artificial decoration is quite acceptable, while someone may not like such a neighborhood. In the worst case scenario, an allergy attack will occur.

Whether stretch ceilings are harmful or not is difficult to determine visually, it all depends on the raw materials that were used in their manufacture. Most often in households there are ceilings made of thin polyvinyl chloride (PVC) fabric.

The price of such products is much less than fabric ones, they are convenient and easy to use, they easily withstand heavy loads in the form of flooding from the upper floors. However, PVC film also has a significant drawback - a fake from a quality product is very difficult to detect even with the most careful examination.

PVC does not have a special designation, which is what dishonest foremen use. Very often they buy cheap film of poor quality, claiming that it is the best Belgian production. If the material of the future stretch ceiling is really high-class, then the purchase will not bring any trouble. In the case of a fake, surprises are likely.

Material composition

According to the research conducted by specialists who have thoroughly studied PVC, its constituent components are not volatile, so the assertion that stretch ceilings are unsafe for people is unfounded. In order for the human body to suffer significant damage, harmful elements must penetrate into every cell of it.

Depending on the manufacturer, PVC sheets can have from 50 to 600 various chemical elements., most of them do not pose a threat. However, phenol, toluene, formaldehyde and some other substances are toxic and harmful to the human body to varying degrees.

Evaporating, they have a negative effect on the skin, respiratory and nervous system. But the same experts reassure buyers, noting that the content of chemical elements in the film is much lower than the permissible norms and accepted world standards.

Bad smell

There is another opinion that tension structures are hazardous to health, as they are a source of an unpleasant (toxic) odor. In fact, the stench does not last long, and becomes imperceptible a couple of hours after the installation of the hinged system, without being something harmful.

The fact of the appearance of an unpleasant odor is explained quite simply. To make the film possible to install, it is heated. At the same time, the temperature in the room rises above 65C and the substances that make up PVC become volatile.

Fabric ceilings

Fabric stretch ceilings are considered the most environmentally friendly, although, unlike plastic systems, they collect dust, which can be considered a kind of payment for safety. To extend the service life, manufacturers of such structures treat the surface of the base material with polyurethane. This is the same polyvinyl chloride, however, its amount is so small that there should be no harm from fabric ceilings.

Ceiling fabrics, unlike PVC films, are marked, it is located at the edges, so after installation it is cut off, and nothing spoils the look of the finished product. Due to this feature, the cost of fabric ceilings increases, but no one will doubt their quality.

The composition of fabric systems is free of phenol, toluene, cadmium and other chemicals, so they are completely harmless, which confirms the quality certificate of compliance with ISO 14000 requirements. Concerning smell. As a rule, it is not there, and if it is, it is barely perceptible, similar to washed linen. He disappears very quickly.

Advantages and disadvantages

The tendency to install stretch ceilings in the modern world is increasing every day, the number of people wishing to use this technology at home is multiplying. This is not surprising, because tensile structures are one of the simplest and fastest methods of finishing the ceiling, the benefits of such a product for decorating an apartment are undeniable.

The main advantages of stretch ceilings include:

• Ease of installation. To decorate the ceilings, no preliminary surface preparation needs to be done. The process is fast with minimal waste.
• Strength. Fabric and PVC systems are able to withstand heavy loads (up to 100 liters per 1 sq. m).
• Small thickness of the structure. Wall height loss due to the minimum thickness of suspended ceiling material is between 2 and 4 cm.
• Stability of properties. Hinged systems do not lose their properties even under the influence of moisture and ultraviolet radiation.

• Large area coverage. Can be used to cover a wide variety of areas. In this case, traces of finishing and seams will be absent.
• Variety of choice. There are different options for stretch ceilings, the main types are: satin, glossy and matte.
• Limitless color palette. If desired, the client can get not only a multi-colored ceiling, but also a design with a snake skin look, wood effect, with a suede effect.
• Environmental friendliness. Fungus and bacteria start on the surface of the ceiling! This is an indispensable quality for rooms with high humidity - swimming pools, bathrooms.
• Long service life. Manufacturers give a guarantee for suspended ceilings from 10 to 15 years.

However, the experience of many consumers has shown that the actual service life with proper care can be much longer.

In addition, the ceiling can be single-level, multi-level or stepped. Installation does not exclude the use of lighting fixtures. You can install standard chandeliers, spotlights and other devices.

Cons of stretch ceilings

A wide range of stretch ceilings is presented on the domestic market; choosing the most acceptable option for the interior of the room is quite simple. Despite the numerous advantages, the designs also have disadvantages.

It is difficult to call them a significant drawback, but still they exist and you need to know about them when buying a product:

• Stretch ceilings must be handled very carefully. It is impossible to test them for strength with piercing and cutting objects; it is also not necessary to carry out repairs on your own. If an unforeseen situation happened, for example, the neighbors flooded, it is better to seek help from the masters who carried out the installation work.
• Installation is carried out only using highly specialized equipment, which affects the pricing of work. Installation of stretch ceilings is an expensive pleasure.
• On glossy surfaces, seams can be seen, when the light is on, all objects in the room can be reflected, as if in a mirror.
• At ambient temperatures below zero, the coating loses its strength.
• Since the PVC film is airtight, a room with a ceiling made of this material must be regularly ventilated, otherwise the harmfulness of the false ceiling will manifest itself.

Doctors' opinions

For many consumers, it is extremely important to get the opinion of doctors regarding the use of building materials and decorative products with which people will be or are in constant proximity. Couples are especially worried, who are concerned not only with their own health, but also with the condition of their little children.

That is why health workers did not remain aloof from the issue of safety of stretch ceilings, having studied the performance of these products. The opinion of most luminaries of science boils down to the fact that hinged structures are quite safe.

But they also note that the reaction of the human body to the appearance of a new chemical in the neighborhood is difficult to predict. Doctors warn that allergy sufferers should be especially careful. When installing a hinged canvas, risks may await them.

Phenol vapors. The organic compound contained in PVC is a component that is quite dangerous for the body. However, phenol will not harm if the ceiling material is of high quality.

There is an opinion that Chinese ceilings are cheap due to the low quality of the raw materials. But this is a delusion. Asian manufacturers have managed to prove that their products are not inferior in their excellent characteristics to European companies.

Doctors reassure that according to the structure of PVC, phenol is not presented in a volatile form, that is, it can evaporate into the air only at high temperatures, which is used only once - during the installation process.

This fact explains the unpleasant smell of the film, which hovers in the air for several hours. To eliminate this effect, it is enough to ventilate the room in which the installation work was carried out.

Fabric ceilings, according to the luminaries of science, are the safest and most environmentally friendly products. But this type of coating is quite often faked, using dangerous raw materials instead of fabric, which outwardly resemble natural material. Such a counterfeit product is impregnated with cheap and dangerous chemicals, and it is they who become the culprit in the frequent treatment of people in clinics.

Thus, not a single person, even with a medical education, can unequivocally answer the question about the safety of stretch fabrics.

Doctors say that the key to a successful purchase, which will not have a detrimental effect on the human body and its environment, is only the purchase of a quality product. And it can be offered only by proven manufacturers operating in the building materials market for more than a dozen years.

The benefits and harms of stretch ceilings are discussed in various sources. Arguments for and against tension structures are given, however, not all opinions should be considered true. For the sake of profit, someone can lie about harm or, conversely, report about safety. Therefore, it makes sense to analyze in detail what are the pros and cons of various materials for ceiling covering and how their properties can affect our state of health.

There are many rumors about the benefits and dangers of various ceiling coverings. However, not many of them have reliable confirmation in the medical environment. Professionals talk about stretch ceilings as one of the safest ways to decorate a ceiling.

What are the pros and cons of stretch ceilings, unlike other coatings:

• With regard to the health of consumers, fabric is dense for ceilings. Their advantage lies in the fact that they allow air to pass through. However, it should be noted that this plus is noticeable only in a private house with a wooden ceiling. If your ceiling is made of concrete, then no ceiling material will save the day.
• Also among the advantages it is worth noting the exceptional cleanliness during installation work: the dust from the skinning of the ceiling will not clog your lungs.
• Also, the advantage of a PVC film ceiling is that fungi and bacteria do not breed on the surface of the film! This is an indispensable property for rooms with high humidity.
• Certified PVC ceilings are completely harmless. The only thing you need to make sure is in the documents confirming the quality of the material.
• PVC film can become a health hazard if you fall into the hands of the company. Which sells low-quality canvases. As a rule, such companies do not have the appropriate certificates, and the unpleasant smell from their ceilings lasts more than 2 days.
• The downside of film ceilings, some consider their non-environmental friendliness. But in fact, this material is used to make almost any plastic product. In addition, PVC can be easily replaced with an absolutely eco-friendly fabric ceiling.

If you see a suspiciously favorable price offer for a stretch ceiling, then do not rush to make a purchase: perhaps you have dishonest dealers who want to sell poor-quality and hazardous material. Check certificates and get feedback from people who have already used the organization's services.

Why stretch ceilings are harmful

Concentrating on the possible dangers of ceiling covering, it should be understood that a quality, documented product cannot be harmful to you. Organizations whose goods may threaten the life and health of their consumers are not allowed to official trade.

The problem that some people claim that stretch ceilings can be dangerous lies in some of the constituents of PVC. However, canvases approved for sale contain chemical elements in very small quantities. Only non-certified materials can be dangerous.

What are the possible risks when installing the ceiling:

1. Phenolic fumes. Phenol is a substance harmful to the body, which is contained in PVC. However, phenol is not dangerous if your ceiling is of good quality. In the chemical composition of the material, phenol is not a volatile element. It can only evaporate at a high temperature, which is necessary for installation. This explains the smell from the film, which is kept in the air for several hours.
2. Fabric ceilings are famous for their safety and environmental friendliness, however, they have also learned how to replace this type of coating with hazardous materials that look like fabric for ceilings. Such material has an impregnation consisting of chemically hazardous substances.
3. Ceilings, even from the highest quality raw materials, are not recommended to be heated: baths, saunas, hot pipes, chandeliers with hot incandescent lamps - all this should be kept away from PVC film. It is high temperatures that contribute to the melting of the material, as well as the spread of harmful fumes.

Stretch modern ceilings: reviews of doctors

Since people are puzzled by safety issues when stretching the ceiling, doctors gladly considered all possible options to protect themselves and their families as much as possible from the negative impact of stretch ceiling materials. According to doctors, stretch ceilings by and large do not affect consumers.

However, practicing professionals give some recommendations for complete confidence in safety:

• Choose a trusted well-known company and European materials that have passed all the necessary checks and certifications.
• Do not visit the room, do not let children into the room immediately after installing the PVC film. Allow the fumes generated by the heating to leave the room completely.
• Avoid overheating during operation. Fire, hot and incandescent objects should not be kept near the ceiling. The material will melt and release substances that have a bad effect on the human body.

Stretch ceiling: environmental friendliness of materials

The question of the environmental friendliness of stretch ceilings is still being discussed. Some say that a high-quality ceiling is in no way inferior to even the most natural materials in terms of its properties, while others argue that PVC, like a specialized fabric, is an extremely non-environmental material.

As far as the arguments regarding the environmental friendliness of stretch ceilings can be considered worthy:

1. PVC is a material suitable for the manufacture of children's toys, water pipes, dishes and other items that are directly related to our body. These types of materials have been repeatedly tested, therefore they can be attributed to absolutely safe environmentally friendly materials.
2. Fabric impregnated with polyurethane is a popular material for tailoring. This texture is completely harmless and environmentally friendly.
3. The downside with regard to the environmental friendliness of ceilings is the poor quality of some manufacturers. If the material does not meet international standards, then it can easily be dangerous and extremely unfriendly. Be careful and check the documents.

It is also important to check the certificate confirming the fire safety of the material.

How to choose an environmentally friendly stretch ceiling

In fact, any high-quality stretch ceiling is environmentally friendly. All possible materials from which a stretch ceiling can be made have quality standards.

Documents confirming compliance with quality standards guarantee the environmental friendliness of your ceiling.

Materials that meet the standards have the following properties:

• PVC film does not emit any substances into the air, loses unpleasant odors a few hours after installation.
• The fabric has no smell. Harmful substances in this material are not contained in principle.

Are stretch ceilings harmful (video)

If you care about the health of your family and friends, then do not save time and money on the choice of materials with which you plan to live for more than one year. Ask questions to representatives of the selected company, require documentary confirmation of the words. If you are attentive and picky enough, then be sure to study the reviews about the work of the company. By following these rules, you do not have to worry about your health during the installation and operation of stretch ceilings.

Are stretch ceilings so harmful?

Stretch ceilings are a very popular way to transform your home. They are practical, attractive in appearance, easily fit into any interior. And their price will be affordable for most consumers. However, some people categorically refuse to use this type of decoration in their homes and apartments, believing that the materials from which the canvas is made emit substances harmful to the human body. How true is this? Can the canvas used cause you to feel unwell or are rumors about the dangers of stretch ceilings slightly exaggerated? Let's try to find out.

Why stretch fabrics can be unsafe

When discussing the safety of a product, it is important to understand that our body reacts differently to the same substance. One person can sit for hours in a living room with a synthetic finish and feel good. And in the second, such a neighborhood can easily cause allergies. Therefore, it is very difficult to say unequivocally that the material will be absolutely safe for most people.

However, there are general requirements and norms that any manufacturer must adhere to. In this case, we are talking about international ISO standards. If the material is made in accordance with all their requirements, it will not pose any danger to human health. This should be remembered by everyone who decides to acquire a ceiling structure of this kind. Before installing it, it will not be superfluous to ask the installer for a security certificate. And both on the material used, and on the work itself. Even if the services of the installer company will cost more, it is better not to put your health at risk.

Health Risk Factors

But that is not all. No quality certificate can protect the consumer from an unscrupulous manufacturer or seller. Any paper can be printed on the printer, and the label on the material can simply be re-glued. In order not to become a victim of clever entrepreneurs, one should at least have a little idea of ​​\u200b\u200bwhat can harm people's health and what to consider first of all.

Chemical composition and properties of materials

The first thing to pay attention to is the material used to make the ceiling. To date, there are 2 types of stretch fabrics: film and fabric. Each of them has its own advantages, disadvantages and application features.

PVC film is by far the most popular material for this type of finish. It is durable, easy to care for, can withstand high humidity and even hold a large amount of water spilled from above by negligent neighbors.

PVC sheets are made in a variety of textures and shades, so they can satisfy the needs of each consumer. In addition, they are much cheaper than fabric ones. But the composition of this material may contain many harmful components, the most dangerous of which are:

1. Phenol. Persistent, almost "eternal" harmful substance that does not decompose for a long time and does not disappear from the room. It leads to dysfunction of the kidneys, cardiovascular and nervous systems, can cause pulmonary edema and oncological diseases. Due to its high toxicity, phenol is banned for use in various countries, but it can easily be present in low-quality canvases.
2. Cadmium. It is a heavy metal. It settles in the bones, liver, kidneys. Being a carcinogen, it provokes the development of cancer.
3. Toluene. Its inhalation leads to loss of appetite, causes lethargy, insomnia. The substance negatively affects the nervous system and organs of vision. In severe cases, it can cause blindness.
4. Chlorine. Its inhalation is fraught with damage to the mucous membranes. The substance can make it difficult to breathe, provoke a cough, cause lung diseases (up to oncology).

There is no need to panic too much. All these substances are dangerous only in large doses. In high-quality canvases, their content does not exceed the permissible norm. But it is very difficult to distinguish such products from counterfeit ones. Dishonest manufacturers and suppliers very often wishful thinking, calling a low-quality fake canvases from France or Belgium. There is no marking on PVC, so it is simply impossible to convict the seller of deceit. But at the same time, you need to remember: almost all films brought to us are made in China. Among the dozens of factories concentrated there, there are many reliable ones that are worried about the quality of their products, but exceptions are not uncommon.

The worst thing about this is that it is possible to determine whether there is harm from stretch ceilings installed in the house only by the persistent “chemical” smell that occurs after installation. Until then, the owner will have to rely to a greater extent only on the decency of the installer company.

With fabric ceilings the situation is different. The basis here is textile fabrics impregnated with polyurethane. The result is an attractive, durable and breathable design.

The cost of such a canvas is somewhat higher, but its quality will not be in doubt. Unlike PVC film, ceiling fabrics have a marking that is applied to their edge.

There are no toxic elements in the composition of this material, so stretch fabric ceilings cannot cause any harm. The smell is usually absent. A light fragrance, similar to that which comes from freshly washed clothes, does not count: it hovers for a very short time and disappears without a trace. Even if the landlord decides to install such a stretch ceiling in the bedroom, there will be no harm. Under it, you can sleep absolutely peacefully.

But this statement, again, applies only to high-quality material, and not to a cheap fake. A low-grade product may contain both poisonous types of plastic polyurethanes that are prohibited for use, and various additives designed to supposedly improve quality, but in reality only mask manufacturing flaws.

What else should be feared

The presence of harmful components in the composition is not the only drawback of stretch ceilings that must be taken into account. Among other risk factors, it should be noted the combustibility of the material, its ability to evaporate hazardous volatile substances when heated.

It is impossible to install PVC sheets at normal temperatures. The film must be heated, but in this case, toxic substances will evaporate into the air. It is for this reason that experts advise after completion of installation to ventilate the room more than once.

The same danger will come from burning. PVC does not ignite, but it can smolder, releasing toxic substances into the air.

Fabric ceilings do not require heating, so from this point of view they will be safer.

Another negative consequence of the installation of such structures is a violation of ventilation. Stretch ceilings made of PVC absolutely do not let air through, and under the influence of high temperature they create an effect in the room akin to a greenhouse. It will be very difficult to feel comfortable in such a dwelling, but this problem is easily solved with the help of ventilation of the supply and exhaust type.

In particularly difficult cases, you can give preference to fabric ceilings that are able to "breathe", so this effect will not occur during their operation.

How to choose a quality ceiling

Even knowing the basic selection criteria, it can be very difficult to distinguish a high-quality stretch fabric from a fake. In order not to make a mistake when buying, the seller should be sure to ask for a certificate of conformity. It is better to pay attention to more expensive brands, this will increase the likelihood that the stretch fabric will be of high quality. It would be useful to look for information on the Internet, compare which ceiling is better, ask friends who already had experience in using tension structures for advice. The installer company or shop should be chosen very carefully, relying on good recommendations and the time of their work in the service market.

Determination of the quality of the finished ceiling

Regrettably, it sounds, but it will be possible to finally make sure that the choice is correct only after the installation of the structure:

1. More than 2 weeks have passed since the installation was completed, and the specific, sweet smell does not disappear. This means that the tension fabric is of very poor quality. Moreover, it can cause irreparable harm to health. It is simply dangerous to be in this room; the ceiling structure must be immediately dismantled.
2. The smell remains no more than 1-2 weeks. This indicates that the purchased material is of satisfactory quality. It is undesirable to use it for mounting the ceiling in the bedroom, but in the living room or corridor it will be quite appropriate.
3. After installation, the structure does not emit any odor or it is barely perceptible and disappears after 1-3 days after good ventilation. In this case, the owner of the apartment can be calm: the canvas he has chosen is absolutely safe.

In conclusion, it should be noted that it is possible to argue about the benefits or harms of stretch ceilings ad infinitum. Everyone who has come across these designs has their own opinion. A certain danger, of course, exists, but all of the above applies only to low-quality products. If you buy a good canvas, then there will definitely be nothing but convenience and aesthetic pleasure from installing a stretch ceiling.

Today it is a popular finishing material. It harmoniously fits into almost any interior. This is a practical, beautiful finish. However, some buyers claim that the materials from which the canvas is made release components that are unsafe for the human body into the environment. , will help to understand the opinions of doctors.

Manufacturers of materials for such finishes insist that their products are certified, they fully comply with existing standards and requirements. Why do some consumers believe that stretch ceilings emit toxic substances? It should be looked into in more detail.

Existing standards

Are stretch ceilings harmful to human health?, only experienced professionals can say. There are certain standards by which this or that material for interior decoration is tested.

It should be noted that in all people the reaction of the body to a particular substance may be different. For some, being in a room with a ceiling made of artificial materials is quite comfortable, while others may develop an asthma attack or an allergy. Therefore, to say that this or that material is completely safe (or, conversely, dangerous) for all people is quite difficult.

Today, general norms are applied, which were developed by scientists taking into account many factors. These requirements must be met by every manufacturer. These are ISO international environmental standards. It is believed that if the material meets all their requirements, it is safe for human health. All commercially available materials for arranging a stretch ceiling must have an environmental certificate. Also, such documents must be provided for installation.

Damage to PVC ceilings

Considering health risks of stretch ceilings, It should be said about their existing varieties. The presented finish can be made of PVC film or fabric. Each version of the stretch ceiling has its own characteristics.

PVC film is considered today the most popular material for such a finish. Such material is cheaper than fabric canvases. PVC film is easy to clean, able to withstand high humidity. Even if the neighbors from above forget to close the tap, the film will be able to hold a sufficiently large volume of water without letting it into the room.

However, the presented coating is most often counterfeited by unscrupulous manufacturers. In this case, the manufacturing process of the material is not carried out according to the established technology. There is no need to talk about the quality of such a finish.

PVC film manufacturers

It will become clear after considering the features of the manufacture of this material. Almost all products for finishing today are supplied to the market by Chinese manufacturers. Among them, many companies create a film according to all the rules. Their products meet international requirements. However, not all Chinese manufacturers can boast of quality.

The once popular European manufacturers of Renolit, Pongs today have significantly reduced the cost of their production. Previously, their PVC film was odorless, very smooth and shiny. Today, their products have lost their former quality.

Belgian, French or German films are not sold on the domestic market. If the seller claims that the finishing products are made in these countries, this is a fake. Such a film is produced in China, but it is possible that a foreign company supplies it to our country.

Signs of quality PVC film

Allow you to understand Are stretch ceilings harmful to health, reviews buyers and medical professionals. They claim that high quality products do not harm the human body. However, it will not be so easy to determine which film is on sale. There are several characteristics of quality.

After installation, a PVC film that is safe for health either has no smell at all, or it is barely noticeable and completely disappears in just a couple of days after installation. It is recommended to ventilate the room well after installation. Such films, according to doctors, do not harm health.

If the ceiling after installation emits an unpleasant chemical smell for about a week, this is most likely an average quality material. It can not be mounted in the bedroom or nursery. But for the bathroom, hallway or kitchen, it is quite suitable.

If the smell does not disappear for more than two weeks, such a ceiling is considered unhealthy.

Harmful components of PVC film

Considering, one should consider the effect on the body of components that may be present in low-quality PVC film (the smell does not disappear in them).

One of the most toxic substances that is part of the base material is phenol. It is banned in many countries. Phenol disrupts the functioning of the liver, kidneys, heart, and nervous system. Possible development of pulmonary edema, infertility and cancer. It does not fade for a long time.

Another dangerous component is cadmium. It is excreted from the body for decades. Cadmium settles in the liver, kidneys and other organs, causing the development of cancerous tumors.

Toluene may also be present in the PVC film. It poisons the body, causing fatigue, insomnia, headaches. Toluene causes fetal pathologies in pregnant women.

Chlorine released into the environment causes irritation of the mucous membranes. It can cause lung disease.

Waterproof

studying, how harmful stretch ceiling, attention should be paid to such an issue as the water resistance of the film. It also does not let air through. Many buyers claim that this feature has led to the development of fungus and other pathogens on the base of the ceiling.

It should be noted that such materials are really not able to pass air. However, this is not a critical shortcoming. If the owners pay attention to the arrangement of high-quality ventilation in the room, this problem can be avoided.

In the absence of natural or forced ventilation, even without a PVC ceiling, high humidity will form in the room, and a fungus will develop. Therefore, you should regularly ventilate the room to avoid health problems.

Fabric canvases

Many buyers are interested Are fabric stretch ceilings harmful to health?. Such materials are polyester fabric. It is impregnated with polyurethane to give sufficient rigidity. A feature of such canvases is the ability to pass air.

The cost of fabric stretch ceilings is higher than that of PVC film. But the quality of such material is much higher. Such canvases are necessarily marked, so it is almost impossible to purchase a fake. The most famous are the French ceilings Clipso and the German Descor.

The composition of fabric ceilings does not include components harmful to health. Cloths have no smell at all. Such ceilings can be stretched in almost any room. They are safe for both adults and children.

The opinion of doctors about the ceiling in the bedroom

By examining the opinions of medical professionals about Is a stretch ceiling harmful to health? special attention should be paid to the installation of such finishes in the bedroom and children's room. In such rooms people spend a lot of time. Therefore, increased requirements are put forward for the quality of finishing materials.

Doctors say that it is quite possible to install fabric and film ceilings in the bedroom and children's room. However, their quality must be high. It is necessary to purchase such products from trusted companies.

There is a practice of forging quality certificates. Therefore, do not trust little-known sellers or installers. In this case, the quality of the final finish can be really low.

When choosing a material for a stretch ceiling, the opinion of experts should be taken into account. It is believed that for a living room, bedroom, study or children's room, it would be preferable to mount fabric sheets. They have an aesthetic appearance, provide more color options.

Film materials will be effective in damp areas, such as bathrooms or kitchens. Fabric webs in such conditions may lose their appearance. However, low quality PVC ceilings are not allowed in any room. If such material was installed in a house or apartment, it is urgently dismantled.

Doctors say that you can not save on your health. If appropriate measures are not taken in time to eliminate harmful material from your home, the consequences can be the most dire.

Considering the views of medical professionals on Is a stretch ceiling harmful to health?, you can choose a safe material for indoor decoration.