What lamps are better for tension. Spotlights: pros and cons

Modern design solutions for the design of an apartment or office require the use of the latest technical means. Therefore, having equipped the room with a stretch ceiling, you should take care of the corresponding lamp. How to choose the right lighting fixtures for a stretch ceiling? Let's figure this out.

What fixtures are suitable for stretch ceilings

Stretch ceilings are a panel fixed on a profile (baguette). It can be made of fabric or PVC film. The material has relatively low heat resistance. So, during operation, lamps with powerful lamps (primarily incandescent lamps) strongly heat the surrounding surface. Under the influence of high temperature (over 50 degrees), the canvas may turn yellow, lose elasticity, crack. And this means that its service life will be significantly reduced. To avoid this, you should choose and install the lamp correctly - that's all.

Most often, luminaires with halogen or LED light sources are chosen for stretch ceilings, less often with energy-saving fluorescent ones.

As we have already noted, the material of the tension fabric imposes certain restrictions on the power of light sources. So, the power of halogen lamps should not exceed 35-40 W, fluorescent - 50 W. You should also take into account the design features of lighting fixtures and the shape of the shades. Luminaires should be located at least 15-20 cm from the surface of the canvas.

The installation of "dish" type luminaires in the case of stretch ceilings is strictly prohibited. Due to the tight fit of light sources to the surface and poor air circulation, the canvas can be damaged by exposure to high temperatures!

If you still decide to opt for lamps with traditional incandescent lamps, then the distance from them to the ceiling surface should be at least 40 cm.

Types of fixtures for stretch ceilings

There are a fairly large number of classifications of lamps: by type of attachment, by design, by design, by light source ... Let's talk about this in more detail.

According to the type of fastening for stretch ceilings, fixtures are most often used:

• Suspended (chandeliers)
  These lamps got such a name according to the principle of installation - they are hung on a hook mounted in the base ceiling. In this case, the lamp itself has a special fixture, usually in the form of a triangle. This is one of the simplest mounting options. At the same time, it is important that the master, before stretching the canvas, makes a hole in it in the right place. Then it remains only to strengthen it with a special ring and stretch the suspension through it.
  Concerning price category, then among the variety of pendant lamps there are both budget and elite models - from thousands to hundreds of thousands of rubles.
• Overhead
  For the installation of overhead fixtures, you need to prepare a mortgage base with a power supply in advance. After stretch ceiling installed, overhead rings are glued and holes are made at the location of the lamps, that is, overhead lamps are installed directly on the canvas, literally superimposed on it. Due to the peculiarities of such structures, the power of the lamps used should be taken into account. An ideal option would be LED lamps - with such lighting, the canvas of the shelf heats up slightly.
  Overhead lamps, as a rule, are cheaper than pendant ones.
• Embedded
  Such lamps are attached according to the same principle as overhead ones. At the same time, they have a spring-type mount, which is inserted into a hole in the false ceiling, where the spring straightens out, which allows you to firmly press the lamp to the ceiling sheathing. From the outside, the canvas is made out decorative overlay. Visually it seems that the lamp merges with the ceiling. Such structures attract less attention, their main goal is to illuminate the room. Therefore, they are often used in offices.
  As a rule, these are inexpensive lamps.

According to the number of light sources, lamps are distinguished:

• Point
  Peculiarity spotlights is that they are small in size and are designed for one lamp, so for full lighting you need several of these lamps. They look good in the kitchen, in the bathroom, in the hallway. The illumination zone of such devices is usually not more than 30 degrees, so they should be installed in rows.
  Prices for spotlights are quite low, the average cost of one is 500–1500 rubles.

For general lighting fixtures, the radiation angle should be at least 60-90 degrees. For local lighting, lamps with an angle of at least 40 degrees are used.

• Cascading
  These are built-in structures, which are a platform on which several lighting elements are fixed - screwed-in ceiling lamps or suspended lamps. Cascading structures create an atmosphere of refined elegance in the room, help to delimit the zones in the room. In recent years, there has been a trend in the design environment to place cascading lights above dining table.
  Designers offer many original models. However, these products are not cheap.

In accordance with the ability to adjust the luminous flux, lamps are distinguished:

• Static and rotary
  The former do not have moving elements and provide "stationary" lighting. The latter have a movable outer part. This makes it possible to adjust the direction of the light beam, which would be appropriate, for example, during the reception of guests - to illuminate the faces of those present at a large table.

Depending on the light source used, products can be classified into:

• LED luminaires for stretch ceilings
  Similar lighting work with the help of a semiconductor - a light-emitting diode. In it, unlike a conventional incandescent or fluorescent lamp, the electric current is transformed directly into light radiation. LED lamps give a warm yellowish or cool white light, almost do not heat up, they are durable, have a long service life, and are also energy-saving. They, perhaps, have only two drawbacks - the high price and the impossibility of replacing the lamps (usually they are built into the lamp): in the event of a burnout, the entire lighting fixture will have to be changed.
• Halogen lamps
  Fixtures with halogen lamps have a very high quality color reproduction, high brightness and clear radiation directivity. Compared to LED lights, they do not have high rates energy saving. But if we compare them with incandescent lamps, then halogen lamps have a higher luminous efficiency and last twice as long.
  Usually small lamps are inserted into the halogen ceiling lamp, sometimes they are not even visible.
• Energy-saving fluorescent lamps
  Any lamp, including those located on a stretch ceiling, becomes energy-saving when energy-saving lamps are inserted into it. fluorescent lamps. Their peculiarity lies in the fact that they have a very high light output - the ratio between the luminous flux and power consumption. This allows you to save energy. However, such lamps are large in size and they can not be placed in every lamp.

If you do not want your eyes to hurt when you look at the lamp, choose models with a dark light reflector function. The outgoing light beam in them is soft.

Prices for fixtures for stretch ceilings

The price of lighting fixtures for a stretch ceiling consists of many factors. These are: the country of origin, the materials from which the lamp is made, its design.

Yes, prices for pendant lamps for stretch ceilings, they range on average from 2,000 to 20,000 rubles. For example, Bokal pendant lamp from the manufacturer Citilux (Denmark) - one glass shade, with maximum power 100 W, costs 2290 rubles. The elongated vertical shape allows it not to come into contact with the stretch ceiling. This model perfect for kitchen lighting.

Overhead lamps cost an average of 800-5000 rubles. Available offer: LED lamp from the manufacturer Horoz (Turkey) "Supplied circle" with an aluminum case and a power of 18 W for 1047 rubles.

Spotlights can be selected in the range of 100-1500 rubles. For example, Novotech Window 369110 spotlight from Novotech (Hungary) made of aluminum and frosted glass with a power of 50 W costs 350 rubles.

A feature of cascading lamps is the intricacy of design. On average, they cost from 20,000 and above. Thus, the cascading chandelier Cascade T522-PT40x100-G (Maytoni), made in Germany, which is a luxurious inflorescence of crystal beads, costs 62,330 rubles. This lamp is designed for 12 lamps and has a lighting area of ​​48 square meters. m.

Thus, the prices for ceiling lights for stretch ceilings vary considerably, but the range of these products is very wide, so you can choose a lighting fixture for every taste and budget without any problems.

How to choose luminaires for stretch ceilings

When choosing a lamp, you should first of all consider the interior of the room for which you purchase it. Restrained modern, designer chic or classic luxury - it all depends on how you see your room as a whole.

Do not forget about the maximum power of the lamps, but we talked about this earlier.

For a fabric web, the choice of fixtures is wider, as it tolerates high temperatures well. Suitable for halogen, energy-saving, and LED lighting fixtures. For PVC, LED lights are ideal.

On a stretch ceiling, you can install both one lamp and a number of spotlights, or both types can be used. Note that the modern design of the premises involves several light sources, so the lighting system should be carefully considered. Be sure to take into account the geometry and design of the fixtures: round or square, plain or patterned, etc.

As we have seen, installing the right lighting for you will not be a problem. The main thing is to take into account all the nuances of the room, the technical characteristics of the lamp and the features of the stretch ceiling. If you approach all this thoughtfully, the result will exceed all expectations.

Stylish and practical stretch ceilings are gaining momentum in popularity. With their help, they hide defects in the ceiling structure and visually increase the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room when using reflective coatings. With such materials, you can not take care of the cleanliness and beauty of the ceiling for a long time. The article will focus on which lamps to choose for stretch ceilings.

Organization of lighting

However, speaking of ceiling structures, one cannot fail to note its main component - lighting. From correct selection lighting fixtures and the quality of the spotlights themselves depends not only appearance and the service life of stretch fabrics, but also the safety of residents.

• Placement of lighting products is carried out in order to provide uniform and comfortable lighting for the eyes. Especially popular is combined option where a traditional chandelier is complemented by spotlights. This technique will avoid the appearance of shaded corners.

Fixtures for stretch ceilings photo

• Ceiling lighting should be functional. For a relaxation area in the living room or bedroom, a soft, diffusing glow is organized. Work areas (a table in an office or kitchen) are brighter, directional flows are used here.

Basic requirements for luminaires for stretch ceilings

Elastic materials used for tension put forward their own requirements not only to the technical characteristics of lighting fixtures, but also to the method of their installation.

• Thin canvases do not withstand high temperatures, so you should adhere to a certain lamp power. The shape of the lamps also has great importance. For installation, light sources in the form of an open plate, as well as chandeliers on a short suspension with shades looking up, are not suitable.
• The body of the luminaire must not have transparent elements. In this case, the light fluxes will enter the interceiling space, illuminating all the laid communications and irregularities of the base base. Based on this, the devices are selected with a closed case. The presence of a reflective plate will serve as an additional plus.

• Installation of any type of lighting fixtures is carried out on the main ceiling or specially installed profiles. Therefore, the design of electrical wiring and the location of light sources is performed before installing a stretch ceiling.

Types of fixtures for stretch ceilings

When choosing lighting products, it is important to follow not only the design task, but also take into account the number and location of windows, the natural light of a particular room. Via competent organization you can increase the functionality of the room at times.

There is a huge range on the market ceiling lights for stretch ceilings, as they say "everything that the soul wants."

• Products are divided according to the type of fastening: suspended, built-in, ceiling-mounted.

Pendant lamps

• This type includes chandeliers and pendant lights, which are attached to the hook of the base ceiling. The unsightly part of the design is hidden behind the canvas. Plafonds or horns should be directed downwards. With this approach, excessive heating of the membrane will not occur, and it will eliminate the formation of glare on a glossy canvas.

• The selection of spotlights on suspensions is based on the length of the rod to which the body is attached. It should not be forgotten that a significant part of the rod falls on the interceiling space, and therefore there is a risk of placing the lamps in close proximity to the canvas. Therefore, the length of the suspension is critical.

Recessed luminaires

• Lamps are classified according to the type of construction: fixed (shine strictly down) and rotary (spots). The second type makes it possible to adjust the direction of the flow of light by changing the angle of the lamp.
• Their installation is carried out in pre-made working holes. For installation, it is better to choose stamped models equipped with a special thermal ring. The plastic rim prevents further spreading of the panel and protects the material from heating by the lamp.
• Take into account the following feature of built-in appliances - their technical part is hidden in the interceiling space, so the distance between the base and stretch ceilings should be at least 7 cm. For some models, this parameter may be 16 cm.
• Spotlights for stretch ceilings are available in various forms. It is not difficult to choose products for any interior. They are arranged in accordance with strict geometry or random order.

Ceiling lamps

• This type of chandelier is popular due to its design. They are a compact lighting solution for a small area. The absence of a suspension or its minimum size makes it possible to install spotlights in rooms with low ceilings.
• The special platform reliably protects a cloth from an overheat. If there are brackets with shades, pay attention to their location (up or down). Although the use of LED lamps removes restrictions when using such models for stretch ceilings.
• If the design is equipped with a hook, then the fastening is made to the hook on the base canvas. In this case, take into account the distance falling on the interceiling space.
• Some lamps are fixed on the bar that comes with the kit. Here it is important to lay reinforcing profiles in advance at the attachment point of the device or install a bar of a certain thickness, and make a technical hole in the membrane.

Lamps for fixtures

By and large, it is not so much the shape of the lighting fixture that is responsible for overheating the stretch fabric, but rather the lamps used. Their power is subject to certain standards and requirements, observing which you can be sure of fire safety and the absence of film deformation due to the influence of high temperatures. They also affect the prices of fixtures for stretch ceilings.

LED Strip Light

• Standing apart in a number of spotlights is a flexible board with diodes. It serves only as an additional light source. The brightness of the glow depends on the density of the arrangement of the LEDs. However, the total power in any case is not enough for full lighting.

• However, the reduced light output is decisive factor when using it. Especially in cases where there is a real need to install it, and contact of the tape with the ceiling panel cannot be avoided. Emitted soft light fluxes allow you to delimit the space, favorably place interior accents.
• Its installation can be carried out both in the gap between the stretch ceiling and the base ceiling, and on the outer side of the membrane. With a small internal gap (up to 2-3 cm), it is not recommended to use LEDs. In multi-level structures, the tape is laid in specially formed niches.

Incandescent lamps

• This type of lamp is more traditional and affordable. They are used in soffits of open and closed type. However, they get very hot and adversely affect the canvas.
• For fabric stretch ceilings, lamps are used no more powerful than 60 watts, for PVC films - no more than 40 watts. At the same time, the distance between them and the membrane should be at least 25-30 cm. If the lamp is equipped with a reflective plate, then this parameter can be slightly reduced.

• Streams of light should be directed downwards. Otherwise, the canvas will appear yellow spots from burnout, and PVC film is generally deformed. Of the significant drawbacks, it should be noted the size of the lamp base, which is especially important when used in spotlights. The height of the cartridge can reach 10-12 cm, therefore, the inter-ceiling space should be slightly larger.

Halogen luminaires for stretch ceilings

• Compared to incandescent lamps, they have several advantages. Halogen provides a brighter stream of light, though only a warm yellow color, and the size of the base is much smaller. The height of the cartridge is 5-6 cm. This parameter allows you to use it for recessed spotlights on stretch ceilings with a small gap.
• Replacement and installation of such a lamp is carried out with gloves, usually included with the product. Grease spots, left unprotected hands, crystallize and destroy quartz glass, which renders lighting products unusable.

• For PVC ceilings, it is not recommended to use lamps with a power of more than 35 watts.

Fluorescent lamps

• Lamps in energy-saving fixtures for stretch ceilings heat up less than the previous options and are characterized by efficiency. In addition, they do not give light behind the panel, and it will take only 2-3 cm to install them.
• The high cost is easily offset by energy savings. Of the minuses, one can note a slow increase in the power of the glow and a meager choice of exterior finishes.
• The recommended power of fluorescent lamps is from 40 to 60 watts.

LED luminaires for stretch ceilings

• LED lamps provide a continuous glow for years. At the same time, they are very economical and emit a negligible amount of heat. The LEDs are powered by low voltage DC (12 or 24 V).
• Present on the market as led strip, and similar lamps with different socles. Therefore, it will not be difficult to choose products for a specific lamp (the main thing is that the spotlight is equipped with an additional connector).

• Among the shortcomings, it is worth noting the need to use a transformer, which is often installed in the interceiling space. If it fails, it will be difficult to get to it without damaging the membrane. In this connection, it is advised to use 220 V lamps.

How to choose luminaires for stretch ceilings

• The distance between the horns and the panel should be at least 15 cm. If PVC film was used, then at least 20 cm must be retreated from the seam to install the lamp.
• One built-in soffit is able to illuminate about 1.5 sq.m. Therefore, to use them as the main source of light for 25 sq.m. you will need about 15-16 pieces.
• Do not forget about the ratio of the distance between the floor slab and the base ceiling and the height of the fixture. The length of the luminaire suspension or the height of the soffit base must be selected with maximum accuracy.
• To illuminate a certain area, it is better to use spots. Their swivel mechanism allows you to direct the light flux to desired area. Thus, excessive crowding can be avoided. a large number lighting products.

Installation of fixtures on a stretch ceiling

• Lighting devices on stretch ceilings are installed a little differently than on any other ceiling structures. Even the lightest soffit attached directly to the cloth will cause it to sag.
• Fixation of lighting products is carried out before the tension of the membrane and upon its completion. Fastening method determines design features one model or another.
• Regardless of the type of devices used and the type of their fastening, the process of their installation begins in the same way, namely with electrical wiring. At this stage, it is necessary to install all the fasteners, lay the wiring and check its performance.
• The principle of connecting the power supply is the same for any lighting products. The main thing is to observe safety measures and follow the wiring diagram attached to each product.

Installation of a chandelier on a stretch ceiling

The traditional way of fixing a chandelier is to hang it from an existing metal hook in the floor slab. Here you should make sure that the anchor is reliable and that its length is appropriate, because it should not be below the level of the tensioned membrane.

• At the exit point of the chandelier, a plastic ring is installed on the canvas, carefully smeared with glue around the circumference;
• after drying, a membrane is cut out inside the ring;
• the suspension of the chandelier is fixed on the hook and the wires are connected;
• then all the components of the structure are assembled;
• a decorative cup closes an unaesthetic hole.

If the hook is missing for some reason, then it can be purchased at the hardware store. When choosing it, take into account that a rod thickness of 2 mm will support a chandelier weighing up to 3 kg, 3 mm - up to 5 kg, and so on.

Installation of ceiling lights

Such lighting devices in the kit have a mounting plate (a metal platform to which the base of the lamp is fixed). For correct installation preparatory work will be required.

• To the place of installation is carried out electrical cable. For its safety when flooded by neighbors from above, it is recommended to use a plastic corrugated pipe. And special clips will help eliminate its sagging.

• A wooden block is attached to the base ceiling with dowels or self-tapping screws, the thickness of which should be equal to the level tension material. If the interceiling space is large enough, then you can use metal hangers for drywall, which will allow you to adjust the distance to the panel.
• The hole for the outlet of electrical wires is reinforced with a ring.
• Before mounting the platform, make sure that there are no burrs on it. After all, during the installation process, you can accidentally hook the membrane.
• The bar to the bar is fixed with self-tapping screws, which must withstand the weight of the lamp. If the fasteners included in the kit do not suit you in any way, you can always use other hardware. If necessary, the working holes in the bar can be easily drilled in accordance with the diameter of the new fasteners.
• After connecting the connecting wires, the lamp base is installed. The base, as a rule, has a wide shape, which allows you to hide the mounting area. If the bar is narrow, then you can use decorative elements specially designed for this purpose.

Installation of built-in lamps (soffits)

• When installing spotlights, two important parameters are taken into account - the distance between the floor slab and the canvas and the need to use a transformer. The location of the devices is first indicated on paper, then the diagram is transferred to the draft ceiling.
• A two- or three-core cable is run to the marked places. At each point, 10-15 cm of wire are left in reserve. A place is allocated for the installation of a transformer (when using halogen lamps).
• Platforms are being installed under the lamps. Special suspensions allow you to adjust the height of the devices. The lower part of the suspension should be flush with the tension surface of the ceiling.
• After mounting the panel, rings are glued strictly under the installation points of the spotlights, protecting the membrane from further ruptures. After drying, the material is cut along the inner diameter of the ring. Pre-laid wires are released into the holes obtained.

• Next, the connection is made using the terminals, following the markings on the product (L, N, PE).
• The soffit is installed according to its structural features. Assembly instructions included with the product will allow you to carry out the work without difficulty. The ring is closed with a lamp or a decorative overlay.

So that the choice made regarding the type of lamps and their output power does not disappoint, it is necessary to carefully approach this issue. Do not neglect any information received from store consultants, relatives and acquaintances, or from Internet sites. Any work, be it power wiring, assembly and installation of lighting products requires accuracy, accuracy and certain skills. If there are doubts about your strength, contact specialized firms that will perform a range of tasks at a high level.

September 29, 2016
Specialization: Capital construction works(laying the foundation, erecting walls, constructing the roof, etc.). Internal construction work (laying internal communications, rough and fine finishing). Hobby: mobile connection, high tech, computer technology, programming.

Today I want to tell you about spotlights for stretch ceilings. They are one of the most common light sources for such structures due to their versatility, original appearance and safety.

In this article, you will learn how to choose products suitable for a stretch ceiling and how to install spotlights in a canvas stretched over guide profiles.

Features of lighting stretch ceilings

When planning the lighting of any room, it is necessary to adhere to several rules that improve the ergonomics of using the room. It is especially important to pay attention to such factors:

• light sources should evenly illuminate the entire area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe living room;
• the lamps used should not be too bright so as not to irritate the eyes;
• lighting should not distort natural colors and interfere with the perception of the surrounding reality.

Most of these parameters are met by an ordinary incandescent lamp installed in a chandelier. But not in the case of stretch ceilings. In addition to all of the above, the devices used should not have a destructive effect on the canvas used, look beautiful against the background of a stretched surface and have convenient devices for mounting.

All these requirements are met by spotlights. They not only allow you to conveniently illuminate the necessary areas in the room, but also play an important role in the design of the room. Therefore, further we will talk about them.

Varieties of spotlights

Available for sale different kinds spotlights. They differ from each other in appearance and several technical specifications. I divided all the models into several groups and depicted all this in a diagram:

And now about each variety in more detail.

By installation method

I'll start with the method of installing lighting devices. To equip spot lighting on a stretch ceiling, it is necessary in any case to violate the integrity of the canvas. An incision is made in the right place, around which a plastic ring is installed, suitable for the size of the lamp. Thanks to this limiter, the decorative material does not spread further.

After that, a light source is installed in the hole. And according to how it is placed, the products are divided into several groups.

There are the following location options:

1. Above the level of the stretched canvas. Spotlights installed above the stretch ceiling give the impression that light is emitted from the entire surface.

Such a miracle looks very impressive, but it has several significant drawbacks:

• the efficiency of the light source will be very low, since most of the light flux is scattered above the level of the stretched PVC or fabric ceiling;
• due to the lack of air convection between the stretched surface and the floor slab, the luminaire heats up, which can lead to melting decorative canvas. To avoid this, LED spotlights are usually used for stretch ceilings.

Typically, such a layout is used when a stretch ceiling of the "starry sky" type is installed.

1. At the level of the stretched canvas. In this case, the lamp is installed in the bracket so that it is strictly in the same plane with the tension structure. The flow of light is not scattered, that is, the efficiency of the lighting device will be much higher.

However, this method of installation has its drawbacks. First of all, this is the power of the lamps. It should be limited to 35 watts. And not always such products are designed for a voltage of 220 volts, which requires the installation of step-down transformers.

1. Below the level of the stretch ceiling. Spot lighting devices that are installed in a decorative coating in such a way as to protrude above the surface for a certain distance.

The advantage of this solution is that almost the entire light ceiling is used for its intended purpose, the losses are minimal, and the efficiency is maximum. However, this arrangement also requires a responsible approach to the choice of products in terms of lamp power and voltage used.

There are also fiberglass threads on sale, which are usually used to create the “starry sky” effect. But such light sources belong to the category of point only with a big stretch, so I will not consider them in the article.

By lamps used

The main task when choosing lighting equipment is for tension structures- choose the right lamps that are inserted into the fixtures. There are three options here.

Incandescent lamps

We are talking about a conventional lamp with a tungsten filament enclosed in a flask. I recommend using products not with a transparent, but with a matte bulb, which diffuse the light flux more evenly and do not heat up so much. Typically, the resource of this lamp is up to 1000 hours of illumination. That is, under normal use, it will work for about three years.

Incandescent lamps are installed in open and closed spotlights. I recommend using the latter in rooms where a significant increase in humidity levels is possible - kitchens, bathrooms, balconies.

A significant drawback of luminaires with incandescent lamps is their large dimensions. The lamp base is screwed into a cartridge, the length of which can be up to 12 cm. Therefore, the distance between decorative coating and the ceiling slab should be no less. Alternatively, you can make recesses for the fixtures in the slab with a cutter, but I do not recommend resorting to such drastic measures.

Halogen lamps

In essence, they are similar to incandescent lamps, but here an inert buffer gas is pumped into the bulb. Thanks to him, the product receives several advantages:

• with the same brightness of the glow, the bulb of the lamp with an incandescent filament is smaller;
• Halogen lamps come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes.

Simply put, the products give much more light and can be installed in compact luminaires, including those protected from dust and moisture. Accordingly, a smaller cartridge is needed for it. The minimum distance between the decorative coating and the floor slab should be 5 to 6 cm.

The service life of a halogen lamp reaches 4 thousand hours.

I want to pay attention to the features of the installation. The flask of the product must not be touched by hands, otherwise sebum may remain on the surface of the quartz glass and lead to its crystallization and destruction. Therefore, you need to mount the product with the help of special gloves, a clean cloth or a paper towel.

LED bulbs

It consists of a large number of LEDs assembled in one bundle. Unlike the products described above, the LED lamp in a spotlight usually runs on direct current, therefore it does not emit intermittent, but a constant luminous flux. But you need to connect it through an AC transformer.

According to their performance LED bulbs superior to both of the above options. They have a continuous glow resource equal to 5 years. At the same time, the consumption of electric current will be two times less than that of a halogen lamp, and five times less than that of an incandescent lamp.

Mounting LED lamps is different in length. Usually, for installation, a distance between the canvas and the plate is 5 cm. For operation, the lamps require a voltage of 12 or 220 volts.

Requirements for the used light sources

Now I will tell you which spotlights are suitable for stretch ceilings.

By shape

In order to avoid breaking the stretched fabric, fixtures for such ceilings are made round shape. This is not about the entire device, but about its landing platform, which is necessary for installation. Therefore, even if you have seen stretch ceilings with square light sources somewhere, be sure that it has a round shape inside.

The round base - flange - is installed in the landing platform (mortgage element) installed above the stretch ceiling. When buying, I advise you to pay attention to the difference between the outer diameter of the flange and the body of the lamp itself. It should be at least 1 cm so that the decorative part of the device closes the plastic ring that holds the hole from further rupture.

I advise you to buy products rear end body which is impervious to light. This is necessary so that when turned on, part of the light flux does not fall behind the canvas. Otherwise, the stretch ceiling will be translucent, and a light areola will form around the spotlight, which negatively affects visual perception decorative surface. Although some designers use this effect to create interesting visual effects.

By power

This one of the most important parameters. It is necessary to take into account such nuances:

• maximum lamp power;
• distance from the surface of the canvas to the light source.

The limitations are due to the fact that the PVC film, when heated to more than + 60 degrees Celsius, can melt and deform.

To avoid this, incandescent lamps up to 60 W can be used in spotlights, and halogen lamps up to 35 W. In exceptional cases, it is allowed to install more powerful ones, then it is necessary to take measures for the thermal insulation of the installation site of the lamp.

If the body of the point light source is located at a considerable distance from the canvas, the power limit will be 70 watts. However, I advise you to give preference to LED lamps, the surface of which does not heat up during operation.

Size and other parameters

When choosing lamps, you need to immediately think about how to position them relative to the stretched canvas. The distance between the floor slab and the ceiling depends on the selected lamps and is detailed in the corresponding section above.

It is impossible to allow contact between the stretched canvas and the spotlight in order to avoid deformation of the ceiling. There must be a gap between the canvas (sealing ring) and the side of the landing platform.

The operating rules of the ceiling do not allow cutting holes in them more than 15 cm in diameter. Therefore, when choosing, you need to choose those light sources whose size is less than the specified value.

If you are going to equip false ceiling with spotlights in a bathroom, pool or kitchen (that is, a room with increased level humidity), it is necessary to purchase devices that meet the IP67 protection standard.

They are both more economical and safer. But for their operation you need a transformer. Therefore, I leave the final decision to you.

Calculation of the required amount

A few words about how to calculate the number of light sources for a stretch ceiling. Indeed, in order to achieve an organic design in a room, it is better to buy lamps of the same type, color and appearance.

When calculating, it should be assumed that the lamp, directed vertically downward, illuminates the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room, equal to 1.5 - 2 square meters. Therefore, to find out exactly how many fixtures you need, you need to divide the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room by 2.

Just want to warn you not to overdo it. No need to install too many lighting devices in the stretch ceiling. They "weight" the design of the room, make the canvas unattractive and can lead to surface damage.

If you have an irresistible desire to focus on the upper part of the room, use other designer devices for this. For example, mount the so-called dancing lamps, with which you can direct the light flux in different directions.

Layouts of spotlights

Many people ask me a question about the layout of spotlights. There are no clear rules here, it all depends on your imagination, the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room, its purpose and other factors.

As an example, I will give options for placing light sources in stretch ceilings installed in different rooms:

1. Bedroom. In this room, I advise you to distribute the lamps evenly over the entire surface of the ceiling. And for this, use products that are the same in shape, size and color, so as not to create disharmony. Great solution will use a dimmer - a device that regulates the brightness of the glow of the lamps. Another option is to use spotlights lined up around a central overhead or pendant chandelier.

1. Kitchen. Here the layout depends on the layout of the room. With the help of spotlights, you can equip several functional areas in the room - working, dining, and so on. The most intensively need to illuminate the workspace.

1. Hallway. Usually this is a narrow room, so with the help of light sources you can try to visually expand it. To do this, you can use lamps installed along the walls and along the longitudinal axis. Moreover, the former should shine more intensely so that the central space of the corridor is less illuminated.

1. Sanitary room. For bathroom and toilet is better to install a small amount of lamps with bright lamps. And distribute them so that the whole room is well lit. At the same time, I would also make the distance between the lamps the same.

1. Living room. This room, like other rooms with large area, can be designed arbitrarily. Typically, point light sources are used to organize several functional areas. It is also advisable to use a dimmer and energy-saving lamps that consume little electricity.

In a multifunctional room (living room combined with a bedroom, and so on), I recommend combining several light sources. For example, a chandelier and spotlights. The first illuminates the entire room, and the latter highlight the necessary areas.

Installation of fixtures in a stretch ceiling

In this section I will tell you how the installation of spotlights in a stretch ceiling is carried out. The entire installation technology can be divided into several stages, which I will describe in detail below.

Surface marking

First of all, it is necessary to mark the surface of the floor slab on which the mounting platforms of the luminaires will be installed. And you need to do this even before you start stretching the canvas.

The markup itself is unlikely to cause you problems, so I will only give a few tips:

1. If you plan to install a multi-level ceiling, draw the layout and connection of the lamps so that each level is connected to the same circuit.
2. When using 12-volt lamps, a place must be provided for mounting electrical transformers. If you install fixtures in a bathroom or other similar room, I advise you to place transformers outside the room (for example, in a corridor or in a switchboard).

1. The exact placement depends on the scheme you choose. General rule states that the distance between adjacent light sources should be within 1 meter, the distance from the walls should be about 60 cm.
2. Check that the place of installation of the lamp does not coincide with the place where the baguettes are fixed. In addition, there must be a distance of at least 25 cm from the edge of the mounting platform of the luminaire to the baguettes.
3. If you are going to install a chandelier, connect it to a separate electrical circuit. In addition, point light sources will need to be placed along the edges of the room or concentrated in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bfuture functional areas.
4. If you are going to install lamps according to some scheme, I advise you to draw everything on a piece of paper in a box, then transfer the markings to the ceiling and mark the places for installing platforms in the cells. Several examples of such schemes are shown in the photo.

Rack installation

As you already understood, the installation of fixtures is carried out using special platforms (embedded elements). This is due to the fact that the stretched canvas itself is not able to support the weight of the lighting fixture without bending.

In addition, the landing platform facilitates the operation of the luminaires. For example, you won't have a problem with how to remove the product in case of damage or to replace the lamp.

There are embedded elements of various designs. But I use a product consisting of two guides and a round ring that matches the fitting diameter of the lamp flange. The advantage of this design is that the guides with bolts make it possible to flexibly adjust the height of the structure above the level of the floor slab.

The design of the landing platform is shown in more detail in the photo.

As an alternative, I would recommend using U-bracket mounting rings for the galvanized drywall profile. With their help, you can also adjust the height above the ceiling level, but this option seems to me less elegant.

The exact installation scheme looks like this:

1. In the marked place, using a perforator, a hole is made necessary to fix the adjustable stand (number 4 in the photo above). For this I use screws with plastic dowels with a diameter of 6 mm.
2. I fix the adjustable stand to the ceiling using the "quick installation" system or screwed screws with dowels.

1. Using screws, I set the height of the platform for the lamp in relation to the floor slab in such a way that the stretched canvas is located as close as possible to the embedded element, but does not touch it (otherwise the surface of the stretch ceiling will not be perfectly flat).
2. I cut holes in the landing platforms so that their diameter matches the landing diameter of the lamp. This can be done with a sharp utility knife.

1. I conduct electrical wiring connecting the electrical wiring box and fixtures. The advantage of the design is that between decorative material and there is free space left by the floor slab, so there is no need to ditch the slab. For safety, I advise you to lay cables in special corrugated channels. You should get a design that is approximately similar to the one shown in the photo.

1. I connect platforms with cables. If necessary, I immediately mount transformers.

After testing the system for performance, you can begin to stretch the ceiling and install the fixtures themselves.

Installation of lighting devices

The scheme for installing fixtures in a stretch ceiling looks like this:

1. A hole is cut into the web so as not to damage the glued retaining ring, which limits further damage to the surface.

1. After that, you can install the lamp. The result should be a design corresponding to the one shown in the diagram below:

All other light sources are installed in a similar way.

Summary

Now you know which products are best to use for work and how spotlights are installed in a stretch ceiling. It remains only to purchase everything you need and take on the implementation of this project. If you have any questions or additions regarding the information contained in the article, you can leave them in the comments.

September 29, 2016

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This article will be useful to those who are going to order stretch ceilings and decided to focus on 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 gives off more heat to the interior of the room, 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 become rotary 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! Fixtures 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 the technical, operational characteristics of 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. Appeared not too long ago led light bulbs which can be used here. According to the diameter of the thread, products marked E27 (standard Edison class) and E14 (minion class) are distinguished.

Attention! Distinctive feature such fixtures are considered to be 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

Model	Lamp type	Mounting height, mm	Mount type	Luminous flux type	Heat	Illumination of the canvas from the inside	Cost, rub.
2746 ferron	E14, incandescent 40 W	85	built-in	scattered	there is	there is	50
L-200 (IP44) Brilum	GU5,3, 44 LEDs 3W	45-50	built-in	scattered	No	No	320
DRG4-15-С-55 NLCO	Single built-in 4W LED	39	built-in	focus	No	No	500
88966 Eglo	G4, halogen. 20 W	0	overhead	scattered	there is	No	700
SEVO Eglo	G9, halogen. 40 W	0	overhead swivel spot	focus	No	No	1100
Reccagni Angelo	E14, luminescent. 12 W	0	overhead	scattered	No	No	3000
LD5000 Elektra	Luminescent. 6 W	12,5	half-cut	scattered	No	No	2000

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 dissipation, therefore, for heat-sensitive PVC sheets, a power of 40 watts is considered the limit, and for fabric ceilings, 60-watt light bulbs are allowed.
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.

Related videos

What lamps can be installed in a stretch ceiling so that they emphasize the design of the room? Recessed lighting fixtures for a stretch ceiling are not at all a room decoration, although they are also capable of decorating it. But above all, they are the main source of light, this is their main function. Due to the fact that the lamps are hidden, they do not hurt the eyes in the daytime, without spoiling the entire design of the room. And in the evening, giving excellent lighting, they create a uniquely warm atmosphere.

Unlike large chic chandeliers, stretch ceiling fixtures should not be decorated with wrought iron elements or pendants, they can have maximum functionality and only emphasize the style of the room, and not create it. That is why recessed lighting fixtures with control panels or programmed units are installed in stretch ceilings. Let's see what types of fixtures built into the ceiling exist.

Kinds

There are a lot of classifications and types of lighting fixtures, you can easily get confused in them when you come to the store. In shape, they differ in panel and point (do not mean geometric shapes). By the nature of the glow on the diffuse and directional type of light. By type of embedding on fully and partially embedded lighting fixtures, including external, remote, overhead.

All lighting devices are divided into many subspecies, we will consider some of them in this article:

• Panel.
• Modular.
• Point.
• Lamps.
• Chandeliers.

Also, lighting fixtures are divided into types of lamps, the four main ones are shown in this table:

As you can see, many indicators that need to be paid attention to depend on the type of lamps used.

Panel and modular

An ordinary panel lamp, like a modular one, is a panel of a certain size (the standard is 60/60 centimeters), inside which lamps are located. Such a lamp is placed anywhere in the false ceiling space.

Today, in private houses and apartments, they are not so popular, they can often be found in office space, and this is due to the fact that they have a conservative industrial appearance and do not give the atmosphere home comfort. It illuminates even large rooms perfectly.

The best fixtures for public places- panel.

A recessed panel luminaire provides the room with direct lighting or reflected diffused lighting, depending on the design. For the purpose of high-quality lighting of the room, you can put several of these lamps, but for ordinary apartment rooms, two built-in panels are freely enough.

External panel luminaires look like a box with a lid, which is a diffuser. It can be chosen with any color or pattern, depending on the wishes of the buyer.

Point

- the so-called focal, and if correct, then the spotlight, refers to the built-in, but it is not necessary to build it into the ceiling. Typically, the illumination created by such lamps is organized system direct lighting of a certain part of the ceiling.


Inside such lamps there is a mirror reflector, and for better lighting diffusers are used. A spotlight installed in the ceiling can give very little or a lot of light, it all depends on its type, whether diffusers are used, which canvas is installed.

Interesting! That this type of lighting is very popular, but this is more often due to the fact that buyers are not familiar with the lighting market, so they choose this lighting method, which is rather impractical.

Types of spotlights suggest diffused and directional light, in the first case you need a high-quality diffuser for high-quality lighting. But what are the best spotlights or panel lights for a stretch ceiling, it's up to you to decide.

Lamps

One of the ways of lighting is the usual lamps for stretch ceilings, built-in inside. The depth of embedding depends on the type of lamp and the temperatures to which it is able to warm up.

Today, recessed metal halide, halogen and LED lamps are popular, they are best suited for durable work among stretch ceiling lamps. Less common are conventional incandescent and fluorescent lamps. This is due to the fact that they overheat and are very large in size, which is why they need to be built in to a great depth inside.


The range of depths in which it is necessary to embed lighting fixtures:

• LED lighting assumes a depth of 2 centimeters.
• Halogen lighting from 4 to 9 centimeters.
• Incandescent and fluorescent lamps require an embedded depth of up to 20-30 centimeters.

Important! Since most fixtures require the connection of several lamps, their types can be combined. Make sure that the lamp cannot damage the canvas even when it gets very hot.

Chrome-plated, anodized, painted aluminum is used for the manufacture of recessed fixture holder fittings. Diffusers are made of plastic or glass, depending on the price category of the lamp.

Chandeliers

Almost all types of chandeliers are suitable for installation on a stretch ceiling, but not inside it, lamps are used for this. All chandeliers are divided into types of lamps used, and the features of their installation are determined by the type of lighting.


Usually a traditional chandelier is mounted on a hook or bar, behind a stretch ceiling, on the main ceiling, through special hole in stretch fabric. Suspended chandeliers with a luminous flux that illuminates the floor and walls are best installed on a matte canvas, on a glossy one, chandeliers are used that illuminate the ceiling.

Remember that the number of lamps in the chandelier does not affect the quality of lighting in the room. Even their total power is not the main indicator. It all depends on the direction of the light.

IMPORTANT! Do not purchase the so-called plate chandeliers, they get very hot and will lead to damage to the ceiling stretch fabric.

Mounting

Installation of fixtures

After you have decided on the type of lighting and fixtures used, you can proceed to their installation. Of course, to save time and money, you can call specialists, but if necessary, you can do the installation yourself:

• Mark the base ceiling on which you will fix the fixtures.
• Route the wiring and all wires to the required locations.
• Attach the posts that will hold the lights to the base ceiling.
• Mount the brackets according to the markings you made.
• Install the fasteners of the system.

After that, prepare to install lighting:

• Mark the lines using the building level.
• Mark the places where the lamps will be fixed.
• Make holes in the canvas according to the size of the lamp.