Do-it-yourself suspended ceiling materials. How to make a suspended ceiling: tools, materials, steps

A step-by-step guide with photos and videos on how to make a false plasterboard ceiling with your own hands. Nuances and subtleties of installation technology

In the framework of past articles, we dealt with ceilings and now we will consider drywall suspension systems. Making the ceiling is a responsible task, on the implementation of which the overall picture of the interior of the room largely depends.

Suspended plasterboard ceilings allow you to create interiors in a room in various styles

Suspended ceilings help to level the level of the ceiling, while eliminating surface irregularities. In terms of design options, such suspended structures are very diverse: here and, and vinyl, and aluminum, etc.

There is nothing complicated in making a false ceiling from drywall with your own hands. Any owner with basic skills in construction and repair work can easily cope with this task. The main thing is to correctly select the necessary materials and carry out the installation, adhering to a number of recommendations.

Choice of materials and tools

The key to reliability and durability of the structure is the right choice of material. To assemble a suspended ceiling with your own hands, you should purchase in advance the main components of the structure, which include:

To fix profiles you will need:

To fix the hangers, you also need to prepare dowels 8x10. Galvanized screws 4.2x51 will help to connect the profiles to each other and attach the frame to the concrete base. To fix drywall sheets, self-tapping screws 25 mm long will be needed.

To install the structure, you will need tools:

The building level is needed to accurately mark the horizontal line for the installation of the guide profile. A two-meter level will be required when marking drywall sheets.

To perform finishing work after installation with your own hands, you should prepare materials in advance, which include:

• Serpyanka - reinforcing tape for seams;
• Sealing self-adhesive tape;
• Acrylic primer;
• Putty for seams;
• Paint brush or roller;
• Medium spatula;
• Fine-grained sandpaper;
• Sound and heat insulation (if necessary).

A self-adhesive, porous sealing tape helps ensure that the frame adheres tightly to the concrete surface.

Gluing the seams with sickle

Preparatory work

The first thing to do before installing a false ceiling with your own hands is to solve the issue of lighting the room. At this stage, it is important to choose the type of fixtures to be installed, their power, location on the ceiling surface and the total number of lighting fixtures.

The height of the frame will depend on these parameters, which will ultimately affect the height of the walls of the room.

Having designed the lighting of the suspended ceiling, they carry out the wiring of electrical wires, the ends of which are lowered down at the installation sites of the lighting fixtures and secured with clamps.

Scheme: installation of the lighting system

To determine the level of the ceiling and create a perfectly flat line for the arrangement of the frame, first make marks on the walls. To simplify the task, strokes are first applied with a pencil along the walls of the room at a convenient height of 1.7 m, each time guided by a laser or water level. Then they are connected with a paint cord into a single line.

Then, using a tape measure, measure the distance from the drawn line to the base surface, determining the lowest point of the ceiling.

Tip: To calculate the height of the future frame from the intended lowest point of the base surface, step back down to the height of the profile and add 5-8 mm to this value for the gap. When installing spotlights, the height of the frame should be correlated with the size of their base.

Having set the distance from the mark of the lowest point to the horizontal line, a parallel line is drawn under the ceiling. It will serve as a guide for fixing the guide profile.

Mounting the frame of the suspended structure

A guide profile is installed along the perimeter of the room, placing it so that the lower end coincides with the horizontal line applied to the wall.

Metal frame for false ceiling

Having measured the required length of the profile, cut it with scissors for metal. Then, pressing firmly against the line on the wall, they fix it on the dowels, drilling directly through the profile. To create a solid structure, the interval between the holes should be at least 30-40 cm, and at the edges and in the corners - 15 cm.

In places where the middle of drywall sheets is placed, additional fastening should be provided. A sealing tape is glued to each profile, fixing the structure to the wall with dowels.

Installation of the ceiling profile is carried out in several stages:

GKL frame sheathing

The principle of attaching drywall sheets to a metal frame is quite simple. They are raised to the level of the frame and fixed with self-tapping screws every 10-15 cm.
When installing drywall sheets, it is important to follow a number of recommendations:

Sheets must be fastened parallel to the longitudinal profiles, excluding the coincidence of the joints. In order to prevent possible cracks during subsequent puttying, it is necessary to make recesses with a knife in the places where the segments and whole sheets are joined.

Sheathing the frame with drywall

All sheet joints must be located strictly on the profiles. Between adjacent sheets always leave a gap of 1 mm.

The screws begin to screw in from the corner of the sheet, moving towards the center. They are screwed in at a right angle, "sinking" the caps into the sheet by 1 mm.

Tip: To cut the sheet lengthwise or across, you need to cut the cardboard shell with a knife on one of the sides at the intended point, attaching the rule. Then bend it along the notch line, cutting through the cardboard from the opposite side.

To obtain rectangular holes, it is convenient to use a hacksaw, and for round ones under the lamps - an electric drill equipped with a special “crown”. If it is necessary to make a round hole with a diameter of more than 80 mm, it is enough to drill several holes along the contour of the circle, and squeeze the inside of the formed circle outward.

Other secrets of mastery when working with drywall video:

Having sheathed the frame with sheets, the mounted ceiling is allowed to “settle” for one or two days. After that, they move on to surface finishing. First, cover it with a primer. Then all joints are carefully sealed with putty, and the seams are reinforced with reinforcing tape. In addition to the joints, "drowned" screw heads are puttied.
The puttied ceiling is left for a day. After the finishing material has completely dried, the joints are “sanded” with fine-grained sandpaper. The cleaned surface is covered with a finishing putty. After drying, the joints are re-sanded, carefully inspected by the light of a lamp, and in case of bumps and scratches, they are again covered with a finish. The final sanding is done when the material is completely dry, i. after 7-8 hours. Ideas for finishing options can be taken from the photo on the network.

Having mastered the technology of mounting a single-level false ceiling, it will be possible to move on to more complex structures, using interesting combined options instead of standard solutions.

Suspended plasterboard ceiling: photo

Tsugunov Anton Valerievich

Reading time: 6 minutes

A plasterboard ceiling is the best solution for those who want to tidy up the ceiling surface on their own, but are not eager to mess with plaster or buy an expensive heat gun for a stretch PVC sheet. Let's find out how to make a false ceiling from plasterboard sheets and get acquainted with the instructions explaining in detail how to fix drywall to the ceiling correctly.

When should you choose drywall?

Plasterboard suspended ceilings will be the right choice if:

• the work needs to be done quickly and with a minimum of effort - installing a plasterboard ceiling is much easier for a beginner than plastering, besides, you do not have to wait for each layer of mortar to dry;
• it is necessary to hide wires and communications;
• you want to use spotlights;
• it is required to make sound or heat insulation - it is convenient to hide any insulating material behind the drywall on the ceiling;
• there is a need for a perfectly flat ceiling surface in the absence of skills in working with plaster.

If you are already seriously thinking about how to make a drywall ceiling, take into account some of its disadvantages:

• Like any false ceiling, it will reduce the height of the room.
• Plasterboard ceiling sheathing involves the mandatory use of tools such as a puncher, a screwdriver, as well as a laser or water level.
• Cracks may appear at the joints of the GKL over time.
• Aligning the ceiling with drywall cannot be done alone.

Work materials

Before we begin to figure out how to make a drywall ceiling, let's find out what needs to be prepared before starting installation. We will need:

• thickness from 8.5 to 9 mm. If you plan to make a false ceiling in the kitchen or bathroom, then you need to choose a moisture-resistant material - GKLV.
• Ceiling profiles (PP or CD) 60 X 27 mm.
• Ceiling guides (PNP or UD) 28 X 27 mm.
• Dowels and screws, anchors.
• Special hangers.
• Cross-shaped fasteners for connecting perpendicularly joined profiles - "crabs".
• Sealing self-adhesive tape for a snug fit of the frame.

You can also make a suspended ceiling from GVL - which are durable and non-combustible, but in this case, reinforced profiles will be required, since this material has a fairly large weight.

Instruments

How to sheathe the ceiling with drywall using the available tools? The minimum you need:

• roulette;
• laser level or hydraulic level;
• pencil;
• perforator;
• screwdriver;
• hammer;
• knife for cutting sheets;
• metal scissors;
• marking cord.

If we are talking about how to make a false ceiling from start to finish, you need to remember about the tools and materials for its processing and puttying, which include:

• spatulas;
• grinding mesh;
• mesh grater;
• serpyanka tape for joints;
• putty;
• primer.

Preparing for installation

Before you start leveling the ceiling with drywall, you must:

1. Completely complete the work on leveling the walls in the room: in the places where the profile is attached, the surface must be absolutely flat.
2. Make a design sketch for an accurate calculation of the amount of materials (profiles, sheets, self-tapping screws, fasteners). The scheme of the plasterboard ceiling frame with a calculated step between the elements of the crate will help to avoid a situation where the edge of the sheet does not match the profile, and it cannot be fixed.
3. Eliminate base surface defects. Despite the fact that drywall ceilings will hide it, this step is necessary to prevent the old coating from shedding. Before attaching the profile to the ceiling, repair cracks, clean crumbling areas, apply a deep penetration primer.

Finishing the room is done after the suspended ceilings are installed.

markup

Installation of a plasterboard ceiling is unthinkable without preliminary marking. The goal is a perfectly flat horizontal line, perpendicular to the floor and running along the perimeter of the entire room. It will serve as a guideline for setting the start profile. To correctly markup, you must:

• Decide on the height of the plasterboard ceiling. For a design with spotlights, the surface will have to be lowered by at least 8 cm, if they are not used, a gap of 4-5 cm will suffice.
• Find the lowest point of the base ceiling surface. To do this, you need to measure the height of the ceiling in all corners and in the center of the room. The smallest height is marked on one of the walls with a tape measure and a pencil, then the distance is laid off from it, by which the plasterboard ceiling will be lowered.
• The resulting height is transferred to each wall, the points are connected by a horizontal line using a chopping cord.

When marking the surface for a plasterboard ceiling, it is much more convenient to use a laser level.

For marking under the main profiles for a plasterboard ceiling, you need to consider 2 points:

• The edge profiles should be at a distance of 20–25 cm from the walls.
• Step between profiles - 40 cm.

Hangers can be placed at a distance of 50 cm from each other, extreme - 25 cm from the walls. To mark the anchor points, attach the hangers to the ceiling and mark 2 points for each.

Frame mounting technology

The installation of the frame begins with the installation of guide profiles:

• The guide is applied with the lower edge to the line, marks for dowels are made through the holes in the profile.

If there are no holes on the edges of the profiles, you need to step back from its ends by 10 cm and make them yourself.

• Holes are drilled with a perforator.
• A sealing tape is glued to the profile, it is fixed with dowels on the wall.

The false ceiling is fastened with the help of suspensions, also pasted over with sealing tape, fixed with anchors.

The carrier bars are fixed on the hangers, the ends of which are inserted into the guides. After fixing the profiles on both sides on the hangers, their free ends are bent.

If the length of the profiles is not enough, you need to use special extensions designed to connect two strips.

If you are making a false ceiling in a bathroom or corridor, following these instructions will be enough. Suspended ceilings for the kitchen, living room or bedroom, that is, for larger areas, will require the installation of additional transverse profiles, to which the short sides of the GKL sheets will need to be attached. Perpendicularly joined profiles are fixed with the help of "crabs". The result should be a lattice frame.

Sheathing the frame with drywall

Before sheathing the ceiling, you need to take care of the communications. The wires are placed in a corrugated pipe, wiring is carried out for lighting fixtures.

The prepared sheets are applied to the frame in such a way that their edges are joined in the center of the profiles, and screwed with self-tapping screws:

Important points to consider when fixing drywall to the ceiling:

• There should be a chamfer on the edge of the sheets at the joints, if not, you need to do it yourself with a knife or a special planer. The sheets should fit snugly enough to each other, the gap between them should be from 1 to 2 cm.
• Since some of the drywall sheets will most likely need to be cut, when deciding how to sheathe the ceiling, it's best to start by securing entire sheets. When this part of the work is done, you can more accurately determine the size of the cut sheet.
• A small gap of 0.5–1 cm must be left between the sheathing and the wall.

putty

After the suspended ceilings are installed, it remains only to finish them. First of all, it is performed, the same for all types of plasterboard structures:

1. The joints are closed with reinforcing tape.
2. Seams and points of entry of self-tapping screws are puttied.
3. After the putty has dried, the seams are rubbed with a special mesh, the entire surface of the plasterboard ceiling is primed, and finishing putty is applied to it in a thin layer.

After the putty has dried, it must be sanded. Then the plasterboard ceiling is primed again and painted or wallpapered.

Now you know how to make a false ceiling from plasterboard sheets. This process should not cause you any particular difficulties, if you strictly follow the instructions, everything will definitely work out.

Suspended ceilings, in addition to the decorative function, also have practical benefits - they completely hide the ceiling, all its flaws, wiring and irregularities. Installing a false ceiling does not take much effort, you can mount it yourself.

The ability to hide the ceiling

The most important thing is why they pay attention to suspended structures. The surface does not need to be leveled, there is no need to make separate niches for the wires, everything can be hidden.
But what is a plus, at the same time and a disadvantage.
A false ceiling takes up space, due to which your room will be at least 5 cm lower. Installation in small rooms is associated with their even greater reduction. You can cope with this with the help of mirror or glossy surfaces. This will help visually expand the space.

Suspended frame structure

Its installation is not difficult. Anyone can handle this. Rails, cassettes or plasterboard sheets are attached to the frame. This shouldn't be a problem either. You do not need a specific tool or knowledge.

Care

Periodically wiping is sufficient. But the plasterboard ceilings will require updating. They need to be painted over time.

Strength

Depends on the chosen material. If we talk about metal slats, then they have little to fear. But plastic and drywall are afraid of strong blows.

All materials are refractory and do not support combustion. In addition, the price of any suspended structure will be lower than other types of expensive finishes.

What are suspended ceilings made of?

The types of suspended ceilings differ in the materials used, the fasteners for the false ceiling are the same - the frame.

One of the most common types of suspended ceilings is plasterboard ceilings. Drywall is not afraid of heat, like plastic. It does not deform from closely spaced lamps, so their choice is much wider.

In appearance, drywall constructions are in no way inferior to stretch ceilings. You can create structures from one or more levels. With or without a pattern, in any color.
However, drywall does not tolerate moisture. They prefer not to install it in the kitchen or in the bathroom. If you still install, then you need to treat the surface with a moisture-repellent compound. The surface of drywall must be periodically updated with painting.

Slatted or panel ceilings. Rails can be made from three materials: wood, plastic and metal.
Plastic slats are one of the most budgetary types of finishes. But they are not used very often. It's all about their appearance: they look quite simple. Plastic will not last long, over time it will begin to turn yellow. It is worth choosing not the cheapest panels, and then your ceiling will look better, but then PVC panels will not belong to budget types of finishes. Plastic is not afraid of wet rooms, but it is better to protect it from direct contact with water.

Metal rails. They are made from steel or aluminum. The second option is more common. Aluminum is indifferent to water, corrosion, temperature changes, high and low temperatures. This is a good option for a bathroom, hallway or kitchen. The surface of the rails is matte, glossy or mirror. Such ceilings may take centimeters from the ceiling, but they visually increase the space due to their texture.
Wooden slats can hit your wallet hard.
Wood remains one of the most expensive materials. Its appearance does not differ in variety, but it is completely environmentally friendly and safe. You can actually install it everywhere, it all depends on the type of wood and the amount you are willing to pay.
Along with the rails are cassette ceilings. In principle, they do not differ in the type of materials, only in appearance.

Surface pretreatment

Do-it-yourself installation of a false ceiling is simple and does not require many costs. But, despite the fact that the false ceiling design hides the ceiling completely, it is impossible to do without preliminary work. The amount of work depends on your desire. You can make major repairs or just prime the surface.

The first stage of work is the removal of all fixtures. Remember to turn off the electricity before work. Remove all lighting fixtures. Secure the wires with electrical tape at the location of the future location of the devices. Ceiling work involves dirt and dust, so cover all the furniture and the floor with a film.

Surface preparation is necessary. If you do not do this, subsequently the debris will fall on new materials, mold and fungus can spread to the finishing floor.

To prepare you need:

• Remove old coating. This is an optional item, but the longer you have old paint and wallpaper, the more difficult it will be to remove;
• Wipe off old stains. This is also not necessary, but the same principle works: the longer, the more difficult;
• Repair cracks and holes;
• Ceiling primer. Priming the ceiling is a must, regardless of your coverage. The primer will save you from the appearance of mold and fungus.

You can remove old wallpaper or whitewash with a warm soapy solution. Simply dampen the entire surface with water and remove the coating with a cloth. If a rag does not help, then use a spatula. If this does not help, then use chemicals.

You can remove old paint with a special solution that you can buy at any hardware store. There is a more budget option - to beat it with a hammer.
Stains can be removed with alcohol or gasoline, depending on their origin. Mold and mildew are removed with baking soda or vinegar. If folk remedies did not help you, then try buying special substances with a more aggressive composition in the store.

Holes are sealed with putty. For larger ones, you can additionally use mounting foam. Cracks can be removed with silicone sealant.
After all the above work, the turn for the primer. The choice of primer is not fundamental, the main thing is that it is resistant to moisture and contains substances against the formation of mold. Apply the primer in several layers. The final surface must be smooth.

Necessary materials and tools

The false ceiling frame consists of profiles and suspensions. To calculate the required length of the profile, you just need to add the length of all four walls.
Take a little more profile just in case. Hangers are fixed to the ceiling at a distance of 100 cm from each other. Calculate by area how many you need them. The material for the frame is calculated according to the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room. It must be divided by the area of ​​​​the material, no matter what you choose tiles, slats or cassettes, everything is calculated the same. Also take the material in reserve, in case something gets damaged in the process.

The frame is installed on dowels and screws. They are located at a distance of 40 cm. Do not forget to buy them in the right quantity. If you install the ceiling in the bathroom, it is better to buy special screws so that they do not rust later. The installation of rails and cassettes takes place directly in the frame, but the GKL sheets are attached using self-tapping screws. Therefore, if you install them, buy more. The rails are attached with tires. In general, when choosing, try to buy already assembled kits from one manufacturer. So you get rid of the problem that one type of material did not fit another.

From the tools you will need a screwdriver, since you will have to screw in a lot of screws, it is difficult to do it manually. To make holes for mounting, you need a puncher.
In the process, you will need to cut the material. The profile and metal slats can be cut with a grinder, metal shears or a hacksaw. Plastic can be cut the same, but it is imperative that the teeth are small. Drywall can be cut with a regular construction knife.

How to install a false ceiling

Suspended ceiling is installed according to the markup. To apply it, you will need a tape measure, a laser or water level, a pencil or a rope. When marking, it is better to use a laser level, it will do everything more accurately and quickly. Just place it on a flat surface and adjust the settings as needed. Draw a horizontal line over the lasers.

If there isn't one, then don't worry. You can also measure manually. To do this, measure each corner from floor to ceiling with a tape measure. This is necessary to determine whether all your angles are the same. If not, then in the lowest corner at a distance necessary for the design, set a mark. Then, in each corner from the floor at the same distance, set three more marks. Connect them together with a rope and draw a line along it with a pencil.
To determine how much you need to retreat from the main ceiling to the finishing one, you need to know the length of the lighting fixtures. The width of their body is the required distance.

Hanging ceiling installation

How are suspended ceilings made? First, install the frame. To do this, you need to fix the guide profile to the wall with self-tapping screws. The carrier is inserted into the guide. You need to place the holes at a distance of 40 cm. Install suspensions and tires. The frame is ready. Further work is already directly with the material. Reiki or cassettes are installed in the profile until they click. This fills the entire ceiling. GKL sheets are attached to self-tapping screws.

The time has passed when the ceilings in the apartment were inconspicuous and monotonous. Modern designers are trying not only to pay attention to ceiling coverings, but also to focus on them. An excellent solution for this would be the use of a false ceiling.

The design of the suspended ceiling is quite simple. In this case, a metal frame is attached to the base, which can be decorated with a variety of elements, such as panels, rails, slabs and plasterboard sheets. This allows you to make the ceiling not only functional, but also attractive.

Thanks to a wide choice of materials, you can create a false ceiling that will fully match the style and overall framing of the room. At the same time, small decorative elements can be used in the design, echoing the main chosen style. As a result of this approach, the ceiling will not stand out against the general background, but will begin to harmonize with it and complement it.

Creating a false ceiling is a creative process. Here you can fantasize about the blue endless sky or deep space with its bright stars and flying comets. Some people may like the modern style, while others prefer the classics. Regardless of this, for every idea, you can create a stylish false ceiling.

The undoubted advantage of such structures is functionality. Unlike simple ceiling coverings, a false ceiling can hide cables, cords, pipes, ventilation equipment and other important, but not the most aesthetic things, under a metal structure. In addition, in this way you can close the unpleasant flaws of the main ceiling.

Such ceiling panels are able to reduce the level of external noise, which allows you to maintain the inner silence of the room. In addition, the false ceiling prevents the penetration of cold air currents into the room, due to which the level of thermal insulation is very significant. With the help of a special reflective coating, you can use a smaller number of lighting devices, the illumination will always be normal. This method allows to reduce energy consumption.

The height of the ceiling in the room where the suspended structure is to be installed must be at least 2.5 meters. This factor must be taken into account, since when installing a false ceiling, the height of the room is significantly reduced.

What types of false ceiling are there?

Thanks to a wide range of types of suspended ceilings, you can choose the option that suits a wide variety of needs and embodies a lot of different ideas and ideas.

Plasterboard ceilings

This material lends itself perfectly to processing, so you can easily translate all your ideas into reality. To decorate the ceiling with drywall does not require a lot of skills and knowledge. Working with such material, you can create smooth lines and curves, curly cutouts and much more. If there is a desire, the ceiling can be made multi-level by mounting separate niches and ledges into it. You can decorate such a ceiling with lighting.

Variety of plasterboard ceiling finishes. Unique design solutions for different interiors.

Drywall consists of 2 sheets of flexible cardboard, the layer of which contains gypsum. It is because of such a simple structure that it becomes possible to create various decorative elements. During installation, drywall is attached to metal profiles, this is done for structural strength. Lamps are also installed here, what exactly they will be, does not matter much. It is better to stop at small sizes so that it is possible to evenly distribute them over the desired area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe ceiling.

All drywall sheets can be divided into several types:

• GKL. Standard drywall sheets. Most often used when decorating the ceiling of a living room or bedroom;
• GKVL or GVLV. They are characterized as waterproof drywall sheets, while the second type is considered more durable. Of course, ceilings made of such material are perfect for rooms with a high level of humidity, for example, such as a bathroom, pool and even a laundry room;
• GKLO or GKLVO. If the room is considered a fire hazard, then it is better to opt for the first option. However, in the case when there is a risk of damage not only from fire, but also from water, it is better to choose the second option.

Installing such a ceiling is a rather complicated and time-consuming process. When a professional team is working, it is recommended that all outsiders leave the room, as there will be a lot of noise and dust. Alone, such a ceiling cannot be mounted. One sheet of drywall weighs about 15 kg. It will be quite problematic to install it alone. In addition, all joints must be made perfectly so that subsequently cracks do not appear. Based on the foregoing, it is better to entrust the installation of a plasterboard ceiling to a professional team that will do everything efficiently and quickly.

Tiled ceilings

This option is more suitable for non-residential premises, such as offices or warehouses. The appearance here is more strict and concise. Straight lines emphasize formality and restraint. Decorative elements are rarely used in the design of such a ceiling, but the tiles themselves can be decorated in a variety of ways.

Most often, mineral fiber tiles with a thickness of about 2 cm are used. Despite the fact that in most cases square tiles of 60x60 cm are used, there are rectangular models of 60x120 cm. If possible, a ceiling design can be developed where both tiles will be used. This ceiling looks very impressive. The texture of the plates can be of different types: standard smooth, decorative cellular or unusual perforated.

The most popular type of tiled ceiling is the Armstrong system. The highlight of this type is an open metal frame. Thus, the profile becomes a kind of decorative element. Thanks to this design, the plates are installed easily, and at the same time they can be removed at any time if necessary.

Such ceilings have a lot of advantages: reliability, durability, easy installation, long shelf life. The cassettes do not require special care and can be changed independently in case of damage or a change in the overall design. They are water-resistant and fire-resistant, so it will not be difficult to wash them in case of contamination. However, despite all the advantages, a significant drawback is the high price of the cassette ceiling.

Slatted ceilings

Due to water resistance, some types of this design can be used in the bathroom, sauna or swimming pool. Due to the elongated oblong pattern, the room visually becomes larger and more spacious. Slatted ceilings look very impressive in large rooms, for example, such as a train station, airport or subway.

Ceiling slats can be made of both metal and polyvinyl chloride. Aluminum prevents corrosion and can last a long time. Such slats pass air perfectly, thanks to
which can be used in office space. Since aluminum is quite light, this design does not require a heavy and dense frame, which significantly saves not only money, but also installation time.

Plastic rails are easy to install and fasten to the base of the frame profile. In addition, they are easy to replace or correct in case of minor damage. After repair, they can be installed back without much effort. Plastic lining will look great on the ceiling, not only in the bathroom, but also in the hallway and even the kitchen. Due to the water resistance of the product, you should not once again worry about excessive moisture, you can even wash the ceiling in case of contamination.

How to make a false ceiling yourself?

After the design of the suspended ceiling is chosen, you can proceed to the preparatory stage and carry out the calculation work. The cheapest, and also the most optimal, option would be to create a single-level rack ceiling on a metal frame.

Consider the process of installing a false ceiling in the bathroom. Plastic lining is best suited for these purposes, since it perfectly withstands high levels of humidity and does not lend itself to deformation.

Necessary tools and materials

• PVC plastic panels;
• Guides and starting metal profiles;
• Plaster;
• masking tape;
• Dowel-nails;
• Standard hangers. If the ceiling needs to be released a little lower, then it is better to use hangers with clamps;
• Self-tapping screws with a press washer;

A wide selection of materials for the manufacture of suspended ceilings allows you to create and translate into reality the most daring ideas of designers. Such a ceiling will perfectly fit into any interior, while its installation can be done independently, without spending a lot of time and money.

Suspended ceilings take pride of place in modern interiors. They come in a wide variety of shapes and are mounted from different finishing materials. Their undoubted advantage is simple installation with a minimum execution time.

Peculiarities

When plastering, builders require a certain amount of experience. This process cannot be carried out without preparation. But almost everyone can put the frame on the ceiling with a minimum of tools. The main thing to have in the arsenal: a drill, a jigsaw, a screwdriver and a level. It should be noted that there is a type of ceiling that requires the attention of professionals. This is a stretch ceiling system. Installation is carried out using special equipment, a heat gun. A home master can independently mount a false ceiling system made of plasterboard, plastic, lining. And also to master the Armstrong ceiling structure.

To choose the right type of ceiling covering, you need to consider the following factors:

• functionality;
• aesthetics;
• technical and operational aspects.

When determining the functional characteristics of suspended structures, the instructions and technical sheets from the manufacturer should be used. They describe in detail how to carry out installation, for what type of premises different types of ceilings are suitable. The technical descriptions provide examples of calculations of design features, as well as tables with all the data. Therefore, experts have developed approved documents that indicate which rooms are more suitable for one or another type of ceiling covering.

It is necessary to choose not only the material for installation, but also to develop the configuration of the ceiling. The supporting frame must clearly fulfill its functions.

The choice of ceiling type is significantly influenced by:

• the need to install a ventilation system;
• laying communications for connecting electricity;
• conditioning;
• the need for specific material properties (sound absorption, fire safety, impact resistance);
• service life and the possibility of replacing individual elements.

Each consumer has a list of his requirements, especially aesthetic and design. But there are also generally accepted ones, from manufacturers of suspended ceiling systems. These include functionality, moisture resistance, thermal insulation, service life. They need to be guided.

Acoustics is the way sound travels. For office space, this is a very important criterion. The low noise level has a beneficial effect on the working process and increases productivity. There are special acoustic plates from German manufacturers that absorb sound well. Their use is justified in rooms with high noise levels.

Suspended ceilings can provide free access to communications, pipes, ventilation, heating, fire alarm systems. To fix the problem, it is enough to remove the decorative ceiling tiles, which will provide access to the ceiling. With the help of a false ceiling, you can easily hide defects and cracks in the base. Work on installation, dismantling and maintenance is less laborious when compared with other types of finishes. The suspension system allows you to place more fixtures and absorbs noise.

The development of exclusive designer ceilings of various, sometimes bizarre shapes, can cost the owner a lot. But she will be one of a kind. Modern materials make it possible to make the cellular structure of the suspended ceiling almost invisible. You can order a different design of the plates, and then collect an intricate individual pattern from them on the ceiling.

The positive aspects of ceiling structures are as follows:

• hide defects and imperfections of the base. This is true when carrying out repairs in old buildings, where the ceilings, as a rule, were plastered. Over time, the finish layer cracked and even fell off in some places. This type of coating must be completely upholstered and the solution applied again;
• building materials manufacturers offer many solutions for the construction, shape and design of ceilings. The cost depends on the customer's estimate: from inexpensive to exclusive solutions;
• a very large selection of coatings - these are glass ceiling tiles, plastic, metal, plasterboard, wood. There are shiny and matte ceilings, as well as with a 3D effect;

• no need to disassemble the entire ceiling to replace part of the coating;
• easy care. A damp wipe is sufficient, in addition, the coatings have dust-repellent properties;
• communications, wiring, pipes, ventilation can be laid in the interceiling space;
• suspended ceilings involve the use of a variety of lighting devices, such as raster lamps, spotlights, an LED system, chandeliers;
• long service life. Frame elements are guaranteed for 15 years of use. With proper care, the elements of the suspension system last longer;
• have thermal insulation properties, absorb sound, are fireproof, do not depend on a sharp change in temperature.

The negative aspects of ceiling structures are as follows:

• reducing the distance from floor to ceiling. The suspended structure, as a rule, is supported on knitting needles, the length of which is 25 cm. In small apartments, a decrease in the height of the room will be very noticeable;
• high price level relative to other materials. Whitewashing the ceiling is cheaper, taking into account the development of the construction industry, it is better to choose a more expensive and durable material. Each customer strives for individuality, and this can be achieved using modern solutions;
• fear of high humidity. In case of flooding, it will be necessary to replace the decorative coating and load-bearing elements.

materials

Suspended ceiling consists of a metal frame that occupies the entire area of ​​the base, and ceiling tiles attached to the supporting structures.

Plates can have different types of connections:

• cells. The entire ceiling is divided into squares or rectangles, which are covered with slabs at the back.
• Tiles. Mainly used in office space.
• Panels. A panel in the form of a rectangle with a width of more than 30 cm is taken as a decorative element.
• Cassettes. The squares of the frame structure are closed with panels of the same size.

• Reiki. During installation, decorative rails of different lengths and widths are used.
• Solid ceiling. Most often assembled from sheets of drywall.
• Stretch ceiling. PVC film is used.

Decorative trim consists of different materials:

• Drywall sheets. They make it possible to create a perfectly smooth coating that can be puttied, wallpapered, painted, applied decorative plaster. With the help of drywall sheets, ceilings of different levels and geometric shapes appear in the interior. Drywall is environmentally friendly, meets sanitary standards. Its disadvantages include the fact that he is afraid of conditions of high humidity and needs a finish coat.
• Plastic panels. They are made from polycarbonate. The mirror surface of plastic ceilings is an excellent replacement for glass panels. Such a ceiling is easy to install, moisture resistant, resistant to mechanical stress, easy to clean.

• Metal. These are aluminum or steel rails, cassettes, panels. They can be matte or glossy, with a mirror finish.
• Wood. Any product made from natural wood is a guarantee of quality and durability. Wood products will never go out of fashion, but their big disadvantage is their high cost. Manufacturers suggest using a cheaper method in finishing. The use of chipboard and MDF boards, the surface of which is covered with patterns imitating natural wood. You can find slabs covered with veneer.

Frame

Before proceeding with the installation, you should calculate the amount of materials, purchase a tool, process the base and apply markings.

The crate is made of galvanized steel profiles. She is not afraid of moisture, as the profiles are protected by zinc. To install a plasterboard or plastic ceiling, you will need ceiling strips (60x27 mm) and guides (27x28 mm), as well as suspensions that will hold the structure: butterflies, couplings, anchor hangers, connecting elements. To fix it, you need to purchase metal screws and polypropylene dowels.

Instruments

The main tools for self-assembly of frame structures are as follows:

• angle grinder;
• perforator;
• laser level;
• tape measure, pencil, ruler;
• construction knife and saws for metal or wood;
• rule;
• plumb;

• metal scissors;
• protective glasses;
• hammer with a nail puller;
• pliers, crimping pliers;
• a hacksaw for metal with a small tooth;
• screwdrivers, awl.

The level is needed in order to mark the installation of the guide element. The rule is used when cutting drywall sheets. After installing drywall, further finishing will be required. Tools and materials you may need:

• tape for reinforcing seams;
• tape for sealing;
• ground solution;
• putty;
• paint roller and brush;
• putty knife;
• abrasive sheet No. 240.

How to calculate the expense?

Armstrong ceiling spending rates

Knowing the consumption rates, you can:

• independently calculate the amount of required materials;
• calculate the approximate cost of the purchase;
• draw up a budget;
• allocate a budget for the work.

Using the example of a square-shaped ceiling with a total area of ​​100m², let's make the calculations. The length of the guide bar is 3.6 m. It is mounted in increments of 1.2 m. To find out the required quantity, we divide the ceiling width of 10 m by the installation step (1.2 m). It turns out 8.33 rows of carriers. Multiply the length of the room 10 m by the number of rows. Almost 84 linear meters. m, and these are 28 pieces of bearing profiles. A transverse bar of 1.2 m is placed in increments of 60 cm. We repeat a similar calculation: we find out the number of rows (10 m of length divided by 0.6 m of the installation step). We have almost 17 of them. In linear meters, this turns out to be 167. And in pieces it turns out almost 140 (167 linear meters must be divided by 1.2 m - the length of the bar).

Guides of 0.6 m are placed in increments of 1.2 m. We calculate in the same way and it turns out that 84 linear meters are required. m rails. Their number will be 140 pieces. Suspensions are placed on slats 3.6 m in increments of 1.2 m. For 1 m² of the ceiling, 0.7 pieces of suspension will be needed. The corner profile is calculated along the perimeter of the room, its length is 3 m. For 1 m² you need 0.4 linear meters. m.

Using these calculations, you can calculate the consumption of rack ceilings, acoustic. Do not forget that this is an average calculation. It is better to include 7-10 additional percent in any estimate so that there are no unpleasant situations later. The following factors need to be taken into account:

• the shape of the room;
• the possibility of placing the rails diagonally;
• trimming plates;
• marriage percentage.

Rates of expenses for the ceiling of plasterboard sheets

Let's take as an example a ceiling 10 m long and 10 m wide. The size of the ceiling plasterboard is 2500x1200x9.5 mm. As a result of calculations, the following materials will be required for work:

• drywall - 100 m²;
• profile CD - 87 pieces;
• profile UD - 14 pieces;
• suspension 60/27 - 160 pieces;
• longitudinal connector - 70 pieces;
• cruciform coupling - 160 pieces;
• ceiling dowel - 1600 pieces;
• self-tapping screw "flea" - 900 pieces;
• dowel 6x40 - 200 pieces;
• putty - 40 kg;
• fiberglass tape - 130 linear meters m.

Mounting

Plasterboard suspended ceiling installation

The first thing to do is find a helper. It is very difficult to fix drywall sheets on your own, you need a safety net. It is better to start with a simple single-level ceiling, preferably a small area.

• Preparing for installation. You need to carefully inspect the walls and ceilings, remove everything that might interfere. Lay communications, repair cracks in the ceiling base.
• Mark the ceiling. At this step, you need to decide on the lighting fixtures and their connection. When using spotlights, the ceiling drops 3-4 cm below their total length, and when using raster lights, by 5-10 cm. Look at the degree of curvature of the old ceiling, avoid such mistakes with the new one. Using the level, find the lowest corner from which the markup will begin. Having marked the corners, as a rule we measure an even horizontal line on the walls. This is the bottom line of the UD profile.

• Installation of frame elements. We fasten the guide profile around the perimeter. To do this, at a distance of 30 cm, we make holes for dowels with a puncher. We screw wood screws into them. The length of the dowel plug must be at least 40 mm. CD profiles are installed in increments of 60 cm. They come in 3 and 4 meters. To make the frame rigid, you need to use hangers for rack profiles with a fastening step of 40 cm.
• Laying communications and choosing a place for a lamp. To install a spotlight, you need to make a hole in the drywall with a crown. Profile is not allowed. In the case of a chandelier, it is attached to the base or guide profile. The profile must be additionally reinforced with suspensions. The wires are laid in a special corrugated pipe. Communications for the overhead lamp are output through a hole in the drywall.

• thermal insulation. The frame structure can and should be insulated with sheets of mineral wool. It not only serves as thermal insulation, but also absorbs sound.
• Fixing drywall sheets. Knowing the width between the walls, you need to calculate how many whole sheets and how many pieces are needed. Cut the sheets with a construction knife or drywall file. Fasten sheets of plasterboard with metal screws in increments of 25 cm. The heads of the fasteners are recessed into drywall so that they do not rust over time. Subsequently, putty will close them. A special tape is glued to the junction of two sheets and puttied with a gypsum mixture. After complete drying, the seams must be sanded. The entire surface must be primed so that the finish is better kept.

Installation of a suspended structure such as "Armstrong"

• Markup and charting. As in the previous case, you first need to draw up a layout of structures. Then start marking. The profiles in such a system are not attached to the base, but the master will orientate faster along the marking lines, where the supporting profiles and the rest of the jumpers will be located.
• To mount a suspended ceiling, you need it lower at least 15 cm. This is a constructive minimum gap for laying communications and installing fixtures. You can also put insulation in this space. The most convenient way to mark a wall is to use a laser level. Instead, you can use regular bubble levels.

• Laying communications. Before you begin to mount the frame, you need to carry out all the work related to electrical wiring. For example, if it is known that the lighting device will be large-sized, then the place of its attachment must be additionally strengthened with suspensions.
• Frame installation. After completing all the work, you can proceed to the installation of profiles. Corner profiles are attached to concrete bases with dowels. Their diameter is 6 mm, they are placed in increments of 30 cm around the entire perimeter. In a wooden base, the corner is fixed with wood screws. Their length is 30 cm.

If it is planned to sheathe the walls of the room with plasterboard sheets, then an additional horizontal profile is placed in the metal wall crate. This is done for the rigidity of the structure. A wall corner is attached to this additional profile. According to the marked lines, you need to fix the set of fasteners (suspension, butterfly, knitting needle). One set of hangers is required per 1m². In those places where the fixtures are planned, you can put additional fasteners.

Bearing profiles (3600) are placed on the wall corners and fastened with hangers. The distance between them is 1.2 or 0.6 m. It depends on the drawn diagram. All work must be controlled with a level. Fixed carriers must be located strictly horizontally. The hanger hooks are slightly pressed with pliers so that the carriers hold well. Carriers 1200 are placed in increments of 60 cm. They enter the slots that are located on the profiles 3600 and snap into place. Some masters bend them, but this is not necessary. The frame will be rigid.

• Installation of ceiling tiles. After all work on the installation of the frame structure is completed, lamps and decorative plates are installed. Electric wires are brought in advance to the desired square, where the lighting device will be located. And the luminaire is connected using terminal blocks. First install whole plates. They are not fastened with anything, they are simply placed on the prepared frame. As a rule, the extreme cells may not match the size of the plates, so trimming is required. The plates are easily sawn with a hacksaw, and then placed in the holes.

After their installation, the installation of the ceiling can be considered complete. Additional finishing is not required. This is the simplest slab laying scheme, but there are more complex options when the slabs are laid diagonally or with a shift. Bearing elements allow you to make a frame of different configurations. Choosing such a ceiling, the master gets the opportunity to independently design. After all, these coatings can be painted in different colors, combined with each other.

It should be noted such type of panels as LED lamps. These are panels that look like a screen, covered with a matte film. They are designed for ceiling suspension systems and have a standard size of 600x600mm. Very powerful LEDs are built into such panels, which spread a bright but soft light. It is enough to have one such lamp in order to create daylight diffused light in the room.