Which ceilings to choose in the kitchen? Which ceiling is better to make in the kitchen?

The kitchen is a very special place in the apartment, having its own microclimate. The latter is constantly changing (from humid to hot), which means that the ceiling of this room must have appropriate resistance. Developments from past years and new technical discoveries offer a variety of options for kitchen ceiling coverings. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Whitewash

The most traditional and a budget option. Simple work is carried out in the sequence below.

Step 1. The kitchen is maximally unloaded from furnishings, and what remains is well packed in durable plastic film.

Step 2. The ceiling is gradually, in sections, moistened with a soap solution.

Step 3. From the wetted areas, the old layer of whitewash is successively removed with a spatula.

Step 4. The cleaned surface is washed off completely using a soap solution.

Step 5. The ceiling is covered with a water suspension containing chalk, blue and wood glue or slaked lime, salt and aluminum alum.

Table No. 1. Advantages and disadvantages of whitewashing the ceiling.

AdvantagesFlaws
Cheapness.Instability to high humidity and temperature changes.
The fine-porous coating provides a “breathable” layer with good air exchange.Can't be washed. To eliminate stains and sooty areas, it is necessary to whitewash the ceiling again every time.
Extreme simplicity of technology, which does not require special qualifications from the performer.Whitewashing does not hide, but reveals defects. Preliminary careful alignment of the working plane is necessary.
Minimum financial costs.Fragility - cracks and shedding appear quite quickly.

Prices for whitewashing

Coloring

The cost of water-based painting depends on the price of consumables. As is most often the case, the highest quality layer is provided by the most expensive paint compositions with silicone - they form a film permeable to water vapor, which covers small irregularities and allows washing with non-abrasive agents.

IN general outline the sequence of work is as follows:

Important! In this case, the last layer of paint is located parallel to the main flow of light from the window in the kitchen.

Table No. 2. Advantages and disadvantages of painting the ceiling.

AdvantagesFlaws
Moisture resistance - unlike bleached, painted ceilings can be washed.Fragility - cracks and peeling appear soon enough.
A simple technology of work that does not require third-party qualified assistance.Color fading, yellowing of the white coating.
The ability to obtain a variety of colors, not just white, by adding coloring pigments.Peeling of paint due to moisture seeping from rooms above.
No toxic components or pungent odor.Before painting, careful leveling of the working area is necessary.

Wallpapering

A relatively inexpensive way to decorate. Washable (vinyl) wallpaper with a dense texture is best suited for the kitchen.

Wallpaper for the ceiling


Wallpapering a lamp
Wallpapered ceiling

To paste them on the ceiling, you need:

  • clean the surface, fill existing defects and cracks, and then prime it;
  • apply markings so that the wallpaper strips run strictly parallel to the walls;
  • When covering both the ceiling and the wallpaper with glue, place the strips end-to-end, carefully leveling them with a soft roller.

Table No. 3. Advantages and disadvantages of wallpapering the ceiling.

AdvantagesFlaws
Not the highest cost, possibility of repairing individual areas.Difficulties in fixing dense and fairly heavy wallpaper, additionally coated with thick glue.
Masking of surface defects.Evaporation and hot air flows, as a rule, lead to deformation of the wallpaper and its divergence at the joints.
Resistance to washing (with appropriate texture).Leakage from above irreversibly damages the ceiling wallpaper.

Polystyrene foam (expanded polystyrene) tiles

This coating is a completely budget-friendly and hygienic option. It is the highest quality, most reliable and durable when properly prepared.

  1. The surface is cleaned down to concrete, treated with an antiseptic, coated with a penetrating primer, puttied to eliminate large irregularities, and then marked.
  2. The tile can be glued to any universal glue(most often PVA) in accordance with the applied markings.

Prices for ceiling tiles

ceiling tiles

Table No. 4. Advantages and disadvantages of finishing the ceiling with foam tiles.

AdvantagesFlaws
Low cost.Rustic, monotonous and somewhat old-fashioned appearance finished coating.
There is no need for particularly careful leveling of the working area.The porous surface of cheap foam blocks cannot be washed clean. More expensive laminated tiles do not have this drawback.
Foamed polymer tiles provide additional heat and sound insulation.Fire hazard - at least in some varieties. Information about resistance to high heat and open flame indicated on the packaging.
Washable and resistant to moisture penetration from rooms located above.From prolonged exposure to bright light, the tiles gradually turn yellow, fade and lose strength.
Possibility of local repair.An abundance of joints, visually crushing a flat plane. This visual defect is eliminated in seamless tiles, which have a higher cost.

How to properly glue tiles to the ceiling?

In you will find not only step by step instructions And useful tips, but also a comparative analysis of possible finishing materials. It is important to approach this moment with all possible attention, because the tile must meet the owner’s requirements both in terms of external qualities and material characteristics.

Plastic panels

This material is in the middle price range. Its most popular type is “lining”, i.e. long strips about 10 cm wide made of polyvinyl chloride material.

During installation, minimal preparation is performed - old layers of wallpaper, tiles are removed, and crumbling plaster is removed.

  1. Then the line of the future frame is marked along the perimeter (at a distance of 5 cm from the lowest corner, although the figure can be increased depending on how exactly the space between the base and new ceilings will be used).

  2. Along the lines drawn, holes are marked every 50-100 millimeters, drilled with a hammer drill. After this, dowels are inserted into them. Using holes drilled in the wall using self-tapping screws (for example, a 6x40 mm self-tapping screw), the main frame, made from the UD-27 profile, is attached with a lid to the wall. In this case, you need to use a level and ensure that the frame elements are positioned strictly horizontally.

  3. Then, using hangers and the CD-60 profile, guide rails are created to which the plastic panels will be attached. Optimal distance between them - 500 millimeters.
  4. The frame is checked several times for horizontalness and the absence of a difference in height - the future ceiling is made of plastic panels must be perfectly level.

  5. Next, you should begin installing the electrical wiring (if you plan to do ceiling lamps). It is advisable to place it in a corrugated plastic sleeve, which will protect the wiring from moisture.
  6. First, the installation profile is mounted. Its large “shelf” is attached to the guide rails using self-tapping screws. The profile can be installed both around the entire perimeter of the room and in the places where the start and finish panels are attached.
  7. Now you need to cut the panels according to the previously developed plan and markings. Many experts advise making the length of the sheet slightly shorter than the width of the room, since polyvinyl chloride can expand even at low temperatures, which means that installation “back to back” can lead to future deformations of the suspended ceiling. If you are planning to make built-in lighting for a suspended ceiling, now is the time to make cutouts in the panels for lamps.
  8. Once the material is completely prepared, you can begin attaching the first (or starting) panel. To do this you need to insert launch pad into the installation profile from the side of the mounting shelf, and then secure it with self-tapping screws on the slats. At the same time, you need to make sure that they do not go too deep into the PVC, otherwise there will be a risk that the screws will damage the sheet.

  9. The next panel is joined using a mounting shelf to the starting one and fixed in the same way. The panels must fit snugly against each other. If necessary, you can make an “adjustment” using gentle blows with a rubber mallet. The remaining panels are attached in the same way.

Table No. 5. Advantages and disadvantages of finishing the ceiling with plastic panels.

AdvantagesFlaws
Unevenness does not matter: the panel system hides laid wires and pipes and allows the placement of heat and sound insulating fillers.The hanging structure reduces the overall height of the kitchen by 10-15 cm.
Not too complicated installation that does not require special qualifications and equipmentInstability to the ultraviolet part of the spectrum - the color gradually fades in light, and the white panels turn yellow.
High moisture resistance. The panels do not lose their shape and impeccable appearance even with strong leakage from the upper rooms.The synthetic material of cheaper panels can release harmful pollutants into the air.
Easy to care for - surface contamination easy to remove.When exposed to open fire, plastic melts and emits acrid smoke.
Possibility of local repairs with replacement of the required panel without dismantling the entire structure.Low mechanical strength– Sufficient care must be taken during installation.

Rack and pinion systems

This type of coating comes in plastic and aluminum. The latter option is more reliable, but at the same time more expensive. By virtue of design features mounted with a larger or smaller gap between the slats. Only gapless installation is suitable for the kitchen. To the retail chain rack and pinion systems are supplied fully equipped with the necessary fasteners.

Installation proceeds in the sequence below.

Step 1. Markings are applied to the walls where the corner guide profile is attached.

Step 2. The transverse strips to which the slats will be attached are mounted. Here you will also need hangers that are fixed in the ceiling.

Step 3. Sequentially, one after another, slats are installed with openings for light sources pre-cut in the required places.

Step 4. The perimeter is decorated with a complete plinth.

Advantages

  1. The design hides defects in the ceiling surface, as well as wiring, and allows you to insulate the kitchen and isolate it from noise from above.
  2. Durability and ease of care - the slats are easy to clean and do not absorb dirt.
  3. Fire safety (characteristic of aluminum).
  4. Aluminum slats do not accumulate static electricity.
  5. Resistance to high humidity and temperature changes.
  6. It is quite possible to assemble a rack and pinion system yourself - it is sold in modular kits, reminiscent of a construction set.

Flaws

  1. System requires suspended structure, reducing the height of the room.
  2. You cannot quickly replace one rail - partial dismantling of the system will be necessary.

Drywall

Suspended kitchen ceiling from a completely budget moisture-resistant plasterboard allows you to implement multi-level combined structures with various options lighting and decor. Preparation for such finishing is minimal - you only need to remove the crumbling plaster. Then they begin installation.

Step 1. Carry out markings along the walls, focusing on the lowest point.

Drywall prices

drywall

Step 2. According to the markings, a guide profile (UD) is attached along the entire plane mounting strips and the supporting profiles (CD) are secured with dowel-nails, forming a suspended frame.

Frame assembly

Step 3. Plasterboard sheets fixed to the assembled frame with screws with a distance between fastening points of no more than 20 cm.

Step 4. The sheathed frame is sequentially puttied - first the seams are sealed, they are covered with sickle tape, then both the seams and the entire surface are puttied again.

Step 5. After complete drying, the sealed smooth ceiling is painted or covered with wallpaper.

Table No. 6. Advantages and disadvantages of finishing the ceiling with gypsum board sheets.

AdvantagesFlaws
The ability to hide defects, electrical wiring and other communications.Installing a suspended frame reduces the height of the room by at least 7 cm.
Environmentally friendly - the material is non-flammable and does not emit harmful volatile impurities.Even moisture-resistant drywall cannot withstand prolonged direct exposure to water. Serious leaks from neighbors above are hopelessly ruining it.
Design capabilities that allow you to create multi-level systems with perfectly flat planes and smooth contours.Low strength - the material can be easily pierced by hitting it hard with your hand. Care must be taken during installation.
During installation, you can additionally insulate and soundproof the kitchen.Instability to deformation - sheets of drywall should be stored exclusively in a horizontal position, and only in dry rooms.
Resistance to high humidity and temperature changes (only for special types of drywall).The need for further painting work after installation - masking seams, painting, wallpapering.
The plasterboard base can be updated - repainted, glued with fresh wallpaper.High-quality installation requires certain skills and the help of a partner.

Tension coverings

Not cheap, but subject to compliance necessary conditions, the most durable option. This is the only reliable way to protect everything home environment in case of a “flood” from above. The synthetic film does not break through, but only sag under the pressure of accumulating water. After the accident has been eliminated, this moisture is carefully drained using a hose, and in order to wash the film, dry it and re-tension it, you will need the help of specialists. In the event that there was leakage through the ceilings process water from the heating system, a complete replacement of the film will be required.

Prices for suspended ceilings

suspended ceiling

When installing a tension system, a closed wall profile is attached around the perimeter, and ceiling lamps are dismantled. Then the canvas is suspended from the profile, heated with a heat gun, and tucked, first of all, in the corners, then along all sides, starting from their middles.

Reinforcing rings are glued to the places where the lamps are attached, the fabric inside them is cut out, the wiring is removed and installed lighting. At the very end, the lower groove of the profile is completely closed around the entire perimeter with a plug - thick polyvinyl chloride tape. The whole process requires special skills.

Table No. 7. Advantages and disadvantages suspended ceilings in the kitchen.

AdvantagesFlaws
Quick installation - all work requires from 3 hours.Installation requires special professional equipment and the mandatory involvement of qualified specialists.
Masking of defects.Reducing the height of the kitchen by at least 4 cm.
Particularly resistant to distributed loads – with a thickness of only 2 mm square meter The tension covering holds, without breaking through, up to 100 liters of water flowing from above.Punctures and cuts easily form in a thin film, which can be difficult to eliminate.
An exceptional variety of colors, textures and patterns.It is impossible to move chandeliers and ceiling lights, since the holes for them are made only once during installation.
Fire safety - the material does not ignite and does not support combustion.The limited power of lamps is up to 60 watts for incandescent lamps and up to 35 watts for halogen lamps. Intense local heating can melt the film.
Durability – up to 20 years, subject to the necessary operating conditions.Unsuitable for unheated premises – for country kitchen, For example.
Resistant to corrosion, rotting, no condensation.Cheap films can emit harmful volatile substances for a long time.

When deciding which ceiling will be the best for the kitchen, you need to determine the main priority and take into account the condition of the surface. For really flat ceilings Budget options for whitewashing and painting are suitable. Washable wallpaper allows for minor imperfections. Inexpensive tiles can disguise more significant ones, but not too much sudden changes heights Suspension systems are guaranteed to hide all unevenness, as well as communications. The cheapest of them are plasterboard, the more expensive are plastic and aluminum. For those who are particularly concerned about safety kitchen furniture and equipment in the event of a “flood disaster” among the neighbors above, the optimal and only option will be stretched polymer sheets. In addition, it is quite acceptable to combine in one kitchen different types coatings.

Video - Ceiling for the kitchen: which one is better? Practical advice

When starting a kitchen renovation, you are always faced with the question: what kind of ceiling to make - suspended, plastered or suspended, and what materials are best to use. In addition, it is necessary to consider the issue of lighting in different areas of the kitchen, depending on the type of ceiling chosen.

Which ceiling is better to make in the kitchen?– it’s up to you to decide, but in order to make the right choice, let’s take a closer look at all types from the point of view of its practicality and durability.

For the right choice ceiling for the kitchen, you must first understand its differences and features in comparison with other rooms in the apartment or house.

  1. Kitchens are characterized by fairly high humidity fluctuations. For example, when cooking on holidays or even just dinner on three burners or in pots without lids, or when using a double boiler, the entire kitchen area can be filled with steam. However, after a simple airing, the kitchen is dry again. It is this feature of the kitchen that allows you to discard such hygroscopic materials, like wooden sheathing or MDF panels, which will warp for quite some time short term operation.
  2. There is also a constant temperature fluctuation in the kitchen. If, for example, in the winter months you use several burners on the stove for cooking and the vent is open or the window is slightly open, then the temperature difference can reach 60 0 C. Therefore, when choosing materials for the ceiling, it is necessary to take into account the possibility of their expansion under the influence of heat.
  3. One of the disadvantages of gas stoves is the greasy soot that forms, settling on all accessible surfaces. Therefore, even if there is a hood, sooner or later the housewife will have to wash the ceiling, which gets small splashes of grease. Therefore, when making a decision, what ceiling is better to make in the kitchen , preference should be given to washable materials. It is desirable that this material is not stainable, has a small number of pores on the surface and does not absorb odors.
  4. And although the likelihood of setting the ceiling on fire from a gas burner is incredibly low, just like overheating of the wiring hidden behind the suspended ceiling, it is better to play it safe and take into account when choosing a ceiling option in the kitchen fire safety and, if possible, avoid tanning materials.
  5. Let's not forget the likelihood of flooding if there are neighbors on the upper floors above you. With carelessness or the usual combination of unfavorable circumstances, a leaking siphon, a rag floating down the sink outlet, or a clogged neighbor's drain can lead to a puddle on the floor of your upstairs neighbors and a drip from your ceiling. In this case, a good condition is that the ceiling can retain at least a minimum volume of water during flooding.

So, having examined the features of the ceiling in the kitchen in terms of functionality, we can move on to the question of which ceiling is best to make in the kitchen , having considered various materials from which it is made.

PLASTER

Until recently, one of the most common types of ceiling finishing in the kitchen was plaster. Its advantages include, firstly, the fact that it is not afraid of fluctuations in humidity in the room. It is therefore not surprising that plastered buildings do not suffer from seasonal fluctuations in humidity or precipitation for decades.

Secondly, the plaster is also resistant to temperature fluctuations, so neither frost nor heat causes harm to the plastered surfaces, at least for ten years.

And finally, the plastered ceiling is not afraid of fires: neither the plaster itself, nor modern putties, nor water-based paints are not flammable materials.

But the disadvantages of a plastered ceiling include its vulnerability during flooding. In the event of a more or less serious flood from above, you are guaranteed at least stains on the ceiling, and in the worst case scenario, peeling or falling off plaster. Therefore, a plastered ceiling will in no case be able to protect your kitchen from flooding.

Another disadvantage plaster finishing is that without special processing On such a surface, it gets very dirty, absorbs all the odors and absorbs the fat that gets on it. At the same time, further processing of the plastered ceiling - puttying and painting - will make its surface smooth, and it will not absorb moisture and other substances, and such a ceiling can also be washed. All that remains is to decide on the paint that is best suited for painting the ceiling in the kitchen. We recommend using acrylic or silicone-based water-based paint, which will allow you to wash the ceiling surface an unlimited number of times without fear of abrasion.

DROPPED CEILINGS

Under this name several different designs are combined, differing in the materials used, quality and cost. The only common condition for their use in the kitchen is that when installing a suspended ceiling, you cannot use wooden sheathing. An alternative is a frame made of galvanized steel or aluminum. But how to decorate this frame is not such a simple question and there are several possible answers to it.

Cassette designs

These are ready-made standard frame elements, which, while being easy to install, have large sizes, therefore occupying quite a significant space under the ceiling. It is advisable to use them only in rooms with high ceilings: in standard “Khrushchev” buildings, such a design will make your ceiling very low and may force you to constantly bend down.

Frames made of galvanized steel or aluminum are not afraid of corrosion; these materials are also resistant to changes in humidity or temperature, which is typical for kitchen areas. This is an undeniable advantage of this ceiling design. However, the quality of such a ceiling depends on what the cells of the cassette structure are filled with.

Let's consider the use of standard panels with a cassette ceiling - mineral fiber or gypsum on a fabric basis. Let's note their advantages:

– moisture resistance.

– resistance to high and low temperatures, their differences. The panels used are usually placed in cells and they are held in them only under pressure by their own weight, so they can freely expand somewhat without being deformed.

– cassette structures of all types are made of materials that are not afraid of fire.

The disadvantages of cassette structures include the following factors:

– it is almost impossible to wash splashes of water, grease and soot from mineral fiber and gypsum panels.

– the panels are susceptible to damage under the influence of water if your kitchen is flooded by neighbors above. However, this disadvantage is also an advantage of the panels, since you only have to replace a few panels. Replacing a damaged panel is quite simple - just follow the detailed instructions of the panel manufacturers.

Metal ceilings

Choosing which ceiling is best for the kitchen , It is necessary to pay attention to cassette and slatted metal ceilings. They are also mounted on a rigid frame, however, unlike cassette structures, such a ceiling can be assembled almost close to the ceiling, so the ceiling height will decrease by no more than 4 cm.

What positive qualities distinguish this type of suspended ceilings?

Firstly aluminum and galvanization are moisture resistant, so in the most unfavorable conditions they will last at least until the next overhaul.

Secondly , metal ceilings, even without taking into account the movable fastening, perfectly tolerate temperature fluctuations.

Third , thanks to its glossy surface and the absence of pores on it, metal cassettes and slats practically do not get dirty and are very easy to clean. However, please note that on perforated metal panels soot may accumulate from gas stove, from where it will not be easy to remove it.

Fourth The advantage of metal ceilings is their resistance to fire.

And finally, in case of any flood from above, after drying, all you have to do is wipe off possible stains. However, your property will be guaranteed to be protected from damage by water.

Ceilings made of PVC panels

PVC wall panels on a galvanized frame are the best option kitchen ceiling if your renovation budget is limited. In addition, it is quite easy to install yourself.

Among the advantages of this type of ceiling, in addition to being cheap, we highlight the following:

  • these panels are not afraid of fluctuations in humidity.
  • they are not afraid of splashes, soot and grease, and the panels are easy to clean. We advise you to choose seamless glossy panels, as matte ones get dirty faster, and the seams, where soot and dust accumulate, will look untidy over time.

The disadvantages are the following characteristics:

  • With significant temperature fluctuations, long panels may warp. However, this problem is easily solved if you use clamps when fastening the panels. Such movable fasteners will allow the panels to expand and contract without harming the ceiling structure.
  • At high temperatures, PVC panels melt, although at the same time they do not support combustion and do not emit harmful substances when heated.
  • This ceiling is not afraid of any flooding. Of course, leaks in the corners are possible, but the seams between such panels are quite tight, so only a few drops pass through.

STRETCH CEILING

When deciding which ceiling is best for the kitchen, one cannot help but consider tension structures.

Stretch ceilings, including in the kitchen, have ceased to be a sign of luxury. All that remains is to choose the type of stretch ceiling for the kitchen: fabric or PVC film.

To decide what material for a stretch ceiling would be better suited, it is necessary to compare their qualitative characteristics.

Fabric ceilings are more durable, so it is almost impossible to damage them accidentally, and with great difficulty on purpose. But ceilings made of PVC film tear from contact with any sharp object.

On the other hand, fabric ceilings, although in small quantities, allow water to pass through, while those made from PVC film, on the contrary, retain it. So, according to manufacturers, such a fabric can hold from 60 to 150 liters of water per square meter.

Fabric ceilings also cannot be dismantled, so if necessary, you will have to stretch a new fabric over the old baguette. But PVC film with harpoon mounting can be removed to drain water and dry after flooding an unlimited number of times.

Considering all of the above characteristics, we can definitely give preference to polyvinyl chloride film with harpoon fastening, despite its lower strength.

As for the advantages of using such a ceiling in the kitchen, among them we note the following:

  • as we have already found out, PVC film is not afraid of moisture.
  • When the temperature fluctuates, the tension of the ceiling changes only slightly, which, moreover, will be visually invisible.
  • Dirt is easily washed off with a soft sponge and soapy water.
  • Like polyvinyl chloride panels, stretch ceilings melt, but do not burn.
  • In the event of a flood, the ceiling will not only not be damaged, but will also be able to hold water, protecting your property. After this, the water is drained through the holes for the lighting fixtures or the canvas is completely removed to dry.

LIGHTING

Another interesting issue regarding kitchen ceilings is the choice and location of lighting fixtures. Perhaps our recommendations will help you make the right choice.

It is better to place the main light source above dining table. This can be either a classic version - a chandelier, or, for example,.

Above work area, as well as above the stove and sink, it is better to place local lighting. Here, the type of light source depends on the set of furniture in the kitchen - the presence or absence of wall cabinets, the type and height of the ceiling. For example, halogen or LED spotlights can be embedded into a suspended ceiling, and a convenient and multifunctional tripod with rotating lamps or a strip of LED light bulbs will look great under the cabinets.

Stretch ceilings are no longer a luxury item. This is one of the modern and durable types of finishes. Due to the variety of materials used in different rooms, including in the kitchen. But due to specific conditions, not all materials and textures are suitable. In this article we will talk about the nuances that you need to know in order to make the right choice.

Types of suspended ceilings

Structurally, a stretch ceiling is a canvas stretched over a profile that is attached to the walls. The material used is:

  1. Polyvinyl chloride film.
  2. Fabric (polyester) impregnated with polyurethane for durability.

Each of them has advantages and disadvantages. Film ceilings are easier to clean from dirt. They are waterproof. If the neighbors cause a flood, the film will retain the water. After it is drained, the ceiling will return to its previous appearance.

There is no need to worry that the thin film will deform or sag due to high temperature. PVC is heated to 70°C during installation. The temperature in the kitchen, even in the cooking area, is lower, so the film will not stretch or melt.

Vinyl sheets have a fairly wide range of colors, including dark, light and bright colors. PVC ceilings are cheaper than fabric ceilings.

The film is not without its drawbacks. The canvas is easily damaged when hit with a sharp object. Often such ceilings are damaged by a sharply ejected champagne cork. They also cannot tolerate negative temperatures: they lose elasticity and crack. The width of the canvas is relatively small: a little more than 3 meters. In a small kitchen this size is enough. And for large ones, especially those combined with dining rooms, strips have to be welded. In this case, .

PVC does not allow air to pass through. If there is insufficient ventilation, the room becomes stuffy.

The fabric is more durable and also withstands negative temperatures. The width of the canvas is up to 5 meters, which allows you to make seamless ceilings. It is more environmentally friendly and breathable.

But fabric ceilings are less resistant to leaks. They cannot be washed, dry clean only. The range of colors is noticeably lower (about 20). Another difference is the cost. The price per square meter of fabric is approximately 2-3 times higher.

In the kitchen of an apartment or private house for permanent residence It's never as cold as it is outside. But grease and dirt accumulate on the ceiling. Therefore more practical choice- film. And the fabric is suitable for country house, in which they live during the warm season.

Pros and cons of suspended ceilings in the kitchen

The advantages are as follows:

  • no need to prepare the base (leveling, filling cracks, etc.);
  • durability (warranted service life - 10-15 years, real - 20-30 and even more);
  • waterproof and protected from flooding by neighbors above;
  • ease of cleaning from grease and soot (this is especially important if the kitchen has a gas stove);
  • speed of installation (a single-level ceiling is installed in 2-3 hours);
  • minimum amount of construction waste;
  • a variety of colors, the possibility of applying a pattern or image;
  • non-toxic (manufacturers for whom reputation is important are ready to confirm the safety of the material with certificates);
  • no need to tint or otherwise renew (the surface does not turn yellow).

Disadvantages include:

  • reducing the height of the room;
  • airtightness (for film);
  • higher price compared to plastered, painted or suspended ceilings(for fabric ones).

Consumer Reviews

In general, opinions about kitchen stretch ceilings are positive. A big plus is that the canvas protects from flooding by neighbors. They note such advantages as durability and ease of use.

Negative reviews arise if the installation was performed poorly. Then the canvas can stretch and sag or melt (when the lighting fixtures are too powerful or are not at sufficient distance). Therefore, you need to choose only reliable and trusted manufacturers.

Another potential cause of problems is improper care. The ceiling should not be cleaned with abrasive products. Near the surface, you need to be careful with piercing and cutting objects.

Glossy or matte - which is better?

Another classification of ceilings is based on the texture of the canvas. She may be:

  1. Matte. It scatters light and looks like a plastered surface.
  2. Glyantsevoy. Also called varnish or mirror. Light and furnishings are reflected in the ceiling.
  3. Satinova. Occupies an intermediate position between the previous two.

Rarely seen. The surface of the canvas is covered with a pattern or embossing, often imitating another finishing material. A textured ceiling is not suitable for a kitchen, as particles of grease, dust and soot accumulate in micro-recesses. It is more difficult to clean such a surface. Satin ceilings They also have a slight relief. Therefore, satin is not recommended for the kitchen.

The first two types of textures remain. To understand which suspended ceilings for the kitchen are better - glossy or matte, let's compare their pros and cons.

Glossy

Varnish sheets are made only from PVC; the advantages and disadvantages of the material are preserved. In addition, the mirror surface is the smoothest. To clean it, you just need to wash it with a non-aggressive product. But due to the shine of the material, stains and traces of dirt are more noticeable.

A glossy ceiling in the kitchen makes it lighter and visually enlarges the space. Used in small rooms. The style is more suitable for modern interiors.

Matte

Matte ceilings are made from both fabric and film. The surface is smooth, but less smooth than a mirror. Film ones are cleaned of dirt, but are a little more difficult than gloss. But dust and stains on them are not so noticeable. But fabric sheets are not suitable - they can only be cleaned dry.

Matte stretch ceilings in the kitchen are combined with the classic style of the interior. They look more cozy and traditional. A white surface is difficult to distinguish from a painted one.

Of all the textures in the kitchen, it is preferable to use smooth and matte film. The first is better suited for a modest-sized kitchen or with gas, since combustion produces soot that is difficult to clean. The second is for big s electric stove. A combination is also possible.

How to choose a suspended ceiling for the kitchen

In this case, not only practicality and texture matter. To make your house beautiful, you need to follow the general style of the interior. The ceiling covering is selected so that it matches the floor, walls and furniture. It is important to consider the size of the room.

Design

Stretch ceilings do not have to be flat. They can consist of several levels, which are located on different heights. This is how the space is divided into separate zones. For example, for a dining room and a place for preparing food.

Multi-level ceilings are only suitable for large kitchens. Each tier takes away the height of the room. Besides, it's too much complex design It looks out of date and does not fit into the interior of a small room. Most often in two-level ceilings different textures and colors are combined.

In low kitchens (up to 2.7 meters), only single-level structures are installed. The room is not overloaded and does not lose volume.

Color

Traditionally, white ceilings are made, but stretch ceilings can be more original. Polyvinyl chloride film is available in more than 150 shades. When choosing a color, consider the following features:

  • the darker the surface, the more strongly the environment is reflected;
  • warm colors “warm up” the kitchen, but the ceiling is visually closer and seems lower;
  • with cool colors the room appears more spacious;
  • Light colors also expand the volume, while dark colors reduce it.

Beige and yellowish tones are often chosen for kitchens. So the pollution is practically invisible.

Another way to make the ceiling unusual is photo printing. Any pattern or design is applied to the film. Over time, the image does not fade or wear off.

Lighting

Incandescent lamps are not suitable for suspended ceilings. When heated strongly, the film melts. Therefore, lighting devices are used that do not emit a large number of heat. The temperature should not exceed 60°C. Mount LED strips, fluorescent or energy-saving lamps. But even for them it is necessary to maintain a certain distance to the canvas.

Based on the type of location, kitchen lighting is divided into recessed and surface-mounted. The power of each lamp is no more than 40 W. The glass should be frosted so that the canvas does not burn out from the direct light flux.

In a small kitchen, one chandelier in the center is enough. In large spaces, it is better to place a lighting source in each zone. They can be the same or different, the main thing is that they fit into the overall style.

Installed in the kitchen:

  • chandeliers (with energy-saving lamps);
  • Spotlights;
  • LED strips (along the edge or the entire perimeter of the ceiling);
  • fluorescent lamps.

If the ceiling is dark, especially matte, more devices will be needed. Several types are often combined. For example, a central chandelier, spotlights above the stove and worktop, and LEDs along the walls. Ribbons can be colored and even change shade. The lighting mode is selected on the remote control. They should not be installed near open fire or sources of moisture (they will quickly become unusable).

Spot lighting is placed in a row, in groups or randomly. The lamps can be rotating. This allows you to more accurately regulate the light output.

The size of the chandelier is selected to suit the kitchen. In a small one, a large one will look too bulky; on the contrary, it will give little light.

Stretch ceilings produced in China, Russia and European countries are presented on the market. The former are much cheaper, but much inferior in quality. The material may even release toxic substances. It is better to choose canvases from well-known manufacturers and check the certificates. This is a confirmation of safety.

Among the companies producing suspended ceilings, the following have proven themselves well:

  • Clipso;
  • NewMat;
  • Barrisol;
  • Extenzo;
  • Carre Noir.

Rules for caring for suspended ceilings

The canvas needs to be cleaned when it gets dirty. In living rooms, this need arises about twice a year or even less often. And in the kitchen, the ceiling gets more dirty, and cleaning is required more often.

Before starting work, remove all jewelry from your hands. Stone or metal can damage the canvas. This is especially dangerous for PVC film.

The method depends on the material. Only dry is suitable for fabric. Use a soft brush to gently sweep away the dirt. There is no need to press hard on the ceiling.

Vinyl is washed:

  • soapy water;
  • liquid for plastic windows;
  • others detergents without acetone and abrasive particles.

For cleaning, use a soft sponge and a cloth (preferably without lint or at least short). After washing, the ceiling is wiped dry to avoid streaks. The glossy one is additionally polished with a solution of ammonia (it is diluted with water in a ratio of 1:9). The dried ceiling is blotted with a napkin. After this procedure, it shines like new.

It is not difficult to care for a stretch ceiling. But the hassle can be reduced by installing a hood in the kitchen. Less splashes of grease and soot settle on surrounding surfaces. Cleaning will be needed less often.

2. Wallpaper

An ambiguous solution that is used quite rarely. It is assumed that the strips are glued to a previously leveled and primed base. If the material is loose and thick, for example foam, small irregularities can be left. They will be invisible under the wallpaper. Let us list the advantages of this design:

  • Lots of design options. You can choose canvases with a pattern or plain ones.
  • Relatively low cost.
  • Ability to do the work yourself.

Among the disadvantages, it is worth noting low moisture resistance. Even if the manufacturer positions the wallpaper as washable, light wet cleaning is preferable. This may not be enough for the kitchen. above, the design will most likely be hopelessly damaged. In addition, gluing strips to a vertical base is inconvenient and quite difficult.

3. Natural wood

Various embodiments are possible: from wood panels luxury class to inexpensive lining. Despite the significant difference in cost, all varieties have general benefits:

  • Environmentally friendly. The tree breathes, collecting excess moisture and giving it away as needed. It is absolutely safe for living organisms.
  • Attractive appearance, especially for expensive wood species.
  • Various ways of decorating.

There are quite a lot of disadvantages. First of all, it is low resistance to moisture. Wood absorbs water and becomes deformed. Damp wood is a favorable environment for the development of mold and fungi. To prevent this from happening, it is mandatory. It is carried out regularly. In addition, disadvantages include flammability, difficulty in processing and high cost.

It is impossible to answer unequivocally what is the best material to make a kitchen ceiling from: there can be many solutions. Each with its own pros and cons. It’s worth getting to know each of them carefully and their photos, “trying them on” for your apartment, and comparing them with your financial capabilities and desires. Only after this can you make the right decision.

Everyone would like to choose an inexpensive, practical ceiling for the kitchen that has an attractive and aesthetic appearance. However, it is difficult to find perfect option, satisfying all these conditions and equally suitable for all kitchens. Therefore, when deciding which ceiling is best to make in the kitchen, you have to choose from many types, taking into account the characteristics of the room, technical characteristics, ceiling covering material and the price aspect.

Criteria for choosing a ceiling for the kitchen

It is important that the ceiling matches the characteristics of the room

When determining which ceilings are best to make in the kitchen, it is necessary to take into account that any material in the kitchen is subject to difficult operating conditions. To decide which ceiling to make in the kitchen, you need to take into account the special requirements for them:

  • Resistance to elevated temperatures.
  • Environmental friendliness and fire safety.
  • Moisture resistance and the ability to retain its qualities in the event of flooding from above.
  • Easy to maintain, the surface can be cleaned using conventional detergents.
  • Maintaining an aesthetic appearance when closing utility lines.
  • Possibility of mounting widely used spotlights.
  • High maintainability and long service life.

Types of kitchen ceilings

When deciding which ceiling is best to make in the kitchen, you should pay attention to the material they are made of, this primarily determines performance. There are several types of ceiling coverings, differing in their cost and method of installation.

Whitewash

Whitewash is easy to apply and is relatively inexpensive

In Soviet times, whitewashing was widespread, chalk was inexpensive and easily accessible, and the process of applying it using a spray bottle was not particularly difficult and could be done by any homeowner independently. The method is the most budget option for the kitchen, but is currently obsolete.

Whitewashed ceilings in the kitchen absorb and release moisture well, but that’s where their advantages end. Chalk has a porous structure and, if accidentally touched, crumbles - noticeable stains and streaks appear on the ceiling. Whitewash absorbs soot and grease in the kitchen, quickly changing its original snow-white color to yellow; only repeated application of additional layers can give it the proper appearance.

Painting

Before painting, you need to carefully prepare the surface to avoid problems in the future.

Currently, whitewashing is practically not used and has been replaced by painting. For these purposes, water-based paints are mainly used, which have a good appearance and can be washed well if dirty.

The main problem in obtaining a beautiful surface of a painted ceiling is impeccable preparation of the base, otherwise, when light from the windows enters, the slightest irregularities will be clearly visible, significantly worsening the appearance of the coating.

Therefore, the ceilings are carefully puttied several times and rubbed with sandpaper to obtain a smooth and even surface. The process is labor-intensive, costly, time-consuming and can be done by highly qualified specialists, just like painting the ceiling itself.

Painted surfaces are afraid of flooding, and stains appear on their surface, and high-quality repainting, as noted above, is only possible for highly qualified specialists.

Ceiling tiles

Ceiling tiles although it is relatively inexpensive, it has negative factors

Inexpensive and quick option arrangement of ceilings in the kitchen, which has slightly lost popularity in Lately. Boards are made of polystyrene foam or expanded polystyrene, their standard size is 50 by 50 cm. For gluing, a special glue is used that does not corrode the material; it can be glued to liquid nails or sealant.

A budget finishing option that does not require special surface preparation; many people do it themselves in a short time. The coating is easy to clean and has a quite presentable appearance; the slabs are produced with different patterns and patterns.

Disadvantages include the artificial origin and flammability of the material, as well as the structure of the ceiling surface in the form of squares, which not everyone likes.

Plasterboard ceilings

Drywall can be painted and any design can be easily applied to it

Drywall is an environmentally friendly material consisting of gypsum pressed between cardboard sheets; a moisture-resistant type is used for finishing in the kitchen. This option is most suitable for those who are deciding what kind of ceiling to make in the kitchen to aesthetically cover utility lines.

Also plasterboard structures allow you to get an interesting interior in the form of multi-level surfaces various shapes. When used in the kitchen, plasterboard is also good because popular spotlights can easily be installed in it.

Installation plasterboard ceiling is not an easy task, requiring professional skills and special tools. From metal profile The ceiling frame is assembled in the form of cells, then sheets of drywall are screwed to it using a screwdriver.

Painted drywall is not afraid of moisture and can be washed with ordinary detergents, but if there is flooding from above, even when using moisture-resistant drywall, the ceiling will most likely have to be redone.

Plaster

Plaster looks good in appearance, but is not suitable for the kitchen in all cases

Quite a rare option for finishing ceilings in kitchen areas due to its impracticality and complexity of the work performed. To achieve an aesthetic appearance, they are usually used decorative plasters, which have a porous surface, absorb odors and grease well, and are difficult to wash off dirt.

The work of applying plaster itself requires the highest professional skills of the plasterer and very good preparation of the ceiling surface (it must be perfectly flat and well primed). Otherwise, all irregularities will be very clearly visible, and when exposed to moisture and other unfavorable conditions, the plaster may crumble.

The advantages of plaster include the possibility of repeated washing, heat and moisture resistance, and an original appearance in the case of using special decorative plasters.

Looks especially beautiful Venetian plaster, which, thanks to the application technology, resembles marble of various colors and shades with a smooth glossy surface.

Plastic panels

Plastic panels are inexpensive, easy to replace, and easy to clean

Those who are deciding which ceiling to make in the kitchen inexpensively, with an aesthetic appearance and the ability to install spotlights, should pay attention to this type. Plastic panels are usually mounted on a drywall profile; the work itself is easy to do yourself using simple power tools.

One of the positive qualities of plastic ceilings that distinguishes it from other types is its high maintainability and the ability to disassemble and assemble. The disadvantage of plastic panels is the artificiality and flammability of the material, the advantages are moisture resistance and ease of maintenance.

Wallpaper

Grease and soot can penetrate through kitchen fumes regular wallpaper, so it’s better to choose waterproof ones

When determining which ceiling is best for the kitchen, many choose wallpaper. Perhaps this is the simplest and most cost-effective option for modern finishes ceiling slabs, not presenting high requirements to the surface to be pasted.

The use of special waterproof types of wallpaper greatly simplifies the care of the ceiling, and the presence of a wide range of colors and patterns makes it easy to choose suitable option to any kitchen.

Application of thick vinyl wallpaper it smooths out all the unevenness on the ceiling very well, and the use of inexpensive foam moldings will give the room a complete aesthetic look.

Almost anyone can paste wallpaper; other than wallpaper glue, no other materials are required. For pasting, paper, non-woven, vinyl, glass wallpaper are used, and it is difficult to say which better view. Another positive quality of wallpaper is that it can be painted; some types can withstand about 20 repaints.

Stretch ceiling

Stretch ceilings look aesthetically pleasing and are easy to clean

One of the best options for those who have sufficient financial resources for expensive repairs and decides which ceiling is best for modern kitchen. They have the most aesthetic appearance, a wide range of colors and patterns, allow you to hide communications and install small-sized spotlights.

A very commonly used option in kitchens is two-level structures that combine plasterboard trim around the perimeter with built-in lamps and a suspended ceiling in the middle.

Stretch ceilings made of PVC film are easy to maintain and moisture resistant; if there is flooding from above, you just need to drain the water from them. The disadvantage of tension films is their ability to change their dimensions depending on temperature (inherent in inexpensive materials), as well as fear of sharp objects - if damaged, PVC film usually cannot be repaired.

Another type of suspended ceilings are fabric ones, however, due to their fabric structure and difficulties in washing and cleaning, they have not been found wide application in kitchen areas.

If damage to the PVC film occurs no more than 15 cm from the edge, the material can be tightened; if the damage cannot be hidden, in some cases you can install an additional lamp or seal the hole with an applique.

Armstrong

This type of ceiling is rarely used anywhere other than offices.

Rarely used in everyday life when used in kitchens, the main application is office rooms, trading floors, public buildings. The ceiling is a system of suspended profiles in the form of squares, into the niches of which standard-sized slabs are placed.

The material used can vary, but pressed paper is generally used. Therefore, the ceiling is afraid of moisture and is difficult to clean if it gets dirty, although the slabs can be easily changed or repainted.

Armstrong takes up quite a lot of height from the room and does not have a very aesthetic appearance; it is quite easy to install spotlights in it.

In addition to pressed paper, the materials used to make boards can be plastic, glass, or metal, which gives the surface a beautiful aesthetic appearance and greater functionality.

Slat ceilings

Slat ceilings look aesthetically pleasing and also have a number of advantages in operation and installation