Which stretch ceiling is better to choose: glossy, matte or satin

When planning renovations in a house or apartment, many people are faced with the choice of what is better to do: a glossy or matte stretch ceiling. The characteristics of both options are similar. They are durable, last for several decades and allow you to hide significant flaws in the ceiling slab. But there are also differences, knowing which you can make the best choice. Let's consider each option in detail and compare the advantages and disadvantages of the materials.

The difference between glossy, matte and satin stretch ceilings

All types of fabrics for tensile structures are divided into two groups:

1. PVC is a thin film of polyvinyl chloride.
2. Fabric - synthetic polyester fabric.

Each material has its own characteristics. PVC film has a wide variety of colors and textures; it can be glossy, matte, satin, smooth, embossed, and even with a texture that imitates other materials (wood, marble, velvet, etc.). More than 200 shades are available. Due to the specifics of production, fabric fabrics have a woven texture and can only be matte. The color scheme is also much more modest.

It is possible to apply an image to both types of canvas using photo printing.

Glossy

The texture of glossy PVC film is absolutely smooth. The varnish surface, like a mirror, reflects all the elements of the interior. This visually creates the impression of spaciousness and luxury. Glossy ceilings are universal and look good in both avant-garde and classic interiors. But a mirror surface can have a negative impact on the psyche of some people.

Matte

Matte canvases have a rough texture. PVC film does not reflect light, so the ceiling does not attract attention. The white surface visually resembles plaster. Matte ceilings are suitable for any interior. There was an opinion that such textures look ordinary. But with the use of additional decorative elements (built-in lamps, ceiling plinths, stucco molding and others), this drawback can be easily eliminated.

Satin

Despite the name, satin stretch ceilings are made from PVC film. The surface resembles a matte canvas, but has specific differences. First of all, it is worth noting the appearance. Satin is a cross between matte and glossy fabric. The surface of PVC film has a fine-grained, almost smooth texture.

Available in a wide range of colors. The palette is calmer in comparison with glossy counterparts, but at the same time brighter than matte textures.

Only satin ceilings have a pearlescent tint and soft light reflection. Artificial lighting is diffused throughout the room, and the color may change depending on the viewing angle.

Fabric

Fabric ceilings are a synthetic fabric made from polyester threads impregnated with polyurethane. The texture can only be matte. The surface texture resembles fabric. Available in about 20 colors, mostly pastel shades. The main difference from PVC film is the possibility of painting the canvas after installation.

Besides the appearance, there are other differences. The main characteristics are shown in the comparative table.

Based on the above differences, it is impossible to say unequivocally which suspended ceilings are better. The choice between matte, glossy and satin canvas should be made only in relation to a specific situation, taking into account the characteristics and operating conditions of the room.

Purpose of the premises

Which matte or satin stretch ceiling to choose depends on the purpose of the room (if we are not talking about an apartment or your own home, then satin and mat are universal in use). But in administrative, educational institutions, as well as in offices - in general places where there are certain requirements for the design of the premises, this point is important.

Firstly, in such situations, usually only the white color of the ceiling is suitable, and, secondly, only a matte texture to comply with business style, officialdom and other important criteria of a particular institution.

Comparison of advantages and disadvantages of materials

Stretch ceilings are installed in the bedroom, living room, children's playroom, hallway, attic and other rooms for various purposes. To understand how such coatings differ, you need to understand the pros and cons of the materials.

Positive sides

Among the advantages of any suspended ceilings, the first thing to note is quick installation and relatively low cost. Installing a simple one-level ceiling takes 3-4 hours, a complex two-level structure is installed in 1 day. Preliminary preparation of the base is not required, which saves time and effort. The surface is perfectly smooth, which is difficult to achieve when using other finishing materials. An additional advantage is the absence of large amounts of dust and construction debris after installation.

In addition, film coatings are waterproof. In case of flooding, the ceiling will hold water and protect the room. Furniture and other property will not be damaged. The craftsmen will carefully drain the water and stretch the canvas back without damaging the coating.

The materials used for suspended ceilings can be of any color. And the use of photo printing allows you to create a variety of drawings. This applies to all types, but the texture of the canvas complements the positive aspects of each option.

Glossy PVC films have a reflectivity of 90%. This gives a mirror effect and visually expands the low room. For decoration, moldings and lighting are most often used, which enhance reflection and give the interior style and originality. Another advantage of glossy ceilings is that they are easy to maintain due to a perfectly smooth surface, in contrast to the roughness of matte ceilings. The only difficulty is possible stains during wet cleaning. Therefore, it is recommended to use special products.

Matte canvases have no shine at all and are good for all types of interiors. Such ceilings create a favorable emotional atmosphere in the room, do not require special care, and after wet cleaning there are no stains left. Thanks to their high density and low price, they allow you to inexpensively equip a high-quality interior that will last up to 20 years.

Satin fabrics are distinguished by a slight reflective effect and the texture of natural material. This allows you to complement the design without placing the main emphasis on the ceiling. Among the advantages, it is also worth noting the low maintenance requirements and the unique “chameleon” effect, when the canvas changes color at different angles.

Negative sides

With all the above advantages, stretch ceilings have a number of disadvantages. Regardless of the texture of the material used, the height is reduced by 3-10 cm. This precludes their use in rooms with low ceilings. Despite its high strength, the canvas is easily damaged by sharp objects. These are the general negative aspects of suspended ceilings, but each type of material also has its own disadvantages.

1. The mirror surface reflects objects in the room, creating a cluttered effect. Photo printing with images of wildlife does not look very realistic due to excessive shine. Cold shades of a glossy ceiling make the room uncomfortable, so they should not be used in bedrooms and children's rooms. Also, gloss is not the best option for a bathroom; due to frequent contact with water, stains will constantly remain on the canvas. Another disadvantage is the noticeable weld line when installed in large rooms.
2. Among the negative aspects of matte ceilings is the need to use special products for maintenance and cleaning. The rough texture does not allow dirt to be quickly removed.
3. Satin ceilings also have a disadvantage. With different lighting they change shade to lighter or darker. This feature must be taken into account during repairs.

Ceiling tiles

Among the materials, the most popular is polystyrene foam - one of the types of foam plastic. The coating itself consists of identical square or rectangular tiles.

Coverage can be:

• Colored or white.
• Standard or laminated.
• Smooth or embossed.

Weight - 500 g per 1 m2, thickness - no more than 16 mm.

Types of material:

Pressed - a budget option. Thickness 6-8 mm, no protective film, making the product too fragile

Care is required during construction.

Injection - thickness 9-14 mm. High noise absorption and temperature retention

The result is a seamless pattern without seams. Easily absorbs moisture, which leads to deformation.

Extruded is a reliable, durable and expensive option. Covered with protective film and paint. This creates a smooth surface on which you can draw.

The construction can be carried out independently - no special effort is required, the material is very light. Moment or Titan glue is suitable for the job.

Features of care

Maintenance methods for suspended ceilings vary depending on the material used and its texture. Let's figure out what to pay attention to.

1. Cleaning matte canvases is easy. For them you need to use a semi-dry sponge or a damp soft cloth. You can also use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust. Difficult stains can be cleaned with special products.
2. For glossy ceilings, wet cleaning is allowed. But after it is carried out, the surface must be wiped with a dry cloth to avoid streaks.
3. Satin ceilings should only be cleaned using special products or a vacuum cleaner.

Bathroom decoration

Satin ceilings in bathrooms not only become a barrier to steam and condensation, but also allow you to add space to this small room. And if there is a leak from the top floor, the ceiling will protect the finishes and plumbing from damage.

Thanks to the use of a satin ceiling, you can choose any bright color in the bathroom. Depending on the lighting, the stretched canvas will shimmer with soft light and change shade

At the same time, it is also very important to correctly place accents, that is, install central and spotlights and, if desired, additional lighting.

Price

The price depends on the country of manufacture and the type of material used for the stretch ceiling. France, Germany, Belgium and Switzerland are more expensive, China and Russia are cheaper. Glossy canvases cost from 220 to 720 rubles per 1 sq. m. m. The price of matte ceilings varies from 220 to 470 rubles, and satin ceilings - from 220 to 590 rubles. At the same time, colored canvases cost 10-20% more than white ones. When using photo printing, the price increases.

The most expensive PVC ceilings are with a glossy and satin surface.

When choosing a manufacturer, you should not save money and buy the cheapest Chinese option. Most companies working in this area regularly hold promotions that allow you to install high-quality German or French stretch ceilings at minimal cost.

How to install

Installation work includes several stages. First, measurements are taken to determine what width and length the canvas will be required for a particular room. The installation itself includes the following steps:

1. Places for lamps are marked, wiring is created and fastenings are installed.
2. The mounting profile is set according to the level.
3. The canvas is attached to one of the sides of the profile.
4. Heating is carried out using a heat gun. During heating, the fabric begins to contract.
5. The final fastening of the stretch ceiling to the profile is carried out and the lamps are installed.

Installation process
Installation does not take much time. Usually it is carried out after finishing finishing. Many companies are engaged in the sale and installation of suspended ceilings, so there will be no problems finding specialists.

Consumer Reviews

The demand for canvases made of glossy, satin and matte materials is approximately the same, since each person, when purchasing, is guided by his own beliefs and preferences. The choice is also influenced by the features of the interior and room.

1. Consumers who have installed glossy ceilings note that the atmosphere has become more festive, and with proper installation in large rooms, the weld seam is almost invisible. Everyone, without exception, notices the visual increase in space. Some are subsequently disappointed, since the varnish surface reflects all objects, including those outside the window - the mirror effect quickly becomes boring.
2. According to reviews from fans of matte ceilings, such canvases are practical. For maintenance, it is enough to periodically wipe with a damp soft cloth, without fear of streaks. And when using photo printing, for example, the sky with clouds, the image looks very realistic. White matte ceilings look aesthetically pleasing and rich, especially in a classic interior.
3. People who ordered satin canvases note that the snow-white ceiling looks very stylish and beautiful. Most buyers install them in the living room, kitchen and bedroom.

Some consumers, striving for originality, choose combined options of matte and glossy textures in 2 levels. In combination with LED lighting, they can add zest to the interior and emphasize the individuality of the apartment owner.

Adviсe

The small difference in the cost of satin and matte fabric, their installation, and further care sometimes makes it difficult to make a choice. You only need to be guided by your taste. In any case, if you want something unusual, then stretch ceilings solve this problem.

Invite a specialist who will tell you how to decorate the suspended ceiling space and what can be added to the structure. This can be done on a coating made of any material.

Despite the slight differences, satin still looks more interesting than a matte finish. Be sure to look at the technical characteristics of the canvas when purchasing.

Don't forget that both options require careful maintenance.

Knowing all the features, advantages, and disadvantages of ceiling coverings, you will not go wrong and make the right choice.

Video review of matte stretch ceilings

Which ceiling to choose

Based on the opinions of designers and ordinary consumers, we can conclude that a certain material is suitable for each type of room. What fits into the interior of the hallway is not always appropriate in the living room or nursery. Let's figure out how to choose the appropriate ceiling option, taking into account the functionality of the room, and what else needs to be taken into account when installing such structures.

Experts recommend adhering to the following rules:

• For low rooms, it is better to choose a glossy ceiling to visually increase the height of the room.
• Light shades and white also expand the space.
• Photo printing looks more realistic on matte films; the best quality is achieved when using satin fabric.
• In combined designs, the gloss looks more beautiful in the center of the composition.
• A satin ceiling should not be installed if there are a lot of varnished surfaces in the room.
• When using only chandeliers as lighting, it is recommended to choose matte textures; hidden lighting and spotlights look more beautiful with a glossy surface.
• For standard rooms, preference is given to soft light colors; dark mirror surfaces will be visually heavy and are suitable only for large rooms with high ceilings.
• For compact rooms, such as a toilet, a combination of gloss and striped wallpaper would be ideal. This will visually increase the space.
• When arranging a room for cozy family evenings watching TV shows, a matte or satin ceiling is recommended. For the living room, the best option would be a glossy canvas, which will give the room a festive atmosphere.
• For the kitchen, the ideal choice would be a matte ceiling in beige or another light shade, as it does not require complex maintenance. If you install a dark glossy canvas, drops of fat from cooking will be visible.
• For the hallway, a mirror version in beige and white is better suited, which will expand the space and make the corridor more spacious. Cool shades should be excluded.
• It is recommended to install matte or satin coatings in the bathroom, bedroom and office, which do not irritate the eye and make the atmosphere cozy and calm.

Thus, there is no single solution for all situations. The choice depends on the type of specific room, design idea and individual preferences. Only by comparing all the pros and cons can you choose the best option.

Application in interior design

Satin fabrics are suitable for:

• classical, futuristic or modern styles;
• with curved ceiling shapes, the presence of decorative niches, arches or projections on the ceiling;
• offices. A satin ceiling will make the office respectable;
• for a children's or adult bedroom.

At the same time, satin surfaces do not need additional decor, since they themselves decorate any interior.

Matte canvases are limited in color variations, so they are used for finishing calm interiors, close to the classical direction.

If the room is compact, it is better to install a satin ceiling, which will visually expand the spatial boundaries due to light reflection.

Lighting

The peculiarity of satin ceilings is that the coatings look different depending on the direction of natural or artificial light. For example, during the day the satin will show its natural color, and in the light of the devices the canvas will become lighter. The surface of the material reflects light slightly and does not reflect objects like gloss.

At the same time, two types of ceilings look great with different lighting devices: panels, LED lighting, spotlights and traditional chandeliers. For greater originality, designers combine several light sources on one surface. For example, the main lighting is organized in the form of a chandelier or lamp with a massive shade, and the perimeter lighting is made of LED strip or small point elements. The satin fabric with the “starry sky” effect looks interesting.