Which stretch ceilings are better, glossy or matte: design, price, care

Over time, many things in the world begin to be perceived completely differently. So, in ancient times, silk stretched under the ceiling was the privilege of very rich people. Today, the installation of a suspended ceiling in an apartment by the vast majority of the population, judging by reviews on forums, is identified with poverty. And it's strange. The glossy surface of the ceiling visually expands the space, the matte surface does not catch the eye, creates a feeling of comfort and homely warmth - not a single guest will recognize that it is made of stretched film or fabric, unless specifically mentioned. Both types of ceilings fit perfectly into any style of decoration, from classic to high-tech. In these conditions, it is important to understand whether stretch ceilings are glossy or matte - which is better?

Matte or glossy ceiling: comparative characteristics

Before choosing a certain type of material, it would be best to first inquire about simpler and at the same time more important characteristics, such as:

Quality of film or membrane;
Durability;
Material cost;
Maintenance and repair of glossy and matte ceilings.

And only then will it be possible to make a decision in what situation and in what interior a mirror-type ceiling finish or simple decor without the slightest hint of gloss would be more appropriate.

What is better in quality - matte or glossy ceiling

Immediately you need to make a reservation for non-glossy materials. Matte panels can be made on the basis of polyvinyl chloride film or from multilayer polyester fabric with PVC coating. Glossy ceiling membranes are produced only from PVC. If we compare the two materials, the multilayer matte ceiling turns out to be of much higher quality, has higher strength and wear resistance, so it makes no sense to compare it with a glossy film.

Ceilings without gloss can be used as a basis for painting

If you compare matte PVC film and glossy material made from a similar polymer, then the latter will definitely be of higher quality. This follows from the manufacturing technology; on a smoother, even mirror-like surface, there are fewer scratches and microcracks, so the finishing fabric is more durable and durable.

For your information! Glossy film is easier to check for surface quality; the human eye can easily detect even the smallest scratches or defects by reflection.

The quality of a matte membrane for suspended ceilings can often be determined only after installing the material on a frame made of aluminum or polymer profile.

A glossy ceiling surface can sometimes look too plastic, resulting in the impression of cheap haberdashery

Installation, repair and maintenance

Of course, a glossy surface requires more careful handling, as it is easily susceptible to scratches and abrasions. The matte surface of a stretch ceiling turns out to be less susceptible to careless handling by craftsmen during the installation process.

If we compare the performance characteristics:

On the glossy surface of the ceiling, the remains of animal hair and stains after unsuccessful cleaning and washing of the surface are very clearly visible. This is not visible on a matte decor; moreover, with the right choice of shade, you may not even notice the ubiquitous house dust;
Welding seams and solders are practically invisible on the matte film, so the ceiling can be made of several sections of different colors. On glossy decor, the seams are clearly visible;
Repairing, for example, sealing a matte ceiling is much easier than a glossy one. In addition, if the PVC film panel has already had to be removed from the frame once, then repeated installation may lead to the appearance of small abrasions along the perimeter of the ceiling.

Despite the fact that glossy stretch ceilings look less attractive from a service point of view, they have their undeniable advantages. For example, micro-abrasions and scratches can be removed by special surface polishing if desired. If scratches become visible on the matte film, then it will be extremely difficult to remove them, and even after polishing, barely noticeable marks and stains will still remain on the PVC membrane.

Matte, perfectly smooth surface looks stylish in any conditions

Any dust that has settled on the shiny, glossy surface of the ceiling membrane can be easily removed with a regular napkin, since it does not penetrate deeply, so it is relatively easy to deal with. At the same time, dust embedded in the micro-roughness of a matte surface is very difficult to remove; this will require at least two to three times more effort and labor than for a glossy ceiling. In other criteria, such as service life, material strength and durability, both glossy and matte materials are practically the same

Which ceiling is more expensive - matte or glossy?

Oddly enough, but often the determining factor in the choice of materials for ceiling cladding is the price of the film. If we compare the cost of film with a shiny or mirror surface with fabric materials, the latter will be significantly higher in price, even within the range of one manufacturer.

The cost of a matte PVC stretch ceiling is, as a rule, slightly less than for a similar material, but with a polished surface. This only confirms that gloss is technologically more expensive, but at the same time it turns out to be of higher quality.

Classic of the genre - black gloss for the living room

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.

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.
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.
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.

Which ceiling to choose for the living room: glossy or matte

The main room in a house or apartment must be a front room; guests are received here and celebrations are celebrated. Therefore, it is not surprising that most customers prefer a glossy ceiling for the living room. There are also purely practical elements in such a decision:

The mirror reflective surface visually increases the height of the ceilings and the overall volume of the room;
Even if the apartment has relatively small window openings, gloss will ensure a good filling of the room with daylight, which undoubtedly affects the level of comfort.

It is clear that when choosing, you need to take into account the overall interior design of the apartment. Glossy decor makes the interior modern and cheerful. Matte stretch ceilings are considered more versatile; they are suitable for a fairly strict classical setting with oak parquet, walls lined with wood panels and heavy carved doors.

Matte decor for a bright interior

Pros and cons of the second type

They are in much greater demand than matte variations if you need to create the appearance of an expanded room space. Their smooth, almost mirror-like surface reflects everything in the room, creating the effect of depth. A glossy ceiling of any shade attracts attention; it is an ideal option for rooms with low ceilings.

Advantages of a glossy ceiling:

Gives the room a rich decoration, giving it an increase in free space.
Using glossy ceilings of different colors, you can visually divide one large room into several separate work areas.
Due to the reflective effects of the glossy canvas, you can create fabulous interiors and come up with arrangements with chiaroscuro.
Darker glossy canvases fit into any interior and can give a feeling of unreal perception of space. Chocolate and other shades of brown stand out especially well, giving the impression of a second floor.
The wide palette of glossy colors presented makes it possible to create the effect of an unforgettable ceiling decor. Together with chandeliers and lamps arranged in a thoughtful sequence, it is possible to obtain inimitable ceiling compositions.
The glossy surface of PVC film does not collect dust on its surface.
This type of stretch ceiling is often used in small rooms, for example, in bathrooms, where it helps to visually enlarge the space and at the same time, in case of flooding in apartment buildings, hold back water. After such a situation, you will only need to carefully dismantle one edge of the ceiling and drain the water.

Video of a glossy stretch ceiling:

Disadvantages of a glossy ceiling:

High cost compared to its matte counterpart.
The presence of welds in the material that cannot be hidden. The width of glossy canvases does not exceed two meters. Their visibility can significantly spoil the overall appearance of the ceiling.
Scratches and stains are clearly visible on the glossy surface.
The material does not withstand low temperatures; it cannot be used in dachas and country houses where the heating is rarely turned on.

Which ceiling is better to make in the kitchen - glossy or matte?

In modern kitchen design projects, gloss has almost completely replaced matte ceilings. Most customers prefer, even for small-sized kitchens, to make, if not completely, then at least part of the stretch ceiling glossy. This is partly explained by the desire to improve the design of the room, but most often people think more practically and believe that gloss is easier to wash off fat and water deposits.

Gloss is ideal for the kitchen

Matte tension decor quickly acquires a yellowish-gray tint, so you have to use material in cream, sand or beige shades or immediately install PVC film with shine.

Important! Ceilings without gloss remain in demand for modern interiors in Techno, Modern and even Loft styles.

Varieties

To classify suspended ceilings, the type of material of the decorative panel is usually used:

PVC film . Vinyl film is used to make these ceilings. The material is sold in roll packaging: the width of the roll is up to 200 cm. If you look closely, you can see connecting seams on the surface of the canvas. A wide variety of textures are used to decorate the surface - imitation leather, velvet, marble, etc. Up to 100 shades of material are available for sale. It can be matte or glossy.
Polyester fabric . Fabric panels can be either suture or seamless. After installation, they can be painted in any color or applied with images, but the effect will always be matte.

Armed with basic information, it is much easier to figure out which stretch ceiling to choose, matte or glossy. After this, you need to carefully study the characteristics of each solution.

Which ceiling is better for the bedroom: gloss or matte

For a bedroom, the best choice would definitely be a ceiling decor without any gloss, much less a mirror surface. Professionally designed bedroom interiors emphasize muted tones and minimal reflective surfaces.

The lighting in the room should not give numerous reflections and “bunnies”. If you want to make a mirrored or at least glossy ceiling, you need to take into account that the ceiling surface perfectly reflects and projects the decor in the bedroom through the window openings onto the street. One such case is described in the video:

What is better for the corridor and bathroom: gloss or matte ceiling

The specific choice depends on the size of the room and the height of the ceiling. For a standard apartment, or especially a Soviet Khrushchev-era apartment, it would be more appropriate to use matte ceilings, since the hallway and bathroom spaces are relatively small. In this case, it makes no sense to install mirror decor or glossy film; there are no windows, so this will not provide any advantages.

On the other hand, matte decor hides and masks dust and any other deposits on the surface well, so in small rooms it turns out to be more practical.

For large modern bathrooms and hallways, you can use a glossy ceiling; the specific color and format in this case is chosen based on the style and overall design of the room.

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.

Reviews

Gorin Vadim Sergeevich, Kaluga, 36 years old:

I think that the best option would be a matte ceiling in cream or blue. My ceiling height is more than three meters; I had no intention of washing or cleaning it. Therefore, when purchasing, I chose a color on which dust was not visible. The calculation was justified, in addition, this year I plan to paint the film with acrylic paint, if I had installed glossy ceilings from the very beginning, there would probably have been nothing but problems.

Semenov Rodion, 41 years old, Sevastopol:

Frankly speaking, matte ceilings are boring; in appearance they are an exact copy of classic whitewash. If you choose, it is also best to choose glossy black ones; they look incredibly stylish and beautiful and will suit any design. It is clear that the film has to be washed regularly, but why mess with tension films if, after installation on the ceiling, it seems that the surface is simply painted with lime whitewash.