Rack ceiling: types and design features

Rack ceiling, like other ceiling coverings, has its own characteristics, including not only an interesting appearance. First you need to understand what types of structures there are, what distinguishes some ceilings from others.

Rack ceiling looks very much like clapboard for facade or interior decoration, which seemed to be laid on the ceiling, but the ceiling strips can be made of different materials, and not just wood. The panels are light, so that the ceiling does not bend under its own weight, while maintaining an attractive appearance for many years.

The ceiling of this type consists of a light frame on which the slats are fixed. The frame itself includes rails that perform the supporting function.

The model appeared on the Russian market quite recently - at the end of the twentieth century. At first, this species was not very popular. Glory to him came when the renovation came into vogue.Of course, initially the price of the product was much higher than the average due to the fact that the rack construction was produced only in Germany. However, over time, Russian companies also mastered the production of components for such ceilings, and they became publicly available.

Gradually, slatted ceilings ceased to be used within the living rooms, being forced out into the bathrooms and kitchens. Indeed, here this material looks the best, since its modern appearance in the atmosphere of these rooms does not cause questions.

Depending on what material and on what technology ceilings are made, they are divided into different categories. Regardless of the name, they represent the same thing - hinged rack construction. There is one more division: decorative or simple functional. So, decorative ceilings are the same as usual ones, only thanks to a special finish they look much brighter and more noticeable.

It is important to bear in mind that Usually the rack ceiling is used as an accent center, therefore it is important that if it is present, the environment remains relatively modest. It will also be necessary to coordinate the lighting. Depending on which slats are selected (glossy or matte), the types of fixtures and their number are selected.

Rack models have many positive qualities. They are characterized not only by their attractive appearance, but also by their resistance to impacts of various kinds.

Rack ceilings have several major advantages.

• Installation is really simple. With at least little knowledge in the construction field and with proper physical strength, any person is able to install quickly and efficiently.
• In cases where the draft ceiling is damaged, deformed or simply in an unattractive condition, the rack ceiling will be an excellent choice. With it, you can quickly and completely close all existing flaws.
• Due to the fact that the predominantly rack variant is made of synthetic non-combustible materials, it is fireproof. Wooden models are either treated with special compounds that prevent rapid ignition of the panels, or they are mounted only in rooms where the probability of a fire is below average.
• Reiki is treated with special antiseptic agents that prevent the development of fungi and mildew on them, as well as prevent parasites from multiplying. Most of the materials themselves do not imply the existence of such problems.

• Rack ceilings for checking are more durable than others. This is due to the increased resistance to those factors that ordinary materials do not tolerate: elevated temperature, high humidity, corrosion, reproduction of microorganisms and others.
• The construction of the rails can "survive" a small flooding neighbors. The same large amount of water as stretch PVC ceilings, lath analog can not stand, but still it is more stable than ordinary whitewashing or wallpapering.
• With the help of such ceilings, you can easily hide all communications, be it electrical wiring, ventilation or gas pipes, cables or any other household items.
• Reiki guarantee an attractive appearance of the structure, and complemented by design elements, it will become even better. As a rule, only spotlights are installed on such ceilings, thereby trying to emphasize their originality.
• Suspended rack construction has a low weight, so the load on the walls remains minimal. There is practically no risk that the structure will sag or collapse under its own weight.

However, slatted ceilings are not without flaws, which also need to be discussed in more detail.

• The high cost of material speaks not in his favor. Although since the 1990s, the price for them has decreased, but it still remains at a level that exceeds many other analogues. This drawback does not stop many, as this coating is resistant to most adverse factors.
• Difficulty of repair also does not speak in favor of rack structures. In the case of damage at least one rail you can not dismantle and replace only it, you have to disassemble the entire ceiling. As an excuse, we can say that spoiling such a ceiling is hard enough, you need to try for it, so there are not many cases when repair is required.
• The inability to use such structures in apartments or houses with low ceilings. In theory, of course, you can choose such a ceiling for “low” rooms, but it should be noted that the ceiling height will decrease by a height of 4 to 10 cm, depending on which lighting system is chosen. Additionally, a few centimeters will be lost purely visually.

After analyzing both the positive and negative sides, you can make a final decision about the reasonableness of the purchase of such an option.

Rack ceilings are different. They are subdivided by the number of levels, the materials of which the slats are made, and by many other factors. All lath structures can be divided into two groups.

• Closed are those models in which the space between the slats or closed decorative skirting, or slats fitted to each other so tightly that the space between them is not at all.
• In models of open type through the gaps between the slats, you can see all the communications, guides, fixtures, located above the rails.

Inserts between the slats can be either made in the same color as the slats themselves or in contrast.It looks beautiful if the slats themselves are matte and monophonic, and the decorating profiles imitate some precious metal, for example, gold. This immediately gives the room an elegant look, and the ceiling itself looks expensive.

By the number of levels, both single-level and multi-level ceilings are distinguished, and the option can be two-level, and have much more tiers. An interesting effect can be achieved if you use non-classical U-shaped strips and profiles, and curved. With their help, you can make the ceiling as if wavy.

It is traditional to divide rack constructs according to the materials from which they are made. Ceilings can be plastic (the most common option), metal and wood. So, you can find an option for every taste and budget, as well as having the necessary appearance and characteristics.

Only the PVC version is universal, but many refuse it because of its appearance. People find it more suitable for public institutions such as shopping centers, cafeterias, bistros and the like.

Rack ceilings of aluminum have a number of advantages compared with other options.

• They are not subject to corrosive changes. This means that the ceiling does not rust. This effect is achieved not only due to the processing of the metal, but also because of its characteristic properties.
• Aluminum is resistant to high humidity and is not afraid of water. Unlike many other samples, it can be washed without fear of damage.
• Aluminum models can be used in a variety of areas, ranging from installation in the kitchen and ending with the design of the garage, as well as public institutions: hospitals, schools, sanatoriums.
• Like other slatted ceilings, aluminum hangers are easy to install. With their help, you can make ceilings not only in one tier, but also multi-level.

• The advantage of metal models is their compatibility with various lighting devices. They look equally good both with spot lighting and with traditional ceiling chandeliers.
• There are many variations of aluminum panels on the market, so that they can be used in any interior. Every year, designers offer all new and new solutions.
• Aluminum ceilings are easy to maintain. They do not require special treatment, just wipe them with a damp cloth from time to time to get rid of dirt and dust.
• Aluminum models are durable in use due to the good performance properties of the metal.

Among the shortcomings can be identified only that Reiki easy to bend, and the return form to return them later will not succeed. If you carry out the transport carefully and be careful in the subsequent installation, the ease of bending does not hurt. You also need to be careful when facing the ceilings of porches, arbors, terraces, since aluminum is a non-ferrous metal, and some vandals sometimes just tear off the panels in order to profit.

Steel ceilings are used for facing works. Reiki are made of galvanized steel, resistant to all kinds of influences, including mechanical ones. Steel is a durable material, so the purchase of such an option for interior decoration is impractical. At home, steel rails trim the ceilings of balconies, canopies, ceiling spaces gazebos and terraces. Often steel slatted ceilings are found on public buildings, such as:

• Gas station;
• offices;
• shopping centers;
• cafe, bistro and other catering facilities;
• hospitals, motels and so on.

One of the advantages of the steel structure is that it does not need to be very careful, as with an aluminum equivalent. After all, the risk of damaging the steel bar is much lower. So, even self-assembly will be safe, you only need to arm yourself with instructions and some knowledge about the installation of the rack ceiling.

Galvanized steel is not subject to corrosive changes under the influence of high humidity and temperature changes, but you need to be careful, because the scratched surface will no longer be protected. Scratch marks will quickly rust. In this case, it is better to immediately replace the bar so that the rust does not spread further. Due to this quality, it is best to install steel versions only in dry spaces.

Another advantage of steel is its good sound insulation characteristics. If a closed ceiling is selected,then you don’t have to build additional sound insulation, and so you will not hear the noise made by your neighbors above. Steel is a great reflector. Thanks to such a ceiling coating, one can significantly save on electricity, as much less lighting devices are required here, while maintaining the intensity and amount of light. Steel river structures are available in a huge variety of colors.

Wood as a material has proven itself. Despite the abundance of modern solutions, it does not give up its position, remaining one of the most sought after. So, wooden slatted ceilings have a number of undeniable advantages.

• Excellent sound insulation characteristics. It is worth noting that to a greater extent this applies to closed ceilings, although the open type model will hide some of the noise.
• High thermal insulation quality. So, together with a small layer of insulation, wooden slatted ceiling will help to maintain an adequate level of heat even in the attic.
• Huge selection of options. There are both simple straight strips and figured ones, both matte and glossy, both lacquered and painted. There is a lot of solutions, so everyone can find something suitable.

• The material is environmentally friendly. For many, this quality is important. So, the rack ceiling from a tree can be used when finishing a bedroom or a nursery.
• Average cost. Variants of wood are not much more aluminum, so they can not be counted among the premium class.
• Easy installation. Wooden slats are easy to install, so they are chosen for self-installation.
• Aesthetic appeal. The wood ceiling creates a special atmosphere in the room, giving it a distinctive look. In addition, this decision looks expensive and soundly, indicating a good taste of the owners.

The tree has its drawbacks. It can not be mounted in conditions of high humidity or with strong temperature changes. Wood can not stand and warp. However, recently, special impregnations have been invented that make wood fire-resistant and water-resistant. Such tools eliminate the drawbacks of wood panels.

In favor of the raw tree says that it is able to evaporate the aroma of tar for a long time, creating a pleasant smell in the room.

Plastic panels - this is the most successful material for the installation of a slatted ceiling. PVC benefits from other materials due to several properties.

• Moisture resistance. PVC is completely unresponsive to moisture, whether it is exposure to steam or direct contact with water. This is not the case with less common wood or drywall options.
• Ventilation. Regardless of what type of ceiling is chosen, there is an imperceptible gap between the slats. The air can circulate freely through such gaps, therefore there can be no greenhouse effect.
• Universality of placement. The location of the rails along or across the room does not matter, the ceiling will still look good.
• The choice of location for the placement of lamps. On plastic panels, lighting devices can be placed anywhere.

• Budget. PVC models are much cheaper than options from other materials, so they are often purchased for the design of side structures: barns, gazebos, outdoor toilets and showers.
• Ease. The panels are lightweight, so you can even mount them alone.
• Durability. Their PVC slats retain their original appearance over their entire service life, which, if properly cared for, can be quite long. Quality plastic does not turn yellow over time.
• Strength. Plastic panels do not bend as easily as metal, and do not break like wood. When pushing through, they return to their former shape. Scratches are invisible on the plastic, so it retains its presentable appearance longer.

However, it has plastic and its drawbacks.

• Plastic panels require a large space for the arrangement of the frame, because of which the height of the ceilings is greatly reduced.
• Ceiling repair will not be possible. If the structure is damaged, it will be necessary to dismantle it completely, later replacing it with a new one.

One of the positive features of slatted ceilings is that they can be installed even in a large, even in a small room.Thus, the maximum length of the rails, which can be found, is 6 m. However, if this length is insufficient, there is always the opportunity to make models to order. An additional plus of an individual approach is that You can also order the manufacture of decorative elements so that they don’t have to be donarasch.

The width of the slats can be called standard, since its variations are extremely rare. In most cases, slats of any material have a width of 120 mm. This is the most successful solution, because such strips and not too wide, and not too narrow. They help to visually "pull out" the room. In addition, such models can be mounted at any height of the ceiling, because they will look harmonious.

The thickness of the rails varies greatly depending on the material from which they are made. The thickness can be from 0.3 to 1.00 mm, with the thinnest strips made of aluminum, and the thickest ones made of polyvinyl chloride. The average thickness of the rails is 0.6 mm. They are the most popular because they are universal: suitable for installation both indoors and outdoors.Thin aluminum profiles can only be used in finishing work, and not as a material for the entire structure.

Thus, depending on what effect you need to achieve in the end, as well as the dimensions of the room, you need to select the dimension of the details of the slatted ceiling.

Manufacturers offer a variety of forms in which can be embodied slats for the ceiling. Not only strict flat elements, but also many unconventional ones are popular.

• Curved. This refers to curved planks, and the bend can be wavy (when the rake is shaped, as it were) and angular. The second option is used in cases where you need to beautifully draw a drop in levels.
• Cube shaped. Most of all, it resembles an ordinary flat version, however, here the slats are much stronger. It turns out that the slats are made in the form of volumetric cubic figures. They lag behind the ceiling to the same height as their width.
• V-shaped. Such strips are made in the form of isosceles triangles. When attached to the ceiling, they are fixed in such a way that the sharp side is directed towards the floor. As a result, an interesting effect is achieved, although this solution is not entirely successful within a residential apartment. It is more suitable for public institutions.

Beautifully look combinations of rack samples of different shapes. For example, you can often find a combination of a flat rectangular ceiling with all sorts of curvilinear elements. The form is best chosen depending on the design and purpose of the room, and in public buildings there are much more options. If only flat or curvilinear samples are suitable for private territories, then everything is for public areas.

The ceiling of any shape can be perforated, which makes it even more interesting. Even an ordinary flat ceiling will play a completely new way. However, buying wavy strips with perforation is not worth it, because there is a risk to overload the ceiling with parts, which will make it look tasteless.

Rack ceilings are represented by a huge assortment of different colors. They are not limited to black and white. There are several interesting options that are able to interest every owner. So, mainly rack panels are available in light colors. By coverage, they are divided into the following categories:

• matte;
• Metallic;
• glossy;
• textured;
• mirror.

The most numerous group is textured coatings that successfully imitate other materials: stone or wood. Reiki are not similar to ordinary stone surfaces with a bright applied pattern. It is much more often used marble texture.

Opaque and metallic ceilings are less common. It is worth noting that in dark saturated colors only metallized coatings are made, since matte due to poor reflective qualities and so contribute to the “hiding” of light. Metallic, on the contrary, reflects the light from the lighting devices back into the room, thereby achieving the best light output.

Mirror ceilings are of particular interest, because in the rack and pinion version they look the most impressive. There is a gold, silver, iridescent chrome finish, which is made with or without a pattern. Chameleon ceilings seem to be the most unusual, which, depending on the angle from which you look at them, change their color.

Glossy variety can not "boast" a wide variety of colors, so you can list the most popular ones:

• white;
• lactic;
• beige;
• light pink;
• sky blue;
• the black.

Rack ceilings can be adapted to almost any environment. In some stylistic directions of the interior of the ceiling of the rails look the most harmonious and appropriate.

• Scandinavian. Here the ceiling of the rails must be made of wood and white. It should look as if the boards were burned out in the sun, were whitened in a natural way, and not by painting or artificial methods.Then it will turn out to really recreate the atmosphere of Scandinavia, while cleverly hiding all communications in the niche between the ceiling and the rack surface.
• Country music. The unusual rustic look of the room should be accentuated by means of brown ceilings in natural colors. Walnut, alder and other medium-intensity tones are not prohibited. Here they will look their best. The wood should look lacquered.

• Rustic. Like country, rustic style can be attributed to the village. It implies the presence of a large number of natural shades and natural materials: stone and wood. It is important to remember that marble textures will not work here. Reiki must be made of dark wood, then the whole interior will be harmonious.
• Mediterranean. The ceiling of the rails should resemble ship boards. It is not forbidden if he will have a slightly aged look. It does not matter what material the slats will be made of - PVC, metal or wood.The main thing is the maximum reliability of execution. Color should be chosen predominantly white, but you can use warmer or colder shades, for example, champagne, ash-white and so on.

• Shabby chic. In this "girlish" style fits well the rack structure of a closed type. Only white color is suitable. Reiki should not be wide. Old ceilings are not necessary, even vinyl versions look good here. The main thing is to replace the point illumination with one big lamp in the middle, otherwise the stylistic unity will be broken. Here the rack ceiling is desirable to choose only for rooms with high ceilings.
• Provence. The style of the French province is perfectly combined with the structures of the rails, especially if they are made of wood and artificially aged. The color should be soft and light: cream, light green, soft pink. The ceiling should not be white-fueled, since this hue is practically not found in the nature of Provence. It is better to choose slightly “diluted” colors to add to the room the desired atmosphere.

Different companies are engaged in the production of slatted ceilings: Italian, French, German, Russian. It is worth paying attention to several manufacturers, the products of which were given the highest accolades.

• Cesal. This Russian company in the market since the 2000s. During this time, the manufacturer has managed to earn a proven and reliable reputation. The company sells kits for the assembly of slatted ceilings, but if desired, you can also purchase spare parts separately. All products are high quality. The firm values ​​its name, so the risk of marriage is minimal.
• "Bard". Production facilities are located in the city of Moscow. The company is an innovator in the production of slatted ceilings. So, they earlier than others began to produce ready-made square shields of rails, which are more convenient to mount, while at the same time they are also much easier to repair.

• Artens. Another Russian brand. The panels feature a large variety of sizes and colors, as well as an excellent value for money. Users note only one drawback - the panels are difficult to install on their own. Gaps are not always the same.
• Geipel. Products of this German company belongs to the premium class. The panels are durable, beautiful, very high quality. Regardless of the type of installation is easy to make even independently. All work takes several hours. Despite the fact that the company is not from France, it offers prefabricated structures of French type of excellent quality.
• Lyumsvet. The company uses on the production of ultra-modern equipment from European countries: Italy, Germany, as well as from the United States. Raw materials also come from abroad. Because of this, the prices for Lumsvet products are much higher while maintaining the quality of a similar level.

Making the right choice is not always an easy task. That is why professionals prepared some useful tips, the task of which is to help in making an opinion on a particular sample, on the reasonableness of its purchase.

• Be sure to check the presence of a protective film on the product, especially if you have chosen the mirror option. Only such a measure will prevent damage during the transportation of the goods, as well as during installation of the system.
• The thicker the slats, the longer the ceiling will last. It is worth bearing in mind this fact when choosing. However, not always thick slats are a good idea, because they can bend under their own weight, as a result of which the general appearance of the structure will be spoiled. To avoid this, you need to use additional fasteners.
• If you plan to use the ceilings in the living room, it is better to buy options with an additional sound insulation layer inside.

• When installing the metal version immediately put in the estimate the cost of ventilation of the room. The metal does not “breathe”, which is why such a measure will be necessary to maintain air circulation in the room.
• Although Russian manufacturers have greatly improved the quality of their production, it is still at an average level. The best solution is to look at foreign companies: Luxalon, Geipel and others.

To do the installation of the rack ceiling with your own hands, you will need to follow simple instructions.Please note that this list of steps is only approximate, as the exact instructions for installing a particular model are attached to the product. To begin, prepare the basic tools, which should include metal cutting shears, a drill, a perforator, a ruler and a measuring tape, a building level (better laser) for checking contours, a knife for cutting slats, a marker for marking and dowels or self-tapping screws for fixing parts .

The technology is as follows:

• First, the guides must be installed around the perimeter of the room.
• After that, suspensions are attached to them.
• Next, fix the tires, which will subsequently perform the carrier function.
• At the end, the ceiling itself is attached, gradually attaching the slats to the tires.

This procedure seems simple, but in fact you have to try hard to fix all the details exactly, leaving the same distance between the slats. Even experienced builders are not always able to do this.

For how to install a slatted aluminum ceiling, see the following video.

The transversely laid ceiling crests will help to visually correct the proportions of the corridor, making it less long and wider. Sometimes you can lay the slats not only across or along, but also on the diagonal of the ceiling.

Rack ceiling in the hallway is able to diversify the situation, however, it is important to ensure that it is well combined with the surrounding decoration of the room.

The ceiling of the rails in the bedrooms can look ultramodern and stylish, especially if an open type model is chosen, as in this image. The built-in light allows you to create a glow effect from nowhere, while the light is enough.

It looks nice if in the living room an ordinary plastered ceiling is combined with an unusual lath. In this case, it helped zone the studio apartment, separating the seating area from the dining room. Often rack ceiling do accent detail, as in this example.