Which skirting boards are best for suspended ceilings: overview, dimensions, installation features

• April 1, 2020
• Ceiling
• Marina Cosmic

During the finishing of suspended ceilings, decorative skirting boards are installed. This element is used to make the space look organic and holistic. There is such a huge range of profiles for decorating the ceiling that choosing the right type is not difficult. But it is still necessary to figure out which skirting boards are best for suspended ceilings. Carefully installed, it effectively masks cracks and complements the interior.

Classification

A high-quality installation of a stretch ceiling looks good even without a decorative ceiling plinth, and some designs do not require additional elements at all. Thanks to new technologies, the range of materials used in residential design has significantly expanded. It’s easy to get confused in such abundance, and which skirting boards are best for suspended ceilings is not always clear. In addition, decor installed on a suspended ceiling is also called:

• Baguette - carved plank.
• Molding is a convex strip.
• A fillet is a narrow cornice.
• A cornice is a protruding element.
• A border is a decoration around the edges of something.
• Frieze - stripes, ribbons.
• Skirting board - strip, panel.

In essence, any element is a decorative strip that masks the joining seams. In the case of tensile structures, this is a “wall-ceiling”. The beautiful element is installed very quickly and absolutely without construction dirt. Before attaching the border, you need to paint the walls, and if you plan to wallpaper, then the baseboards need to be glued before the canvases are applied.

Different types of plinths for suspended ceilings are classified according to many characteristics: they can be wide or very narrow, have a richly designed front side or be completely smooth, but the main difference will be in the material from which they are made. Construction hypermarkets have a huge selection of different materials:

• gypsum;
• PVC;
• metal;
• Styrofoam;
• tree;
• marble;
• polyurethane.

Plaster, marble and wood are used quite rarely. Usually they are replaced with imitation polystyrene foam. As a rule, the plinth is about 2 m long, and the width varies from 1 to 20 cm or more.

Decorative cord

Thick ropes are woven from strong threads. They come in plain, close or contrasting colors. Sometimes metallic elements are added - gold, silver, etc.

This filling option looks good with satin, suede or matte fabrics.

Cords are available in different diameters, so you can choose the one that suits you, taking into account the size of the gap. This insert is flexible and is used on straight and rounded areas.

Prices for decorative cord

But the cord also has disadvantages. It collects dust and needs regular cleaning. Installation requires gluing the cord to the wall in the gap area, which makes the finishing procedure more complicated. And if the walls are uneven, it will be noticeable due to incomplete fit.

When skirting boards are not required

For suspended ceilings, a base is installed that is designed to secure the edge of the canvas. In fact, it does not carry an artistic load. But, depending on the design, after installation the frame can be completely hidden between the wall and the canvas in the profile groove:

• Aluminum guides with locks need decoration.
• Plastic - used for fastening not very large PVC shells. The system allows you to repeat the configuration of the base, hiding the gaps at the joints and eliminating the need to use a decorative masking plinth.

When the question arises about which skirting boards are best for suspended ceilings, it is more advisable to choose a design that does not require additional elements at all. For example, the joints of clip-on plastic fastening of fabric sheets with a fastening edge do not require additional decorative design.

Installation features

Fastening is quite simple: the cord is pushed by hand into the gap formed between the wall and the tension structure. It is better to start inserting from the corner; it is also worth making the joints of two separate segments there. Then it will be easy to disguise the joining areas. If there are no corners, experts advise starting to lay the cord at the point of the steepest bend.

Installation of decorative cord Source i.ytimg.com

The rope is fixed using acrylic sealant, the color of which matches the tone of the ceiling finish or heat gun. The craftsmen do this in the following way: they first fill the gap with sealant, then insert a rope into it. When the sealant is completely dry, it will ensure reliable fastening of the accessory.

The two ends are attached to each other using the “joint” method. They do not need to be placed on top of each other: the bump will immediately catch your eye. If you use a ceiling cord instead of a baseboard, it installs effortlessly, without pressing hard. Therefore, it is so important to select the required diameter of the rope and buy one that will easily fit into the gap with one third of its part, while the remaining side will reliably cover the joint.

Designers advise purchasing decorative material with a reserve, so that if an error occurs, you can quickly redo the damaged section.

Foam models

If a standard profile is used, and the wall defects are insignificant, then a foam ceiling profile will work well. In addition, finishing suspended ceilings with skirting boards is easy. They are a smooth overlay 4–5 cm wide. On the reverse side, the edges are beveled for a better fit.

The foam type has a lot of advantages:

• imitation stucco;
• light weight;
• low cost;
• Can be cut with a utility knife.

Minuses:

• fragile;
• fragile;
• afraid of solvents.

There are expensive and budget skirting boards for suspended ceilings. Which ones are better? Foam ceiling profiles are difficult to maintain, as they become deformed under the influence of certain chemicals. Some adhesives can completely dissolve the material, so not just any adhesive will work. Foam types are produced by various methods: the extruded type has smooth contours and a dense texture; the injection type has visible foam balls, which cannot always be disguised. Therefore, high demands are placed on the quality of evenness of walls and fasteners. It is no longer possible to unstick a part that is incorrectly attached to the ceiling.

Rating of expensive products

KX/002 Cosca

The product is made of ecopolymer. The chemical formula includes natural plasticizers. Innovative technologies are used in production. Parameters – 200*12*5.3 cm. It is reliable and highly durable. Not afraid of mechanical damage. Shows resistance to high humidity and negative influences. Easy and simple to put in order. Even a beginner can handle the installation. Allows you to hide all the cracks and inaccuracies in the work. Makes the interior of the room complete and aesthetic. Can be purchased at specialized retail outlets or ordered online in an online store.

The average cost is 1137 rubles.

skirting board KX/002 Cosca

Advantages:

• light weight;
• safety;
• attractive appearance;
• efficiency;
• environmental cleanliness;
• reliability;
• ease of installation;
• long service life.

Flaws:

• none.

DX/170 Oracle

Universal polyurethane profile. Products of the famous world leader Orac Decor, specializing in the production of decorative structures made of polyurethane. Dimensions – 230*11.9*3.2 cm. Belongs to the universal category. Allows you to design doorways and perfect suspended ceilings. Suitable for decorating all rooms. It is easy to maintain and retains its original characteristics for a long time. In order to avoid counterfeiting, it is better to visit a company store and familiarize yourself with the assortment presented. The cost is high, but quite justified.

You can purchase the products at a price of 2891 rubles.

skirting board DX/170 Orac

Advantages:

• high service life;
• goods from a global manufacturer;
• unique characteristics;
• high quality raw materials;
• environmental cleanliness;
• practicality;
• ease of installation and maintenance;
• versatility;
• light weight;
• attractive appearance.

Flaws:

• not installed.

Europlast 1.50.623

The product from a domestic manufacturer is in high demand in our country. High-quality polyurethane is used in the manufacture of the model. The profile is smooth. Dimensions – 200*11.8*7.5 cm. A little experience in the field of home renovation is sufficient for installation. Makes the interior of the room complete and attractive, hides minor defects.

Retailers offer products at a price of 1,659 rubles.

plinth Europlast 1.50.623

Advantages:

• excellent moisture resistance;
• functionality;
• practicality;
• smooth surface;
• attractive appearance;
• light weight;
• simplicity in processing and cutting;
• ease of installation;
• solid structure;
• long service life.

Flaws:

• not found.

DX/174 Oracle

The design falls into the category of universal and multifunctional. The production uses modern environmentally friendly raw materials – duropolymer. The product withstands high indoor humidity and is not afraid of mechanical damage. Wear resistance is excellent. Parameters – 230*6*2.2 cm. Suitable for decorating small rooms. Gives them a finished look and removes blemishes. Retains its original characteristics for a long time. The fillets are easy to care for and put in order. The reviews are positive.

The average cost is 906 rubles.

skirting board DX/174 Orac

Advantages:

• versatility;
• value for money;
• quality factor;
• light weight;
• safety;
• environmental cleanliness;
• ease of use;
• practicality;
• small dimensions;
• advanced functionality.

Flaws:

• not installed.

KX/003 Cosca

The product is made from eco-polymer, which contains natural plasticizers. During production, the latest innovative technologies are used to make the cornice durable, environmentally friendly, and with unique technical data. Despite the reasonable price, the product is classified as durable. It is easy to install due to its low dead weight. It looks attractive and will complement any interior decor. The reviews are positive. Marriage items are not available for sale. Parameters – 200*12*4.5 cm.

Purchase price – 869 rubles.

skirting board KX/003 Cosca

Advantages:

• environmentally friendly product;
• smooth surface;
• practicality;
• wear resistance;
• multifunctionality;
• reliability;
• solid structure;
• long service life;
• has no foreign odor;
• absolute safety;
• excellent moisture resistance.

Flaws:

• not installed.

PVC ceiling curbs

PVC trim strips are available in a variety of beautiful colors and designs and are inexpensive. Strong and durable, they are not flammable, are not affected by putrefactive bacteria, and can imitate stone, plaster, wood or other materials. Experts suggest using this option when decorating a ceiling with a square or rectangular configuration, which is due to low flexibility.

Pros:

• lungs;
• durable;
• abundance of colors and textures;
• low cost.

Minuses:

• turns yellow quickly;
• does not bend well;
• For cutting you need to use a hacksaw.

Some variations of plastic fillets have detachable connections, this allows them to be fixed in a hidden way using self-tapping screws. If significant defects occur, it is possible to replace one of the profiles with a new one.

Polyurethane products

Profiles made of polymer rubber material do not deform under the influence of low or high temperatures. Rubber is the preferred type for bathrooms and kitchens. The polymer is not afraid of heavy loads, has high strength and does not fade over time. Rubber borders are suitable for use on ceilings with pronounced unevenness. They will fit perfectly into various styles; choosing the best option will not be difficult. This profile can easily be given a different shape and painted in a different tone. This ceiling plinth is suitable for suspended ceilings, both for a standard and for a curved base with a rounded configuration.

Pros:

• flexible;
• strong;
• cut using an ordinary knife;
• durable.

Minuses:

• heavy;
• high price.

The biggest drawback of the structural material of such ceiling plinths for suspended ceilings is their considerable weight. Even the best glue does not fully guarantee that the decorations will not deform or fall over time. Manufacturers offer to install it using the glueless method. Attaching to the ceiling is simple: the bar is inserted into the groove and pressed slightly until it clicks. Errors are corrected using putty.

Wooden ceiling moldings

Massive moldings made of expensive, high-class wood and artistic design look luxurious and can decorate any ceiling. Designers include wooden ceiling plinths in the style of the room, the walls of which are covered with clapboard or block house. However, they are rarely installed, since the cost is quite high, and securing them is not so easy. Installing such a plinth on a suspended ceiling will require certain skills. They cannot be glued together; a special fastening system is required. If the master made the calculations incorrectly, then defects in the junction of the skirting boards may form, which absolutely cannot be hidden. In addition, it is not installed in bathtubs, toilets, or kitchens, because it rots and can become deformed. If desired, the wooden plinth can be painted in a suitable tone.

Flexible tapes

An insert (plug) is a good alternative to beautiful skirting boards. The installation company usually supplies it as a kit with a ceiling. This is a narrow and rather soft element, which is made from a very elastic polymer. This little detail cleverly hides the unsightly prefabricated seams located along the perimeter of the site. It bends perfectly, does not collapse or deform when mounted on curved surfaces. Made from synthetic substances, it happens:

• angular;
• in the shape of the letter T - for tile walls;
• in the form of the letter L - for regular and curved structures.

The tapes are easily installed and removed manually, by pressing against the profile passage, without adhesives or additional devices. Thanks to the wide selection of sizes and colors, it is possible to choose the appropriate type of flexible plinth for a stretch ceiling to suit any interior style. Before installing such a border, it is worth thinking, because with wide carved strips, a PVC ceiling makes the space more formal, and with a narrow profile, the space looks simpler. Although such a design may be quite sufficient for interiors in the minimalist style.

Briefly about the main thing

After installing the tension structure, a technological gap is formed between it and the walls, which can be dealt with in different ways. Not many people decide to leave it open; more often the problem is solved with the help of a ceiling plinth or blanking tape.

The plinth not only closes the gap and masks uneven walls, but also works to maintain the interior style. Baguettes are made from different materials; they can be used to decorate any room by choosing an option with suitable properties, for example, resistant to high humidity.

If you do not plan to install a baguette, an alternative solution is masking tape or decorative cord. The plugs are varied in profile, flexibility and color; For any design you can choose the appropriate model.

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How to make a choice

The wrong choice will lead to serious results, namely that parts of the structure will simply fall off. Skirting boards are purchased depending on the size, style, and ceiling height. It is necessary to make calculations for this: the perimeter of the room is calculated, after which the resulting total is divided by the length of one profile. It is worth considering that if you choose a baguette with a relief pattern, then it will be very difficult to join such a border in the corners.

Choosing a plinth for a stretch ceiling, the main rules:

• The shape of the masking strip is chosen to match the main style: with elementally designed walls and ceilings, sculptural views can be used; on ornate structures, a smooth fillet is often attached.
• The width of the decorative panel - too massive a plinth will look disproportionate with a small ceiling height, this will make the room feel cramped. The sizes of plinths for suspended ceilings are selected depending on the height of the walls: decor up to 4 cm will look great at a height of up to 2.5 m. A border with a width of 5 to 10 cm is glued to ceilings up to 3 m. When the ceiling is more than 3 m, it is possible to use moldings – from 10 cm and wider.
• Color – the ceiling is usually white, the baseboards will blend in and expand the space. Designers love to use this technique in bathrooms, toilets, small kitchens and narrow corridors. If you paint them the same color as the walls, you will be able to “raise” the low ceilings a little.

Multi-colored decorating borders, which do not match the colors of the main surfaces, accentuate and emphasize the defects of the walls. Therefore, if an extraordinary style is chosen, it is necessary to install the suspended ceilings as efficiently as possible and level the surfaces of the walls.

Illuminated structures

There is a so-called floating profile, created to allow the implementation of various design solutions. It allows, at the stage of installation of PVC ceilings, to create a gap between the tension fabric and the wall, where lighting in the form of an LED strip is mounted. This is how the special effect of soaring and weightlessness is formed.

There are two types of skirting boards for suspended ceilings with lighting:

• without a plug - the light is directed towards the wall.
• with a translucidal plug - the light falls on the floor.

A unique structural system in the form of ceiling plinths can be purchased separately, after the installation of suspended ceilings. A polyurethane or foam profile, without a high front side for lighting, is installed on ceilings of any configuration. The costs of implementing such a technical solution are not high, and the labor intensity of the process is quite commensurate with installing a plinth on a suspended ceiling of ordinary ceiling borders. You can organize contour lighting yourself or buy ready-made products with built-in lamps.

Installation

To perform the installation you will need a knife, a construction tape, a miter box, a spatula, a cord, and a pencil. Before installation, the profile is painted with special acrylic compounds, which are quick-drying and non-hazardous. To protect the wall from unexpected contamination, it can be covered with polyethylene or construction tape. Ceiling borders can only be attached to walls or frames. Sometimes liquid nails are used for this; they are suitable for any baseboards.

How to glue skirting boards to a PVC stretch ceiling? Process:

• Cut a piece of the plank to the desired size and form an angle. Do not cut the protrusion with an eye - this will create huge gaps at the joints, so always use a miter box.
• The affected area is cleaned, marked and primed.
• The adhesive composition is applied to the back side of the decorative strip. Carefully read the instructions for the selected adhesive. Some compounds need to be allowed to dry for a few minutes, others can be pressed on straight away.
• The plinth is glued from one corner by lightly pressing the edges against the walls. If curtains are placed between the wall and the ceiling, then in some areas you need to attach the slats at a short distance from the wall.
• The joint gaps are masked with putty.
• Excess glue squeezed out from vertical joints is immediately removed with a clean cloth.
• After which the backlight is installed, if necessary.

A stressed ceiling sheet is often subject to natural deformation, since the ambient temperature is not always constant. Never glue ceiling decor to the stretch fabric. Attaching to the fabric itself can disrupt the shape of the fabric and often leads to the appearance of glue droplets.

Advice from professionals

The cost of a meter of masking tape averages from 20 to 30 rubles. This is not so much that instead of simply replacing it, try to paint or seal the insert with adhesive PVC film. This kind of homemade product turns out to be very clearly visible against the background of the ceiling decoration, so nothing good will come of such experiments.

If you had to repaint the vinyl covering, then during the work you can seal the surface with masking tape; there is no harm in painting along with the canvas. It is better to have the ceiling decor done professionally and install an updated cap.