How to make a plasterboard ceiling with lighting. Do-it-yourself two-level plasterboard ceiling with lighting. Spot or directional lights
It is difficult to imagine a modern home without light. The traditional large chandeliers in the middle of the room are slowly giving way to illuminated ceilings in several places. Such illumination is made, including on plasterboard ceilings, because their design feature is most suitable for such purposes. Usually, the backlight is divided into hidden and open. We are interested in the second option. The fact is that in this article only simple suspended ceilings will be considered, where there can be no hidden lighting.
Unlike multi-level structures, anyone can make a simple plasterboard ceiling with lighting.
A single-level ceiling can be made with your own hands, with a minimum of knowledge
- GKL is very easy to work with. Even complete newbie in this case will be able to quickly grasp the essence and do everything on their own at the simplest level.
- Many lamps on the ceiling make visible all the irregularities on it. However, drywall is even, so there is nothing to be afraid of.
- If a short circuit occurs, the fireproof drywall will not ignite.
- It is possible to give as much light to certain parts of the room as needed.
- A single-level design can be assembled by anyone, unlike pretentious multi-level ceilings. No need to think through boxes and niches. Also, there is no need to calculate correct design frame for all ceiling levels.
Design features in different rooms
Making a simple single-level plasterboard ceiling with lighting with your own hands is not so difficult. This design is relatively simple, because only one frame is made for it. Also, it is not customary to use led strip and neon tubes, which are usually used for hidden lighting.
Plasterboard ceilings with lighting for the living room are usually made multi-level. In these cases, make a hidden backlight. If a single-level design is used, then care must be taken that the lamps are at an equidistant distance from the center of the room. At the same time, the light should not hit the eyes, so there should not be any lamps above the TV.
From the living room, because of her large sizes, there are two options: with a chandelier in the center and without it. If there is a chandelier in the center, then it is better to make the lamps along the edges not very bright and place them in zones so that the light from them is directed to certain parts of the room. If there is no chandelier, then brighter lamps are needed to compensate for the lack of a central light source.
When planning a place for fixtures on the ceiling, you need to consider the possibility of using sconces. The ceiling in the kitchen of plasterboard with lighting is needed to illuminate specific places. The greatest emphasis should be placed on dinner table and work surfaces (stove, cutting table, sink). That is, the light should be directed to those places where the most time is spent.
The plasterboard ceiling with lighting in the bedroom is done in such a way as to create an atmosphere of comfort. In other words, the light should be dimmed, but there should be a lot of it. Looks beautiful set of spotlights located above the bed. You can also think about additional lighting above desk, bookshelves and closet.
Be sure to provide several switches for such lighting. This will turn on the lighting for the currently needed areas of the room.
A properly executed drywall suspended ceiling with backlighting with your own hands will be able to adjust the proportions of the room. If the light is directed along the walls, then this will visually expand the room.
Choice of lighting option
When the choice is made in favor of a single-level ceiling and there is an idea in which room and where the light sources will be installed, you need to think about the fixtures themselves. There are several factors to consider when thinking about how to make a backlit plasterboard ceiling:
- financial component. It is necessary to calculate in advance how many fixtures you need, and what budget you have for this;
- What will the lighting be used for? It's one thing if we are talking about the backlight, which will complement the light from the chandelier and a completely different matter if the light in the room comes only from lamps;
- installation complexity. You need to choose a lighting that you can install yourself. Do-it-yourself plasterboard ceiling with lighting will significantly save repair costs. There are some lighting fixtures that require a professional to install, so you need to be careful when choosing;
- the possibility of insulation work. This applies not only to the possibility of insulating the cavity above the lamp and its sound insulation, but also to isolating the place where the device is attached to drywall. Some lamps get too hot, which can create a certain danger.
The selected luminaire should be mounted so that it can be easily removed for repairs. What fixtures are best for a plasterboard ceiling? Traditionally, fluorescent lamps, ordinary chandeliers, Spotlights, LEDs, fiber optic luminaires, as well as pendant or overhead lamps. The choice of option depends on the taste preferences of the owner of the apartment where the repair is being carried out.
Fluorescent lamps are inexpensive and have a long service life.. They are very economical, but they are not combined with plasterboard suspended ceilings in the apartment. But to use them in the office just right
Ordinary chandeliers are classics. They are quick and easy to mount, and one chandelier gives a lot of light. But for such lighting, a plasterboard ceiling is not needed.
Most suitable option are spotlights. Built-in lights in the plasterboard ceiling will not cost much. They are easy to install, which means they are a suitable option for self-assembly into a single layer structure. Often such lighting is not used as the main one, although there are no obstacles to using spotlights and nothing else.
The backlight does not have to be in a straight line. LED lighting in the form of ribbons is used mostly for decoration.. Plasterboard ceiling with LED backlight is done in order to create light accents on various areas of large rooms.
Fiber optic luminaires are a new and expensive product on the market lighting fixtures . Their cost and price for installation are above average. Often, it is not possible for a beginner to carry out the installation of fiber-optic lamps on their own.
It is best to use point LED lights. They look good and consume little power.
| Average heat output compliance indicators | |
| Incandescent lamp (W) | LED lamp (W) |
| 45 | 4 |
| 50 | 6 |
| 65 | 8 |
| 80 | 10 |
| 100 | 12 |
| 125 | 15 |
| 160 | 18 |
Work order
The scheme of work is very simple. You need to mark the ceiling, create metal carcass, make wiring, sheathe everything with drywall and insert fixtures.
Wireframe creation
The first step is to mark on the ceiling the places where the lamps will be installed. It is advisable to draw a diagram for yourself, indicating all sizes. After that, a place on the wall is determined where the profiles around the perimeter will be attached. You need to know how far the suspended structure will recede from the ceiling. Its height depends on whether additional insulation or sound insulation will be used. If not, then you can retreat by standard 8 cm. Otherwise, you need to calculate the thickness of the insulating layers.
After creating the frame, wiring is done When the lower level is determined, on which the illuminated plasterboard ceiling will be, you need to make marks on the walls. Along these lines, UD profiles will be attached to all walls parallel to the floor plane. Installation is carried out using dowels. When the guides are attached to all four walls, then CD profiles are inserted into them in increments of 40-50 cm. They go from one edge of the wall to the opposite, parallel to each other. So far, they do not need to be fixed.
Suspensions are attached to the ceiling (they play the role of load-bearing structural elements) in increments of approximately 50 cm. They must be located above each CD profile. This profile is attached to them with metal screws. The hangers themselves are attached with dowels.
Wiring for fixtures
The easiest way is to make wiring for fixtures, powering it from a chandelier. This is easily done using a conventional terminal block. Recessed plasterboard ceiling fixtures can also be powered from another node. To do this, the wire is laid from the outlet. But in this case, you need to ditch the wall, and this is a completely different level of repair, affecting the entire room, and not just the ceiling.
Lamps can be powered from 220V, which is very convenient All wires must be hidden in the corrugation. It protects the wiring from mechanical damage, and is also an additional means of fire safety. This is an elementary protective measure, which for some reason is neglected by many.
If used wooden frame for drywall or there are other wooden structures that will be located near the wiring, then the corrugated sleeve is not used. In this case, it is necessary to take a more expensive metal hose or metal pipe.
The cross section of the wire should be 0.75 mm. If you use LED spotlights, then 4 W for each will be enough. The wiring should not hang or lie on something. It needs to be attached to the ceiling. To do this, special clips are attached to the ceiling, into which the corrugation with the wire is very easily clamped. The wire for the fixtures is connected to the wire from the chandelier.
An example of how wires for fixtures should be drawn A plasterboard ceiling with lighting will have special holes where the fixtures will be mounted. In the designated places for the fixtures, two clips are attached, and they are also mounted along the entire path of the wire. After that, the wire is fixed under the ceiling, and where there is lighting, tongues descend (a loop of wire) below the level false ceiling. After that, the wire is led to the place of the next lamp, where a loop is again made, and so on, until all the points are over. At the end, the wire is cut so that it also hangs below the level of the frame.
Final stage of work
Sheets of drywall are hemmed to the frame. They are fastened with self-tapping screws in increments of 15-20 cm. It is important not to forget where the wiring for lighting is connected. The previously created scheme with all sizes will help with this. With it, it will be easy to make holes in right places so that the prepared lamps in the plasterboard ceiling are in place.
The hole itself is made using a drill with a special nozzle. There are crowns that allow you to cut a circle of a given diameter in drywall (to fit the purchased spotlights).
Great option lamp connection The loop is pulled out and a lamp is attached to it. You can fasten them by means of the usual twisting of wires, which are then necessarily insulated. But if the wires are stranded, then it is undesirable to twist them, since such fixation weakens over time, which leads to sparking and burning. It would be ideal to use a terminal block to connect all the wires.
The lamp itself has special clips with which it is attached to the ceiling. At the end, it remains to check whether everything was connected correctly, after which you can proceed to the finishing work.
If you have already assembled a plasterboard suspended ceiling, and then wanted to make a backlight using spotlights, then this is feasible. It is not advisable to do this, but for lack of a better option, you can resort to the method shown in the video.
Suspended ceilings are one of the most common types of apartment design, thanks to which it has become possible to make the interior in residential premises original and non-standard. For this purpose, the most different technologies. However, to achieve a greater effect and variety of forms, it is the plasterboard ceiling that allows. This kind ceiling design is one of the most common today. The reason for the popularity of ceiling systems made of plasterboard is technological features the material itself, and in the originality of finished designs.
Working with drywall opens up a wide field for the implementation of the most daring design fantasies and intentions. If desired, and with limited technical capabilities, you can limit yourself to the construction of the simplest ceiling systems in one level, or vice versa, create your own hands from drywall beautiful ceilings with backlight. Nobody limits you in the choice of design options.
The technology of installation of suspended ceiling plasterboard systems is well studied. The construction of such structures is not associated with particular complexity. Having at hand a minimum set of tools and minimal skills in working with drywall, you can get to work on your own. All ceiling design options should be considered. Ceilings with decorative lighting elements look very interesting. Let's try to deal with the questions of how to make a backlit ceiling from plasterboard on your own, without resorting to the services of professionals.
What are the main features of a plasterboard ceiling with lighting
Ceiling finishing is the final stage of interior finishing work. It is at this stage that you can fully realize your technological ideas and imagination. Plasterboard ceilings in one or several levels with lighting will help you not only improve the quality of the interior of the room, but also raise your own professional level. Why is the illuminated ceiling arousing such interest among consumers? The answer lies on the surface. By combining the configuration of the ceiling surface and new lighting technologies, it has become possible to obtain a completely striking visual effect. A neatly made ceiling, illuminated in certain places, completely transforms the entire interior space. The visual perception of the interior space is radically changing.
The idea of using lighting in apartment design is not new. Previously, the stake in this regard was made on the use of chandeliers, sconces and other lamps located on open areas. Today, the emphasis in ceiling design is shifting to the use of hidden or open light sources for ceiling design, built directly into the ceiling surface.
Note: recessed luminaires are used only in those suspension systems ah, where the design has a frame base, during the construction of which it is necessary to take into account the dimensions of the luminaire body and their number.
However, not everyone can afford such an option, when recessed lighting fixtures take on the main load in terms of lighting. The thing is that suspended ceiling systems they eat up the precious height of the premises, which in many apartments is already limited by rigid frames. Even when constructing ceilings in one tier, it will be necessary to lower the entire structure by 15 cm. The thickness of the plasterboard sheet and the height of the recessed lamp body, which is at least 10 cm, are taken into account.
You can use the second level for this, which will be made in the form of steps or one central element in the central part of the ceiling surface. This is provided that the area of \u200b\u200bthe room is large enough. In small rooms, especially in corridors, in hallways and in bedrooms, a false ceiling equipped with lighting perfectly copes with this task. This technology simultaneously solves two problems:
- maintaining the height of the ceilings in the room;
- adds more aesthetics to the design of the ceiling part.
How to do this, and what types of illuminated ceilings are applicable in practice, let's take a closer look.
What are the illuminated ceilings made using drywall
Modern ceiling design is distinguished by the fact that it allows you to calmly build almost any structure in the upper part of the premises. Differences can be in the complexity of the forms and in the configuration. Designs in which the main effect is achieved by backlighting are very popular.
At the first acquaintance with such ceilings, there may be an erroneous opinion that such systems are expensive and the installation of such a ceiling is associated with great difficulties. However, a detailed analysis and acquaintance with the arrangement of suspension systems with lighting elements reveals a completely different picture. Thanks to the application drywall sheets and basic knowledge of the electrical part, you can get such a ceiling without special efforts.
Commonly used today the following types suspended ceiling plasterboard systems:
- one, two and three-level ceilings with open lighting;
- single and multi-tier ceiling structures with hidden lighting.
In the first case, spot recessed or outdoor lamps are used. In the second case, we are talking about lamps hidden in a special niche.
On a note: as an option, you can use ordinary ceilings equipped with baguettes or ceiling plinths. These decorative elements glued to finished ceilings. The design of the baguette has a special groove into which the diode tape is placed. In this way, you can solve the problem with tonal lighting in rooms where it is not possible to build frame ceiling systems.
When choosing the first option, with an open installation of fixtures, it is necessary to use only diode and halogen lamps. It is highly undesirable, in order to increase fire safety, to use lamps equipped with conventional incandescent lamps. Holes are pre-drilled for recessed fixtures in drywall sheets. When installing a chandelier, it is important to consider the weight of the lamp. It is recommended to use chandeliers, the weight of which does not exceed 10 kg, and it is better to strengthen the frame in the places where the lamps are installed.
It should be said that when choosing this design option for ceilings, the main emphasis is on the shape of the ceiling and the external data of the fixtures. There is no need to talk about the design approach and originality in this situation. If they allow technical capabilities, it is better to use the option with hidden light sources. This technology immediately takes the level of the interior to a completely different level.
With the hidden placement of lamps in special niches, the light is evenly distributed over the entire ceiling surface, enhancing the visual perception of a large interior space. This technology is very successful when equipping ceilings in small rooms. Thanks to hidden light sources, even a corridor in small apartment, bathroom or kitchen small size can be visually enlarged and expanded.
What types of fixtures are used in combination with plasterboard ceilings
In order to achieve the desired effect, it is necessary to focus on the following recommendations when choosing lighting sources:
- what is true special purpose lighting in this room;
- are they allowed to equip complex system highlighting your financial capabilities;
- what type of ceiling structure will you have to work with: one, two or multi-level;
- what is the condition of the electrical wiring in this part of the house, and who will install the fixtures;
- whether there are elements of sound and heat insulation in the suspended structure.
At the moment, ceiling lighting technology is focused on the use of a wide variety of lighting devices. Most often used for these purposes are pendant and overhead lamps and chandeliers. In terms of interior perfection, recessed spotlights with halogen and diode lamps are actively used. For a combined lighting option, both the first and second options are usually used, reinforced with decorative lighting elements. In each case, the choice is always yours. Drywall technically allows you to solve almost any complexity, especially when it comes to equipment the best option lighting systems.
Note: in large rooms where bright and intense light is required, it is recommended to use combined option. Central lighting sources will be complemented by spotlights hidden or open type. Where at the top of the room there is complex design, the hidden diode backlight will look best. It is worth dwelling on the latter option in more detail, since the illumination of a ceiling made of plasterboard using an LED strip is economical and has a good visual effect.
The figure shows a section drywall construction on the ceiling, equipped specifically for the installation of decorative lighting.
Arrangement and installation of plasterboard ceilings with lighting
The main advantage that a plasterboard ceiling has, designed for the installation of a lighting system, is the absence of time-consuming work on laying electrical wiring. You can always make a choice in favor of a single-level or multi-level ceiling structure.
For reference: all wires that are in the interceiling space must be laid in special channels or tubes, thereby increasing the level of fire safety. When installing multiple light sources, take into account their total power and plan the connection accordingly.
For ceiling parts with open lighting, use only luminaires equipped with halogen and LED lamps. It is economical and safe. In addition, such lamps give an even light of a pleasant tone.
Right choice lighting sources plays into this case key role. Open lighting mainly bears the technological load, providing the interior space with the necessary level artificial lighting. Places are specially prepared for the installation of recessed luminaires. Holes are made in drywall sheets, markings are made on the base ceiling surface. To improve the visual effect, do not be afraid to use decorative lighting to equip your ceilings. Modern technologies are built on the use of new lighting devices that have a simple and safe design.
Installation in a false ceiling made of plasterboard, LED strip is not something technically complicated. The main thing is to correctly determine the parameters of the illuminated area and, accordingly, choose the right length of the tape.
Use baguettes or frame bases for this purpose. It all depends on what kind of ceiling design you have to work with.
In custody
In order to make the interior space attractive, cozy and comfortable, you can use complex relief and curly shapes on the ceilings. It is enough to competently approach the issue of organizing lighting. The lighting system, which most types of ceiling design are focused on today, is based on the use of a wide variety of lighting fixtures. In conclusion, I would like to highlight the following points:
1. Drywall is the most convenient and practical material for ceiling lighting equipment.
2. When organizing lighting, use an open or closed type of backlight
3. For these purposes, the following are used:
- invoices and pendant lamps;
- recessed spotlights;
- neon and LED strips.
4. Equipment decorative lighting it is necessary to have a clear wiring diagram and know in advance the location of the lamps
A beautiful, practical and stylish do-it-yourself plasterboard ceiling with lighting can be done by anyone who is ready to seriously approach the study of the installation scheme, following the recommendations of experts. The installation of the structure will depend on the choice of type of backlight, as well as the number of levels and configuration.
Plasterboard ceiling lighting: varieties
According to the type of installation, the backlight can be both open and closed. Install multilevel ceiling with open-type backlighting is easier, therefore, without any experience, it is worth starting with just such designs. Luminaires in this case are mounted in pre-prepared holes, not forgetting to comply with the requirements regarding their weight (no more than 10 kg in total).
Hidden lighting implies installation additional levels for masking lighting equipment in the inter-level space. The process is more complex and time consuming, but the final effect is much more interesting than in the first case with open lamps.
DIY backlit plasterboard ceilings are compatible with the following lighting fixtures:
- LEDs;
- neon;
- optical fiber.
LEDs in terms of electricity consumption are the most economical option. Implemented by affordable price, have the ability to adjust the intensity of lighting, are used in ceilings with perimeter lighting (contour) and for full-fledged bright lighting.
Neons are the most durable lighting option, are characterized by a low level of heat transfer, are available in a huge range, but are superior in price to LEDs.
Fiber optics also have a long service life, opening up new opportunities for implementation creative ideas in compliance with safety regulations with minimal power consumption. Fiber optic lighting - one of the most expensive options, requires certain skills and experience for installation.
It should be borne in mind that the backlit plasterboard ceiling scheme will also depend on the choice of the latter's functionality. Allocate general lighting based on lamps and fixtures hinged type, zonal to create accents in certain areas of the room and decorative to implement bold design ideas.
The most popular among those who decide to make a plasterboard ceiling with their own hands with backlight is an open-type option with a decorative LED lighting. It is easiest to mount such structures while maintaining the desired effect.
Foundation preparation - start of work
Before starting the installation of a plasterboard ceiling with lighting, it is necessary to work on the preparation of the rough base, to make markings for installing the frame. To do this, they are determined with a scheme according to which work will be carried out. There are two paths you can take.
First, the devices are connected to a network with standard voltage and frequency. The second one uses a step-down transformer that allows you to get 12 V. The first option is simpler and more convenient to implement. The disadvantage of choosing in his favor is a huge risk short circuit if the insulation layer is damaged.
So, for example, if a short circuit occurs and the plastic-insulated wiring begins to smolder, the risk of death from fire, not from toxins, will increase several times.
A well-designed illuminated ceiling design using a step-down transformer is safer. Its disadvantage lies primarily in the price - such a ceiling will cost more. That is why, in order to save money, experts recommend installing structures with standard lighting connected to the network in ordinary rooms, in rooms with a high level of humidity and a risk of fire - with a transformer.
After determining the appropriate lighting scheme, you can proceed to the installation of the structure based on the GKL. To do this, you will need to prepare the materials and tools necessary for the work. In addition to fasteners, you will need:
- lighting equipment;
- wires with plastic insulation and a cross section of 0.75 mm square;
- insulating tape;
- corrugations and boxes made of plastic;
- switches;
- terminal blocks and junction boxes;
- wire stripping tools;
- wire cutters;
- screwdrivers;
- phase probe.
With a ceiling drawing at hand and a list of tools, you can start marking. For this, a measuring thread or a more modern laser level is suitable. The marking is applied at a distance of up to 70 mm from the lowest corner, a line is drawn at the installation site of the proposed lighting cornice.
Frame - the basis of the design
Exceptionally, all options for a backlit plasterboard ceiling involve the installation of a frame. At this stage, it is important to correct calculations, not forgetting the need to mask communications and lighting equipment.
A guide profile is mounted along the perimeter of the wall. To get a curved box, you need a special flexible profile, on which cuts are made to further form the frame of the desired shape. In the process, it is better to use a proven tool - a grinder.
Exactly according to the marking, the profile is fixed with screws, dowels, nails with a fastening pitch of 250 to 300 mm.
At this stage, it is important, using the detector, to determine the zones of passage of hidden wiring in order not to damage the wires.
On the ceiling ceiling, brackets of direct suspension are attached to fix the main profile on them. The next step is to mount the main profiles using a level to control horizontality. Next, the elements of the main profile are cut with a grinder, fixing them perpendicular to the already fixed parts with the help of crabs (40 cm step). The resulting structure is a first-level frame, on the basis of which a double illuminated ceiling will be built.
Installing the second level frame
Each plasterboard ceiling is based on a frame holding it, but not only. To arrange the chosen backlight option, you will need to consider organizing a niche for arranging appliances, for example, a popular LED strip.
Just as in the case of mounting the frame of the first level, the process begins with marking the location start profile with transitions between tiers. The next step will allow you to determine the location of the lighting equipment, followed by wiring.
As soon as everything is ready, they proceed to the preparation of the starting profile, which is fixed to the ceiling with screws according to the markings at the locations of the main profiles of the previously established level.
Plasterboard finishing - how to do it right
To finish the construction of two levels with illumination, drywall sheets with a thickness of 9.5 to 12.5 mm with parameters of 1.2 × 2.5 m are used. Sheets are fastened with metal screws with a usual pitch of 250 mm. To achieve maximum flat surface joints are sealed with putty using a sickle or a construction bandage.
The decision will fully justify itself - to hem a two-level plasterboard ceiling in two layers. Thus, it will be possible to increase the strength and service life of the structure. The disadvantage of choosing an additional layer is an increase in costs and weight of the structure.
After finishing with plasterboard sheets, the structure is leveled, glued with a sickle and carefully puttied. Only after that they proceed to the installation of holes and baguettes around the perimeter.
What does the ceiling look like with a modern design in the style of minimalism
With your own hands, you can assemble a modern plasterboard ceiling with diode lighting in several versions. Consider a simple and effective scheme. It consists of several stages:
- A frame is installed along the perimeter of the wall with a distance of 120 mm from the draft base.
- Behind the first level, the next one is located, removed from the ceiling by no more than 50 mm.
- They arrange the third level - this will be the center of the ceiling, extending from the ceiling by 80 mm.
In this case, the LED strip is located inside a niche arranged in the side of the second level. For a lighting device, spotlights placed around the perimeter of the first level, which is more distant from the ceiling than others, will be an ideal option.
The subtleties of connecting and configuring the LED strip
A stylish plasterboard ceiling along the perimeter with an LED strip can be not only an element of decor, but also perform the main function - to fully illuminate the room along the contour of the ceiling. You can buy a tape in a set or by selecting individual components, taking into account the selected scheme. There are two options for LED strips:
- monochrome;
- multicolor.
The first - illuminates the ceiling and the room due to diodes of the same color, with the ability to adjust the brightness. The second allows you to experiment with different colors of diodes. You can simply connect the LED strip with scissors, screwdrivers and a soldering iron.
The connection process begins with the separation of the parts of the tape according to the mark with the pictogram. You can not connect more than two five-meter tapes - this is the main rule. It is also important to isolate the soldering area.
Following step by step photo instructions, you can install recessed spotlights with your own hands. To do this, you will need an electric drill with a crown, a well-sharpened mounting knife, and a curly screwdriver.
Mount lamps taking into account the laid wiring and markings. Place the devices in the prepared holes.
In conclusion, it is worth noting that a backlit plasterboard ceiling is not so difficult to assemble with your own hands if you act consistently. The main thing is to start choosing not the most complex structures and easy-to-implement lighting schemes, for example, based on LED strip.
For any person who has just thought about repairing his apartment or house, sooner or later the question of finishing the ceiling arises. And, of course, this is not an easy question. After all, the ceilings are different. You can simply stick foam tiles, but it seems that this is already the last century. It will look great stretch ceiling, besides, it will hide all surface irregularities, but you can’t do without hiring a professional to install it, and you want to save money when repairing work.
And then the idea comes of making such a design with your own hands as a plasterboard suspended ceiling with backlight. If you also complete it in several levels, it will look very beautiful, give the room an aristocratic look. In addition, the built-in lighting will add charm and comfort to the room. But you need to figure out if it is possible to install it yourself?
First steps
How to make a plasterboard ceiling with lighting? Difficult, but possible if desired. The installation of such a design is a laborious, difficult process, but quite feasible for someone who has at least the slightest idea of \u200b\u200bworking with drywall, and also understands how electrical installation is done. First you need to decide what type of backlight will be used during wiring, and also sketch sample diagram location of lighting fixtures. After all, it will depend on how suspended ceilings will be mounted.
Lighting can be done in two versions:
- In the form of open lighting - the lamps will be visible on the ceiling.
- In the form of hidden lighting - with this option, only light will be visible, while the sources themselves will be hidden from view.
After this issue is resolved, you can consider the shape of the backlit plasterboard ceiling (it does not always happen with right angles) and the number of levels. Certainly, the best option if you have a sketch of the future plasterboard ceiling on hand. And already on the basis of this, you can think about where and how the ceiling lighting will be located.
If the option of open lighting was chosen, then the suspended structure can be located at the level of seven centimeters from the ceiling. At the same time, there will be no particular difficulties in the work, it is only necessary to drill holes in the drywall where the spotlights will be located.
The situation is a little more complicated with hidden lighting. The level of the false ceiling must be below ten centimeters from the main one in order to be able to install a box in which it will be possible to hide lighting fixtures.
Mounting the structure from the guide profile
When all the thoughts on the topic of what the backlit plasterboard suspended ceiling will be like are over, you can begin to implement plans. Ceiling installation takes place in several stages.
Stage #1
The first stage of work is the installation of the base from the profile for the entry level, which will be the top one. To do this, ten centimeters from the ceiling, you need to draw a guide line along all four walls, along which the guide profile is attached. He will be the starter.
Next, it is necessary to insert a carrier into the initial profile, which is attached to suspensions to the ceiling every 40–45 cm. Jumpers are installed between the carrier profiles in order to make the frame more rigid. Between themselves, the parts of the structure are connected using special metal connectors - crabs.
The end result is the frame shown in the figure. After that, drywall is attached to it with the help of self-tapping screws (it is necessary to fasten it as tightly as possible, but without overtightening, otherwise there is a danger that the self-tapping screw will pass through the drywall sheet). Work on the first, main level is now complete.
Stage #2
The next step in the installation of a plasterboard ceiling with lighting is the construction of a niche in which light fixtures will be hidden in the future.
At the initial level, we mark the boundaries of the new, after which the profile is attached along the marked lines. It should be noted that the guide profiles that are mounted on the ceiling are directed by the shelves to the bottom, and those that go along the wall - to opposite side. The ceiling profile is fixed on the starting frame guide.
Further, from the profile, it is required to cut segments (length along the height of the second level of the frame), jumpers (based on their fastening through 45–65 centimeters). They will need to be cut along the fold by 5-6 centimeters, bending inner part, then secure by inserting the side that is not cut into the guide.
Along the length of the frame (its lower part), we cut parts of the profile in an amount equal to the previous blanks already made, to which they are attached at a right angle. On the other hand, they are fixed to the guide profile with the shelves up, and the segments protruding from the frame are muffled by the profile from the inside. The result is a double ceiling with a shelf for hidden lighting. After completing all the work, a design is obtained, which is shown in the photo.
It may seem that all of the above is incredibly difficult, and without proper experience it is almost impossible to make a plasterboard ceiling with your own hands, but this is only at first glance. It is only necessary to start work on the installation of the frame, and then everything will go simply and without unnecessary difficulties. No wonder they say: "The eyes are afraid, but the hands are doing." Everyone can be convinced of the simplicity of this construction, as well as of this statement.
Stage #3
The cladding of the frame must be done with narrow strips of drywall. The sequence of their fastening is as follows:
- fastening the strip to the shelf of the resulting niche along the perimeter of the ceiling;
- sheathing of the vertical part by attaching the cladding to the profile located on the ceiling;
- lining of the horizontal part;
- fastening the strip to the end of the frame in order to get a recess in which the lighting devices “hide”.
It looks like in the picture; Of course, with their own nuances for each specific case. Now you need to do Finishing work, putty the seams at the joints of drywall sheets (we will not dwell on this in detail, since such work does not need advice and recommendations), after which you can proceed to the installation of ceiling lighting around the perimeter.
What backlight is best?
In general, plasterboard ceilings with lighting began to be made a long time ago, but in our time, there are disproportionately more options for lighting devices for it. Perimeter lighting (backlighting) has a lot of varieties, but you only need to dwell on some of its most common types:
- suspended ceiling lighting based on LEDs;
- spot or directional lamps;
- classic chandelier;
- neon lights;
- duralight.
Here are five options to consider. Special attention can be drawn to the plasterboard ceiling with LED lighting when decorating the bedroom.
Of course, there is also fiber-optic plasterboard ceiling lighting, which has a very long service life, is fireproof and has the ability to create various lighting effects, but now you should not focus on it, not so much because of its high cost, but more because of the very its complex installation and switching to a suspended ceiling. Without the necessary knowledge and experience, it is very problematic to make ceiling lighting with fiber optics.
The ceiling with LED lighting looks very aesthetically pleasing on plasterboard ceilings in several levels with niches along the sides. For lighting use both lamps and LED strip. The functionality is almost unlimited.
Suspended ceiling with LED lighting allows you to use various colors light elements. The color gamut is controlled using an RGB controller or a dimmer. The advantages of this option is that the backlight elements do not heat up at all, which means that Fire safety at a high level.
Also, the LED strip, as well as lamps, consumes a minimum amount of energy, being one of the most energy-saving types lighting. In addition, such lighting is very easy to place in the niches of a plasterboard ceiling.
Of course, any items and equipment, with some advantages, have their drawbacks. And LED lighting is no exception. To connect it, you will have to redo the wiring, and then install a step-down transformer. But that's not the point. The main drawback is that such lighting illuminates the room very mediocrely. Perhaps, as an “intimate” lighting in the bedroom, it will be in place, but paint the living room or hallway bright colors she can't.
Spot or directional lights
A suspended ceiling with illumination in the form of these lighting fixtures is very common. Luminaires are built in pointwise, for which installation places are marked and "nests" are already drilled according to the marking required size. The number and location is determined taking into account the size of the room and natural light.
They have few advantages over other species. They look great on a drywall ceiling and are easy to install with your own hands. But among the shortcomings, it should be noted that these lamps use an incandescent lamp, as a result of which energy consumption increases and heating increases. And, as with LED lighting, wiring changes are required, and lighting levels are quite low.
Classic chandelier
How to make a ceiling with lighting in the form of a classic chandelier is probably clear to everyone, because in this case there are practically no difficulties. It is only necessary to choose the number of lamps, decide on the color, shape, and then, using old wiring, inquire. Of course, it is desirable to use energy-saving lamps. And to get a little different shades, the use of warm and cold colors is acceptable.
Advantages - the installation of such an element is simple and fast. The lighting of the room - five out of five. The disadvantages include the fact that visually the chandelier (because it is a hanging light fixture) reduces the height of the ceiling, and also does not fit well into a modern interior.
Neon lights
With the help of neon lamps, it is possible to create a very original backlight with blurry borders, unique design using different color solutions. A ceiling with lighting around the perimeter and niches in the walls will look very aesthetically pleasing. Location methods are similar to LED strips, but in this case, knowledge and experience in performing such work may be required.
The advantages can be safely attributed huge selection color solutions and modern style execution. But the fact that installation experience is needed, and the complexity of the work - if not critical, but still shortcomings.
Duralight
This type of lighting has its own peculiarity. The fact is that incandescent lamps are located here in tubes, and they are connected in series over a small segment. For this reason, if one of the lamps burns out, the entire segment must be replaced. When installing a suspended ceiling with duralight lighting, you need to be prepared for this. Now, of course, it is more modern, and instead of old lamps, LED lines are mounted in it. Naturally, the operation of this type of backlight reduces power consumption, heat generation. Lighting becomes brighter.
This species has only one advantage - this is the cheapest option of all listed. But the disadvantage, although one, is still big. You can forget about reliability and durability when installing duralight based on incandescent lamps.
So what to choose?
There is no single answer to this question. Here you need to take into account many factors that can affect the choice of backlight. These are financial opportunities, and possession of knowledge and experience, and the availability of time for work should not be excluded from this list.
A very good option with combined lighting for a plasterboard ceiling (several types are used at once in one room). But even here experience and knowledge will be required, not to mention the large expenditure of effort and time, and therefore this question remains for everyone with the only true, but their own personal answer. In any case, a do-it-yourself illuminated ceiling is an indispensable experience in repair work at home.
Design solutions for decoration include many proposals using different ideas and materials.
In each option, you can find positive and negative sides, but consumers traditionally tend to choose a method of arrangement that is simple in implementation and spectacular in terms of aesthetics.
Illuminated plasterboard ceiling is one of the most successful proposals for solving the problem.
The main advantage of the suspended structure is that it can be installed independently. Let us consider in detail these lighting systems and clarify how their installation is done.
There are three types of plasterboard ceiling lighting:
- Integrated lights. A wiring system with cartridges placed in the space between the finishing and rough ceilings. Allows you to set spot lighting.
- LED Strip Light. Lighting system in special niches.
- Combined systems. Combines the above two types of light sources.
There are two fundamental different types ceiling structures backlit: open and closed type:
- Open illumination is represented by lamps that can be seen.
- When hidden, only light emission is observed. Lower level a drywall box is made with a shelf behind which a light source is hidden. The shelf can also be open or closed - this affects the width and brightness of the light strip.
Box design
For the manufacture and installation of the box, two types of profile are required:
- UD- guide profile. It is installed on the wall, ceiling and in the middle part of the structure, as well as where there should be a side, if it is provided for by the diagram.
- CD- bearing profile, providing strength and rigidity of the structure. It is attached to racks and jumpers from such a profile.
When choosing a box design, you need to take into account the weight of the backlight elements.
Lightweight lighting structures can be located on the GKL itself, the strength of which is sufficient for reliable fastening. Heavy fluorescent lamps are almost never used today, and light and economical LED strips or duralight may well be installed on drywall.
The extension of the shelf can also be supported on the crossbars. In this case, you need more bearing profile.
An interesting option is a box with a side around the perimeter of the room. This design is done when the main ceiling is in good condition.
Backlit drywall sheet may also have curvilinear shapes. Curved lines such suspended structures look very original. A feature of the frame is the need for an additional supporting profile for attaching the sheet. It is better to sew it to the ceiling, although there are also offers of fasteners to the profile of the previous level.
Luminaires for lighting
This design technique decorating housing with diffused light, adding almost nothing to the separately arranged illumination. At the same time, the ceiling seems higher and becomes a bright detail of the interior.
Light sources are built-in lamps, wall sconces or chandeliers.
Types of backlight
On device plasterboard ceilings There are several types of fixtures for the backlight device:
- lamps;
- chandeliers;
- LED lights;
- duralight;
- neon lights.
LED lights
The device can use LED lamps or strips. They are 12 or 24 V low power LEDs installed in series, which is provided using an adapter from a 220 V household network.
You can choose from white, red, blue and green (SMD) monochrome or universal (RGB) ribbons. The color and light intensity of universal light sources can be changed by command from the control panel.
Advantages such a backlight:
- low power consumption;
- ease of installation;
- the design does not heat up;
- long service life;
- low cost.
Flaws:
- low light;
- the need for wiring;
- additional installation of a step-down transformer.
Fixtures
The most common lighting option. According to the markup in the GKL, you need to make holes right size in which lamps are inserted. The wires are in inner space designs.
Pros:
- beautiful appearance;
- ease of installation.
Minuses:
- weak light power;
- high power consumption of incandescent lamps;
- the need for wiring.
Chandeliers
Advantages:
- use of old wiring;
- simple and very fast installation;
- good light output.
Flaws:
- visually reduce the height of the room;
- often do not match the interior.
Neon lights
One way to create interesting design premises. A large number of color solutions and light figures with unusual contours. It also looks good in wall niches. Installation may require professional skills.
Pros:
- interesting design, a huge selection of types of lighting;
- saving electricity.
Minuses:
- complex installation requiring experience.
Duralight
Such light sources are tubes with incandescent lamps inside, arranged in series. If one lamp fails, you have to change part of the circuit.
You can increase reliability, service life, and also reduce energy consumption by using LEDs instead of incandescent lamps. Mainly used as auxiliary lighting.
Advantages:
- relatively cheap system.
Flaws:
- low reliability and efficiency of duralight with incandescent lamps.
Ceilings with lighting
On preparatory stage necessary:
- measure the perimeter of the room;
- complete the ceiling design scheme;
- determine the need for materials for manufacturing.
Materials:
- sheet of plasterboard ceiling t. up to 9.5 mm;
- guide and carrier profile;
- fasteners (self-tapping screws) for the frame and plasterboard;
- sickle for embedding;
- primer and putty finishing gypsum;
- water-based paint.
Required Tool:
- drywall saw;
- pliers;
- scissors for cutting metal;
- level, tape measure, square;
- plaster and painting set;
- screwdriver
How to make a two-level ceiling?
The ceiling in this case will have:
- Side along the perimeter at a distance of 120 mm from the ceiling.
- The floor itself, leveled and plastered.
The electrical design of the lighting can be placed in the side - 120 mm is enough for free placement of fixtures.
Technology
Markup:
- Mark a line at a distance of 120 mm from the ceiling around the perimeter.
- Apply the contours of the structure 600 mm from the walls. From the corners of the rectangle draw a circle with a diameter of 60 cm from side to side.
The order of installation work:
- Sew the guide profile with dowels according to the marking.
- Along the contour of the radial part, the profile must be pre-cut in increments of 20-30 cm before fastening.
- Prepare fragments of plasterboard with a width of 120 mm and sew them along the length of the entire side.
- Attach the same strip to the profile in the niche.
- Strengthen the installed GKL sides with transverse sections of the profile.
- Mount the outer profile, parallel to the inner one, along the cross bars.
- Strengthen with jumpers of the desired length a niche for curtains at the window. GKL will be attached to these jumpers.
- With the same jumpers, strengthen the sides around the entire perimeter of the room.
- Sheathe circles at the corners of the rectangle with a bent strip of drywall.
- Install horizontal jumpers.
- Align the overlap with putty, having previously laid the wiring in the strobes. Lead the wiring leads to the connection points.
- Hem load-bearing frame over the entire area, leaving a margin of 50 mm from the side.
- Fix the profile along the ledge and trim the excess GKL flush with the profile.
- Sew up the profile fixed along the edge with a GKL strip, align the edges of the structure. Glue the joints with a sickle and putty.
- Along the perimeter of the side, you can fix a baguette made of polyurethane and cut holes in the GKL for lamps.
- Putty the surface of the GKL, sand it, coat it with a primer and paint it.
Advantages and disadvantages of illuminated plasterboard ceilings
The advantages of such structures are mainly explained by the advantages of GCR.
Such designs:
- Beautiful and functional. They allow you to tastefully decorate the interior of the living space.
- Easy to install with little experience in electrical work. Drywall is an easy-to-install and maintain material.
- Fireproof, even and smooth.
- Environmentally friendly and inexpensive.
The main disadvantage of such systems is that low power lighting allows them to be used only as a design object. The backlight can only bear additional function lighting in the presence of the main scheme for providing the room with light.
