Which stretch ceiling is better - fabric or PVC film?

The choice of material for stretch ceilings is not great - it can be fabric or PVC film. Today we will analyze the advantages and disadvantages of each of the types, we will study the operational characteristics. Based on a detailed comparison, we will tell you how to make the right choice that suits you and your requirements.

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Comparative table of characteristics of ceiling materials
Which is better fabric or PVC?
The main differences between fabric and PVC film
What to choose: the results of comparing materials
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Comparative table of characteristics of ceiling materials

Repair is a costly business where you need to think through all the nuances. It is necessary not only to find a highly qualified team that will complete the work in a short time, but also to find building materials that will have an optimal price / quality ratio, durability and can create a unique interior design. Considerable attention is paid to the ceiling covering. Let's consider the main indicators and properties of stretch ceilings made of fabric and PVC.

Comparison indicators	Material
Comparison indicators	Pvc	the cloth
Environmental friendliness	+	+
Seamless connection	Up to 5 mm	Clipso up to 4.1m, Descor up to 5.1m
Uniformity of canvases	You can see creases or streaks	+
White	Several shades can stand out	Pure white saturated color
Smell	It passes after a few days	It disappears instantly, immediately after the material is unrolled
Antistatic	+	+
The ability to pass air	Completely waterproof	Includes micropores through which the canvases "breathe"
Does not allow moisture to pass through	+	-
Installation technology	With burner	No special equipment
Care	Cleanable with water and soapy water	Gentle care is required, without the use of aggressive detergents
Stretching or sagging	Do not change the original appearance	Does not change shape
Permissible operating temperature	At high rates it will stretch, at low rates it crumbles	Does not respond to temperature changes
Strength	Are afraid of sharp-piercing objects	Increased
Treatment	Carried out exclusively in production	You can make holes yourself. No edge reinforcement required
Possibility to install backlight	+	+

In the photo on the left is a roll with PVC film, on the right is a fabric one.

Which is better fabric or PVC?

Let's consider the main physical and operational properties of stretch ceilings made of fabric and PVC film.

Basic physical and operational characteristics	Film	Tissue
Frost resistance	-	+
Variety of design	+	-
Odor absorption	-	+
Ease of maintenance	+	-
Moisture resistance	+	-
The ability to "breathe"	-	+
Resistance to mechanical damage	-	+
Ease of installation comparison	-	+
Seamlessness	-	+
Low price	+	-

As you can see, the advantage is on the side of fabric stretch ceilings. But the opinion is subjective, since it is necessary to take into account the characteristics of the premises and the budget laid down for the implementation.

In the photo on the left black film ceiling, on right white fabric.

The main differences between fabric and PVC film

Consider the difference between fabric and film ceiling coverings:

PVC film is made of polyvinyl chloride, various plasticizers and additives on special equipment - calender technological lines. The fabric panel is a high-strength textile made of polyester yarn.
Film stretch ceilings are always on a smooth base, characterized by a matte, glossy or satin surface.The texture of the fabric ceiling resembles applied plaster, it can be extremely matte.
PVC material is produced in any color, offering customers more than 200 shades of each color. Ceilings can be mother-of-pearl, lacquered, translucent, tinted or mirrored. It is easy to apply 3D drawing and any other images on them. The fabric does not differ in such a variety and becomes original only by painting or hand drawing drawings.
You can dye textile fabrics up to 4 times, while PVC is a one-time purchase.
Installation of the fabric ceiling takes place without heating the panels, in contrast to the PVC analogue.
Another difference is the thermal insulation and sound insulation features of the woven material, which film ceilings cannot boast of.
The cost of a fabric stretch ceiling is several times more expensive than a film one.

What to choose: the results of comparing materials

The preference should be given to the budget allocated for repairs. If there are no restrictions on funds, you can choose a fabric ceiling for the room - it looks more solid and elegant.
In rooms with high humidity (kitchens and bathrooms), a PVC stretch ceiling should be preferred, which is resistant to water penetration and easy to clean. Settled grease, grime and dirt from cooking can be easily removed.
For small rooms, it is better to prefer classic glossy PVC stretch ceilings - they visually expand the space, reflecting light and objects.
Fabric ceilings are an expensive but luxurious way to decorate a room. Such material is easy to fix, it is reliable, durable, not afraid of ultraviolet radiation, sudden changes in temperature, but requires some care.

Video tips from experts

The advantages of PVC stretch ceilings are more affordable prices, they are distinguished by a wide variety of color palette, resistance to dirt and moisture - which is very important for decorating rooms at home.