Curtains for curtains under suspended ceilings: secrets of selection, methods and subtleties of installation

Installing suspended ceilings is a labor-intensive process that scares off many beginners. Indeed, to solve the assigned problems, you will have to prepare a sufficient set of tools, study the technical part, purchase equipment and materials.

At the same time, some points should be thought out even before attaching the stretch ceiling. One of these issues is the installation of a ceiling cornice. What types of cornices are there?

Which installation options should you prefer? How much will the work cost? Each issue requires detailed consideration, which is what we will do.

How to attach a curtain to a suspended ceiling: the work itself

Reinforcement will require special rings.
They are glued to the ceiling surface in the fastening areas. The film along the inner radius of the ring is usually cut with a knife. The surface of the base beam will open, you need to screw in the mounting screws - the ceiling cornice is attached to them.

The cornice must be securely fastened to the base beam

An important point is that the ceiling film should not be folded at any point during the work.

The process is simple, but for beginners it can be problematic - therefore, in this case, it is better to invite specialists who do not injure the ceiling structures.

Selection of accessories

To decorate ceiling curtains, all kinds of accessories are used - tassels, eyelets, tiebacks, curtain holders and others.

When choosing these additions to curtains, you must follow certain rules:

No additional details can interfere with the overall design idea of ​​the room;

• three-layer and two-layer compositions should not have many additional details;
• simple fabrics of not very bright colors require bright additional details.

By skillfully hanging curtains hidden under the ceiling, you can create a wonderful visual effect that transforms any room.

Such curtains create elegance and coziness in the interior, and for rooms with low ceilings, these curtains are undoubtedly the best option.

Methods of attaching curtain fabric to a suspended ceiling

Installation of the hanging canvas

The base for attaching the cornice must be installed before tensioning the canvas. The fact is that you won’t be able to attach it to a finished surface, so before installing the surface you should think about cornices. They are:

• wall cornices are mounted above the window (considered the most popular mounting method due to easy installation);
• a more complex method is the ceiling one (despite the fact that this method is more complex, it can be used to visually increase the height of the room).

To better understand what both versions of curtains located under suspended ceilings look like, it’s worth looking at photos with different designs.

In turn, cornices are:

1. String cornices. Based on the name, they are strings or brackets. It is worth noting that the number of brackets directly depends on how long the strings are. The fact is that the string must be well tensioned, so if it is long, additional brackets are needed.
2. Using a profile cornice, you can create various shapes (the maximum bending radius is 0.1 m both horizontally and vertically). It is made of aluminum, so it is easy to work with. The cross section may be different. The heavier the curtains, the shorter the distance. It can be installed both on the wall and on the ceiling.
3. The tubular cornice is mounted on brackets. This type is a rod with a round cross-section. It is possible to attach such a cornice only to the wall.

Read How to make a suspended ceiling yourself

So, there are two ways to install curtains on a suspended ceiling: traditional and hidden (“invisible”). Let's look at each of them.

Traditional way

Scheme of fastening the cornice to the ceiling sheet

This method involves installing curtains on built-in (mortgage) bars under the suspended ceiling (plywood or plastic will also work). Mortgage bars must be:

• perfectly even and smooth;
• they must be installed at surface level (not lower or higher);
• all parts must be located on the same level.

This method is considered the simplest, but from a design point of view, it is not very interesting and attractive.

1. First you need to decide on the location of the curtains. This is done before stretching the fabric. Markings are applied: the width of the window is measured, and 30 cm is added to it on each side. If the window area is larger and the length of the walls is less than one meter, then it is best to place a niche along the entire wall.
2. A baguette is attached around the entire perimeter of the room.
3. A wooden block is secured to the marked places using dowels.
4. They stretch the fabric through which the curtain is attached using self-tapping screws. Places for screws are burned through (not cut out) and rings are installed for strength.

Important detail. If the installation is carried out with high quality, in accordance with the technology, then the wooden bars being laid will be invisible.

Alternative method (hidden)

The location of the cornice in the niche

Compared with the traditional method, the hidden installation method is more complex. However, the result is an absolutely invisible (hidden) system, the curtains of which do not fall off the stretch ceiling. The essence of the hidden method is that when installing the canvas, it is necessary to leave a niche between the base ceiling and the window into which the cornice is attached.

1. Before mounting the surface, you need to purchase curtain fabric. The fact is that the size of the niche and its height depend on its location.
2. The connected cornice is attached to the base ceiling using dowels.
3. Having retreated 2-5 mm from the curtain, a beam is attached, to which the profile for the canvas will later be attached. The profile is fixed in front of the cornice. As a result, the curtain turns out to be invisible.

Both methods can be implemented with your own hands, without the help of specialists. It is enough to have an idea of ​​how to carry out fastening and the desire to do it. Of course, the second method is more complicated, but with a little effort it can be done.

General installation rules

Much depends on the quality of installation. Inept installation of the structure will negate all the advantages of the latter. Therefore, one cannot be irresponsible about the process of fixing the cornice.

First of all, the high quality of installation is largely due to the presence of preliminary markings - they must be applied with maximum precision, especially in cornices, the main guide elements of which are composite.

The second important point is that in most cases, mistakes made when working with stretch ceilings are difficult to correct. Therefore, you must try to do everything carefully the first time.

Third rule: almost all cornices are attached at the edges, and then the attachment points are at least one and a half meters apart

And it doesn’t matter whether they directly attract the cornice to the surface, or the installation is carried out using external brackets

https://youtube.com/watch?v=n4tnYeGbdg4

Curtains for a suspended ceiling: how to choose

As for color, today only a very good designer will be able to create a harmonious, stylish space with more than three main colors in the interior. If you are designing a room yourself, follow the “only three colors” rule. For example: “gray + pink + white”.

Therefore, you need to hang curtains that will not stand out from this color composition.

The most commonly chosen options are:

• White or black curtains (classic);
• Curtains to match the color of the ceiling;
• Curtains to match the color of the walls.

Of course, curtains can be contrasting, bright, taking on the color load in the room. But then the atmosphere of the room should be quite calm. For example, gray-pink faded walls, bright burgundy curtains and a burgundy pouf or sofa cushions.

When decorating a window with curtains, you should adhere to the “only three colors” rule. This will help you avoid making mistakes with the color scheme.

It is worth noting an important point - today what is called a curtain is not the curtain itself, fabric, tulle, etc., but the fastening that holds it. That is, the cornice. This is not very correct, but the issue can be considered from this point of view, albeit erroneous.

Curtain fabrics

The texture of the curtain fabric determines their placement. To ensure good daylight, thin translucent curtains are hung.

In order to muffle very bright sunlight in bedrooms, children's rooms, and offices, thick cotton, velvet or velor curtains are hung.

Natural fabrics are suitable for classic-style rooms, while easy-to-care synthetic fabrics are suitable for modern design.

We must remember that curtains made from natural fabrics cannot be combined with synthetic curtains.

Types of niches for hidden cornices

Sometimes, for some reason, it is impossible to organize a recess under the curtains (for example, the communications running along the ceiling interfere with screwing the cornice). In this case, the cornice is mounted directly on the suspended ceiling, on a base, which can be a beam placed 5 mm above the canvas. From the outside (from the side of the room) the structure is covered with a decorative overlay.

Hidden built-in corniceSource all hereclub.rus

In other cases, a niche is formed in the structure of the stretch ceiling. Stretch ceilings with a niche for curtains can be made in several ways. Technical solutions vary in degree of complexity, which affects production time and cost. The following options for cornice recesses are possible (in order of increasing cost):

Budget niche. The low-cost method mentioned above, in which a niche is formed using a beam that takes on the main load (it is attached to a concrete base). From the side of the room there is a smooth canvas trimmed with decorative edging. The advantages are ease of installation. There are two disadvantages - a visible edging, which does not always look decent, and also the opportunity to get acquainted with the design by looking at it from the side of the window.

The canvas hides the presence of the beam and corniceSource nevapotolok.ru

• With the installation of a plasterboard box. A niche formed from plasterboard separates the cornice and the suspended ceiling. Due to the fact that it is structurally slightly lower than the canvas, you cannot damage it when hanging curtains. The advantage of this method is that the cost of installing the ceiling does not increase. The disadvantage is that the finish looks uneven, and the price includes drywall work.
• Aluminum profile with bend. The use of a special profile allows you to get a neat recess with the blade folded upward. The profile is a square pipe, unlike a wooden block, which allows you to insert the blade through the bumper and secure it in the place provided for the harpoon. The advantage of the design is simple installation and aesthetic appearance (no edging), the disadvantage is that if the canvas is lowered too much, the gap in the niche can exceed 4-5 cm.

Using aluminum profileSource euroizum.by

• The fold of the canvas reaches the ceiling. The bend is carried out to the concrete base, for which special profiles made of plastic or aluminum are also used. As a result, all parts are securely hidden under a perfectly smooth canvas without a hint of a gap. The method is desirable if, for example, the window opens onto a balcony. There is only one minus - there is a possibility of damaging the canvas during operation.
• Soaring stretch ceiling with a niche for a curtain. An elegant option for disguising a ceiling cornice: an LED strip creates romantic lighting, while the structure remains out of sight. To increase the effect, you can make indents from all walls, and not just from the window. The advantage of a floating ceiling is beauty, the disadvantage is the complexity of the work, which is reflected in the cost.

Floating stretch ceilingSource m-ok.com.ua

About a niche with lighting on a suspended ceiling in the following video:

Covering a plasterboard niche

When covering a niche, the screws should be sunk into the drywall so that their heads do not protrude. Next, the holes from the fasteners and the joints of the sheets of finishing material are puttied. Sometimes it becomes necessary to apply the putty mixture to the entire surface of the box. In order to putty the internal corners, it is better to use a rubber spatula.

To simplify the process of final finishing of a plasterboard box, experts advise placing corners made of plastic or metal on its inner corners. When performing putty work, you need to press the corner into the mixture. After completing the finishing activities, it will be clear that the angle of the box is ideal.

If you do not want to use corners, you need to carefully sand the edges of the drywall sections with sandpaper. After the putty has completely dried, the box must be treated with fine-grained sandpaper. After the above-described types of work are completed, all that remains is to remove dust from the finished structure and paint the niche.

To bring original elements into the interior of the room, you can install lighting for a niche made of gypsum plasterboard. Before hiding the ceiling cornice, halogen lamps are installed in the box on the back side, which provide diffuse lighting, or neon tubes.

This additional light source will add coziness to the room's decor. The result is a decorative element that can decorate the interior of any room. LED strips will help highlight the design features of the ceiling surface and highlight the curtains, as if “floating” in the air.

Briefly about the main thing

When installing a stretch ceiling, you cannot do without arranging the mounting location for the cornice. To do this, create a niche that will allow you to effectively secure the curtains, save on purchasing a cornice to match the style of your interior, and arrange decorative lighting.

The dimensions of the eaves niche are calculated before the start of repair work. Its dimensions are influenced by the model of the cornice, as well as the width of the radiator or window sill, the pomp of the curtains and some adjustments.

Several methods are used to create a niche. It is popular to use an aluminum profile with a bend, a plasterboard box, a floating ceiling, or bending a PVC sheet (or fabric) to the ceiling.

Pros and cons of masking curtains

A niche formed in a suspended ceiling has the following advantages:

• Mechanism and fastening parts are securely hidden inside the structure; Only the surface of the canvas and textiles appear to the eye - everything looks elegant and harmonious.
• Using a niche eliminates the need to choose cornices and fixtures that match the style of the interior. You save time and money.
• If the canvas is glossy, an interesting effect is obtained. Curtains are reflected in the ceiling and look longer; this makes the room visually higher, which is always nice.

Bedroom with a disguised cornice Source wp.com

• A niche is a structural element that can be used in any style; the final result depends only on the choice of textiles.
• A niche is a suitable place to install decorative lighting. Hidden lighting looks charming and is completely safe: LEDs are used, which do not heat up, and therefore can be placed close to textiles.

The disadvantage of the design is the need to foresee it in advance and include it in the design project before installation work begins. Once the canvas is stretched over the profile, no additions can be made. Installing a ceiling cornice without a niche is risky, as there is a possibility of damage to the decorative coating.

With soft LED backlight Source nevapotolok.ru

Varieties

A niche is left between the base ceiling and the stretch fabric, in which the ceiling curtain will be installed.

The types of cornices for suspended ceilings are as follows:

• Aluminum ones are good because they are easy to work with, as they are light and at the same time durable. For additional decor, you can use overlays;
• unlike aluminum, wooden ones are not only very heavy, but also expensive, but they look much more luxurious (great for private houses with high flows);
• the most common type are plastic curtains, they are light and inexpensive, and besides, the curtains “move” unhindered;
• steel ones are used for curtains; plastic or wooden linings are used for decoration.

Cost of ceiling cornice

The price of ceiling curtains (cornices) depends on the material used.

The following types of curtain rods can be purchased in stores:

1. A straight-shaped plastic cornice holder costs $1.4-18.2 per element with a length of 3 m. The exact cost depends on the number of strings and the number of clamps, runners and rings.
2. Holders with rounded corner elements and a plastic strip cost $4-10/piece. In this case, the length of one element is 1600 mm.
3. A straight cornice with a plastic decorative strip 1600 mm long costs $8-16. There are also longer parts that cost more.
4. Metal holders are used for massive, heavy curtains made of thick fabric. The cost of such elements is in the range of 25-30 dollars with a length of 1600 mm. However, decorative tips are not included in the price and must be purchased separately.
5. Flexible cornices are useful for creating partitions for functional zoning of a room or for constructing a canopy over a bed. Such parts cost 4.5-5.7 dollars per 3500 mm length.

For a specific stretch ceiling design and taking into account the parameters of the room, you can choose a suitable cornice element and method of its fastening. If selected correctly, this detail will harmoniously fit into the overall design of the room. Thanks to this, the room will become cozy and comfortable.

Basic mistakes

Before you get started, consider the following tips to help you avoid common installation mistakes.

Accurate calculations. “Measure twice, cut once” - this rule is appropriate in this case. Before drilling holes for fasteners, check the markings several times using a ruler and level. Calculate the correct distance from the wall. This must be done before purchasing curtains and cornices. It is necessary to take into account how much the window sill protrudes from the wall and the depth of the folds of the curtains

Also take into account the length of the curtain.

By following all the tips and instructions described above, you can easily hang any curtain and decorate the window with it.

Materials

To understand which cornice is best to use for a suspended ceiling, you should understand the properties of all the materials from which it is made. For the production of most models, plastic is used, since it is characterized by minimal weight, a wide range of colors and resistance to negative influences such as corrosion or rotting. However, natural raw materials continue to be in demand, so modern models can be created from the following materials:

1. Steel.
2. Aluminum.
3. Polystyrene.
4. Polyurethane.
5. Wood.

Plastic

Plastic products are very popular due to their low cost and good strength properties. If necessary, the structure can be further strengthened. Plastic is also not subject to corrosion or rotting.

Aluminum

Complex openwork shapes and decorative elements are made on the basis of aluminum. The advantages of this material include:

1. Ease of processing.
2. Affordable price.
3. Invulnerability to moisture.
4. Wide range of models.
5. Possibility of implementing any geometric shapes and non-standard options.

Often, bay windows are finished with aluminum structures and complex curtains are installed.

Steel

When wondering what types of cornices there are, you should also pay attention to steel structures. In most cases, they have the shape of rods, but square products are also available for sale. Depending on the interior features, steel can be finished with colored materials, including:

1. Gold.
2. Bronze.
3. Brass.
4. Copper.

The aesthetic appeal of structures is also enhanced by chrome plating. The main advantage of steel cornices is their high strength. However, they are heavy, so for error-free installation it is necessary to provide a stable mounting base.

Tree

Wood products are considered “classics of the genre”, which never loses popularity. To decorate wooden models, they are tinted, varnished or painted, and also processed using wood carving.

The disadvantages of wood include high cost and vulnerability to influences such as moisture or fire. A wooden cornice is also quite heavy, and its installation process requires professional help. In order for a product to serve for a long time without deformation or damage, it needs to be provided with optimal climatic conditions.

Methods for making a niche in a suspended ceiling

Hidden ceiling curtain rods are installed on a suspended ceiling in three ways:

1. Installation of a plasterboard box. It also allows you to install a strip of spotlights along the curtains.
2. Fastening a mortgage from a wooden beam.
3. Installation of a special profile for ceilings. The most optimal and popular option.

When choosing a suitable design, you should also think about the practicality of choosing curtains.

Plasterboard box

A plasterboard ceiling ledge is usually made along the entire length of the wall. First, a box is made on a frame made of a metal profile, which is attached to the ceiling - it limits the space for a niche from the ceiling of the room.

You can make a plasterboard box yourself at home.

During installation, spotlights can be built into the box. This complicates the installation, since when installing lamps it is necessary to think about laying the electrical cable to them. The box in this version should be wider.

The ceiling structure, decorative baguettes, etc. are then attached to the box. The niche itself and the ledge need final finishing - putty and painting.

Timber mortgage

In this option, a wooden beam (preferably from a laminated wood profile) is fixed to the ceiling in a strictly horizontal position. The beam can have a cross section of 300\300, 400\400, 500\500 mm.

A ceiling frame is then attached to the beam, onto which the ceiling sheet is later attached.

If it is possible to fix the beam on the “legs”, forming a small gap near the ceiling, then this solves the problem of possible mold formation in a closed ceiling space. This method is well suited for rooms in which there is a risk of the ceiling getting wet - the gap between the timber and the ceiling, provided it is mounted suspended, allows you to ventilate the space between the film and the concrete.

The mortgage can be located under a suspended ceiling and be invisible.

There are also disadvantages to the design on a timber frame - it is noticeable from the side of the balcony, or when viewed from below. To avoid this, they attach a more complex structure with a bumper, which extends into a niche, hiding the beam and fastenings with film.

Special profile for cornices

The best option is to use a special aluminum profile for suspended ceilings, which hides a niche like a timber embed.

The profile is standard, marked BP-40. Length 2.5 m, sides of square base 4x4 cm.

This device allows you to make a niche not only of a standard shape, but also with rounded corners - for this, cuts are made on the canvas every 0.5-1 cm, which allow you to bend it and make it round.

Profile curtain rods are very strong and durable.

The undoubted advantage of this method is the use of metal material, since it is more durable and strong and is not affected by moisture.

Niche profile

This installation installation option is convenient because the niche does not need to be decorated or painted; it will be covered by a part of the stretch ceiling hidden in the depths of the niche. Curtain rods are fixed to the profile itself, and the niche takes on an aesthetic appearance.

Special niche profile for installing niches in suspended ceilings.

The “niche plus” profile is also standard, made of aluminum and has a length of 2.5 m.

Curtain profile

The design also allows you to hide the niche with a stretch ceiling, and there is already a curtain for curtains on the cornice itself.

The cornice is standard, marked PK-5, made of aluminum.

The original profile design allows you to install fashionable LED lighting along with the curtain.

Design Features

The photo shows the use of various materials for curtains. The height of the niche should completely hide the drapery tape sewn to the curtains.
In this case, the height of the braid is determined by the weight of the curtains and the length. The standard dimensions of drapery elements usually range from 7 to 10 cm, and the height of the niche must be increased by at least 5 cm. If you make the niche equal to the height of the ribbon, then the person below will see the drapery. Schematic structure of a niche

The length of the box can occupy the entire wall or correspond to the width of the window opening. If you prefer the latter option, make indents on each side of the window of at least 50 cm. Then the curtains, when hung, will not prevent sunlight from entering the room. For Roman blinds, 10 cm indents are enough.

As for the maximum height of the structure, you should not make it more than 40 cm deep. Otherwise, it will be difficult to attach curtains and hang curtains.

Dependence of niche depth on cornice design

When choosing the width of the box, you need to take into account the type of cornice that will hold the curtains, as well as the number of layers of the textile composition. For example, between profiles intended for fastening different types of curtains, the distance should be at least 5 cm

Consequently, if you plan to place curtains and tulle on the cornice and supplement the system with lambrequins, then there will be three profiles, respectively. This is a minimum of 15 cm. Add another 5 cm on each side. The width of the niche is 25 cm.

False ceiling with niche for curtains

Plasterboard ceiling with a niche for curtains Plasterboard is a universal and practical material that has found application in the construction industries.

Gypsum boards are easy to work with, they bend well, so a niche for a ceiling cornice made from gypsum plasterboard will be spacious and attractive. Installation of a niche begins with measurements of the room and the place where it will be installed. From the beginning, you need to decide what function the box will perform - decorative or just to hide the curtain. Before you start arranging the niche, you need to completely finish the work with the electrical wiring if you plan to install a plasterboard ceiling with lighting.

The work is carried out as follows:

• make a marking on the ceiling with an indentation for a niche of at least 15 cm. Then, even if the canvas gathers into folds, unsightly creases will not form;
• Guide profiles are installed along the perimeter of the room, after which the frame for the suspended ceiling is assembled;
• using self-tapping screws, two frames are combined - a niche and a suspended structure;
• sheets of plasterboard are cut to the required sizes, and the frame is sheathed;
• install cornice for textiles.

At the final stage, all joints and cracks are sealed with putty, and the ceiling is decorated in any chosen way.

Box under the cornice in a suspended ceiling

How to assemble a box under a cornice in a suspended ceiling It is better to entrust the installation of a niche from suspended ceilings to specialists, as well as the installation of the entire decorative structure. Usually the work is carried out in the following order:

First of all, curtain rods for suspended ceilings are attached to the ceiling using dowels with metal or plastic sleeves. Its initial installation is necessary in order to determine the dimensions of the niche. When work on installing the box is carried out, the baguette can be removed to avoid damage during the work; First, the base for the niche is made. To do this, step back 2-3 cm from the cornice and fix wooden blocks to which the profile for the tension fabric will be attached

It is very important that the lower edge of the beam coincides with the level of the tension fabric. In this case, a wooden mortgage is installed along the entire length of the wall or window opening, and its height is adjusted using wedges.

After the timber is secured with screws, proceed to installing the decorative ceiling; a profile under the tension covering is attached to the inside of the wooden beam, and the canvas is tucked into it using one of the selected methods.

The result is a solid structure, and the niche can only be seen from a very close distance.

Installation of curtains on a suspended ceiling

Any type of curtains for suspended ceilings is suitable. There is no difference in this regard between ordinary and suspended ceilings. When purchasing, you should make sure that the curtain kit includes hooks and plugs, as well as, if necessary, decorative tape. There are two ways to install it.

Traditional installation method

In this case, when installing ceiling curtains for suspended ceilings, a mortgage (a special platform made of plastic, wooden beams or plywood) is attached to their future locations. After this, the fabric is stretched, and through it the fabric itself is attached to the embed for the stretch ceiling.

In order for the suspended ceiling and curtains to look harmonious, the installation must be approached responsibly.

You should buy it before installing the stretch ceiling, since the number of inserts and their size are selected to match the curtain itself - there are no standard curtains. They can have different lengths, widths, and have one, two or three rails. For this reason, mortgages are prepared after the dimensions of the curtains become known.

Curtains for suspended ceilings can be made of plastic or metal. The latter are better, since they are more rigid, and their installation requires fewer mortgages and fasteners.

After the curtain for the suspended ceiling has been selected, mark its future location. The location is chosen in such a way that, after fastening, the curtains do not lie on the radiators and window sill.

Next, they begin to manufacture and install mortgages. To do this, select a wooden beam that corresponds to the length of the curtain, and align it with the level of the stretch ceiling, using wedges, small glazing beads, etc. To ensure that the curtain on the stretch ceiling is installed evenly, the installation level of the embed is adjusted using ordinary construction thread attached to different sides of the baguette using a wedge or dowel.

The timber used for it is attached to the base of the ceiling, having previously treated its corners and edges with sandpaper. After this, you can install the tension fabric.

When the ceiling structure is installed, the fastening points are marked on the curtain - for this, the cornice is tried on, and the places where the curtain is attached to the suspended ceiling are marked with a marker so that they coincide with the location of the embedded parts. Curtains for suspended ceilings are attached to the mortgage through the canvas using self-tapping screws. To prevent the fastening elements from causing tears and other damage to the fabric, it is worth gluing pieces of plastic or reinforcing tape in the places where it will break through.

Installation of a niche under the curtain, watch the video:

Second installation method

A ceiling curtain can be attached to a suspended ceiling in another way. To do this, during installation of the canvas, a small section of the rough surface near the window is left uncoated. In this case, the curtain on the suspended ceiling will look more interesting.

Read How to drain water from a suspended ceiling

It is in this niche that a hidden curtain is installed on the suspended ceiling. As a result, it will look as if the curtains are falling straight from the ceiling. At the same time, they will cover the section of the rough ceiling that remains unformed with a stretch fabric. In this niche you can install any type of ceiling cornice. The installation of the ceiling itself is carried out using a special baguette.

The second method is easier compared to the first. In addition, in this case there is no possibility of damage to the tension fabric while attaching the curtain. The only drawback of this option is that if you have to remove the curtain for some time, an empty section of the rough ceiling will be noticeable.

Installing curtains on a suspended ceiling is not difficult. This work does not take much time. The main thing is to be extremely careful and careful not to damage the expensive stretch fabric.

Criterias of choice

There are three basic options for fastening the system that holds curtains or window curtains. All of them are universal and quite suitable for stretch ceilings.

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But here it is important to remember that this method of interior improvement has its own characteristics, since tension fabric, especially PVC, is completely unsuitable as a supporting structure, does not tolerate cuts and lateral loads, and also slightly reduces the ceiling line.

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So, the main classification of cornices is based on the method of their fastening.

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Traditional wall option

It is extremely easy to install and requires minimal preparatory measures. It looks very good in interiors with high ceilings, but it looks extremely unprofitable where the ceiling line is lowered.

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It is also important to consider the size of the window sill—more precisely, its outlet. Otherwise, it will turn out that even at the maximum reach of the mounting console, the falling curtains will begin to bulge where it protrudes into the room. This looks especially bad with curtains that reach the floor.

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Timeless classics are equally well suited for both classic interiors and country style

Ceiling mounted

A little more finicky to install. Its advantage lies in the fact that you can choose to remove the suspension from the wall at your own discretion - there are no technical restrictions, as such.

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In this case, it is important to pay a little more attention to the unit responsible for direct fastening to the ceiling, since the load vector coincides with the axis of the hardware that holds the cornice itself. Therefore, everything must be done carefully: no dowels or nails, only plastic dowels and screws.

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And even better are anchor structures (especially with heavy curtains) - they hold up best in such conditions. Curtains on such a curtain visually increase the height of the room. Therefore, this type of cornice fastening should be given preference in small-sized apartments with low ceilings - it will create the illusion of additional space.

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The cornice does not have to adhere to a straight line or go from wall to wall

Recessed or hidden

In fact, it is a type of ceiling fastener. But, unlike its open counterpart, there is always a special niche under the cornice, hiding all the elements of curtain hanging from the observer. It goes well with any interior style, but requires some technological tweaks.

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With a hidden cornice, the curtains seem to come out, fall out from behind the ceiling, which gives the entire structure visual weightlessness

Also, in addition to the method of fastening the cornice, it is important to pay attention to the main material from which the structure is made. There are several standard options:

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• tree. Most often found in wall structures or as a decorative element in baguette systems. Quite an expensive cornice, but the texture of natural wood gives a special nobility to the appearance of the curtain hanging system;
• plastic. The most budget-friendly type of cornice. It is very attractive with a variety of colors: it can be white, multi-colored, or imitating natural materials. The flexibility of the material makes it possible to construct systems that are very complex in configuration and design. Thus, you can find a plastic cornice either in the French style or in the hi-tech style;

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• aluminum. Lightweight, durable, quite durable cornice. A large selection of textured and color polymer coatings allows you to choose a model that matches any interior;
• steel. It is superior in strength to all previous options, so a cornice made from it is recommended for heavy and thick curtains, for complex compositions with lambrequins and other weighting components. In terms of price, it is probably the most expensive option. But such extravagance often pays off in reliability and durability.

When choosing the type of cornice, it is better to adhere to the following rule: you should first assess the load on the entire system and only after that evaluate the external data of a particular model, choosing the one that best suits the interior.

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Types of curtains

Before buying a curtain, you should decide on its type and the material from which it is made. The most common are plastic, steel and aluminum. They are easy to use and quite cheap. Wooden curtains look much more massive and are not suitable for any interior.

The first step is to choose the type of cornice to which the curtain will ultimately be attached. In the case of a tension fabric, the usual fastening method will not work. Let's look at two main ones.

First way

Even before the installation of the ceiling begins, you should buy and prepare materials for future fastening of the curtains. To create the fastening you will need: beams, ceiling cornice, tools for marking and installation.

Before installing a wooden beam on a rough ceiling, you should make careful markings so as not to make a mistake with the installation of the cornice later.

Important: marking is done immediately after purchasing the curtains, since there are no standard sizes. In this case, you need to take into account all the nuances: the distance to the window sill, to the battery and other little things

After which the mortgages are attached to the ceiling and form the future frame. Before attaching the beam, it must be sanded to avoid rough interaction with the tension fabric. It is recommended to use timber, as it guarantees greater reliability of fastening, unlike the same drywall.

The next step is the actual installation of the stretch ceiling. Next, you need to try on the curtain and mark the attachment points. In the end, all that remains is to attach the curtain to the self-tapping screws through the fabric. This design is very similar to a regular ceiling cornice.

Second way

This type of fastening assumes the presence of a niche between the wall and the suspended ceiling in which the ceiling cornice will be located. From the outside it will be completely covered with canvas. For the base, the same timber or plasterboard blanks are used. The suspended ceiling profile is attached to the mortgages, leaving a distance between the wall and the ceiling in which the cornice will be located. With this design, curtains look impressive: visually the space of the room expands, and the ceilings seem higher than they actually are.

If you design the mounting location in advance, you can use all your imagination and known techniques: in this case, the possibilities are almost unlimited.

The methods described above are suitable for those who have only a suspended ceiling in their plans. What should those who have everything ready but don’t want to spoil the canvas do?

Third way

Attaching to a ready-made ceiling is somewhat more complicated than a pre-prepared one. To do this, you will need special PVC blanks in the form of a ring. During the work you will need a hammer drill and a knife. A hole is cut in the canvas for a workpiece with a diameter of 32-34 mm. Next, a pipe is inserted into it, through which you need to drill a hole in the rough ceiling using a hammer drill. The pipe is necessary to protect the ceiling from construction dust. After drilling, the dowel is hammered in and the curtain is attached with long self-tapping screws.

As you can see, it is possible to solve the problem with curtains and suspended ceilings. In addition, this type of work does not require serious construction skills. If you are afraid of ruining everything, you can make a similar request to the company that installed or is just about to install your ceiling.

Preparation

You need to start by purchasing materials. For this you will need:

• plasterboard sheets;
• two types of profiles: ceiling PP 27x60 and guide PN 28x27;
• self-tapping screws;
• tape for sealing joints;
• putty.

• perforator;
• screwdriver;
• knife;
• putty knife;
• tape measure and pencil;
• strong thread.

Applying markings is a very important moment. It is based on the correct location of the cornice (and, accordingly, the niche) relative to the window sill or heating radiator. The first relative to the others should be located inside the living room by 15-16 cm. Therefore, knowing the dimensions of the protruding part of the window sill or radiator and adding 15 cm to it, we obtain the distance of the place where the cornice is attached from the wall in the living room.

We transfer this size along the ceiling along the two side walls. Now, by attaching the ends of the paint cord to the two resulting points, we get an even line on the ceiling, parallel to the wall. This is the end of the niche for plasterboard curtains and the beginning of the decorative box.

From this line we set aside the width of the box you have accepted inside the living room, and draw another line. So, the installation dimensions of the box for the niche under the cornice are there. You can proceed to assembling the frame.

How to attach a curtain to the ceiling

To complete the interior design process, curtains are sometimes used. Considering the many options for finishing the ceiling, a reasonable question arises: how to attach these curtains to the ceiling? After all, the surface can be, for example, concrete, plasterboard or tension. Therefore, it is worth understanding this issue more thoroughly.

To understand how to mount, you should take into account the ceiling material.

Reinforced concrete

Everything is relatively simple here. To secure the product you will need several screws with dowels, as well as a hammer drill for making holes.

But first you need to take measurements. If the curtain needs to be centered, then, using a tape measure, we find the middle of the window opening. We make marks, including attachment points. As a rule, today even plastic samples have ready-made holes for this. If they are not there, then you will have to drill them out. The step should be about 50-60 cm.

Next, we make holes in the ceiling and insert dowels. We attach the curtain and secure it with screws. All!

Drywall, PVC

There are several options for attaching curtains in this case.

1. If the layout of the ceiling frame is unknown, then you should stock up on special fasteners. Moreover, you will need a lot of them to compensate for the fragility of the ceiling surface. The step should be about 20-30 cm.
2. If the distance from the rough ceiling to the decorative one allows, the product can be secured with anchors (with a screwdriver). The holes are made directly.
3. You can plan the installation of curtains at the design stage of the suspended ceiling frame. Where there will be fastenings, the profile must be more quickly and carefully attached to the ceiling. In this case, fastening is carried out directly to the frame through the sheets using self-tapping screws.

Stretch ceiling

If there is a suspended ceiling with a harpoonless option, fastening the curtains cannot be implemented. Then you will have to settle on a wall model.

It’s another matter if the installation of the ceiling structure has not yet been completed, then all the trump cards are in hand. Installation can be completed without problems.

Niche

If you fasten the canvas of the tension structure to the wall above the window, and with some retreat, then the cornice can be attached to the rough ceiling. It will not be visible, since it will be hidden by the suspended ceiling.

Mortgages

First, a mortgage is installed, for example, in the form of a beam along the entire length of the curtain. As an alternative, you can use several plasterboard platforms. What's better?

Of course, from a safety point of view, it is better to use timber. It provides a higher level of strength. Able to withstand even significant loads on curtains, for example, when a child pulls them. But timber does not like fluctuations in humidity. This needs to be taken into account.

The curtain is attached to the mortgages through the fabric.

If additional questions arise during the process, you can certainly get answers to them by looking at photos and videos. Then the curtains will not only fulfill their function, but will also significantly improve the impression of the room’s design. Thus, we will get a finished image that we can invite guests to look at.

Practical recommendations

A few small tips and recommendations will help you make the right choice:

• Installation of hidden structures has its own specifics. First of all, it is necessary to decide on the choice of ceiling system and curtains at the design stage of the room. And then choose the type of cornice.
• When installing the cornice, focus not only on the width of the window sill, but also on the level of the radiator protrusion. The fabric should not touch the heating system, so experts advise leaving a couple of centimeters in reserve to maintain the quality of the curtains.
• First you need to decide on the design of the curtains, and then choose a cornice. If you do otherwise, it will be more difficult to choose the right fabric for the decorative element.

To visually increase the space of a room, experts advise installing a cornice, if possible, across the entire width of the wall. This way you will achieve interior unity and visually expand the room. Designers advise choosing light curtains to match the walls for small rooms. And additionally decorate the window with lighting. This way you will visually raise the ceiling. The built-in cornice lighting will also help to emphasize the quality of textiles and create an atmosphere of magic. To do this, you need to install the control unit in the niche in advance. For the built-in backlight, a voltage of 12V is sufficient. If the hidden cornice is placed next to the ceiling system, replacing the structure over time will not be difficult

But if the cornice is installed using a special embedded part directly to the suspended ceiling, then you will not be able to change the structure yourself without deforming the canvas. After installing a hidden cornice behind the decorative baseboard, hooks and other structural elements should not be visible. When choosing curtains for a hidden cornice, you need to pay special attention to color, texture and decorative elements.

A hidden cornice is an amazing design solution that can not only highlight the beauty of textiles, but also expand the space and fill the room with air.

What type of cornice to choose

It is impossible to say clearly which option should be preferred. Here it is worth considering several factors, including financial feasibility, since installing a hidden option, for example, will cost a little more than an open one. It is also worth considering the size and proportions of the room. It is also important to focus on the general style in which the room is designed. A wooden molding will fit perfectly into a classic interior; for a modern ensemble, an option with a hidden cornice is better suited.

The most common mistake is that in the desire to save money, many people prefer a plastic rod that is not able to withstand massive curtains.

Alternative (hidden) option

Scheme of an alternative method of attaching curtains to a suspended ceiling

This method is much simpler and there is less chance of damaging the tension fabric itself. The essence of this method is this: when the tension fabric is installed, a niche is left between the window and the ceiling, where the cornice itself is already installed on the main ceiling. The cornice is hidden in this niche, creating the effect as if the curtains are falling from the ceiling itself.

Types of sliding curtains

Light, almost transparent, elegant curtains. Their goal is to hide the home from views from the street, if it is the first floor, and to dim the bright sunlight. Along the lower edge, the fabric is often decorated with scallops, applique or sewing.

Curtain drapery - thick, almost impenetrable “night” curtains. Protects from heat in summer and from excessive evening and night outdoor lighting. Curtains are often decorated with a variety of decor.

Kiseya. Used as additional window decoration, and as a separate curtain.

An original part of the decoration will be a cornice illuminated with an attractive neon light.