Environmental Friendliness And Safety Of Stretch Ceilings

Film sheets are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a versatile material commonly found in many everyday products. It's the same substance used to make toothbrushes, braided wires, contraceptives, cooking gloves, and children's toys. PVC is also widely used in wallpaper, windows, doors, shoes, outerwear, and even various accessories.

This material is truly all around us, with many items we use daily being made from PVC. So, there's no need to worry excessively about its safety. But what do experts say? Chemists, who have in-depth knowledge of the properties—both beneficial and potentially harmful—of polyvinyl chloride, can provide valuable insights.
 

• Resistant to alkalis, alcohols, acids, oils, kerosene, and gasoline.
• Difficult to melt.
• Releases hydrogen chloride only when heated above 110°C.
• Soluble in THF, DMFA, dichloroethane, and cyclohexanone.
• Non-allergenic and does not react with human skin.

During installation, a hot mounting method is used, where the film is heated to 60°C. This temperature is enough to make the material flexible and elastic. High-quality PVC can withstand these temperatures without releasing harmful substances, ensuring it is safe to use.

While the heat gun used during installation can produce toxic compounds from gas combustion, the good news is that any lingering odors can be easily eliminated. Simply ventilate the room for a few hours to clear the air and ensure a safe environment.
 

These ceilings are treated with special additives that act as antiseptics and antistatic agents. As a result, dust and other contaminants don't stick to the surface, preventing buildup. This means the ceiling stays clean with minimal effort, requiring only an easy cleaning once or twice a year.

Can PVC Film Cause Harm?

High-quality materials used in stretch ceilings are completely safe, as confirmed by the appropriate certifications. However, some manufacturers, aiming to cut production costs, may use inferior raw materials, resulting in cheaper products that are far from safe. Additionally, because the film itself often lacks clear labeling, unscrupulous sellers can use certificates for high-quality goods when offering low-grade film.

To protect yourself from such fraud, it's important to choose a reputable company for your stretch ceiling installation. Look for one that provides a guarantee not only for the installation work but also for the materials, ensuring the safety and durability of your ceiling. If you notice any unusual sweet chemical odors within two weeks after installation, insist on having the ceiling covering replaced. For more complex designs, consider exploring stretch ceilings with multilevel constructions, which offer both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits.

Composition Of Fabric Ceilings

Fabric stretch ceilings are certified for their environmental friendliness, backed by international certificates. The manufacturer's marking on the edges allows you to trace the source of the material, ensuring transparency and quality.

The fabric is made from polyester fiber, a material widely used in the textile industry for products like artificial fur and fabrics known as lavsan. To enhance its durability, the fabric is treated with polyurethane, a material commonly used in the production of implants, seals, heat insulators, sleeves, shoes, and sealants.

While eco-friendly fabric stretch ceilings are made from materials with a lower environmental impact, it's important to note that the production process involves complex chemical treatments. Therefore, while the final product is eco-conscious, it cannot be considered 100% natural or entirely environmentally friendly due to the factory-based processes involved.

At the same time, it is a safe and reliable finishing material, making it a great choice for decorating children's rooms.
 

Unlike PVC film, fabric stretch ceilings, even when treated with a polymer, do not retain water in the event of a flood. Additionally, the cold installation method and versatile decoration options allow for the creation of unique and personalized interiors.

Are fabric ceilings harmful? Reputable manufacturers always label their products and provide certificates confirming compliance with international and domestic regulations. However, there are always some unscrupulous sellers offering cheaper products by compromising on quality.

To protect yourself from such risks, always request certificates of authenticity and sign contracts that clearly outline the responsibility for both material quality and installation work.

PVC Film Or Fabric Canvas – Which One Is The Better Choice?

Although both PVC film and fabric canvas are made from synthetic materials, it’s important to note that neither can be considered 100% natural or environmentally safe, as their production and disposal still impact the environment.

While stretch ceilings may not be entirely eco-friendly in the purest sense, their resistance to harsh substances, UV rays, and high temperatures makes PVC film and textile fabrics safe for health. These qualities contribute to their overall safety as materials for home interiors.

Textile stretch ceilings are capable of withstanding sub-zero temperatures, while PVC film should not be exposed to temperatures lower than +5 degrees Celsius without proper care.

Both fabric and PVC stretch ceilings are designed for indoor use only, making them ideal for residential spaces. However, despite what some sellers may claim, fabric tends to perform worse than PVC when exposed to flooding. Additionally, while PVC film can sometimes be reused, it may show water marks on the underside, especially when illuminated.

Ultimately, the best option for your project depends on factors like the design requirements, room geometry, and the specific qualities that matter most to you.