It is possible to ensure uniform illumination of a room and all objects and furniture that is in it only with the help of a distributed light source. Even the most sophisticated sconce, installed in the center of the ceiling, is unlikely to cope with this. After all, the light will come from one place, and as a result, shadows will appear. To solve this problem, so-called spots are used - spotlights of small size and power, which are evenly distributed over the surface of the ceiling. They are designed to mount exclusively suspended ceiling systems. Fairly easy to install spotlights into the ceiling with your hands. It is important to take care of the configuration of the lighting system even at the stage of designing a false ceiling.

A bit about spot lighting

By their design, spotlights, which are fixed flush with the false ceiling, have only a 30-degree lighting sector. But due to their compactness, they can be mounted quite tightly around the entire ceiling. To ensure proper illumination, the distance between rows should not exceed 1 meter, the distance from the lamp of the last row to the wall should not exceed 60 cm. The figures are given for rooms with a ceiling height of 2.5 meters. The requirement is taken into account that the intersection of the cones of illumination from each spot be located at a height exceeding the bulk of the objects in the room.

Spot lighting can be mounted on suspended ceilings of any type. Installing spotlights in drywall is the simplest and most reliable option, but the installation process is no different in the case of ceiling sheathing with plastic, aluminum strips or MDF, with a few reservations.

Only the installation of lamps in stretch ceiling must be done by craftsmen and installers. This is due to the technological features of the material and the fact that it is necessary, using special equipment, to fix dense inserts made of heat-resistant plastic in the places where the fixtures are installed. These inserts also prevent the material from stretching. In all other cases, installation can be done independently.

What is needed for installation

From the material you will need the following elements:

1. Spotlights;
2. lamps;
3. power wire;
4. terminal blocks or sleeves for connecting wires;
5. insulating heat shrink, electrical tape;
6. switch.

standard ceiling spot device

It is advisable to select fixtures of the same type for each type of lighting. Accordingly, the lamps of the required quantity are purchased for the type of construction. It is important to strictly check the presence of a reflective layer along the cone at the base of the base for incandescent lamps and specifications in accordance with the requirements for the lamp. For suspended ceilings, 40 W lamps are used, more powerful ones will significantly heat the material of the suspended ceiling and can lead to damage to the structure or even a fire. Halogen and LED options for lighting elements are selected according to the power and spectrum of the output light.

The wire is selected depending on the material from which the suspended ceiling is made. So for drywall, which is a refractory material, an ordinary two-core or three-core wire VVG-2 (3) x1.5 is suitable. For materials such as MDF or plastic, it is necessary to select a fireproof version of the RKGM wire. The wire must be soft, that is, each core is represented by many small veins, combined under one insulation.

To connect the wires and connect fixtures to them, you can use special terminal blocks, which are sold at any hardware store. However, the bolted connection is serviceable. It will be necessary to check the tightness of the hold-down bolts at least twice a year. Otherwise, at the point of contact, the terminal blocks and wires may begin to heat up and char. A more reliable and durable option is to fix with copper or tinned copper sleeves.

It is necessary to protect the connection points with electrical tape or using a special heat shrink tube for insulating power wires.

Mounting order

The whole process of installing fixtures in the ceiling can be divided into the following stages:

• lighting planning;
• wiring to the place of installation of fixtures;
• the formation of holes for them;
• connection;
• consolidation and verification.

Why is such a simple task divided into several stages? This is due to the fact that each item is best performed at a certain stage in the formation of the ceiling itself.

Planning

It is very important to decide in advance, even before the ceiling sheathing, how to place the lamps on the ceiling. This is especially true for cases where false ceiling formed with several levels. Each level should be separated into a separate lighting circuit, and the light sources should be distributed accordingly, starting from the independent use of these circuits. Do not forget that the distance between the lamps must be kept within a meter from each other, the distance from the walls is 60 cm. It is important to distribute the lamps so that their installation site does not fall on the installed frame elements. That is, the holes for them should be at a distance of 25-30 mm from the edge of the hole for the lamp to the nearest frame element. Otherwise, the profile of the frame may interfere with fixing the lamp with its latch.

When distributing spotlights, it is also necessary to take into account the presence and location of chandeliers, sconces and other decorative elements on the ceiling and walls. With simultaneous use, you can take spotlights to the sides. Or divide the lighting circuits with spotlights of zones near other light sources and the rest of the room into separate switches.

Wire distribution

It is best to distribute the wires at the stage of forming the false ceiling frame and fix them on the frame in advance so that when drilling holes for the lamps, you can get the wire loops and make the connection. In extreme cases, the wire is connected to the first of them, and for all subsequent wires, they are already threaded from hole to hole. The disadvantage of the latter option is the inability to fix the wires on the frame, and they will simply lie on the surface of the suspended ceiling material.

With a normally pre-distributed wire, it is enough to lay a two- or three-core cable in an optimal route through all the places where the fixtures are installed, leaving a loop of 10-15 cm of bent wire at each point. Fastening to the frame should be done with plastic ties, but not tightly and with a slight sag of the wire, without stretching. This will prevent damage to the wire during a thermal change in its length.

After that, you can proceed to the sheathing of the suspended ceiling.

Formation of holes for lamps

You can finally determine the position of the fixtures only after the ceiling is completely sheathed. When designing, the moment of placing spots at a distance from the frame elements was already taken into account. Now, one should also take into account the laying of the seams between the elements of the false ceiling, this is especially important when installing fixtures in a false ceiling sheathed with plastic or aluminum. If the luminaire is placed at the junction of the ceiling elements, then it should be moved to the middle of one of the strips.

Holes are drilled using a special wood crown, which is also used to drill recesses for boxes for sockets. In this case, perfectly even holes are obtained, this option allows you to effectively fix the lamp in drywall. The diameter of the holes must be selected in accordance with the dimensions of the devices used. It should be 3-4 mm smaller than the outer diameter of the front of the luminaire, but larger than the dimensions of its inner part. The most commonly chosen size is 60 or 75 mm.

Important: Remember that once a hole is drilled, it cannot be moved, so once again make sure its location is correct.

Typical wiring diagram for ceiling lights

Connection

After all the holes are drilled, the loops of the previously laid wire are pulled out. Or, two wires are laid from hole to hole, starting from the outer one, to which the power wire is connected.

Important: All connection work is carried out only when the appropriate wire is de-energized.

The loops on the laid wire are cut along the bend and exposed. To connect each lamp, two small wires 10-12 cm long are used. Having stripped a 10-15 mm wire on each side, short wires (leashes) are clamped at one end in the corresponding terminal on the lamp, and the other end of the wire is twisted with a power cable. The connection is observed using the marking on the lamp: L - phase, N - zero, PE - ground.

Mounting a chandelier on a stretch ceiling is not an easy task, because an incorrectly installed and connected luminaire can not only ruin it appearance, but also damage the canvas. Therefore, it is important to understand the intricacies of choosing and fixing a chandelier in advance. Our article will help you with this.

Choosing a chandelier for a stretch ceiling

It is better to select fixtures for a tensile structure at the stage of preparing a design project, because for reliable fastening of the chandelier, you will need to attach a hook or mounting platform to the draft base. The distance between the film and the ceiling may depend on the shape of the lamp, in addition, some requirements are imposed on chandeliers.

When ordering a stretch ceiling, you can consult with the designer about the design and shape of the lamp - the specialist will tell you which lighting fixtures are best suited for your room. You can also see photos of finished ceiling lighting design projects.

Which chandelier will suit your ceiling?

For a standard-sized room in a typical apartment decorated in classical style and restrained tones, a matte or satin ceiling of a light shade and a chandelier of small height with several not large shades are perfect. The light created by this will be soft and diffused, without shadows and glare, which will create a feeling of spaciousness.

For a glossy ceiling or a mirror insert in a multi-tiered design, LED chandeliers with many lamps are great, reflecting, they create a sense of depth. Thanks to this technique, you can visually lift low ceilings and zone the room. Lighting can be supplemented with built-in spotlights.

Such chandeliers look no less impressive on dark mirrored ceilings. However, it is important to choose the right color scheme and shape of lamps. You should not choose too large and fanciful shades, the effect is achieved thanks to the play of light on the ceiling.

Shades in the form of balls look advantageous different size on a dark satin ceiling, the reflected light is soft and warm, and the room creates a cozy atmosphere.

When choosing colored shades, you need to make sure that their shade matches the color of the ceiling, otherwise they will look inharmonious.

Chandeliers with glass pendants are great for a bedroom or nursery in pastel colors.

LEDs of complex shape or original shades create a play of light and shadow on the ceiling, such chandeliers will decorate the living room. They look best on a colored or dark ceiling.

Whatever chandelier you choose, it must be properly and securely fastened. To do this, in the process of stretching the ceiling, you need to install a mounting or support platform. Stretch ceiling masters usually do this work themselves. If you decide to mount the stretch ceiling yourself, our tips will help you fix the chandelier on the stretch ceiling.

Ways to mount a chandelier on a stretch ceiling

Depending on the design of the lamp, it is fixed in one of the following ways:

• on the hook- more often chandeliers are mounted on a long rod with a small base diameter;
• on a simple mounting plate, which is attached to the support platform; this method is suitable for most lamps;
• on a cross bar- this method is used for massive chandeliers with a wide base.

Preparing the ceiling different types fastening has its own characteristics, which are described below. You also need to pre-lay and check the wiring going to the fixtures.

Note! The fastening of the hook and the support platform to the ceiling must be reliable and durable. For this purpose, it is better to use standard, specially designed elements for this purpose. It will not work to remake the structure without removing the canvas.

Wiring preparation

If you are installing a chandelier on a stretch ceiling in the center of the room where standard wiring wires are brought out, you must do the following.

When installing a chandelier of fixtures in another place, it is necessary to lay new wiring, usually a cable of the VVGng-LS type is used for this. For lighting devices, a cross section of 1.5 mm 2 is sufficient, the number of cores depends on the type of lamp and the number of lighting steps. Cable laying is carried out by one of the methods indicated in the table, while it should be remembered that the cable can only be laid on wooden structures in a non-combustible metal sleeve or pipe.

Table. Methods for laying a cable under a stretch ceiling and the materials necessary for this.

Cable laying method	Necessary materials	Brief job description
In pleated sleeve	Cable, plastic or metal corrugated sleeve, hangers and dowel-nails.	The cable is threaded into the sleeve, leaving the ends at least 30 cm on both sides, the sleeve is attached to plastic hangers using the dowel-nail system.
plastic box	Cable, plastic cable channel, dowel-nails.	The cable channels are fixed with the help of nails to the ceiling, the cable is laid inside, the box is closed with the lid that comes with the kit.
Plastic ties	Cable, ties and dowel-nails.	Ties are attached to the ceiling with dowels, cables are fixed to them.

Note! The wiring should not sag and lie on the canvas! This will spoil its appearance.

This type of fastening is quite common in classic-shaped lamps - a chandelier with several shades fixed on a long rod. The place where the chandelier is attached is isolated by a decorative bowl attached to the ceiling. The suspension technology itself is quite simple, it is more difficult to fix the hook exactly at the level that will allow you to close the attachment point.

Step 1. The choice of a place for mounting a chandelier depends on the design project of the ceiling. If the lamp is installed in the geometric center of the room, where there is already a standard hook, the task is greatly facilitated. It is enough to increase the hook with a chain of the desired length with a hook at the end and prepare the wiring. During the installation of the canvas, the suspension chain and wiring can be removed into the hole in the ceiling.

Step 2 If there is no hook, you will have to fix it yourself. To do this, measure the distance from the slab to the level of the finished ceiling at the place where the chandelier is attached and fix there a piece of a bar of such a section that will allow the level to be lowered to the desired distance.

First, holes of small diameter are drilled five centimeters from both ends of the bar and a larger hole through which the wiring is threaded. The ceiling is marked along the mounting holes, in which holes are made using a perforator. Fasten the bar to the dowels and screws, having previously threaded the wires into it. The bar for attaching the chandelier is ready, it is better to screw the threaded hook into it after mounting the canvas.

For fixing a massive chandelier weighing more than 5 kilograms, it is better to use anchors. To fix the anchor in a concrete slab, it is necessary to drill a hole in it according to the diameter of the anchor sleeve, insert it and tighten the hook until it stops. In this case, the end of the sleeve expands and is firmly fixed in the concrete. With a small distance between the plate and the finished ceiling, the chandelier can be hung directly on the anchor hook, if the distance is more than 5-7 cm, it must be extended with a chain.

Step 3 After the ceiling is stretched and cooled, the location of the hook or support bar is determined. At the place where the chandelier is attached to the ceiling, a plastic mounting ring with a diameter slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the decorative bowl of the chandelier is glued. Inside the ring, the ceiling is carefully cut through and the film is removed.

Step 4 Fasten the hook to the bar if it is not fixed, or level the standard hook with a chain. They take out the wiring, carefully straighten it and fix the terminal block.

Step 5 All sharp elements that can damage the canvas, as well as light bulbs, are removed from the chandelier. Hang the chandelier on a hook for a special loop and connect the wiring. Carefully lay the wires around the rod so as to avoid touching the bare part of the wires of the hook and the elements of the chandelier. They put a decorative bowl on top and fix it at the right level so as to avoid stretching the canvas.

Step 6 Screw in the bulbs and turn on the switch. Check the operation of the lighting device, the clarity of inclusion and the absence of sparks and crackling. Having turned off the switch, they put on the shades and fix the decorative elements removed before installation. Turn on the lamp for 15-20 minutes and carefully check the heating of the ceiling near the chandelier with your hand. If the hand is hot, it is better to replace the light bulbs with less powerful ones in order to avoid overheating and destruction of the canvas.

This method is used when mounting on a longitudinal or cruciform mounting plate is provided. The size of the platform is determined based on the size of the bar, and its thickness depends on the weight of the lamp. Mount the bar when installing baguettes, keeping it on the same level with the guides.

The platform is made from a bar, board or piece of plywood. You will also need plastic mounting rings to mount the lamp. The diameter of the ring for the longitudinal bar should allow wires to be threaded inside it and the bar to be fixed with self-tapping screws. For a cruciform bar, five rings of different diameters are needed.

The place for installing the luminaire on the mounting platform is determined by the design project. If the chandelier is hung in place of a standard hook, the latter is cut down or insulated inside the slab, and the hole is sealed with gypsum-based putty, after checking and stretching the wiring as much as possible.

Note! When drilling the ceiling for mounting the platform, it is important not to get into concealed wiring! To find it, use the electronic phase indicator.

Step 1. If the ceiling level drops slightly, to mount the luminaire on a small longitudinal bar, it is enough to fix a mortgage bar in the right place on the ceiling. They do it this way: drill two holes with a diameter of 2-3 mm in a bar. In order to lay the wires, a shallow groove is cut in the center of the bar. They mark the ceiling and drill holes with a puncher, after which they fix the bar and lay the wires in it.

For a cruciform mounting plate, the platform is also made cruciform, fixing it with perforated brackets.

Step 2 With a significant change in the level of the ceiling, for example, when installing two-tier structures, the prefabricated structure of the mounting platform is used. To make a platform from a piece of plywood 6-12 mm thick, cut out a rectangular platform of the required size. Its length should be several centimeters longer than the length of the luminaire strip, and its width should be slightly larger than the diameter of the mounting ring. For a cruciform plank, the platform is made square.

A hole for wires with a diameter of 10-15 mm is drilled in the center, after which the front side of the platform is carefully polished so as not to damage the ceiling canvas. At the corners of the platform, brackets are attached to wood screws.

Step 3 They apply the platform to the ceiling and check its level - it must match the calculated level of the final ceiling. Adjust the height of the platform with the help of brackets, bending them. Fix the platform to the ceiling with self-tapping screws and dowels.

Step 4 Guides are installed around the perimeter of the room, checking the compliance of the levels of the mounting platform and baguettes. Stretch the ceiling fabric according to the usual technology. After it cools down and acquires the necessary elasticity, proceed to the installation of the lamp. By touch, they determine the hole for the wires and fix the mounting ring around it with glue. Carefully cut out the canvas inside the ring and lead the wires through it.

To attach the cruciform bar, it is necessary to fix five rings of different diameters on the canvas - one in the center for wires and four in the places where the bar is attached, their diameter can be small, the main thing is to pull the bar to the platform.

Step 5 Mounting studs are installed on the mounting plate and pulled onto the locknut. They need to be tightened well, otherwise it will be impossible to fix the lamp later. Fasten the bar with screws to the platform.

Step 6 They remove sharp parts, light bulbs from the lamp, prepare the terminal block for wiring. It is better to hang the chandelier together - one holds the lamp, and the second connects the wires and tightens the union decorative nuts on the lamp body.

Step 7 They screw the lamps, install shades on the lamp and decorative elements, check the operation of the lamp, as well as heating, as described above.

To better understand the process of attaching a chandelier, you can watch a video.

Video - Installation of a chandelier on a stretch ceiling

Installing a chandelier on a stretch ceiling is not such a difficult matter if you follow all the steps in the instructions. It is important not to damage the canvas and securely fix the lamp, as well as connect it correctly. If you do not have the skills to carry out electrical work, you can install the chandelier yourself, and it is better to entrust the connection to a professional - not only your safety, but also the durability of the ceiling depends on this.

Increasingly, in many apartments and houses you can find stretch ceilings. Their popularity is quite understandable. They help to create a rather unusual interior, allowing you to show all your imagination. A special place in this process is the installation of fixtures in the stretch ceiling. This work has its own characteristics.

Consider how to install a lamp in a stretch ceiling and which light sources are best to pay attention to.

In most cases, spotlights are installed on the stretch ceiling. Their main advantage is the ability to use in absolutely any room. These devices must meet several requirements:

1. the part that will be hidden by the ceiling should be round. Outside, it can be anything;
2. if hidden installation is used during the repair process, for example, when creating the effect of a starry sky, it is better to choose low voltage lamps well-known brands. It happens that the installed lamp or lamp has to be changed. It will be much easier to do this with a quality device;
3. the lamp should have a wide side that hides the elements that are used to fix it;
4. it is better to choose models with a lightweight design. This is especially true in those cases when you have to install them yourself;
5. experts recommend using energy-saving lamps. However, it is not prohibited to use LED lamps, fluorescent, halogen, etc.;
6. when installing spotlights in a stretch ceiling, fix them so that the light is directed downwards, and not at the ceiling.

Spotlights in the interior

Carrying out fixing work

One thing to remember important detail: you can stretch the ceiling only when the wiring is fixed throughout the room.

Fixing fixtures to a stretch ceiling is a laborious process. It requires special care and accuracy, since the stretched ceiling is not durable. Before attaching the fixtures, it is necessary to prepare.

First you need to choose the type of lamp

For work you will need:

• glue (usually cyanoacrylate);
• special ring;
• an acrylic box that matches the selected lighting fixture in size.

Installation of fixtures in a stretch ceiling takes place in several stages:

• the first stage is the installation of a special mounting profile;
• at the desired height at each intended point, it is necessary to fix the box with the lighting fixture, equipped with a nut that will allow you to adjust the height. It is important that the box does not extend beyond the canvas.

Fixing fixtures to the ceiling

• now you need to hang the canvas;
• cut holes for appliances;
• mark the center of each device. Apply glue to this point. After glue the fixing ring. It will help protect the ceiling from damage;
• make a hole in the center of each ring and pass the wires through it.

We fasten the ring on the tension web

• connect lighting devices;
• adjust the height of each device.

It is important that a separate wire goes to each fixed spot. If you make a connection along one line, in case of malfunctions, the lighting along it will completely disappear.

Complete installation scheme in 6 pictures

Scheme-checklist for mounting spot elements

Examples of the location of fixtures on the ceiling

Video installation instructions

What if you have a chandelier?

But what if the chandelier plays the role of a light source? How to hang it? First you need to choose a chandelier. To it, as well as to point structures, several requirements are imposed:

• the chandelier should have a simple design, especially when it needs to be hung with your own hands;
• you should not buy devices that are shaped like a plate, because their base will get very hot;
• it is desirable to use models with shades;
• if the chandelier is without shades, it must have a mirror reflector;
• as in the previous case, it is better to give preference to energy-saving lamps.

Variety of chandeliers

Chandeliers are mounted in two ways on a hook or on a bar. The first one is used most often. Installing the lamp on the hook is very simple:

• using a puncher in the concrete ceiling, make a hole of the right size;
• fasten the hook so that it is a couple of centimeters higher than the canvas itself.

The scheme of fastening the chandelier on the hook

What does the installation of a chandelier on a bar look like:

• first, the device is tried on the surface of the ceiling;
• it is not necessary to remove the old hook. It is enough just to bend it;
• using the bar, mark the place where it will be attached to the ceiling;
• drill the required number of holes;
• insert dowels into the holes;
• set the bar so that it is higher than the canvas or on the same level with it.

Mounting a chandelier on a bar

Video instructions for installing a chandelier

When installing spotlights in a stretch ceiling or fixing a chandelier, you must follow a few rules:

1. before starting work in the room, it is necessary to turn off the electricity;
2. hands must be protected with construction gloves;
3. do not screw the fasteners too tightly - this can damage the canvas. If it cannot be done otherwise, it is necessary to use special gaskets;
4. in the process, it is required to make holes in the ceiling. To avoid problems, it is necessary to study the hidden electrical wiring plan in advance. If not, you can use a special device. It will help you understand how to properly lay the wires;
5. lamp power in fixtures should not exceed 40 W;
6. devices should not have sharp corners or parts that in one way or another can damage the canvas;
7. a glossy ceiling requires the use of a luminaire with a downward beam of light.

So, to install a lamp or chandelier on a stretch ceiling, it is not necessary to call the master. You can do it yourself. The main thing is to remember safety precautions and respect for the canvas. It is necessary to lay the wires even before it is stretched, the installation of the lamp in the stretch ceiling is carried out after that.

Bright light sources in the form of small flashlights have become very popular in the design and lighting of residential and office spaces. Suspended and stretch ceilings provide their optimal placement. Various materials of stretch ceilings using spots in combination with spotlights create a huge variety of interiors. Moreover, the installation of spotlights in a stretch ceiling is simple and quite within the power of home craftsmen. To help them install a spotlight on their own, this article is written.

Embedded platforms

Structurally, spotlights must match the stretch ceiling. Its material is located at some distance from the ceiling. Therefore, the dimensions of the spotlight must be less than the mentioned distance. The base part for the installation of these illuminators is the embedded platform. Fixing fixtures to the stretch ceiling is based on these platforms. The sizes of spotlights installed in stretch ceilings can be different, but standardized.

Therefore, you can purchase a mortgage with the appropriate dimensions to make the installation of fixtures in a stretch ceiling. Usually such platforms are more decorative, which contributes to the decoration of the ceiling and a better perception of recessed lights.

But if the conditions for performing the work do not allow to determine in advance which lamp will be built into the stretch ceiling, universal platforms are purchased. They are specially made so that they are adjusted to the required size in order to embed the case.

Before installing a spotlight, the dimensions of its body are measured. From the concentric circles applied in the form of irregularities on the surface of the platform, the nearest one with a slightly larger diameter is selected. An incision is made along it with a mounting knife and then the unnecessary cut off part of the platform is removed. This is convenient, but not as decorative as a ready-made mortgage platform. It is made in order to install only a case of one diameter.

• The lamp installed in the ceiling is not only round, but also square in shape. For such built-in square illuminators, there are square embedded platforms.

Square illuminator and platform for it

markup

The stretch ceiling begins with markings. This is an important stage on which the appearance of the ceiling depends. If the illuminators are arranged in one or more rows, a noticeable deviation from a straight line spoils all the beauty. Ceiling markings are tedious in and of themselves. In addition, on the ceiling it will need to be done the first time to fix the lamps and the second time on the already stretched material. But there is a technology in which you can work on markup only once. To do this, it is done on the floor and projected onto the ceiling.

• First, on the floor, by eye or otherwise, the approximate locations of the light sources are determined when they are located on the ceiling.
• Adhesive tape is glued to these places. It is designed for labeling.
• For markup, it is convenient to use a template that can be made from improvised materials.
• First, the marking is done with a pencil. If something is wrong, the lines are erased and redrawn. When it becomes obvious that the line is marked correctly with a pencil, it is drawn with a marker.
• Using ready-made markings made on the floor and a light level, the marks are transferred first to the main, and then to the stretch ceiling.

We apply markings on the floor using a template, and transfer it to the ceiling with a light level

The light mark will be in the same place after the installation of the film. Having transferred the markup to the ceiling, they begin to attach mortgage platforms to it. To perform this and subsequent operations, you need a set of tools and accessories shown in the image below.

Fixing platforms to the ceiling

Universal platforms are cut to fit existing luminaires. Each of them must be checked by inserting the lamp into the resulting hole. Then you need to prepare the platforms for installation on the base ceiling. For this, a metal perforated tape is used. It cuts and bends as required. To obtain the dimensions of the workpiece for attaching the platform, it is necessary to measure the distance to the ceiling over the profile supporting the stretch ceiling. For each platform, one mounting bracket and one wire tie are made.

Wiring

Stretching the wire from one attachment point to another, it is folded in the form of a loop. It is passed through the mortgage platform. Later, the loop will be cut to attach the lamp fittings. A wire or cable runs along the ceiling. It is recommended to apply stranded cable for better flexibility.

When laying the cable, there may be several fixing points with cable sagging. Between them, the cable should not sag. Long spans are fastened between the lamps with additional clamps. If the ceiling is wooden, the cable spans are threaded through a metal corrugated pipe.

The ends of the cores obtained after cutting the loop are stripped of insulation. After that, lamp holders are mounted either by soldering or using terminal blocks.

Cable cores clamped in the terminal block

Soldering is the most reliable type of connection of contacts during installation. However, it is slower and more labor intensive. But when soldering, there are no costs for the purchase of terminal blocks. In terms of costs, soldering is cheaper and more reliable. Which type of installation to choose, the customer decides. When soldering, the wires of a pre-prepared lamp socket are soldered to the stripped wires.

When all the platforms are mounted, the wires are removed inside so that they do not hang down and do not interfere with the tension of the ceiling material. After that, you can stretch the canvas of the suspended ceiling. Install a stretch ceiling with your own hands home master quite capable.

On the finished ceiling after tension, using the previously made markings on the floor, marks are applied indicating the centers of the embedded platforms.

Final stage

According to the markup, rings are glued to the canvas. If the housing does not heat the canvas, as, for example, in an LED illuminator, one ring is enough. For a halogen lamp, it is recommended to glue two rings, one on top of the other. It is very important to glue the first ring qualitatively. It will hold the stretched canvas. After an incision with poor-quality gluing and separation from the ring, the even stretched surface may be lost and it will be difficult to restore it. The installation of fixtures on stretch ceilings can only begin after the rings are securely glued to the ceiling canvas.

Further, the web material is cut along the inner contour of the ring. A terminal block or a lamp connector is threaded through the resulting hole, depending on the choice of installation. If a connection is made to the terminal block, it is recommended to bend the stripped conductor in half. This improves contact.

Spotlights are connected to the electrical wiring and put into place in the embedded platforms. This completes the installation of fixtures in the stretch ceiling.

Arrangement of the ceiling - a whole range of works, which includes choosing the type of surface, determining the option of a light source, arranging electrical wiring and much more.

At the same time, there is a misconception that everything is easier with tension structures - it is enough to decide on the option of the canvas of interest, the light source and that's it. But it's not.

If there is a desire to organize an unusual and different interior design, then you can not do without spotlights.

Let's figure out how to choose them, calculate the number and mount them on the ceiling.

Requirements for the selection and installation of luminaires

According to the nature of the fastening, the lamps are divided into internal and external (external). In the first case, the light bulb is, as it were, inside the ceiling structure (“hidden” in it).

Lamps outdoor installation are at a level below the canvas with obligatory installation special platform. Overhead devices are mounted in the same way as chandeliers.

As for recessed fixtures, in them the body and the light bulb are located in the inner part of the canvas. Outside, there is only a protective glass and a ring for decorative decoration.

Unlike outdoor fixtures, indoor fixtures are more susceptible to heat. This is especially dangerous if the light source is an incandescent or halogen lamp. On the other hand, visually they look more interesting.

Detailed video tutorial on installing fixtures in stretch ceilings

Today, the following lamp options are used:

• the main option is the use of lamps with halogen lamps MR16 series, as well as products with a simple lamp - R63;
• a rare option is energy-saving lamps, which are almost never used when installing tension structures. The reason is the large size of the light sources. This means that the distance between the main ceiling and the installed canvas should be maximum. If the room has low ceilings, then the option is unacceptable;
• LED lights are a great option. Their minus is weak light, so it will not work to use lamps as the main lighting;
• LED strip is a great option when you need to create a stress-free backlight.

When choosing and installing spotlights, it is worth considering the following parameters:

1. Appearance. It is important that the product has a round shape. If you use products with a square or rectangular base, then you will not be able to install the lamp in a stretch fabric. In this case, the body of the product from the inside must be equipped with a flange for landing. Also pay attention to the distance between the body diameters (outside and inside). Permissible distance- from 10 mm. It is important that after installation, the finish of the luminaire overlaps the thermal insulation ring. If this recommendation is not taken into account, then the appearance of the ceiling will be spoiled. Light bulbs that are used in lamps must have a special coating.

2. Power. When purchasing products and subsequent planning of installation, consider the power of the product. This is important given the potential for product heating and surface damage. If the PVC film heats up more than 60 degrees Celsius, this can lead to deformation of an expensive structure. To avoid such problems, the power of conventional lamps should not be more than 60, and halogen - 35 watts. If additional thermal insulation is provided, then the use of lamps of higher power is allowed.

3. Installation. Please note that when installing spotlights, a certain margin of distance between the base and stretch ceilings is required. On average, products with halogens take 10-12 centimeters, and with incandescent lamps - 5-7 centimeters. It is forbidden for the body of the tension web and the body of the light source to touch each other. On the video of the installation you can see this nuance. As for the diameter for mounting the lamp, it should not be more than 15 centimeters. If the products are installed in rooms with high humidity, then it will be prudent to install products with protection against moisture and dust (IP65 series). When using halogens, remember that they can be powered by different voltages (220 or 12 volts). In the latter case, the use of a transformer is mandatory.

Which fixtures are best for a stretch ceiling

What to consider when installing fixtures?

Depending on the functionality of the room where the installation of fixtures is planned, select the appropriate device.

The following lamp options are available here:

• halogens;
• fluorescent lamps;
• incandescent;
• cardan;
• Spotlights.

When choosing, it is worth focusing on the permissible power of the product. So, maximum power built-in lamps should be 40 watts, halogen bulbs - 20-40 watts, and conventional lamps - 60 watts.

Of all the options listed, spotlights are the most in demand. It's easy to explain. It is they who provide the expected effect of light, allow you to correctly illuminate or zone the room.

At the same time, spotlights must meet a number of requirements:

• the built-in part must be round. There are no special requirements for the outside - here it is allowed to show a flight of fancy;
• seat diameter - from one centimeter or more. This is a key point, because the installed light source must reliably cover the heat-insulating ring (the latter is fixed to the tension fabric);
• the presence of a massive side that hides a special ring is a must.

Before performing work, it is worth carrying out a number of preparatory measures:

• conduct wiring to the installation site (this will be mentioned below);
• put step-down transformers (relevant if lamps powered by 12 volts are mounted);
• mount in the right places of fastening;
• calculate the required number of fixtures. There are two points to consider here - the amount of electricity consumed and the quality of lighting. To avoid problems, the scheme for installing lighting sources should be drawn and analyzed in advance. As for the calculation itself, it is recommended to mount one lamp per 1.5-2 meters of area. At the same time, keep in mind that exceeding or reducing the allowable number of fixtures will look ugly.

• Perform all installation work after turning off the light. In doing so, use dielectric gloves able to protect against domestic voltage. It is not recommended to carry out wiring work without the appropriate experience;
• during the installation process, it may be necessary to install holes in the ceiling. To avoid damage to existing wiring, it will not be superfluous to find an installation plan. In extreme cases, it is worth looking for a wiring installation place using a special device;
  when working with halogens, it is worth working with rubber gloves. If you touch the surface of the lamp with your fingers, then turbidity and subsequent failure of the device are possible;
• when choosing, keep in mind that the light can shine through the stretch fabric. To avoid this problem, give preference to special fixtures. Their feature is that only mounting elements enter the ceiling. In this case, the light source itself (bulb) should be mounted in a decorative product. A variant of the product with a special protective case is possible;
• when installing halogens, it is recommended to buy a device for a soft start, which guarantees maximum product life and no consequences in case of power surges.

Installation of spotlights in a stretch ceiling

Installing spot-type luminaires: positive and negative

Installing spotlights has several advantages:

1. Convenience of lighting. If necessary, it is possible to highlight a specific part of the room, which is very useful when zoning.

2. Guaranteed uniformity in lighting. The compactness of the device allows you to install it in any part of the room.

This means that there are no more unlit areas in the room.

Many people believe that installing a chandelier with a large number of lamps is guaranteed to solve the lighting problem.

But it's not.

Even the most powerful light source may not be able to cope with the illumination of distant areas.

In addition, there is always a problem with the appearance of its own shadow in a certain corner.

3. Profitability. One of the main advantages of spotlights is the minimum energy consumption. As a result, the bill for light will be lower.

4. Compactness of spotlights allows you to successfully save space. Thanks to this, it is possible to organize even the most intricate design.

5. The light is scattered at an angle of 30-40 degrees. Thanks to this, it is possible to qualitatively illuminate objects that are on the floor. This feature is useful when organizing a workplace where high-quality lighting is needed.

6. Great resource. On average, spotlights can last longer than the usual chandelier.

7. Minimal risk. Most of these light sources are powered by 12 volts, which increases the safety level of the point system, and also saves the owner's money. In addition, any type of lamps (even LEDs) can be installed in point devices.

8. Wide range of colors. Thanks to the variety of lamps, it is possible to create the interior of your dreams.

9. Affordable price. When compared with the cost of buying the same chandelier, then compact light sources are more profitable.

Minuses:

1. High requirements for knowledge at the design stage. In order to competently build lighting using spotlights, it is worth considering a number of factors - wiring rules, features of using a power supply, installation nuances, and so on. With such work, a beginner without skills cannot cope.

2. Many spotlights require a certain installation space, which is unacceptable for rooms with low ceilings.

3. Such products are too close to the tension web. This creates certain risks of overheating and damage to the surface.

In this video you will see the whole process of installing a spotlight

Installation of spotlights: nuances and secrets

The process of mounting point-type light sources is organized in two important stages - preparation for fasteners and installation itself.

The preparation process takes place according to the following algorithm:

• determine in advance the attachment points where the products will be installed;
  pull the conductors to the installation site, which will subsequently be switched with the light source. Please note that for each product it is worth pulling up individual wires, after which they should be combined in a box;
• check that the wiring and connection is correct. Do the work with a multimeter. At the same stage, make sure how well the racks and frame are fixed, whether the number of lighting points meets the current requirements;
• install structures intended for the subsequent installation of fixtures. Here you will need to supply elements for fastening and subsequent installation of the canvas;
  light sources are fastened to special fittings or to fixing devices intended for this purpose (as a rule, it is on them that the power cable and protection device are installed);
• mount the ceiling and after completing the work, make cuts to install the ring and wiring. Glue the ring on the marked place. The latter performs two functions - it helps the tension fabric withstand the load, and also provides a hole of the required diameter for connecting (wiring out). Before fixing the fixtures to the stretch ceiling, make sure that the restrictive ring is glued correctly and in good quality. Otherwise, during the performance of work, the fabric or film web may be damaged;
• use plastic rings for work (specially designed for lamps). Alternatively, universal products may be used;
• remove the wires laid at the last stage from the cut part.

The next stage is the installation of spotlights in a stretch ceiling.

Correct and incorrect installation of spotlights

Here the sequence is:

• under the surface of the tensile structure, find plastic clips for fixtures. Attach a special circle to this place. Please note that the diameter of the hole in the retainer must be covered by the mounted light source;
• connect the fixtures to the wiring and fasten them to the base. If you want to decorate the surface, it is recommended to make a border from a decorative profile. Press the spring fasteners of the lamp to the body part and install them in the already prepared opening. Try not to twist. The ideal option is to use terminal blocks for connecting wires. Otherwise, the risk of overheating of the wiring or short circuit, which in the case of a stretch ceiling can lead to a number of problems.
  adjust the position of the fixtures (higher or lower). Here, note that the springs on the side allow you to return the device to its original position;
• install the rest of the fixtures in the same way. To exclude overheating of the canvas and its deformation, special rings are put on the lamps (one or two are enough). At the last stage, the lamp is adjusted taking into account the level of the ceiling;
• after completion of work, evaluate the location of the fixtures on the stretch ceiling, the installation level, as well as the angle of light refraction.