Finishing work in any room, be it a residential building, a store or an office, begin with the design ceiling surface. For this there are different ways, but most of them require preliminary leveling of the ceiling. There are several ways to carry out this operation.
This procedure is recommended when the ceiling is too blocked, making use not only impractical, but also dangerous. Before starting work, you must prepare the following tools and materials for leveling the ceiling:
- Level, tape measure, marker - for marking.
- Metal profiles, screws, dowels and a hammer drill - for installing the frame.
- Plasterboard boards and special fasteners for ceiling cladding.
- Putty and a narrow spatula - for sealing joints.
If the ceiling was previously plastered and is now crumbling, then you should remove the coating using a hammer drill and a chisel. If it holds up well, you should tap it to identify weak points. Metal profiles are held on by self-tapping screws, which are not recommended to be screwed into an unreliable surface. Then the resulting dust is removed from the coating and treated 2 times with an antiseptic primer. After this you can start marking:
- First, using a building level and a marker, draw lines near the walls, retreating from them by about 30 cm.
- Opposite lines are connected taking into account the building level, the interval should be 20 cm less than the width of the plasterboard sheets.
- Profiles are applied one by one along these lines and holes are drilled every 15 cm.
- Dowels are inserted into the holes and the profile is secured with self-tapping screws; it is important to take into account the collapse of the ceiling.
Installing a drywall frame on the ceiling Important! If you plan to lay any engineering communications, then this needs to be done at this stage.
Now you need to screw the drywall to the frame with special fasteners; you may need to trim the material along the edges.
After all the sheets have been installed, you should prepare the putty or unpack the finished one. Scoop the material onto a spatula and transfer it to the drywall joint, then stretch it thin layer along the seam. At the end, the ceiling is subjected to further finishing - finishing putty, decorative plaster or coloring.
Installation of drywall on the frame must be carried out very carefully, after laying all communications
Other methods of leveling the ceiling involve the use of various solutions.
Treating a problematic ceiling with plaster
To cope with a curved surface that has some defects, leveling the ceiling with plaster is ideal. For this operation you will need the following tools and materials:
- Scrapers, brushes, chisels, solvent, rags, sponges - to remove old coating.
- Primer, paint brush or a roller for applying it.
- Marker, tape measure, level - for marking.
- A container, mixer or drill with an attachment - for preparing the solution.
- Dry or, beacons, a set of spatulas, as a rule - for application.
- Grater, grater, Sander or just sandpaper for grouting.
Preparatory work
First of all, the surfaces to be treated are cleaned. It is on the ceilings that mold or mildew most often appears, so you need to carefully examine the surface and find all the hot spots, if any. Then the surface should be treated by special means, For example, copper sulfate, drugs "Pufas" or "Homeenpoiste". If significant fragments of the ceiling (or the entire ceiling) are covered with mold, you will have to use an open fire - the surface is treated blowtorch or a gas burner.
Before plastering the ceiling, it is necessary to get rid of mold and mildew.
If the ceiling was previously painted, then the paint is soaked in solvent and removed with sponges. You can also scrape off the coating with a spatula. The whitewash is soaked in water and also removed with a sponge. If the ceiling was previously plastered, then the layer of plaster must be removed using a hammer drill with a chisel attachment. After this, the ceiling is cleaned of all contaminants.
On a note! To increase the roughness of the ceiling and improve adhesion to the plaster, it is recommended to sandblast the surface.
Finally, 2 coats of primer follow. deep penetration and installation of reinforcing mesh if the surfaces are wooden.
Preparing the ceiling surface for leveling with plaster Installation of beacons
- First you need to find out the thickness of the plaster layer. To do this, you need to use a building level to determine how blocked the ceiling is, and add to this the thickness of the beacon (0.6 or 1 cm).
On a note! For plastering walls, it is permissible to add another 0.5 cm of margin, but there should be as little plaster on the ceiling as possible.
- Mark this point on opposite walls 30 cm from the corners, screw in the screws and pull the thread; under this thread, screw two screws into the ceiling 15 cm from the walls so that the fasteners barely touch it.
Construction cord allows you to quickly mark the ceiling for beacons - Then you should step back 80 cm and tie the thread again and screw in the next pair of screws. This is how you need to mark the entire ceiling.
- After this, you need to prepare the same solution that will be used to level the ceilings, and cut the beacons 30 cm shorter than the length of the ceiling.
- Between each pair of screwed-in screws, apply the solution in small portions, after which the beacon is leaned against it and pressed so that the ridge of the product becomes flush with the heads of the screws.
- Then you need to pause for about 12 hours so that the solution on which the beacons are held dries, and you can start plastering.
- Preparation. The coating is rubbed off sandpaper, after which it is treated with a primer using a brush or roller.
- Applying the first layer. Its maximum thickness is 1 cm. The material is transferred to the ceiling with a spatula, and it is also used to level it. Then it is rubbed with a trowel.
- Applying the finishing layer. Its thickness should be 1-3 mm. This layer must be used to level out all, even the smallest, defects. After it has dried and sanded, the leveling procedure can be considered complete.
Applying plaster
It starts with preparing the solution. If a gypsum mixture is used, it is important to prepare the solution in small portions so that it does not have time to dry out.
On a note! To carry out this procedure, it is better to use a large bucket with a square base. The high walls will prevent the material from splashing, and the shape will allow you to scoop the plaster onto the spatula without leaving any residue.
The technology for leveling the ceiling with plaster is as follows:
VIDEO: How to level a ceiling with your own hands using gypsum plaster
Leveling with putty
This method is suitable if the ceiling surface is relatively flat, does not have significant defects, or has been previously prepared using building mixtures or plasterboards. The main difference between putty and plaster is the grain size. The putty contains filler with a fraction of 0.1-1mm. As a result of its use, a perfectly flat surface is achieved. Applying putty consists of the following steps:
To level the ceiling with putty, you need to apply two layers of material To make the process as fast and convenient as possible, you need to follow some recommendations:
Leveling the ceiling with your own hands is quite simple. You just need to follow the instructions above and be patient. It is better not to rush and delay the procedure for several days, but in the end you will get a good result.
Renovating any room (residential or office) always begins with finishing the ceiling. There are different ways to do this, but no matter which one you choose, painting or wallpapering, etc., first of all, you need to do preparatory work. And the most labor-intensive of them is leveling the ceiling with your own hands.
Tools needed to level the ceiling
- Three types of metal spatulas different sizes, with a rubberized handle.
- Capacity for 15-20 liters, with high sides and straight walls. High sides will protect from excessive splashes when mixing, and straight walls will make it possible to remove the solution with a spatula without leaving any residue.
- Mixer for preparing the working solution.
- Paint brush and roller for applying primer.
- Construction sandpaper for final sanding of the ceiling surface for painting.
Before you begin the ceiling leveling procedure, you need to prepare the surface by clearing it of old paint, whitewash or other coating. And the more carefully this is done, the better the subsequent finishing operations will be performed. The surface is usually cleaned with a special scraper or spatula. Dry paint can also be removed. But you can do this job much faster and with less effort if you generously moisten the surface of the ceiling with water and create a draft in the room. This will cause the old coating to begin to bubble and removing it will not be difficult. After its removal, the ceiling must be thoroughly washed.
The next step is to decide on the alignment method. The choice of material for the primer depends on this. They differ in purpose:
- under water-based paint,
- under putty or plaster,
- suitable for all types - universal.
Preliminary stage (for critically uneven surfaces): ceiling plaster
Plastering the ceiling is a highly labor-intensive process. And although there are many various methods To eliminate uneven ceilings, leveling the ceiling with plaster is still relevant. And if the level difference approaches the 5 centimeter mark, then this is the only Possible Solution in obtaining quality repairs.
You can plaster any surface: concrete and wood, columns, beams and other structures made of steel. Before applying plaster to the ceiling, preparatory work should be carried out.
Preparation
Installation of beacons
Plastering work is usually carried out on beacons, the installation of which is the most critical moment. If they are installed correctly, you will end up with a perfectly even plastered surface. Therefore, it is important that all the technology for plastering the ceiling according to beacons is followed.
- This work must begin by leveling the room. A zero mark must be marked on the walls. A paint cord is used for this.
- The location of the point that is the lowest on the ceiling is determined. This is the site where the first lighthouse was installed.
- Under the beacons, every 300 mm over the entire surface, plaster marks are applied in small molds, on which they will be installed. This must be done in such a way that there are as few connections as possible, since these are where errors are most often made.
- It is not recommended to lay a layer of plaster on the ceiling more than 5 cm. Therefore, the height of the beacons should not exceed this value. To control them in the horizontal plane, a two-meter level will be required. It is carried out after the installation of all beacons is completed.
Plastering on beacons
When you are finished installing the beacons, you can begin finishing the ceiling with plaster using the following technology:
- Prepare a working solution - gypsum, cement or lime. It must be remembered that when using a gypsum-based solution, each subsequent layer is applied 20-25 minutes after applying the previous one; cement - no earlier than two hours; lime - only after the previous layer has turned white, without allowing it to dry completely.
- Apply even layer spray without leveling it.
- Several primer layers are distributed onto the spray, observing the time required to consolidate the applied solution. They must be leveled each time and ensure that they do not exceed the level of the beacons, and also that various defects such as cavities or pits do not appear on the primed surface. The thickness of the covering layer of plaster depends on this.
- Remove beacons with stamps. This is done after the last primer layer has been distributed, and the solution used is applied to the places where they were located.
- Check the evenness of the plaster using a rule that is applied while changing direction. The irregularities identified in this case are cut off or, conversely, enlarged with an additional layer. At the same time it is necessary to seal internal corners and the junction between the ceiling and the wall. This work is done with a grater.
- In conclusion plastering works, apply a covering layer, which is carefully leveled, creating smooth surface.
If the difference in the ceiling level is less than 5 cm, you can level the ceilings with dry mixtures. It is advisable to use them for small volumes of work, in particular for filling potholes, when purchasing large quantities of other materials is not profitable financially. The best of them is considered to be Rotband (made in Germany) - a universal mixture for plastering work, based on gypsum.
After completing the “rough” leveling with plaster, you can begin finishing leveling with putty.
Main stage: ceiling putty
To treat ceilings without significant differences, it is best to use ceiling leveling with putty. Putty differs from plaster in the size of the filler. Hers is small, not exceeding 1000 microns. Therefore, it is most suitable for eliminating small defects on wooden and other surfaces, such as cracks and other irregularities. This achieves perfect smoothness.
The putty is applied in a very thin layer. Before applying putty, all layers are removed from the ceiling old plaster(if there was one) to the ground. Small irregularities, as well as any bumps, are smoothed out with construction sandpaper or a joint float with a long handle. Then a painting mesh can be attached to the surface to be finished using PVA glue or a special composition. It is often called serpyanka because of its similarity to gauze. Recently, you can buy self-adhesive serpyanka on sale.
Having completed the preparatory stage, it is necessary to prepare a solution for putty. To do this, 30 kg of dry putty mixture is poured with 12 liters of water and quickly mixed. It is best to use a construction mixer for this, equipped with a large whisk, or a drill with a special stirrer. When ready, the consistency of the mixture should resemble thick sour cream.
All further work must be completed promptly, since the prepared solution very quickly begins to set and harden. This is done as follows: using a narrow spatula, the solution is applied to a spatula with a wide blade. Then it is transferred to the ceiling surface and pressed tightly against it. There is no need to waste time smoothing out any stains that may arise. They are easily removed after hardening using a grout mesh. As soon as the last applied layer of putty has dried, the entire surface must be sanded. For this purpose, a special grout with a mesh is used, the minimum coarseness of which is 120 units.
So that the work performed differs high quality and delight you with the beauty of a flat and smooth surface, it is better to purchase all materials (primer, putty and paint) from one manufacturer.
Ceiling putty step by step
So, do-it-yourself ceiling putty can be divided into the following stages:
- Preparatory, during which cleaning is carried out concrete floor, which consists in removing all irregularities that are higher than two mm. For this, a hammer drill equipped with a special attachment is used.
- Ceiling primer with a composition that has deep penetrating properties. It is done with a paint brush or roller.
- Applying starting putty as a leveling layer. To do this, it is applied to the ceiling surface in a layer of 1 cm. According to consistency, ready solution The putty should be like thick sour cream. To obtain a smooth surface, a metal polisher is used.
- The final stage is finishing putty on the ceiling. It is recommended to apply it in two layers. If the room temperature is above 18º C and it is well ventilated, then it can be done four hours after applying the starting putty. Under other conditions, drying of the previous layer may take longer and the transition to the final stage will have to be postponed until the next day.
- If the conditions necessary for the putty layer to quickly harden are met in the room, then the very next day you can begin sanding the surface. It is advisable to use a vibration grinder for this.
Whatever method of leveling the ceiling you choose, do not forget that before painting, a layer of primer must be applied to the leveled surface, for which you can use the same paint that will be used for the main painting.
Putty application technique
Take two spatulas - one with a wide blade (in left hand). The prepared solution is applied to it. IN right hand– working spatula.
The mixture should be taken a little at a time, trying to distribute it in the center of the blade of the working spatula. It should be applied as follows so that it lies completely on the surface of the ceiling.
You must move in such a way that the surface is even and smooth; you cannot go back and redo finished areas.
To prevent streaks on them, the working spatula should be held at a slight angle to the ceiling surface. This will allow its middle part to level the putty over the surface. In this case, one edge moves along the untreated surface, and the other (the one that moved along the already treated area) will be in the air, which will provide a smooth surface without streaks or scratches.
The quality of puttying work largely depends on the correct choice of spatula. Its blade should be of medium hardness, since excessive softness causes excessive deflection of the spatula, and its side edges turn forward. As a result, stripes remain. Therefore, a standard spatula needs to be modified a little by sharpening the corners with a file. At the same time, the end of the blade will become somewhat oval. This will ensure convenience and safety in work, and the finished surface will be of excellent quality.
Video instructions for do-it-yourself ceiling putty
When planning to perform work on leveling the ceiling, first assess the condition of the surface. It is good to level ceilings using building mixtures when the distortion is not very obvious.
Ceiling Leveling Tools
To level the ceiling, stock up good tools. You will need a roller and a paint brush to apply the primer, as well as construction sandpaper for sanding. You will also need metal spatulas - it is better to have three of them, of different sizes. Tools with rubberized handles are more convenient to use. If you decide on plastering, prepare a container in which you will mix the composition; it should have high sides and straight walls. This way there will be less splashing when mixing, and straight walls make it possible to completely select the solution with a spatula, which will ensure more economical consumption. The primer itself must be selected depending on what materials will be used in the future - it can be a mixture for water-based paint, under plaster or putty, as well as universal mixtures.
Leveling the ceiling with building mixtures
To determine the degree of skew, use a laser level. If the distortion is no more than two centimeters, you can use a building mixture intended for this purpose to level the ceiling - for example, rodbunt is perfect. For large uneven areas, it is recommended to use gypsum board.
The surface must be thoroughly cleaned of dust, dirt and remnants of the old coating. Rinse the ceiling and let it dry. Next, the ceiling is primed. It’s better to choose a universal one primer mixture for all types of finishing. The next step in leveling the ceiling will be to seal cracks and various defects using rodbunt.
When the gaps, cracks and other defects are eliminated, you need to putty the ceiling. Apply the putty composition with a metal spatula; movements should be measured and viscous. Depending on the unevenness of the ceiling, the putty layer should be 1-3 mm thick. The putty will take approximately 6-8 hours to dry, depending on the thickness of the layer. After drying, you need to grout.
Leveling the ceiling with plasterboard sheets
Using drywall to level the ceiling will in some ways be easier, but the process will still require certain skills. Leveling should also begin with thorough cleaning of the surface intended for work. After preparation, the sheathing is attached to the ceiling, and sheets of plasterboard are attached to it using self-tapping screws.
Anyone can level the ceiling efficiently and quickly with their own hands. You just need to decide on the method and familiarize yourself with its basic technological features. Our recommendations and step-by-step algorithms will help you.
The content of the article:
It is impossible to finish the ceiling without first leveling it. Any unevenness and potholes will be visible after whitewashing, painting and wallpapering, which will undoubtedly spoil appearance. Usually, surface leveling begins after dismantling the old coating and sealing cracks. Today, there are many methods to make the ceiling even. They differ in practicality, cost and complexity of implementation. All methods are divided into two types - dry and wet. Each of them has certain features, pros and cons.
Wet and dry ceiling leveling
The technology of wet (damp) ceiling leveling can be used on surfaces with uneven surfaces up to 5 cm deep. It consists of finishing the base with building mixtures.
There are several methods for wet ceiling leveling:
- Plastering. Performed with unevenness from two to five centimeters.
- putty. It is carried out with unevenness up to two centimeters.
Dry methods for leveling the ceiling include:
- Sheathing with plasterboard. Plasterboard sheets- an excellent option to level the coating and implement original design ideas. With their help you can make a figured or multi-level coating. Under this design you can hide wiring and pipes. The market offers many models with different performance characteristics. For example, leveling the ceiling with plasterboard can be done even in the bathroom and kitchen if you choose moisture-resistant sheets.
- Covering with PVC panels and siding. The main advantages of such materials are strength and durability. The materials are moisture resistant and suitable for finishing any room, although they look less aesthetically pleasing. Also, the disadvantages include the relatively high cost. The materials line the ceiling and are finishing. As a rule, they do not require additional finishing.
- Installation tensile structures . This is one of the most original options ceiling leveling. They can be made of matte or glossy PVC ceiling, as well as on a fabric base. This method is more of a ceiling finishing that does not require preliminary leveling.
Features of leveling the ceiling with putty
The method of leveling the ceiling with putty is used to process floors that do not have significant differences. Putty differs from plaster in the size of the filler. Hers is small in size, no more than 1 thousand microns. That is why it is used to eliminate small defects on concrete, wood and other surfaces.
The main advantage of putty is that it can be used to achieve a perfectly smooth surface. In addition, this method is relatively inexpensive and durable. An additional advantage of putty is its environmental friendliness, artificial materials(expanded polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, plastic) are not used in this case.
To work, you only need a deep penetration primer, starting and finishing putty. These are environmentally friendly materials that do not emit odors and chemical substances. To level the ceiling with putty, you need spatulas, a roller and a drill with an attachment for stirring the compounds in the container.
The main disadvantage of leveling the ceiling with putty is the laboriousness of the work, since the putty layer must be very thin.
The surface can be puttied only after removing the old finishing layer and sealing the cracks. It is important to apply two layers of primer before work. This will contribute to better adhesion of the putty and ceiling covering. Before starting work, it is recommended to cover the ceiling with painting mesh or fiberglass using PVA glue. This will increase the strength of the surface and prevent future cracks.
- Prepare the solution. Putty for treating large surfaces is sold dry. It must be diluted according to the instructions. It should be homogeneous, without lumps and have a consistency similar to thick sour cream.
- Using a narrow spatula, apply a little mortar along the blade of a wide spatula and apply it to the ceiling. If you plan to apply several layers of putty, the thickness of the first should not exceed one centimeter.
- After processing the coating, you need to wait until the starting putty has completely dried before proceeding with further work. Optimal temperature for speedy drying - +18 degrees.
- Sand the surface with fine-grained paper.
- Apply a second layer of finishing putty as thinly as possible.
- After drying, we also sand and prime it.
Please note that it is better to use putty and primer from the same manufacturer, as they will combine better with each other.
How to level a ceiling with plaster
Leveling the ceiling with plaster is carried out if the differences are up to five centimeters. This is a rather labor-intensive process, but it cannot be avoided if the level differences are large. This usually happens in houses old building with curved floors. You can plaster a variety of surfaces - concrete, wood, as well as columns, beams and other metal structures.
Among the advantages this method when leveling the ceiling, one thing that can be highlighted is that the plaster does not “steal” the height of the room, as, for example, suspension systems. In addition, plaster, like putty, is an environmentally friendly material. The work requires tools such as a special spatula, a container for mixing the solution, a drill with a stirring attachment, a paint brush or roller.
The difficulty of performing the work and the main disadvantage of this method is that wet and dry mortar, if the work is carried out incorrectly, can fall off the ceiling and injure a person. In this case, it is important to carefully follow the instructions and pay attention preparatory stage surface treatment.
Before work it is necessary to prime the surface. The plaster must be securely attached to the coating. It is recommended to level the ceiling with a mesh before applying the solution. For differences of up to five centimeters, you can glue PVA paint, but for differences of five or more centimeters, it is advisable to secure a metal reinforcing mesh with special staples.
- We install beacons in 30 cm increments. This is necessary for significant unevenness. Markings will help level the surface as efficiently as possible.
- Prepare the solution. It can be based on lime, gypsum or cement.
- Apply the mixture by spraying it onto the ceiling. The so-called “combing” method is used for large differences.
- After fixing the solution, level it with a second layer. Please note that when leveling the ceiling with cement, apply the next coating after 2 hours, when using gypsum mortar - after 20 minutes, with lime mortar - after the layer has acquired whiteness.
- We prime the coating and remove the beacons.
- We process corners and joints.
- If necessary, apply a final topcoat.
If the differences are up to five centimeters, then preliminary “combing” can be omitted. Simply apply the first layer using a ladle and trowel.
Rules for leveling the ceiling with plasterboard
Leveling the ceiling using plasterboard sheets is a simple and reliable technology. Unlike PVC panels and siding, drywall - environmentally friendly material. The undeniable advantage of this method is the absence of “dirty” wet processes. The only exception is when sealing seams with putty.
After installing drywall, there is practically no construction waste, except for scraps of material. In addition, the space between the base and suspended plasterboard ceilings can be used usefully, for example, for heat and sound insulation and laying communications. Drywall itself has good soundproofing properties, and also insulates the room and is a fireproof material.
Installation of such a suspended structure does not require special tools or skills. And the design of the future ceiling depends only on your imagination and abilities. With drywall you can bring almost any idea to life.
At the same time, leveling the ceiling with plasterboard also has its disadvantages. Finishing the ceiling with plasterboard will “take away” at least 8-10 cm of the height of the room, and possibly more, depending on the curvature of the ceiling. In addition, drywall is not resistant to direct exposure to water. If flooding occurs top floor, then the material can not only lose its shape and deform, but also collapse. After drying, the drywall will still remain deformed and will require replacement.
Before starting work, you need to prepare the surface. To do this, you need to clean off the old cladding, seal the cracks, get rid of stains of grease, rust, soot, mold, and prime the surface. To carry out the work you will need gypsum boards, metal profiles, and fasteners. Give preference to galvanized parts, they are resistant to corrosion and will last longer.
We carry out the work according to the following instructions:
- We make markings on the ceiling in places of future fastening with a pencil.
- Using self-tapping screws, we fix the profiles to the ceiling.
- We lay out wiring and communication lines. For convenience and safety, it is advisable to use a box.
- Preparing drywall sheets for installation. We give them the desired shape and size.
- We fix the details to metal profile self-tapping screws in increments of 15-20 cm.
- We cover the seams between the sheets with sickle tape using PVA glue or starting putty.
- After drying, we clean the joints and attach an abrasive mesh to the vibratory sander.
- We prime the surface.
How to level a ceiling with plasterboard - watch the video:
You can bring the ceiling into proper shape different ways, but they all come down to two directly opposite finishing options: dry and wet.
Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages. Let's take a closer look at them. Perhaps this will help you choose the most optimal one.
Dry method of leveling the ceiling
The dry method of leveling the ceiling includes any suspended structures: tension, slatted, plasterboard. The advantages include the following points.
There is no need for careful preparation of the surface, since the false ceiling is not mounted on top of the old one, but at some distance from it. This allows you to reduce repair time and save some cash.
This design easily hides differences in floor slabs. In case of strong unevenness, the distance from the main ceiling is larger.
Such ceilings have one, but significant, drawback - the height of the room is reduced.
This is due to the fact that the frame suspended structures takes away several centimeters in height. In addition, in the space between the new and old ceilings, the now so popular Spotlights. Houses of the old layout cannot boast of space anyway, but here there is an additional understatement.
For some, this obstacle becomes insurmountable and they are inclined to favor traditional way leveling the ceiling with plaster. This technology is called wet.
Wet method of leveling the ceiling
Well, let's evaluate the pros and cons of this decision. Let's go to reverse order and first let's talk about the disadvantages of the wet method of leveling the ceiling. They exist, and quite a lot of them.
The job of pulling out a ceiling using plaster is quite messy. You must be prepared for the fact that the apartment will be practically uninhabitable for some time. And there’s a lot of spring cleaning ahead of you.
In addition, this process is quite labor-intensive and time-consuming. If you have a suspended ceiling installed in a few hours, then in this case you will have to stock up on considerable patience.
The more unevenness and differences, the more expensive the ceiling will cost, as the thickness of the layer increases. Accordingly, the consumption of building material increases.
So why, having a number of disadvantages, the wet method of leveling the ceiling has not yet sunk into oblivion?
It's simple.
Firstly, the ceiling only goes down by minimum required. As we have already noted, for some this is very important.
And secondly, it has good strength. For example, you can safely attach a built-in wardrobe to it. And it is not possible to spoil such a ceiling if it is made in compliance with all technologies.
This concludes our short review of ceiling leveling methods. Which option are you more inclined to? And why?
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Home is a cozy family hearth where you want to return every day. Today, the demands of modern residents regarding interior decoration apartments and houses have increased noticeably, but one common problem in many residential premises remains - uneven ceilings. There are several proven tips on this matter from: experienced craftsmen How to level the ceiling with your own hands.
Methods for leveling the ceiling
There are several ways to make the ceiling perfectly flat, which can be combined into two groups - “wet” and “dry” finishing. The photos presented in the article will help you understand more specifically how to level the ceiling.
The first finishing option involves the use of dry building mixtures, which are diluted with water before use. The dry ceiling can be leveled using plasterboard, plastic panels or so-called suspended ceilings. The choice of how to level the ceiling with your own hands directly depends on the presence of communications under the ceiling and the degree of difference in ceiling height.
So, if communications are laid under the ceiling, then a “dry” finishing method is used using the system suspended ceilings. The best way to dry level a ceiling depends on the preferences and financial capabilities of the owner.
In the absence of communications, the choice of technology is determined based on the degree of ceiling drop. So, if the height difference exceeds 5 cm, then the “dry” finishing method is more rational. If the difference is less than 5 cm, then you can level the crooked ceiling using both “dry” and “wet” methods using plaster and putty.
If the difference is less than 2 cm, the ceiling is simply covered with two types of putty, and if the difference is from 2 to 5 cm, then the “raw” method in this case involves additional strengthening of the ceiling surface with a reinforcing mesh.
How to level a ceiling with plasterboard?
Finishing with plasterboard is a democratic option for “dry” ceiling finishing.
To begin with, the height of the ceiling base is determined, i.e. its lowest point. Next, marks are applied to the walls, along which the frame system of profiles is installed. It is especially important to know how to properly level the ceiling with your own hands using plasterboard: the frame of such a ceiling must be securely fastened in order to avoid possible cracks in the ceiling in the future.
The resulting frame is sheathed with sheets of plasterboard, and the seams between the sheets are filled with special putty. After the putty has completely dried, the surface is thoroughly sanded.
How to level a ceiling with plaster?
How to level and paint a ceiling with your own hands.
Applying plaster is an option for “wet” finishing of ceilings. The ceiling surface is thoroughly cleaned and coated with primer. For better adhesion of the plaster to the ceiling surface and to avoid further cracking of the plaster coating, a reinforcing mesh is used, which is secured with an adhesive or using special staples.
In places where a thicker layer is needed, the plaster is “combed”, the coating is allowed to dry, the surface is primed again and the next layer of plaster is applied. After the plaster has dried, the ceiling is puttied. A video on how to level a ceiling using this method will help you visualize the entire finishing process.
How to level a ceiling with putty?
This seemingly simple alignment method requires serious skills.
Indeed, in addition to cleaning, you will also have to level the ceiling in the apartment using a hammer drill with a special attachment, cutting off all protrusions exceeding 2 cm. Next, the ceiling is primed and covered with a leveling layer starting putty. After this, apply in 2 layers with a break of 3-4 hours finishing putty, and the next day the surface is sanded to achieve a perfectly smooth coating.
Video of leveling the ceiling with your own hands
Ceiling leveling
High-quality ceiling leveling is a task quite feasible for home handyman. Knowing the main steps technological process, you can easily deal with it yourself. All you need is tools and some construction and repair skills.
We suggest considering several ways to hide unevenness and differences in the ceiling in order to choose the most suitable option.
Dry and wet ceiling leveling technology
If the ceiling has cracks and unevenness, this will become noticeable after painting or wallpapering. Therefore, before starting cosmetic repairs, the ceiling must be made perfectly flat. The final result depends on how well this work is done.
According to the execution technology, everything known methods Ceiling leveling can be divided into two groups: dry method and wet method. Which one to choose depends on the condition of the surface and the planned repair budget.
Wet leveling technology is suitable for filling minor unevenness. Plastering work is carried out using building mixtures. Plaster will correct surface flaws from 2 to 50 mm, for more minor defects It's better to use putty.
Wet work is quite labor-intensive and time-consuming. If held indoors fine finishing or major renovation, leveling the ceiling in this way is best suited. In other cases, you will also have to spend time protecting the furniture from the solution.
The dry method allows you to smooth out any, even significant defects ceilings. This primarily applies to cases where one wall in the room is higher than the other. There are several varieties of this technology:
- installation of false ceilings
- covering with siding or PVC panels
- installation of a suspended ceiling structure
Each of them has its own pros and cons that need to be taken into account when choosing. If the repair is carried out in a room where the condition of the ceilings leaves much to be desired, any of the above technologies is quite suitable for leveling the surface.
Features of leveling ceilings using plaster
Plaster is well suited for leveling differences of no more than 50 mm. The technology is used for preliminary preparation surfaces, but can also be used as a decorative finish.
Plastering is perfect option for a standard living space with low ceilings.
Unlike suspended structures, such finishing does not “steal” the space. In addition, this material is durable and environmentally friendly. After leveling, the surface can be covered with a finishing decorative layer of plaster, wallpaper or slabs.
Before starting repairs, the room is vacated and the floor is covered with film. The finishing work begins with a thorough cleaning of the ceiling. First, the old coating layer is removed from the surface, and the base is washed if necessary.
To carry out the work you must prepare:
- rule (for alignment by beacons)
- container for mixing the solution
- plastering trowel
- putty knife
- grater and grater
- rubber sponge
- electric drill with metal and mixing attachment
If indoors high humidity, due to which mold forms, it is better to treat the ceiling before starting repairs special composition, for example “Homeenpoisto” from the Tikkurila company.
For priming work on concrete, Knauf “Betokontakt” is used, which improves adhesion to the treated surface of the plaster layer. To reduce the likelihood of peeling and cracking of the coating, the primed ceiling is reinforced with reinforced mesh.
For repairs, it is better to purchase materials from one manufacturer; this will allow you to obtain a durable coating without peeling.
The composition necessary for leveling the plaster is prepared from a dry mixture, gradually adding water and stirring thoroughly. The solution should have the consistency of thick sour cream.
The simplest way to level the ceiling efficiently is to install beacons.
This is especially true for surfaces with significant curvatures. Beacons are installed at a distance of half a meter from each other. To check the deviation from the horizon, you need to apply the rule to the ceiling surface.
To begin with, use laser level The wall is marked, then the opposite points are connected with a fishing line, which will serve as a guide. To put a mark, plaster mortar Throw it onto the ceiling with a wide spatula, and then level it with the rule.
The stretched line should cross the lighthouse in the center. You need to wait 12 hours for the solution that holds the beacons to dry. After that you can start.
The solution is poured onto the area between the beacons, distributing the mixture using a rule. After the plaster has set, the surface is washed with a damp sponge and smoothed with a facade spatula.
When the area has been completely processed, the markings are removed and the resulting crack is sealed with putty. After the leveling layer has dried, it is treated with a primer again.
Plastering the ceiling is a long process, time and full cycle sometimes up to three weeks. If as decorative covering Wallpaper or tiles protrude from the ceiling, it is better to wait a month.
Dry ceiling leveling methods
Ceiling covering
If ceiling tiles“walking” or the ceilings have significant defects, the efforts of the plasterers will be in vain, and the money given for repairs will be thrown away. After some time, the coating will begin to peel off and become covered with cracks.
When the surface of the ceiling has minor defects, you can cover it with polymer tiles, mounting them with glue.
Read also: Foam tiles - modern and inexpensive option ceiling finishing
A good solution would be the so-called false ceiling.
It will not only successfully hide wires or technological designs, but will also give the room a modern look.
Siding, plywood, laminate and even metal can serve as a false ceiling. But most often, the simplest structures are made from sheets of plasterboard, which are fixed to a lathing made of wood or aluminum.
Before you begin the sheathing, you need to draw a diagram of the frame to which the drywall will be attached. This can be done by hand or in any architectural program.
Finishing begins with cleaning the ceiling. The old layer is removed mechanically, seal cracks and prime the surface.
Drywall sheets are cut into elements the right size, are fixed to the profile with self-tapping screws, setting a pitch of 15-20 cm, after which the joints are taped with sickle tape.
To do this, use PVA or putty. When the composition has completely dried, the seams are cleaned using a vibratory grinder on which an abrasive mesh is stretched. The surface is primed, after which paint can be applied.
Installation of PVC panels or siding is carried out according to a similar scheme, with the only difference being that the application finishing coating not required here.
Drywall is relatively inexpensive finishing material, which can be successfully used for renovation of any premises. It will hide significant irregularities, cracks and other imperfections.
The space can be used for laying additional heat and sound insulation. Since the plasterboard sheet is quite strong and flexible, geometric shape There can be any such design. It must be remembered that the material is deformed when exposed to moisture, so if a leak occurs, the coating will have to be replaced.
