Stretch ceiling is an excellent solution for room decor. It can last for many years without requiring additional maintenance costs. When operating such a structure, various circumstances may arise that will require you to urgently dismantle the stretch ceiling yourself, rather than wait for specialists.
To do this, you need to know several nuances of carrying out such work.
Unpleasant situations that will lead to replacement or repair of the tension fabric can arise unexpectedly and at any time.
Here are the most common of them:
damage to communications laid above the suspended ceiling;
accumulation of water in the canvas, which occurred after flooding by neighbors or rain;
mechanical rupture of the tensioned base due to careless handling;
carrying out renovations to the room in which it is located suspended ceiling;
changing a boring picture.
Types of dismantling
To eliminate all the mentioned reasons, two types of dismantling are used:
The choice of one of them depends on the extent of the damage to the ceiling.
The last type of installation is used only when absolutely necessary - when the film cannot be restored or the decision is made to completely replace the background. In other cases, partial dismantling of the stretch ceiling is done. With it, work is carried out only on part ceiling surface, and in the case of a complete one, it will be necessary to dismantle all its components.
What do you need to know about the ceiling covering before removing it?
Before independently removing a stretch ceiling, you need to understand several important points:
- determine the exact composition of the tension fabric;
- don't forget to take everything off lighting located on the canvas, and for this you need to turn off the power to the room;
- find out the type of fastening of the canvas to the profile, if it was fastened by specialists.
The integrity of the film being removed depends on the last point.
Three types of fastening are used:
- Harpunovoe. At the production stage, a hook-shaped edging is made along the edges of the canvas.
At his expense tension material securely attached to the baguette. This mount is simply installed and, if necessary, removed.
- Cam.
How to properly remove a suspended ceiling
Its design has a special movable part, called a cam, which, under the tension of the canvas, presses its edges to the surface and firmly secures them. This mount is the most difficult to dismantle.
- Klinovoe. When using it, the tension fabric is fixed in the groove of the baguette due to a wedge. Compared to previous types, this mount is the easiest to disassemble.
What tools are useful for removing the ceiling?
Their choice depends entirely on the material of the tension fabric.
The dismantling of its polyvinyl chloride type cannot be done without a heat gun, and for polyester it is not needed. Common tools are:
- ladder;
- anti-stapler (widely known as a crocodile);
- painting knife;
- putty knife;
- pliers.
The last two tools must be prepared for working with fragile material; their sharp edges can cut the canvas.
To avoid this, their edges need to be processed sandpaper, and seal the working surfaces with reinforced tape.
But even if you have all the tools, you need to have an assistant, since the process of removing the canvas is labor-intensive, especially if a fan heater (gun) is used.
How to partially or completely remove a suspended ceiling
Before dismantling, it is necessary to clear the space under the tension fabric. If you need to disassemble a small part of the ceiling, but there is no heat gun, you can use a powerful hair dryer. Initially, it is necessary to remove the decorative insert located between the ceiling and the wall.
And then the work is carried out step by step depending on the type of fastening.
Cam mount
You don't need to use a gun to dismantle it. This makes the work easier, but it must be done with special care, since the spatula will directly touch the film.
Work order:
- Having measured approximately 50 cm from the corner of the room, insert a spatula between two cams and then press the movable one.
- The material will begin to come out of the clamps due to the tension created.
So it is necessary to release all the edges that are within the desired perimeter.
Harpoon mount
Easily amenable to frequent disassembly, so its dismantling is carried out quickly.
You should start from the corner of the room.
Work order:
- The air in the room is heated to 70 0C by a heat gun. This is a necessary measure that helps relieve the pressure of the fabric on the fastening. After heating, the canvas increases in volume and sags.
- The harpoon is picked up with a spatula and pulled upward, and then its hook is picked up with the help of pliers and released from the profile.
- The remaining part of the canvas is removed in a similar way.
Wedge mount
It can be easily dismantled.
A decorative insert is used as fastening, which acts as a wedge.
Work order:
- Detach the baguette, after which the tension of the canvas will weaken.
- A screwdriver is inserted into the released plug and removed.
- After the previous procedure, the canvas can be easily removed from the grooves on the profile.
If the ceiling is filled with water, all these actions are performed only after it has been eliminated.
Watch a video about dismantling a stretch ceiling - how professionals do it:
How to drain the water?
First of all, you need to estimate the volume of liquid hidden above the ceiling and prepare a container appropriate for it.
If there is a lot of water, then for convenience it is better to use a hose. Carrying out such work cannot be done without a stepladder or a stable table. To be on the safe side, it is better to cover the furniture in the room with film.
The procedure for draining water is as follows:
- Carefully remove the lamp in the area where the liquid has accumulated.
It will pour out through it.
- A hose is inserted into the vacated hole and lowered into the container.
- It is impossible to remove all the water with a hose.
The remaining liquid must be drained, directing it along the canvas into the formed hole. At least two people are required to carry out the draining. One will pull back the tension material, and the second will monitor the filling of the container.
- It’s rare, but there are options for a stretch ceiling without lamps on it. Then the water is drained through the corner of the canvas closest to it.
This will be especially true if urgent intervention is required in case of flooding.
Stretch ceilings are characterized by high strength and durability, and good care their service life is about 20 years. Due to the design features, the ceiling canvas is not susceptible to shrinkage of the house and displacement of the load-bearing slabs. However, there are life situations when it is necessary to dismantle the tension fabric.
The reasons for this are very different - repair of old electrical wiring, flooding of the apartment, dark stripes, stains, folds, replacement with a new matte canvas or its damage. However, not everyone knows how to dismantle and remove a suspended ceiling.
Methods of fastening suspended ceilings
There are several ways to attach a stretch ceiling. Here are the main ones:
How to remove such a structure at home?
Before removing and putting on the suspended ceiling again, it is necessary to prepare the room and tools, freeing it from furniture.
Before dismantling and subsequent installation, you will need to heat the room; here you cannot do without a gun. After all, if the room is poorly heated, the PVC film may tear. The optimal temperature for heating is 600 degrees. Is it possible to re-insert the tape?
This work is performed by two people, one holds the gun, and the second removes the suspended ceiling; it is unacceptable to place the device close to the canvas, which can lead to damage.
Tools and equipment
Before removing the suspended ceiling and installing it again, you must purchase all the tools, materials and equipment for the work.
In the process of dismantling while preserving the canvas, you need to have: strong table or a stepladder, construction spatulas, or special factory blades with curved ends. You may also need mounting tape, insulation tape, construction knife, a screwdriver, narrow-nose pliers or clamps with cords, necessary to hold the weight of the removed sheet.
If the vinyl sheet is being dismantled, then a heat gun will be required for the work. You can read about how to wash a suspended ceiling here.
Quite often, the canvas is not completely removed for installation, for example, in the event of a flood or replacement. To do this, remove the plug at the point LED lamp, lampshade or chandelier, release water and dry the material. To work here, a regular spatula is used, the edges of which are narrowed or ground off so that its corners become obtuse, and the blade itself is rounded.
The spatula is treated with sandpaper, eliminating all burrs and irregularities.
Its blade is bent, this will help to reach the protrusion of the profile, which is where the harpoon rests. In order to carefully redo any defects in the ceiling without removing the chandelier with the remote control, the tool for work should not have sharp corners or a rough surface, otherwise the canvas will tear.
How to remove a suspended ceiling and remove a halogen light bulb yourself using improvised means? To do this, you need to understand the system of its fastening and select all necessary tools.
Preparing the room for ceiling removal
Always before removing and replacing a round suspended ceiling, the room should be prepared, even if only part of the ceiling is dismantled. You will need to remove all unnecessary items from the room, especially those that could be damaged at high temperatures from a heat gun.
In case of flooding, the ceiling is partially dismantled. But before removing the suspended ceiling, you need to drain the water through the hole in the chandelier, otherwise the stretched fabric will rupture. What furniture might get in the way?
Regardless of whether the work is done in warm or cold weather, aquariums and all pets are removed from the room.
Personal things can also interfere with your work. Lamps, chandeliers, spotlights and other lighting fixtures are taken to another room. Even during the dismantling process, the rubber band is removed, and you need to peel off the plastic ceiling plinth, fillets, releasing the foam baguette from the film. Work begins in the corner, which will help prevent the canvas from tearing.
Film removal process
To know how to remove a suspended ceiling correctly, determine its fastening system.
With the harpoon method, work begins from the corner. If there are decorative inserts, they are removed immediately. Next, using pliers, grab the harpoon and carefully pull out the old canvas. But you need to pull on the harpoon itself so as not to tear the film. Before starting work, the tool should be polished so that there are no burrs on it.
When the edge of the canvas is released, the work is done manually and only with gloves. Remove material from the corners to the central part of the wall.
If the ceiling has a wedge or glazing bead fastening, then its partial dismantling occurs using harpoon fastening technology. Next, using a spatula, carefully bend the aluminum profile to release the glazing bead and pull it out using a screwdriver. The work must be done carefully so as not to deform the baguette and the canvas itself.
When the fabric sheet is removed, it does not require heating; the work itself begins from the center of the walls, moving towards the corners.
If there is a clip fastening of the blade, then it is completely removed, partial work is excluded.
Otherwise, the film will pop out of the clips and become unusable for reinstallation.
How to remove a suspended ceiling: detailed instructions for different types of structures
If necessary, you can free only the edge of the canvas or the hole for the lamp, which is often used when flooding.
Is it possible to reinstall a removed ceiling with your own hands?
Many people have a question - how to remove a German suspended ceiling and a light bulb on your own?
There can be many reasons for this: damage, flooding, creases, overheating, replacement of electrical wiring and communications. If the design of the room changes, the ceiling surface can be improved, for example, making it two-level.
The main thing in this case is not to damage the film, otherwise it will become unusable. Where is the best place to put the curtain?
At first sight this work It seems easy, but in fact it requires skill and experience. After all, a person must have certain knowledge, so before removing the suspended ceiling yourself, it is advisable to study the basic information on this issue. If the work is beyond your capabilities, then it is better to seek help from real professionals who have everything necessary equipment and tools.
The cost and removal of Belgian or Chinese canvas depends on its design.
After all, some are disposable and cannot be dismantled, while others can be easily removed and used for decades. It is also very important, before removing the suspended ceiling, to determine the complexity of dismantling the structure.
To understand how to remove a suspended ceiling, pay attention to the type of fabric, usually it is fabric or PVC material. Both materials are suitable for re-installation, however the film will require a heat gun.
If the PVC sheet is not heated, it will tear, so it cannot be returned to its original place. Dismantle and install this material, starting from the corners, and move towards the middle of the wall. The work is done slowly and carefully, heating the canvas in the right places. The temperature inside the room will be quite high, so before the work process, all things that could deteriorate should be removed.
Judging by the complexity of the work, it is better to entrust the re-installation of ceiling material to a team of professionals who have great experience. Watch the video below. We recommend viewing the article: How to insulate the ceiling in a house or apartment correctly?
How to remove a suspended ceiling yourself
At times it becomes necessary to dismantle the stretch ceiling. The reasons may be different: damage to ceiling elements or communications that are located behind the canvas. Or modernization or replacement of wiring, pipes, etc. is necessary.
It happens that it is necessary to remove the ceiling sheet in order to drain the water that has gotten through the ceiling onto the film. Is it possible to remove a suspended ceiling without damaging it?
It is possible, however, not of any design. There are several types of stretch ceilings, some are relatively easy to dismantle, others, on the contrary, are practically “disposable”.
In this article we will look at the types of suspended ceiling fastenings, the step-by-step dismantling process and some DIY repair methods.
Types of suspended ceilings and methods of their fastening
To dismantle the ceiling, the first thing you need to know for sure is its type.
How to find out? This must be indicated on the letterhead of the company that installed the stretch ceiling. If for some reason these documents are not available, you can determine the type of canvas and fastening according to the description in this section of the article. Why do we need this?
Below you will understand that the dismantling procedure and its actual possibility depend on this.
There are two types of canvases:
- PVC - the technology for installing/dismantling such a ceiling requires a high temperature in the room, about 700C. Without warming up, there is a risk of being left without any canvas at all. To heat the room you will need a heat gun. In addition, installation or dismantling of such a canvas begins from the corners towards the middle of the wall.
- Seamless fabric ones are convenient, first of all, because they do not require heating the room, which greatly simplifies the process of installation or dismantling.
Work with the canvas begins from the center of the wall with further transitions to the corners.
For each type of canvas there are special types fastenings:
- The harpoon system is used only for PVC sheets.
This fastening system provides for the dismantling of the canvas.
- glazing bead or wedge method of fastening the canvas to the baguette.
Used for both PVC and fabric fabrics. This type“disposable” fastenings, i.e. There is no provision for dismantling and subsequent installation. Theoretically, disassembly is possible, but knocking out the wedge without damaging the canvas is very difficult without experience in such work. And this same wedge will need to be put back and the canvas tensioned. This technology is used due to its low cost and low clearance from the ceiling (2 cm).
- fastening with plastic clip used only for seamless fabrics.
This ceiling is relatively easy to disassemble.
How to remove a suspended ceiling?
Now let's look at the process of disassembling a stretch ceiling. Since a suspended ceiling is quite an expensive thing, it is better to entrust work with it to people with experience. But if for some reason this is not possible, then, armed with the information below, you can carry out the repairs yourself.
The main thing is not to rush and get an assistant. The technology and tools will depend on the type of canvas and the method of its attachment.
- an ordinary plaster spatula, not wide.
Before using it, grind off sharp corners with a grinder or sandpaper. It is highly advisable to wrap the working surface of the spatula with reinforced tape; the risk of piercing the blade will be significantly reduced.
- pliers with long jaws.
- a stepladder or, at worst, a stable table.
- mechanic's knife.
- heat gun, gas or electric.
For the latter, you will need appropriate wiring, otherwise you risk having to deal with wiring repairs in addition to the ceiling.
- you need to get large special clothespins, they will be needed for hanging the film. It is extremely inconvenient to hold the canvas suspended for a long period of time.
They can be purchased at most hardware stores.
How to remove a suspended ceiling correctly? First of all, it depends on the design of the baguette and film. Since we have two different types canvas, then the disassembly process will be different. Let's look at each one separately.
Dismantling of PVC ceiling.
We remove all unnecessary items from the premises so that there is free access to the intended repair site.
We remove all unnecessary plastic things, windows PVC is better protect from room temperature with a cloth. Using a heat gun, we heat the room. The further dismantling process takes place depending on the type of fastening.
- Harpoon system.
You should always start removing the canvas from the corners. We remove the decorative insert, if there is one, and using long-nosed pliers, pull out the canvas by the harpoon. Be very careful, you need to grab the harpoon with pliers, not the canvas. If you grab the canvas and pull with force, there is a risk of tearing it. And this is already fraught with a complete replacement of the canvas. Also make sure that there are no burrs on the pliers; they need to be sanded.
How to properly remove a suspended ceiling without damaging it: subtle tricks and basic rules
Although the canvas is durable, it is very sensitive to sharp objects. After part of the canvas has been released, the next process of removal from the baguette occurs with the help of hands. For this, it is best to use work gloves, because...
It is very easy to leave marks on heated plastic. Removing PVC film always goes from the corner to the center of the wall. Having freed up the required ceiling area, you can begin the planned types of work.
- Bead or wedge system. The beginning of dismantling is similar to the harpoon system. Next, use your hands or a spatula to carefully and without extra effort We bend the aluminum profile a little so that we can free the glazing bead. Using a screwdriver with a curved end, pull out the glazing bead.
It is extremely important not to damage the canvas or deform the baguette, so the hacksaw tip should be dull. Installation of the canvas takes place in the reverse order.
- With a wedge it’s a little easier: take out the insert and bend the profile with your hands to release the wedge and the blade. We also shoot from the corner towards the middle of the room.
The success of dismantling and subsequent installation in such fastening systems will depend on your skill and whether the installers left you an allowance of several centimeters. It is very important. Since for subsequent installation you will need to tension the canvas, and if there is not enough of it, it will be very difficult to do this. For example, if the tension is excessive, holes for lamps or other communications will “move” out of their place.
Dismantling of seamless fabric ceilings.
Such high temperatures are not necessary for this type of suspended ceilings.
With the glazing bead and wedge systems, they are dismantled similarly to PVC. The difference when dismantling is that you need to start from the middle of the wall, moving to the corner. Installation is the same. Success in removing and subsequently installing such a sheet depends on your careful and unhurried actions.
True, the success of re-stretching fabric panels will depend on how conscientious the installers of this fabric were.
If you cut it “butt” during installation, achieving perfect tension again will be very difficult, and in many cases impossible. However, the fabric does not stretch as much as PVC film. But if specialists installed the ceiling, they left a couple of “extra” centimeters. Then you can stretch the fabric without any problems.
And one more nuance with fabric canvases, or rather with clip-on baguettes.
Partial dismantling is impossible; with this type of fastening, the entire canvas will have to be removed. If this is not done, due to the unreliability of this type of fastening, the canvas may jump out of the clips. This is already fraught with its complete replacement.
Throughout the entire time of dismantling and then installation, do not forget to warm up the canvas. If after assembling the ceiling there are small irregularities left, it’s okay.
Heat it with a heat gun and they will level out. Since it is still plastic, do not blow hot air too close to the film. May become deformed or melt.
This is not a tricky dismantling process. Now you know how to remove a suspended ceiling yourself. The main thing is not to rush and work consistently, then you can do without calling specialists. Below is how to remove a suspended ceiling.
I tell anyone who came for an answer right away. Clean and free up space above the ceiling for convenience. Because the ceiling accumulates a lot of dust at the top and it will definitely fall down.
I will describe it very briefly with illustrations without any subtleties or nuances. Because there isn't enough space here. You'll figure it out on the spot. 1. Harpoon fastening (photo 1, 2) Be sure to take a wide screwdriver and pry off the fastening bar.
And pull down along the entire length. Be careful not to break it.
How to dismantle a suspended ceiling with your own hands? (8 photos)
Then put a spatula into the groove of the profile and pull it out flat.
2. On the cam clamps (photo 3,4)
We take two narrow spatulas. We insert them between the “cam” and the blade into the gap.
Use spatulas to lift the “cam” and release the blade.
3. Fastening on “wedges” (photo 5,6)
We start from the corners of the ceiling. There are gaps between the wedges (at the corners of the walls), use a narrow spatula or, best of all, a wide screwdriver. Take the second screwdriver and use the hook to push out the wedge clamp.
4. Explain on glazing beads. (photo 7,8)
Made from fabric, they are usually hung on such a mount. We also start dancing from the corners. We insert a thin wide spatula (naturally between the tension bead and the bead) and lift it. Then use a screwdriver at the end (into the hole) and press down to pull out the glazing bead.
Raise the spatula to release the tension and pull the bead to remove it.
Be careful not to damage either the mount or the canvas.
How to remove a suspended ceiling
How you can remove a suspended ceiling in a minimum amount of time with your own hands: a detailed video with tips
The video posted after the article clearly demonstrates how to remove a suspended ceiling with your own hands. But, unfortunately, it is not always possible to dismantle the above-mentioned structures. Certain types of innovative designs can be removed without problems, but others cannot be reused.
A logical question arises: is it even possible to dismantle suspended ceilings in cases of extreme necessity with your own hands?
I guess, yes. But it is better to resort to the help of professionals, because such procedures require not only the use of special tools, but also the presence of certain experience.
In addition, craftsmen must know which fasteners were previously used when installing structures.
It is on this nuance that, first of all, the methods used during the dismantling of unique, aesthetically attractive paintings will depend.
What you should know about the types of tensile structures
In principle, there are now only two types of such ceilings:
- Fabric (seamless) structures. When installing these systems, there is no need to use bulky “heat guns”; this is an undeniable plus.
The installation of such canvases should first be done in the centers of the rooms, and then you can gradually begin to move to the corners.
- PVC buildings. Both fixing and removing ceilings of this type require mandatory heating of the premises. Otherwise, you can simply ruin the delicate tension films. Therefore, specialists always use the same “heat guns”, moving from the corners of the rooms to their centers.
It is worth adding that the dismantling of PVC sheets in some situations can be carried out without heating.
It is enough for the masters to use the “guns” exclusively for the existing “harpoons”. Simply put, necessary work allowed to be produced locally. Professional tools can then even be replaced with powerful electric hair dryers designed for drying. You just need to carefully control the temperature.
Types of fastenings used for initial installations of ceilings
There are also several types of fastenings that allow you to correctly install various tension structures:
- Harpooned. They are only suitable for PVC sheets.
All tension structures in such cases are made only to order. But thanks to this, dismantling them later is quite simple.
- Wedge or bead. Such fastenings are most often used for fabric structures. Purely theoretically, it is possible to remove canvases installed in this way. But it is incredibly difficult to knock out the “wedges” without damaging the ceilings at all.
And for people who do not have sufficient experience, such tasks turn out to be basically impossible.
- Clip-on. Fastenings made using small plastic elements are used only for seamless ceilings.
By the way, dismantling of structures in the future, as well as their re-installation, is carried out in minimum time.
The wedge technology for installing tension fabrics is considered relatively inexpensive and easy, this is its key advantage. But between the base floors and the finished structures, it leaves too small gaps (about 2 cm, no more).
The main reasons for dismantling structures
As you know, there can be a lot of reasons for removing tension fabrics.
For example, there is no way to do without dismantling if the owners suddenly decide to soundproof the ceilings. In addition, such structures do not allow the installation of all kinds of lighting systems.
If neighbors upstairs suddenly flood people, they will have to remove tensile structures in any situation in order to drain the water.
The same goes for various repair work related to base ceilings, replacing outdated electrical wiring and even broken CCTV systems, if there are any, of course.
However, shoot stretch fabrics It is not always completely required.
Sometimes it is quite possible to get by with only partial dismantling, which saves time and cash. It is recommended to remove entire structures if there is any serious damage or in cases of installation of new ceiling systems.
How to remove structures made from PVC films
If the initial installation of PVC structures was carried out using a harpoon system, then the craftsmen will need:
- Remove small decorative inserts, if present, of course.
- Start removing tension films from the corners of the rooms, grabbing the “harpoons” using special pliers.
- Complete dismantling with your hands, using rubber gloves.
This is the only way professionals will leave absolutely no marks on the heated canvases.
- Move all the time towards the centers of the rooms.
Ceilings secured with a glazing bead system are first removed in the same way. Next, the craftsmen will have to use different spatulas in order to very carefully bend the “baguettes”.
Then they will need to release the beads using screwdrivers with slightly curved ends, this is important.
But structures installed using a wedge system are perhaps the easiest to dismantle.
It is enough just to bend the previously installed profiles with your hands, freeing not only the tension fabrics themselves, but also some inserts that ensure their fixation. As usual, you need to move from the corners of the rooms to their centers. The success of dismantling in such situations depends solely on the accuracy of the craftsmen.
What should you remember when dismantling fabric ceilings?
In general, fabric sheets are removed in the same way as PVC structures.
Especially if previously they were installed using a wedge or glazing bead system. But there is no need to use “heat guns” while performing work. And the masters should move from the center of the rooms to their corners, that’s all.
However, the success of dismantling and reinstalling these structures no longer depends only on the accuracy of the workers.
If, during the initial fastening of fabric ceilings, they were cut end to end, it will be virtually impossible to achieve ideal tension in the future. That is why true professionals always leave literally a few “extra” centimeters in order to avoid various unwanted problems in the future.
In addition, when removing any suspended ceilings, it is recommended to first remove all lighting fixtures.
This applies to both bulky hanging chandeliers, and to small mortise products. Because of them, existing canvases can be easily damaged.
If ceiling systems are dismantled due to a flood, it is recommended to prepare more empty containers in advance. They will be needed to quickly drain the water from the tension fabrics.
In addition, you should stock up on soft cloths and, of course, be sure to turn off the electricity. And also in the rooms sharp objects must not be.
There can be many reasons for removing a stretch ceiling. This includes banal damage to the canvas, the need to lay additional communications in the ceiling space, repair of wiring, and a host of other reasons that entail the removal of the structure. There is actually nothing scary or difficult in this event, however, if you do not know how to remove a suspended ceiling and do not want to know, then it is better not to take on such work yourself, especially if it is important for you to maintain the integrity of the canvas. Well, daredevils will be able to carry out the idea themselves, and it won’t take much time.
When installing suspended ceilings, craftsmen use a special profile that is attached to the wall and essentially acts as a support for fabric or vinyl. There are two types of such profiles, or embeds as they are also called: the first allows you to remove the panel without any problems, and after necessary work in the ceiling space, return its place to its original form, and the second one was given a self-explanatory nickname - disposable, which in principle is understandable, because it is simply impossible to remove a suspended ceiling from such a profile without damage.
A high-quality aluminum profile for fastening suspended ceilings is the key to successful dismantling
What is all this for? And besides, when installing a stretch ceiling, ask the craftsmen what type of profiles they use, so that later you will not be excruciatingly painful for your own hindsight. You may even be asked to choose the type of mortgage yourself - feel free to take the one that is more expensive, you definitely won’t go wrong.
Stretch ceiling removal technology
To better understand how to remove a suspended ceiling, a video that can be found on the Internet on this topic will help you, but more detailed description technology right now.
You need to start the process of removing the canvas with what the craftsmen finished with its installation, namely with the “removal” of the decorative rubberized insert, which is located exactly between the wall and the ceiling. It’s not difficult to remove it, the main thing is to find the place where the two adjacent halves are connected to each other. And this place is usually reliably hidden from view. If the ceiling has a rectilinear configuration, then look for joints in the corners of the room, and if the ceiling structure is abundantly “strewn” with niches and other architectural elements, then you will have to look for the joints, however, from a close distance this will be very easy to do.
First step: carefully remove the decorative insert
Having gotten rid of the decorative insert and tidied it up for the time being, proceed to heating the room and the canvas with a gas gun. This stage is mandatory! You should not remove the suspended ceiling without warming it up - it will simply tear and become unsuitable for further use.
We heat the canvas in the area to be removed with a gas gun: this mandatory stage
Choose a specific area of the ceiling from which you will begin dismantling and warm it up thoroughly. It is better to remove rectangular ceiling structures from a corner, and curved ones no matter where, but it will still be more convenient to start from the place where you can easily catch the edge of the film. To determine this place, take a stepladder and examine the perimeter of the structure for protruding edges that you can “grab” with pliers. If there are no such areas, start from the same corner.
The next stage will require jeweler's precision from you, because you will have to remove the canvas from the profile so carefully that not a single “scratch” remains on it. Do not make sudden movements and do not remove the stretch ceiling in places where it has not yet warmed up. As you move towards your final goal, move and gas gun, and even better if your assistant does it.
Fabric stretch ceilings have a slightly different fastening system than vinyl ones. They are attached to the profile using glazing beads, which are quite difficult to remove after they have been “sunk”, but if you don’t rush and don’t pull the canvas in different directions in the hope of finishing dismantling the ceiling faster, then you will succeed. The main thing is not to damage either the canvas or the glazing beads - you will need them later.
A little secret from a big expert
To remove the stretch ceiling you will use pliers, but due to their “sharpness” they can easily damage the canvas. Experienced craftsmen They came up with a trick that allows them to use pliers without any fear of scratching or tearing the film.
The outer corners of the pliers need to be sharpened to perfect smoothness, and to prevent sharp edges from causing “problems”, round them and polish them thoroughly.
Dismantling is the opposite of editing: video
Those who carefully removed the canvas and fasteners probably intended to use ceiling structure again. They should remember about the installation technology by watching the video. Well, if you decide to remove the suspended ceiling only for the purpose of storing an expensive relic, the video guide will tell you the reverse sequence of work:
The question of whether it is possible to remove a suspended ceiling is no longer relevant for you, because you know that it is possible and even know how to do it. And if hands grow from the right place, then dismantling the canvas will go smoothly and without problems.
Stretch ceilings - beautiful and reliable solution for the interior, but sometimes it happens that it is necessary to dismantle the structure. There may be a need to change the wiring or drain the water. There are usually no difficulties in dismantling the structure yourself, but it is worth remembering that the structure will have to be reinstalled, and this is quite difficult to do without calling specialists.
It should be remembered that you cannot use pliers during dismantling, otherwise you may damage the film.
Due to the fact that there are several options for installing the structure, there are also several ways to dismantle suspended ceilings. To completely remove a stretch ceiling, you should know the type of its fastening. It is possible that complete dismantling of the ceiling will not be necessary; you can get by with removing only part of the structure. Each specialist uses the type of fastening that the customer desires. If the client knows what type of fastening was used during installation of the ceiling, then dismantling will be much easier.
Types of structure fastening:
- Cam mount;
- Harpoon mount;
- Wedge mount.
The first fastening option is similar to a clamp; in this case, the blade is guided by a cam during installation, which ensures reliable fixation of the blade.
The second type of fastening of the tension structure consists of a wedge, which is located in the groove of the baguette with the canvas already stretched. Further into the structure there is a ceiling plinth, which further clamps the wedge.
Fastening with a harpoon consists of a hook-shaped edging or a harpoon fixed in a special groove of the baguette. This type of fastening is created in production; it is soldered along the entire perimeter of the ceiling in accordance with the measurements of the room for which the canvas is made. This type of fastening is convenient because its installation and dismantling is easy to do independently, the risk of damage to the canvas in this case is minimal. The harpoon fastening does not deform the canvas, unlike the other two types of fastening.
Due to the fact that with wedge and cam types of fastening the ceiling contracts and changes its shape, re-installation seems impossible.
Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that removing the film during dismantling is really necessary; it is quite possible that only a few holes that were made for the lamps are sufficient.
How to remove a suspended ceiling yourself
To dismantle the cam-fastened blade, you need to use a spatula, it is best if it is made of plastic. During dismantling, the cam is pressed out and the film is carefully pulled out from under it. Next, the spatula is placed in the place where the canvas has already been dismantled and the film is pulled out again. You can remove the cam-mounted ceiling yourself.
To dismantle the ceiling with a harpoon, it is enough to remove the plastic insert from the baguette, then, using a spatula, pull the moving part away from the harpoon. The canvas is simply pulled out of the baguette with your own hands.
Removing a ceiling with a wedge fastening is easy; it doesn’t even require pulling out the canvas with a spatula. It is enough to remove the plinth, the wedge will loosen, then you need to loosen the baguette fasteners with a spatula.
Recommendations on how to remove a suspended ceiling and then install it
Removing the ceiling and then installing it presents some difficulties.
It is not always possible to dismantle the canvas in such a way that it remains undeformed:
- If disposable profiles are installed in the room, then damage to the canvas cannot be avoided; you can simply cut the ceiling. Otherwise, you must first remove the plinth from the ceiling, and then dismantle the canvas itself.
- The PVC sheet is dismantled using high temperature. To remove such a ceiling, it is necessary to warm the room to 50 degrees, and then directly the film. It is not necessary to warm up the entire room if dismantling is carried out independently. It is enough to heat the film so that it subsides, and then you can unscrew the screws using a tool. This is necessary so that the canvas subsides, otherwise it can be damaged during dismantling.
- If some decorative elements glued, they can be removed using tools, the main thing is to carefully and slowly move it along the product.
- PVC ceilings installed with a harpoon and wedge system must begin to be dismantled from the corners. Film removal always occurs from the corner to the center. It is necessary to carefully bend the aluminum profile if the ceiling is installed using a wedge. The main thing is not to damage the baguette; the tools must be blunt.
If you plan to install the ceiling again after dismantling, then the main thing is not to damage the canvas.
For seamless ceilings there is no need to heat them to high temperatures. The difference in dismantling with PVC ceilings is that you need to start from the center and work towards the edges.
Re-installation of such a ceiling depends on the accuracy of dismantling. Throughout the entire dismantling, it is necessary to warm up the canvas.
How to remove a suspended ceiling yourself
You can highlight several main points to dismantle the suspended ceiling yourself.
You should know that it is not possible to put the ceiling back in all cases; the decisive factor in this matter is the careful removal of the canvas.
Step by step instructions:
- Determine what type of fastening the ceiling has in order to select The right way its dismantling.
- You should also make sure that complete removal of the ceiling is required; it is possible that you will only need to partially remove it, make holes, or use ready-made holes for lamps.
- It is necessary to know what materials the ceiling is made of in order to determine what tool should be used to remove it.
- It is necessary to disassemble the ceiling correctly using suitable tools, the canvas must be removed carefully, without rushing.
A safe way to dismantle a tension covering (video)
In conclusion, we can say that you can remove the suspended ceiling yourself, the main thing is to do it carefully if you plan to install it again. It should be remembered that complete removal of the stretch ceiling is not necessary in all cases; for example, it is easy to drain water from the ceiling using the holes for the lamps. If you don’t rush and do everything correctly, you can disassemble the structure without calling specialists.
The stretch ceiling can be removed with your own hands, without the help of specialists. To do this you need to know the features fastening structure(baguette) and the properties of the material from which the ceiling is made. Ceiling reupholstery and even complete installation designs do not take much time.
You will immediately understand the presence of moisture on the stretch ceiling
The owner of the apartment can dismantle old ceiling due to its deterioration (rips, drips, stains, mold formation, flooding and strong stretch marks, warping of the canvas due to deformation of the walls). Sometimes the canvas is changed to install a ceiling of a different color and texture or new electrics. Both the PVC film and the fabric can be removed from the baguette (frame) and then installed back.
Preparing the premises
The ceiling reupholstery is done in a pre-prepared room. Objects that could cause damage are removed from the room heat(if a heat gun is used).
If water has accumulated on the suspended ceiling, it is enough to dismantle one part and drain it
Aquariums are removed from the room and pets are removed. You also need to remove any things that will interfere with your work. The lamp is removed from the suspended ceiling and put away in a safe place. You can remove the lamp yourself, but if the mounting is complicated, you need to contact an electrician. The ceiling plinth or masking tape is removed and removed.
Tools and equipment
Before you remove and reinstall the canvas yourself, you need to purchase the necessary equipment, materials and tools. To carry out the work you need:
- stepladder or strong table;
- heat gun (for heating the vinyl sheet);
- construction spatulas, from which you can make shovels and hooks, or special factory shovels with a curved end;
- clamps with cords to hold the removed canvas suspended (crocodiles);
- mounting tape;
- pliers with long narrow ends;
- insulating tape;
- screwdriver;
- construction knife.
Often craftsmen invent their own tools for dismantling work. So, for example, metal construction spatulas are narrowed, ground down so that they become blunt, and the corners of the working blade of the spatula are rounded.
Spatulas for suspended ceilings
Spatulas and pliers are treated with sandpaper to remove all burrs and smooth out irregularities. The dull blade is bent to make it easier for them to reach the protrusion of the profile into which the harpoon rests. Any tool used during work must not have sharp corners or rough surfaces to avoid tearing the blade.
Before removing the suspended ceiling, you need to find out how it is fixed in the profile (this data can be found in the contract that was drawn up with the organization that installed the ceiling). There are three types of fastening of the canvas in the profile: harpoon, wedge (bead) and clip.
How to remove a suspended ceiling with a harpoon mount
A harpoon is a plastic flexible strip, which in cross-section is a hook (or harpoon, which is where the name comes from). The plank has medium hardness and is produced by the meter.
The polyvinyl chloride fabric is marked and cut out, exactly copying the shape of the ceiling. A harpoon is welded to the edge of the canvas, along its entire perimeter. This is done using HDTV equipment, which is available at enterprises that install suspended ceilings. Once the harpoon is welded around the perimeter, it is firmly butt welded. The harpoon is inserted with a spatula into the groove of the baguette (profile), where it is fixed on the inner protrusion of the profile using its hook.
If the film is edged with a harpoon, removing the suspended ceiling with your own hands will not be difficult. To vinyl ceiling has become more flexible and stretchable, it is evenly heated with a heat gun. The recommended heat flow temperature is 70 degrees Celsius. Re-upholstering the ceiling starts from the corner of the room. Some home craftsmen heat only the corner from which the harpoon begins to be removed, and use a hairdryer to heat the vinyl.
Harpoon fastening of suspended ceilings
When removing PVC sheets it is necessary to remove the harpoon from the ledge (shelf) inside the profile. If this can be done in one place, then the rest of the canvas is removed by simply pulling it with a harpoon. The operating procedure will be as follows:
- Heat evenly suspended ceiling, starting from its central part to the corners.
- Take a bent spatula and a screwdriver.
- Find a place in the corner areas of the ceiling where there is a sufficiently large gap between the wall and the surface of the canvas. It is necessary to ensure that in the removal area there is no place where the harpoon is glued end-to-end. This place is not very strong; the film may rupture under physical impact.
- Using a screwdriver, press out the harpoon, insert a curved spatula into the crack and hook the harpoon.
- To release the harpoon, move the spatula to the right and left by 10-15 cm, thereby slightly pushing the harpoon away from the baguette.
- The same thing is done on the other, perpendicular wall. This way, the harpoon in the corner of the room will be hooked by 2 blades.
- The shoulder blades are parallel to the wall and pulled down with little effort. The canvas with the harpoon comes out of the profile.
- Then move the blades along the walls and carefully pull out the film. If the ceiling area is large, the canvas is hung on clamps (crocodiles) to avoid stretching and deformation.
If the ceiling area is small, the vinyl film can be removed without preheating, for canvases big size Preheating is required.
Dismantling a ceiling with glazing bead (wedge) fastening
Is it possible to remove a suspended ceiling with glazing beads? It is possible, but you need to keep in mind the fact that it will be difficult to put it back, since after installation the builders leave very little stock of canvas, but if there is a supply, it is possible.
Glazing bead (wedge) - special plastic profile different sections. The bead is inserted inside the profile, pressing the material tightly. This type of fastening is used when installing both vinyl and fabric ceiling structures.
In order to remove PVC film or fabric, you need to pull out the glazing beads from the profile, hooking them with some kind of curved tool (curved spatula, spatula, hook). Dismantling begins in the corner of the room.
- Before dismantling, the polyvinyl chloride film is heated with a heat gun. There is no need to warm up the fabric.
- The profile is slightly expanded using any handy tool(for example, a thick screwdriver, long-nose pliers).
- A curved spatula (or two) or a hook is carefully placed behind the glazing bead and pulled down. The glazing bead comes out and the canvas is released. This must be done very carefully, since the edge of the vinyl film or fabric is not protected by anything and is easily damaged.
- If the ceiling area is large, the freed canvas is hung on clamps with cords.
Removing a ceiling with a clip fastening
Only low-stretch fabrics with polymer impregnation are mounted in clip fasteners. Clip fasteners are a special plastic profile, which in cross-section is a clamp.
Cam fastening of a stretch ceiling (clip)
The fabric is simply tucked inside the clip with a spatula, and the clip holds the fabric and prevents it from coming out.
- Seamless dismantling fabric ceiling start from the middle of the wall, not from the corner.
- To remove the canvas from the clip profile, you need to apply moderate pressure on the canvas in the place adjacent to the wall. In this case, you can slightly release the fastening with a screwdriver or thin pliers.
- The tension of the fabric will loosen and it can be carefully pulled out of the fastening.
- If the fabric was cut very short when installing the ceiling, then during subsequent installation it will be difficult to tuck it into the mount.
Many owners of suspended ceilings are concerned with the question of how to remove a suspended ceiling with their own hands and at the same time maintain the integrity of the canvas, because even a few millimeters of damaged coating will make its further use impossible. The need to dismantle the ceiling may arise for several reasons:
- Flooding by neighbors above and subsequent repairs.
- Dismantling the canvas to replace it with other ceiling coverings.
To understand how to remove a suspended ceiling, you need to know exactly how it was installed, because there are several ways to attach the ceiling. Our actions depend on this.
How to remove a suspended ceiling?
Types of stretch ceiling fastening
Before removing the suspended ceiling, carefully examine the place where the canvas is attached to the wall. Currently, several installation methods are known:
- harpoon method;
- cam mount;
- installation system using a wedge connection.
Perhaps you still have a contract with a contractor at home for ceiling installation. This agreement must indicate the type of fastening of the canvas. If the documents have not been preserved, you just have to figure out which fastening is used and choose the method of dismantling. To do this, it is better to use our tips.
But there is no need to draw conclusions based on one fastening about how to remove it, because it is no less important this issue is the material of the stretch ceiling itself. If you have a canvas made of pvc films, then its dismantling, as well as installation, is carried out exclusively using a heat gun. Fabric-based canvases can be dismantled without heating.
Harpoon installation method
The picture below shows the principle by which the harpoon fastening of the canvas is performed. Based on this, we will decide how to remove the suspended ceiling.
Harpoon installation
Externally, the harpoon connection looks like a hook-shaped edging. It is this hook that is called a harpoon. Also, before removing the suspended ceiling, remember that the harpoon connection is the most popular look fasteners, so there is a high probability that this is what was used in your home. In this case, it will be very easy to remove the suspended ceiling yourself without damaging it.
The principle of harpoon fastening: a special edge of the canvas (harpoon) is inserted into a groove on a wall-mounted baguette. The connection is then covered with a plastic insert. Harpoon soldering along the edge of the panel is carried out at the factory after cutting the fabric according to the measurements of your room.
Cam connection
To understand how to remove a suspended ceiling with a cam fastening, you need to understand the principle of connecting the canvas to the profile. This can be clearly seen in the photo below.
Cam connection
Installation principle: in this case, the wall molding has a self-clamping mechanism. During installation, the canvas is inserted deep into the groove of the structure and slightly stretched. As a result of this, the cam on the edge of the canvas moves into the groove and fixes the PVC film.
Installation using a wedge connection
You should not have a question about how to remove a suspended ceiling with a wedge lock, since everything is simple here.
Wedge fastener
Mounting features: a special baguette is attached to the wall. The canvas is inserted into the outer slot and secured with a wedge. Then the baguette and the gap are closed with a decorative profile. This profile additionally secures suspended ceilings.
Preparation for dismantling
Before removing, you need to prepare all the necessary tools for dismantling. So, stock up:
- a medium-sized plastic spatula (if you have a metal one, you can take it);
- with a knife;
- thin-nosed pliers;
- gloves;
- scaffolding (table or stermyanka);
- electric or gas heat gun (for PVC sheets);
- special clothespins for fixing the film to the baguettes (if dismantling is done alone).
Heat gun for installation and PVC dismantling ceilings
Tips: If you don't have a plastic spatula, you can use a metal one. In this case, the sharp edge of the spatula is ground off and wrapped with tape to avoid damage to the ceiling. Using electric gun, try to choose reliable wiring.
How to remove a suspended ceiling: sequence of actions
Now let's take a closer look at how to remove a suspended ceiling. We carry out the dismantling process in this order:
- We prepare the room: it is necessary to remove all the furniture and remove any decorations from the walls.
- To protect windows from heating, cover them with thick fabric.
- We remove all decorative profiles and linings from the ceiling.
- If a ceiling made of PVC film is being dismantled, we prepare heat gun.
- We heat the heat gun to the desired temperature.
- Removing the canvas:
- when using a harpoon mount, remove the plastic insert and use round nose pliers to grab the harpoon on the canvas in any corner of the room. Please note: we use round pliers to grab the harpoon, and not the film, which is so easy to damage. We release the rest of the canvas from the baguette with gloved hands;
- with cam fasteners we do the same;
- when making a wedge connection, first remove the plastic profile, and then remove the wedge from the groove and pull out the blade using a spatula or pliers.
How to remove a suspended ceiling using a heat gun
Removing the fabric ceiling
To understand how to remove a fabric stretch ceiling, you should look at the instructions above. The sequence of actions will be the same with the only difference being that the work is carried out without a heat gun, and dismantling is carried out not from the corners to the center, as was above, but from the center to the corners. During removal, make sure that the blade is not damaged.
Dismantling PVC ceiling we lead from the corner
You can learn more about how to remove a suspended ceiling from the following video:
Now you know how to remove a suspended ceiling with your own hands so that the canvas is not damaged. We hope that we have answered all your questions and you can make a choice in favor of the correct dismantling method.