Today drywall is used for various types of work, it is especially widespread in the sheathing of planes. In addition to wall cladding, it is used to create various structures. You can make a ceiling out of it with your own hands using various lighting effects. This material has its advantages and disadvantages.

Consider the features of installing a plasterboard ceiling with lighting.

Peculiarities

Drywall is a heat-resistant building material that is well suited for creating a flat surface, the formation of three-dimensional forms. This material is easy to process, including cutting any contour, drilling holes.

Depending on the desired shape, single-level, two-level and multi-level ceilings of the usual and curly type are made from it. For single-level ceilings, the main advantage is simplicity and reliability.

Basically, this option is used for small rooms, except for the bathroom and kitchen, where high humidity can destroy the material. In the absence of moisture, a plasterboard ceiling can last for decades, therefore, such structures today decorate different rooms of a modern person's dwelling.

With the addition of bright lighting, multi-level designs look chic and voluminous. Complex elements of a wide variety of shapes, decoration, various options for inserts are a small part of the design imagination. Lighting devices contribute to achieving an excellent effect in the design of structures.... Curly ceilings are mounted using non-standard elements in the form of flowers, butterflies, curls, clouds, stars.

Backlight types

There are two types of lighting for plasterboard ceilings.

Consider the features of each.

Open backlight

These luminaires are inserted into the holes prepared for them in the ceiling sheathing. Sometimes they are simply hung from the ceiling. Most often, this type of backlighting is used in single-level structures..

It is necessary to take into account the weight of the hanging lighting: a backlight weighing more than 10 kg may not withstand and ruin the entire cladding.

Hidden

To make a ceiling with closed backlighting, you need to calculate well the layout of the fixtures. Such systems are made when installing multi-level ceilings.... Lighting devices are built into specially made niches. To create a cozy atmosphere in the premises and an original atmosphere the flow of light is not directed directly into the room, but onto the ceiling plane reflecting light into a common space.

Style and design

The design of plasterboard ceilings is often complex. At the same time, it is an entertaining task in the process of renovating a room. When solving it, you need to pay attention to the functional purpose of the room, furniture furnishings, general decoration. This will help to rationally divide the space into zones, save from visual errors and negative perception of the room. You can get confused by the variety of design options through the backlight.

You need to carefully consider the design if you want to end up with a bright and updated interior. A single-level ceiling can be decorated to your taste (for example, painted with enamel, wallpaper on top). It is advisable to use light colors, dark shades will visually reduce the space.

Multi-tiered structures in a classic interior are used in public halls, exhibition galleries and other establishments. Intricate reliefs will decorate children's rooms, spacious rooms, bedrooms.

You can make the ceiling in the form of a wave. Pictures or, for example, a standard circle are also suitable. The figured design will amaze children and adults with its unique sophistication.

The color combination of the ceiling with the colors of the walls, furnishings will be magnificent, patterns made in the same style look good. You can decorate your home by equipping the ceiling with lighting. Lamps add more light and comfort.

Required tools and accessories

For the installation of such structures, complex tools are not required; this does not require special knowledge and skills.

To equip the ceiling with lighting it is worth preparing:

• screwdriwer set;
• drill;
• pliers.

To mount the ceiling itself, you need a little more fixtures. These include:

• screwdriver;
• self-tapping screws;
• hacksaw;
• scissors for metal;
• building level;
• roulette;
• pencil.

In addition, it is desirable to have a design diagram and plasterboard material, as well as light bulbs and profiles.

How to do it?

Having decided on the choice of design, lighting option, color performance of the future structure, installation can be performed.

The list of works is usual:

• marking, frame manufacturing;
• sheathing with material;
• installation of lamps.

Let's consider the main points:

• It is necessary to measure the required distance from the ceiling and draw horizontal markings around the perimeter of the entire room. The size of the gap between the ceiling and the marking line depends on how much the height of the walls allows (preferably about half a meter). To do this, use a tape measure, a level and a pencil.
• Along the markings, it is necessary to fix the profile to the wall surface. It is necessary to insert the main parts into the profile and attach it to the ceiling with special hangers. The profile elements must be inserted at intervals of about 400 mm.
• To strengthen the structure with crab connectors between the main parts, it is necessary to add profile jumpers.
• Then gently sheathe the frame with sheets of drywall using self-tapping screws. It is better to cut drywall with a sharp construction knife. The cut side of the sheets should be processed with a special plane and sanded with sandpaper, removing minor flaws. The result should be a full-fledged basis for translating the conceived design into reality.

If the project involves a multi-tiered structure, then you need to start creating a niche:

• It is necessary to draw the outline of the upcoming level on the main tier of the ceiling.
• Having retreated by the thickness of the gypsum board from the contour, you need to attach a profile to the ceiling.
• After that, it is necessary to cut the profile elements as large as the height of the second tier. Then they need to be screwed to the main profile with self-tapping screws (they will be used as suspensions).
• Another profile must be attached to the bottom of the suspensions.
• The resulting frame must be supplemented with jumpers, combining them into one structure.
• After that, the wires must be brought out in the right places.
• Then it is necessary to sheathe the frame and sides of the tier with plasterboard.

In the final stage, it remains to putty the seams of the cladding material, remove the caps of the screws and mask the resulting flaws. After the putty it is necessary to sand the entire surface in the necessary places, giving the base evenness.

Finishing can be done in any suitable way.

To repeat the contour of the tier with the profile, you need to construct it in pieces of certain size, the same applies to the plasterboard elements of the level board.

In the bedroom

The most comfortable room designed to relax and unwind body and soul is the bedroom. She must be comfortable, while consistent with fashion trends.

A large role in the design of such a place is played by the appearance of the ceiling. The square version of the design looks quite attractive.

Single-tiered

This option is the simplest, it can be done beautifully by adding lighting effects. But on such a ceiling, the possibilities are limited; it is not always possible to realize everything that you want. Therefore, such designs are often uncomplicated.

Two tiers

These designs will give the bedroom a visual dimension and completely change the look of the entire room. Professionally made two-level plasterboard ceilings create a comfortable, unique environment.

Tiered

These systems are the most complex to manufacture, such devices will give the bedroom a stately chic, add luxury, they imply the use of various decorative forms in decoration (for example, arches, moldings).

With multi-level ceilings and lighting you can successfully divide the bedroom into separate functional zones by highlighting the bed area... The formation of different levels can visually play up the flaws of the ceiling, make it higher or lower.

A variety of lighting options makes it possible to make multi-level ceilings luxurious and sophisticated. That is why they have become the key design elements of plasterboard structures today. In the design of the ceiling for the bedroom, it is better to use rounded and lax forms: they will bring peace and tenderness to the atmosphere.

In the hall

The hallway is the look of every house. Its appearance should make a favorable impression. The furnishings and decoration should be combined with each other as much as possible. It is good if they are made in a general style. The ceiling must be made in the same design.

A backlit plasterboard ceiling, of course, will not make a huge room out of a microscopic hallway, but if you correctly calculate the structure, you can create a visual sense of spaciousness, which is present in large rooms.

Many designers advise ceilings with distinct geometric features for such corridors..

Niches of regular shapes located in the center visually expand the space of the room. If the hallway is narrow and, in addition, long, it is better to make geometric niches in several places.

In a spacious hallway, you can give free rein to fantasies. There is room for experimentation and improvisation. There will be various options for the execution of the ceiling sheet, since the area gives everything to create a masterpiece of any complexity and shape. Due to the quick installation and the ability to implement the most daring ideas, such ceiling surfaces have achieved the recognition of the masters of design.

In the hallway, a soaring multi-level ceiling with a rim looks great. It needs to be supplemented with a diode tape. All these tricks are capable of creating a real masterpiece even from the smallest and cramped hallway.

While drywall is easy and straightforward to work with, there are some helpful tips for creating harmony in your design.

Let's note the main criteria:

Room height

This is the main parameter, it can significantly affect the design possibilities. With low ceilings, the slightest loss of space can negatively affect the interior as a whole.... There are ready-made options for multi-tiered structures suitable for low rooms.

A variety of plasterboard structures can make it possible to make a beautiful ceiling even in low rooms.

Lighting

If natural light does not penetrate well into the room, you need to focus on the lighting and the choice of the ceiling option. Additional lighting with adjustable luminous flux level will add the necessary lighting.

The creation of a beautiful, cozy interior is probably the desire of every person who is concerned about the renovation of his house or apartment. Among the important stages of improving the premises, of course, it is necessary to highlight the creation of the ceiling.

Today there are various options for ceilings: from stretch to multi-level. Of course, each of them has its own advantages, but backlit plasterboard ceilings can become a real decoration of the interior. What is their advantage.

Benefits of illuminated ceilings

1. Backlit drywall has one undoubted advantage - this combination allows, with a moderate combination of beauty and functionality, to stylishly and tastefully equip your own home.
2. Drywall is a fairly simple material to install and use. If you have some skills in electricity, then there will be no problems with creating ceilings with any kind of lighting.



3. The ceiling will be flat, since the sheet has a smooth and even surface.
4. Drywall is an environmentally friendly product - it does not emit toxins.
5. Drywall is fireproof.

Design features

Despite the external showiness and complexity, it will not be difficult to create such ceilings. Even in the absence of the necessary skills in working with electrical appliances, you can use simple recommendations that will allow you to quite successfully mount the backlight into your plasterboard ceiling.



According to the design and location of the luminaires, such ceilings can be divided into main groups:

• with open backlight;
• with hidden backlight.

Open backlit ceilings

The first group of ceilings assumes that the luminaires must be built into the ceiling using specially created holes in the plasterboard ceiling, or a simple suspension to it is carried out.

Keep in mind! For plasterboard ceilings, the weight of the pendant lights should not exceed 10 kg. This recommendation is caused by the low bearing capacity of the sheathing and the frame of this ceiling.

Ceilings with hidden lighting

In the second case, the luminaires must be placed in specially equipped niches, which are located between two levels of the ceiling. As a result, the light from the lamps does not spread directly into the room, but goes to the ceiling and is reflected from it, creating a unique atmosphere in the room.

Thanks to such lighting in the room, coziness is formed, emphasized, and your home takes on a sophisticated look.

When creating a backlit plasterboard ceiling, first of all, you should decide on the backlight option and the shape of the ceiling. For small rooms, it is advisable to use a single-level design, since the multi-level option will significantly reduce the height of the room, which will lose 8-15 cm. If the room is large, then you can build where your design ideas will be involved.

Types of backlighting that can be implemented

When creating a backlit plasterboard ceiling, it is necessary to optimally select the lamps for the backlight. In most cases, fluorescent or LED lamps are used to create lighting for suspended ceilings, however, other options can be used.

Before starting work, you should evaluate all the advantages and disadvantages of various backlights and choose the one that suits you best.

Backlight types:

• lamps;
• LED lights;
• chandelier;
• duralight;
• neon lights.

LED lights

For lighting, LED lamps or LED strip can be used. In the case of plasterboard ceilings with side niches in several levels, the illumination in the form of a tape will look quite interesting, it will be very practical and functional.

The backlight can be made in different colors; to control the modes, you can use an RGB controller or dimmer.

Advantages of LED backlighting:

• lack of heating of structural elements;
• low power consumption;
• ease of placement of the backlight.

Disadvantages:

• low level of room illumination;
• redoing of the wiring is required;
• a step-down transformer must be installed.

Light fixtures

This option is one of the most common. In this, the installation of the luminaires occurs pointwise. To place them, markings are made and holes of the required diameter are cut out for the lamps. Their number, as well as their location, is selected based on the purpose of the room, ceiling design, natural lighting.

Luminaire advantages:

• modern design;
• easy to install on your own.

Disadvantages:

• low light level;
• lamps that use incandescent lamps consume a significant amount of energy and also get very hot;
• rewiring required.

Classic chandelier

This option is the simplest, because you only need to choose the color, shape, number of lamps, and then use the old wiring to connect the chandelier. It is recommended to use energy saving lamps. For combination, you can use warm or cold lights.

Chandelier advantages:

• the simplest and fastest installation;
• high level of illumination.

Disadvantages:

• visual reduction in ceiling height;
• a significant contrast to the modern interior.

Neon lights

Thanks to the neon lights, you can create pretty smooth outlines. At the same time, you can create a unique design using a variety of color solutions, of which there are plenty.

Neon lighting can be placed in the niches of the walls, along the ceiling of the room. The installation technology in this case is akin to the installation of LED strips, but in this case, professional skill in performing these works may be required.

Advantages:

• a large selection of colors;
• modern design.

Disadvantages:

• complexity;
• the need for professional skills.

Duralight

A feature of this type of lighting is that tubes with incandescent lamps (duralight) are arranged in series and the failure of one light bulb will require replacing the adjacent segment. It is desirable to use modern duralight, where LEDs are used instead of incandescent bulbs. This will also reduce power consumption, increase the resource and brightness of lighting.

Duralight is often used as additional lighting.

Advantages:

• one of the cheapest options.

Disadvantages:

• low durability and reliability of duralight when using incandescent lamps.

Frame installation instructions

First of all, to create a drywall niche for hidden lighting, you need to use a metal profile.

Installation of the first level frame is carried out as follows:

1. It is necessary to retreat from the ceiling about 100 mm and draw a horizontal line around the perimeter of the room. In order for the line to be even and correct, you need to use a hydro level or a laser level.
2. The starting profile should be fixed to the wall along the line.
3. Then you need to insert the main one into the starting profile and fix it to the ceiling additionally using suspensions (distancers). The profile is fixed at intervals of about 40 cm.
4. To give the structure rigidity with the help of crab connectors, jumpers made from the same profile are installed between the main profiles.
5. With the help of crabs and hangers, profiles and lintels are connected.

At the end, the frame is sheathed with plasterboard sheets using self-tapping screws. As a result, the first basic level of the ceiling structure will be ready.

The next step will be the installation of a niche for lighting. To create a niche for hidden lighting, it is necessary to build a second level.

Second level frame

1. At the first level of the ceiling, draw the border of the second.
2. It is necessary to retreat 4-6 cm (under the width of the cornice), after which the starting profile should be fixed to the ceiling.
3. With scissors for metal, it is necessary to cut the segments of the main profile, which will be sized. They should be fixed with self-tapping screws in the starting guide, as a result they will be assigned the role of suspensions.
4. You should also fix the starting profile from the bottom side to the hangers.
5. In the formed frame, you need to insert the main ceiling profiles, connecting them into a common structure.
6. The necessary wires must be brought out and sheathed the frame in the same way as was done with the first.
7. At the end, protruding screw caps are performed, as well as over the rest of the area. To protect the seams from cracks, you can use a fiberglass "cobweb".

Choosing a ceiling design, everyone wants it to be beautiful, original and functional at the same time. These qualities are combined with a two-level plasterboard ceiling with illumination, which looks unusual, divides the space into zones, hides defects in the base base, wiring and communications under the rough ceiling.

Photo of a two-level ceiling from gypsum board

Ceiling types

If the base ceilings are flat, and you only need to zone the space in the room or hide the wiring, then a single-tier plasterboard box is mounted in the center of the ceiling surface or along the perimeter of the ceiling.

Duplex plasterboard ceiling to fine finish

With an uneven basement, two-level gypsum plasterboard structures are used. In this case, the first tier is installed on the entire surface of the ceiling, the second level is attached to it. Or, first, a decorative box is mounted, and guide profiles are already fixed to it for arranging the main ceiling structure.

Depending on the way the luminaires are arranged, a two-level plasterboard ceiling with illumination is:

• with open backlighting, when devices are built into the structure in pre-drilled holes, they are attached to the ceiling base on suspensions;
• with hidden illumination, when the lamps are placed in specially equipped niches located between the tiers of a decorative structure. In this case, the light emitted by the appliances is reflected off the ceiling surface, creating a comfortable and cozy atmosphere in the room.

Ceiling lighting options

Despite the impressive effect produced by such structures, it will not be difficult to do it yourself with backlighting. Even without the necessary skills in working with power tools, you can always use the recommendations that will help you install two-tiered ceilings in an apartment and mount lighting.

Making a sketch (sketch)

To successfully implement the project, you need to draw a sketch of the future ceiling on a sheet of paper. Then it will be easier not only to apply markings on the base base, but also to calculate the number of consumables and components that will be needed in the work.

Prepare the following materials and tools:

• puncher;
• drill;
• tape measure and marker;
• knife for cutting sheets of gypsum board;
• upholstery cord;
• profiles;
• suspensions;
• drywall;
• lamps or other devices, depending on the selected type of lighting;
• dowels, screws.

For the finishing of the structure, you will need: a serpyanka mesh, a wide and narrow spatula, a primer, putty (starting and finishing), paint or other finishing materials.

Marking

The ceiling is marked as follows:

• the lower corner in the room is determined, a mark is placed from it at the required distance corresponding to the lower level of the future decorative ceiling. The distance depends on the size of the lighting fixtures and the height of the structure;
• using a water level, the point is projected onto the rest of the corners in the room so that the four marks are located at the same level. The points are connected to each other by a flat horizontal line, which will become the base of the second level of the ceiling made of gypsum plasterboard;
• then determine in which direction the sheets of material will be attached, and draw the ceiling surface across the sheets every 50 cm.

Frame installation

Installation of the first level

The algorithm of actions will be as follows:

• first, the guide profiles UD are attached to the horizontal line outlining the perimeter on dummy dowels with a diameter of 6 mm and self-tapping screws (4-5 mm). If there are no mounting holes on the profile, you can make them yourself every 40-50 cm;
• along the lines drawn on the ceiling, the attachment points of the suspensions are marked every 50-60 cm;
• suspensions are attached to the base surface on the same dowels and screws as the guides;
• further to the suspensions and UD-profile, fix the CD ceiling profiles with self-tapping screws. Self-tapping screws are also used for joining the profiles. To eliminate the sagging of the ceiling profile, each CD-strip is tightened with medium hangers, the "ears" of which are bent under the profiles;
• the evenness of the structure is checked using a stretched nylon thread. Fix the thread on self-tapping screws on UD profiles. Adjust the height of the first level frame with hangers.

After the installation of the frame structure for the first tier is ready, it is sheathed with plasterboard. The sheets are attached to the profiles using a screwdriver for metal screws 2.5 cm long every 30-40 cm. The consumption of screws for a standard sheet will be about 60 pcs. The head of each screw is "recessed" into the sheet by 2-3 mm.

Decorative box not of the usual shape

First, the contours of the box to which the backlight will be attached are drawn on the first tier. Next, cuts are made on the side walls of the guide profile every 5-10 cm for ease of bending. The profile is screwed to the first tier sheathed with gypsum board along a delineated line through drywall.

The UD profile, which was used to install the frame of the first level, is attached to the wall with self-tapping screws, and the CD profile between the wall and the bend. If the length of the ceiling profile exceeds 50 cm, the fastening is additionally reinforced with suspensions, screwing them to the frame profile of the first level with self-tapping screws.

The rack elements are cut from the CD profile to the required length, fixed to the frame with self-tapping screws.

Installation of ready-made segments cut for patterns

At the final stage of the installation of the suspended two-tiered ceiling, the second level of the frame is sheathed with gypsum board sheets. It is better to fasten the material with whole sheets, and do the trimming on the ceiling. Or you can make patterns, according to which the sheets are cut, and ready-made segments can be attached to the frame.

To close the vertical plane with drywall, cut out a strip of the required width, screw it to the structure with self-tapping screws. Moreover, the smaller the distance between adjacent fasteners, the more reliable the fixation will be.

Lighting in the kitchen - dining room

Decorative lighting is an additional source of lighting for a room. A chandelier or lamps with bright bulbs are installed as the main lighting device on two-level gypsum plasterboard ceilings.

As for the backlight, neon tubes, LED strips and duralight are considered common sources. The last two options are LEDs installed in a certain sequence, the advantage of which is low power consumption (12 or 24 W). They are monochrome or multi-colored. Colored ribbons are controlled by a controller and a remote control.

White LED strip lighting in the hall

LED strips are:

• ordinary. Installed in rooms with low humidity;
• waterproof, on which a varnish coating is applied from above during manufacture. Used for bathrooms;
• moisture resistant LEDs are sealed in polymer pipes or housings. These tapes are used to illuminate aquariums, swimming pools, etc.

Neon tubes are filled with a mixture of gases (inert and luminous). The brightness of the devices is determined by the current strength, which is regulated by the convector. The convector's power is more than 100 W, and they are mounted in steps of 5 meters. A large amount of energy will also be consumed by transformers that are installed for neon tubes.

Box lighting with colored neon tubes

Instead of neon tubes, neon cords powered by AA batteries are used to illuminate the suspended two-level plasterboard ceiling. In this case, the controller does not need to be purchased separately, since it is already included in the kit. The only drawback is low power, so this lighting option is best combined with hidden LED backlighting or used for highlighting individual interior items.

Observe the following rules when working with LED strip:

• cut the tape only in specially marked places;
• connect individual tape elements to each other with LED connectors or using a soldering iron;
• fasten the tape to the metal base of the drywall box through a layer of insulating material;
• disconnect the wiring during the installation of the lighting.

To fix the tape to the box surface, remove the protective layer from the back of the tape, press the product against the base of the box with the adhesive surface. For reliable fixation, degrease the surface at the place where the LEDs are attached.

The backlight is connected as follows:

• direct one end of the wire from the power supply to the current source, the other to the tape;
• if you install a multi-colored backlight, observe the polarity (red wire - plus, black and blue - minus);
• before installing the tape, check the functionality of the device.

If spotlights are mounted, then holes are made at regular intervals in the gypsum plasterboard sheets until the frame is sheathed. In this case, the wires to the devices are supplied at the stage of preparation.

At the final stage of work, the finishing of the two-level ceiling is carried out. The joints and grooves from the self-tapping screws are putty, the surface of the structure is covered with a primer. Such a ceiling can be painted, pasted over with wallpaper, decorated with decorative plaster or plaster stucco.

Video how to make a two-level plasterboard ceiling with lighting in the corridor

Plasterboard ceiling systems give considerable room for creative imagination to maneuver. Designs equipped with internal lighting are especially popular.

general information

Backlit plasterboard ceiling is a very popular design solution. It is distinguished by external beauty and practicality. For the arrangement of the electrical part, you can use a variety of combinations of different lighting devices. As a result, it is possible not only to change the intensity of the luminous flux, but also to influence the spatial perception of the room.

Strengths of using a backlit false ceiling:

• Creation of an absolutely flat base on the surface of the base without the use of time-consuming screed and plaster.
• Significant simplification of the procedure for preparing the rough base. It is allowed that the previous finish, drops, cracks, etc. remain on it.
• The possibility of convenient camouflage under the suspended canvas of various communications - cables, wires, pipes, ventilation ducts, etc.
• High decorative possibilities. This is especially true for the creation of a multi-level suspended ceiling made of plasterboard with lighting.

The designs also have disadvantages:

• Understatement of the total height of the room by about 10 cm due to the frame. This applies to both stretch and backlit plasterboard ceilings.
• The complexity of the procedure. In any case, you will need an assistant and some experience in arranging electrical systems. If you install and connect lighting fixtures incorrectly, this can have very sad consequences. The resulting short circuit is sometimes a fire hazard.

When developing a plan for installing a plasterboard ceiling with lighting, it is recommended to pay special attention to the following important points:

1. Using multiple lighting zones in the room. As doctors say, for eye health, it is better to use several low-power lamps than one bright lamp.
2. A drawing of the location of spotlights is developed in the most careful way. In the kitchen, the work surface and the eating area need separate lighting. In the bedroom, contour lighting around the bed has proven itself well. Additional lighting for the cabinet, bookshelves and desk is often used. Lighting zoning is also used in the hallway: a hanger, mirrors and the perimeter of the ceiling are equipped with spotlights.
3. Light imitation of sun glare, aurora borealis and the starry sky has excellent decorative characteristics.
4. It is necessary to position the lighting devices in such a way that they do not blind the eyes.
5. By correctly placing the backlight, you can correct the proportions of the room. If you direct the light to the walls, there will be an effect of visual expansion of the space.
6. Each group of luminaires in different functional areas of the room needs an independent switch.
7. It is advisable to decorate small rooms with multi-level plasterboard ceilings with LED lighting.
8. Before making a backlit plasterboard ceiling, a detailed diagram of the future design is being developed. It contains information about all sizes, types and locations of fixtures.

What are the lamps

In order to make a backlit ceiling, as a rule, the following types of lamps are used:

• Point... With their help, night illumination, emergency lighting, zoning of premises, illumination of the working area, etc. are set up. This type of lighting belongs to the budget, and is suitable for lighting plasterboard ceilings of any configuration. Such schemes are very simple to implement: as a rule, such work is performed on their own, without the involvement of a professional electrician. To achieve the final aesthetics of the finished structure, it is necessary to carefully arrange the holes in the plasterboard, strictly according to the diameter of the lamp. Spotlights most often play a supporting role in combination with basic lighting.
• Chandelier (ordinary or LED)... Products of this type are presented in a significant variety of shapes and colors. No replacement wiring is required to install them. In combination with suspended plasterboard systems, surface-mounted and pendant lights are not always the best solution. The fact is that their use further exacerbates the effect of the lost height of the room.

• Daylight... They are mainly mounted in non-residential premises. They are distinguished by their low cost and ease of installation. They consume little electrical energy. The service life of fluorescent lamps, in the presence of a stable voltage, is quite long.
• Fiber optic... These lamps are an innovative development that allows you to create the effect of a starry sky. Installation of fiber optic luminaires is expensive and laborious. These systems look best in rooms with high ceilings.
• LED strips... An excellent option for arranging multi-level ceiling systems. These inexpensive lighting fixtures have a number of strengths. They are able to create uniform diffused lighting, replacing a conventional 200 W lamp. It is very easy to install the tape: one of its sides is specially equipped with a sticky base. The LED strip in the plasterboard ceiling demonstrates high energy efficiency and durability.

How to choose an LED strip

Light-emitting diode (LED) tape is a narrow flexible strip no more than 9 mm wide. Conductive tracks, diodes and resistors are applied on top of the product.

When choosing a suitable option for installing a plasterboard ceiling with diode lighting, it is recommended to pay attention to the following points:

1. Diode type. The most common diodes are SMD3528 and SMD5050. The first variety (3528) always gives one lighting color, the second one can be white or multi-colored. The SMD5050 diode is more expensive and consists of three crystals, which ensures its durability. SMD3528 strips last less, due to the gradual burnout of the phosphor. The tint of the light turns blue because of this.
2. The frequency of concentration of LEDs on the surface of the tape. Most often, there are bands with a frequency of 30,60,120 bulbs per 1 running meter. As the density increases, the brightness of the lighting increases. To equip a plasterboard ceiling with lighting around the perimeter, the density of the SMD3528 tape should be at the level of 30 or 60 diodes. If the goal is to illuminate a stretch glossy ceiling or partial illumination of the room, it is recommended to use SMD5050 tape with a density of 60 diodes or more.
3. Shades. To achieve multi-colored illumination, it is necessary to purchase 5050 strips, the base of which contains blue, red and green diodes.
4. Degree of protection. The belts can be equipped with additional protection against moisture. Such products are torn by special silicone insulation, which effectively resists flooding from above.
5. Equipment. LED strips must be completed with a power supply. As an option, SMD5050 belts can contain a remote control system and a controller. You also need to choose skirting boards for the LED strip that will best fit the ceiling.

What are the backlit plasterboard ceilings?

Plasterboard ceiling with LED strip can be equipped in an open and closed way. In the first case, much less work will be required: it is enough to arrange neat holes in the right places of the slab and mount lamps there. The main thing is to adhere to the recommendations on the weight of the lighting devices used: the total indicator should not exceed 10 kg. This is due to the weakness of the frame structure and sheathing sheets.

How to make a backlit plasterboard ceiling

To equip a plasterboard ceiling with hidden LED strip lighting, you will need the following tools and materials:

• Plasterboard boards.
• Components for the construction of the frame - guides, wall profile, ceiling direct hangers.
• Mountings. Dowels, screws, etc.
• Fastening mesh for additional reinforcement of the butt joints.
• Metal scissors, pliers, screwdriver, knife, screwdriver and hammer drill.
• Simple pencil, building level, twine.
• A set of spatulas and putty.
• LED strip kit. In addition to the luminaire itself, there is a power supply unit, wiring with a cross section of at least 0.75 mm, insulating materials.

Installation of the frame of the upper level of the suspended ceiling with illumination is carried out in the following sequence of operations:

1. An indent of 10 cm is made from the floor slab and a solid line is struck along the perimeter of the room to be finished.
2. The starting profile is screwed along the broken line. It acts as a guide for the main profile, which is fixed to the ceiling using hangers. The installation step of the mount is about 40 cm.
3. The elements of the main profile are reinforced with additional lintels, which are cut from the same profile. This makes the frame more rigid.
4. The finished structure is sewn up with plasterboard plates using self-tapping screws.

After that, they move on to arranging the box for lighting:

1. The base surface is equipped with a drawing of the lower level configurations. The applied markings act as a guideline for the installation of the guide profile. The shelves of the ceiling element should be directed downwards, and the shelves of the wall element should be directed towards the opposite wall. The profile of the main frame is used to fix the ceiling rail.
2. Suspension racks are made from the main profile. When cutting blanks, the height of the ceiling of the lower level is taken as a reference point.
3. One of the sides of the suspension is equipped with an incision (4-5 cm), followed by bending the back wall inward. When calculating the number of suspensions, the dimensions of the ceiling are taken into account. Installation step - 1 suspension / 50-60 cm.
4. The finished elements are mounted inside the guide profile with a whole end. Self-tapping screws are used for fixing.
5. The ceiling profile also serves as a material for the manufacture of lintels, the length of which corresponds to the length of the lower part of the box. The number of such elements must match the number of suspension posts.
6. The workpieces are immersed inside the wall guide profile, fixing them on self-tapping screws. When joining the opposite edge of the workpiece with the hanger, an angle of 90 degrees must be observed.
7. The result is a backlit false ceiling niche skeleton with a protruding profile. All protruding parts are decorated with plugs from the same ceiling profile. Plasterboard sheets will subsequently be installed on top of the finished base.

Installation of plasterboard sheathing

Prepared in advance narrow strips of drywall are installed as follows:

• Plasterboard elements are screwed along the niche shelves.
• Next, the vertical sections of the structure are sheathed: the sheets are installed here on suspension racks and ceiling rails.
• In the next step, the horizontal area of ​​the niche is sewn up.
• At the end of the procedure, the end sections of the box are made out with plasterboard strips, inside which the backlight will be placed. The upper and lower levels must be separated by at least 50 mm.

Electrical connection

The list of operations on how to make a backlight in a plasterboard ceiling:

1. There are marks on the LED strip where cutting can be done.
2. Switching of individual pieces of tape is carried out using a soldering iron or special LED connectors.
3. When choosing a power supply, it is recommended to provide a power reserve of 20-30%.
4. Installation on metal parts of the frame requires the mandatory use of insulating pads. Before starting installation work, the system must be de-energized.
5. When installing a multicolor diode, it is important not to mix up the polarity: the blue and black wires are a minus, and the red is a plus.
6. Before the final fixation of the tape, it must be tested for operability.
7. Long sections of tape are switched in different ways when connected in series. As practice shows, parallel connection of segments from 5 m in length demonstrates greater safety. For this, wires with a cross section of 1.5 mm are used. In this case, the power supply unit must be taken more powerful than usual.

Finishing

The finished plasterboard structure is impregnated with a primer and putty, paying special attention to the joints. After drying, sanding and painting are carried out. Instead of paint, you can use wallpaper.

A beautiful, practical and stylish plasterboard ceiling with backlight can be done by anyone who is ready to seriously study the installation scheme, following the recommendations of specialists. The installation of the structure will depend on the choice of type of lighting, as well as the number of levels and configuration.

Plasterboard ceiling lighting: varieties

By the type of installation, the backlight can be either open or closed. It is easier to install a multi-level open-type backlit ceiling, therefore, without any experience, it is worth starting with such structures. In this case, the luminaires are fixed in pre-prepared holes, remembering to comply with the requirements for their weight (no more than 10 kg in total).

Hidden lighting implies the installation of additional levels to mask lighting equipment in the interlevel space. The process is more complicated and time-consuming, but the final effect is much more interesting than in the first case with open lamps.

DIY backlit plasterboard ceilings are compatible with the following lighting fixtures:

• LEDs;
• neons;
• fiber optic.

LEDs are the most economical option in terms of electricity consumption. They are realized at an affordable price, have the ability to adjust the light intensity, are used in ceilings with perimeter illumination (contour) and for full-fledged bright lighting.

Neons are the most durable lighting option, are characterized by a low level of heat transfer, are available in a huge range, but surpass LEDs in price.

Fiber optics also offer a long lifespan, opening up new opportunities for creative, safety-conscious ideas with minimal energy consumption. Fiber optic backlighting is one of the most expensive options, requiring certain skills and experience to install.

It should be borne in mind that the scheme of a plasterboard ceiling with lighting will also depend on the choice of the latter's functionality. Allocate general lighting based on lamps and wall-mounted lamps, zonal to create accents in certain areas of the room and decorative to implement bold design ideas.

The most popular among those who decided to make a plasterboard ceiling with their own hands with lighting is the open type option with decorative LED lighting. It is easiest to mount such structures while maintaining the desired effect.

Foundation preparation - start of work

Before starting the installation of a backlit plasterboard ceiling, it is necessary to work on the preparation of the rough base, to carry out the markings for the installation of the frame. To do this, they are determined with a scheme according to which the work will be carried out. There are two paths you can take.

First, the devices are connected to a network with standard voltage and frequency. The second - a step-down transformer is used, which makes it possible to obtain 12 V. The first option is simpler and more convenient to implement. The disadvantage of choosing in his favor is a huge risk of a short circuit if the insulation layer is damaged.

So, for example, if a short circuit occurs and the wiring with plastic insulation begins to smolder, the risk of death of people, not so much from fire, as from toxins, will increase several times.

A smart backlit ceiling design using a step-down transformer is safer. Its disadvantage lies primarily in the price - such a ceiling will cost more. That is why, in order to save money, experts recommend installing structures with standard illumination connected to the network in ordinary rooms, in rooms with a high level of humidity and a risk of fire - with a transformer.

After determining a suitable lighting scheme, you can proceed to the installation of a structure based on gypsum board. To do this, you will need to prepare the materials and tools necessary for the work. In addition to the fastening elements, you will need:

• lighting equipment;
• wires with plastic insulation and a cross-section of 0.75 mm sq;
• insulating tape;
• corrugations and boxes made of plastic;
• switches;
• terminal blocks and junction boxes;
• wire stripping tools;
• wire cutters;
• screwdrivers;
• a probe for determining the phase.

With a ceiling drawing at hand and a list of tools, you can start marking. For this, a measuring thread or a more modern laser level is suitable. The markings are applied at a distance of up to 70 mm from the lowest corner, a line is drawn at the installation site of the proposed lighting cornice.

Frame - the basis of the structure

Exclusively all options for a plasterboard ceiling with lighting imply the installation of a frame. At this stage, it is important to carry out the correct calculations, not forgetting about the need to mask communications and elements of lighting equipment.

A guide profile is mounted along the perimeter of the wall. To obtain a curved box, you will need a special flexible profile, on which cuts are made to further form the frame of the desired shape. In the process, it is better to use a proven tool - a grinder.

Precisely according to the marking, the profile is fixed with screws, dowels of nails with a fastening step from 250 to 300 mm.

At this stage, it is important, using a detector, to determine the zones of hidden wiring in order not to damage the wires.

On the ceiling overlap, direct suspension brackets are attached to fix the main profile on them. The next step is to fix the main profiles using a level to control the horizontal position. Next, the elements of the main profile are cut with a grinder, fixing them perpendicular to the already fixed parts with the help of crabs (step 40 cm). The resulting structure is a first level frame, on the basis of which a double ceiling with illumination will be built.

Installation of the second level frame

Each plasterboard ceiling has a frame holding it in the base, but not only. To arrange the selected lighting option, you will need to think over the organization of a niche for the location of devices, for example, a popular LED strip.

As in the case of the installation of the first level frame, the process begins with marking the location of the starting profile with transitions between the tiers. The next step will allow you to determine the areas of the location of the lighting equipment, followed by the installation of wiring.

As soon as everything is ready, proceed to the preparation of the starting profile, which is fixed to the ceiling with screws according to the markings at the locations of the main profiles of the previously set level.

Plasterboard finishing - how to do it right

For finishing the structure of two levels with backlighting, drywall sheets with a thickness of 9.5 to 12.5 mm with parameters 1.2 × 2.5 m are used. The sheets are fastened with metal screws with the usual pitch of 250 mm. To achieve the most even surface of the canvas, the joints are sealed with putty, using a serpyanka or construction bandage.

The decision will fully justify itself - to hem the two-level plasterboard ceiling in two layers. Thus, it will be possible to increase the strength and service life of the structure. The disadvantage of choosing an additional layer is an increase in costs and weight of the structure.

After finishing the finishing with plasterboard sheets, the structure is leveled, glued with a serpyanka and carefully putty. Only after that do they proceed to the installation of holes and baguettes around the perimeter.

What a ceiling looks like with a modern minimalist design

You can assemble a modern plasterboard ceiling with diode lighting with your own hands in several versions. Let's consider a simple and effective scheme. It consists of several stages:

1. The frame is installed along the perimeter of the wall at a distance of 120 mm from the rough base.
2. The next level is located behind the first level, at a distance of no more than 50 mm from the overlap.
3. Arrange the third level - this will be the center of the ceiling, extending from the ceiling by 80 mm.

In this case, the LED strip is located inside a niche arranged in the side of the second level. For a lighting device, spotlights placed along the perimeter of the first level, which are more distant from the ceiling than others, will be an ideal option.

The subtleties of connecting and setting up the LED strip

A stylish perimeter plasterboard ceiling with LED strip can be not only a decorative element, but also perform the main function - to fully illuminate the room along the contour of the ceiling. You can buy the tape in a set or by picking up individual components, taking into account the selected scheme. There are two options for LED strips:

• monochrome;
• multicolor.

The first one illuminates the ceiling and the room by means of diodes of the same color, with the possibility of dimming. The second allows you to experiment with different colors of diodes. You can simply connect the LED strip using scissors, screwdrivers and a soldering iron.

The connection process begins with the separation of the parts of the tape according to the mark with the pictogram. You cannot connect more than two five-meter tapes - this is the main rule. It is also important to insulate the adhesion area.

Following the step-by-step photo instructions, you can install recessed spot-type lamps with your own hands. To do this, you will need an electric drill with a crown, a well-sharpened assembly knife, and a curly screwdriver.

Luminaires are mounted taking into account the laid wiring and markings. Place the fixtures in the prepared holes.

In conclusion, it is worth noting that a backlit plasterboard ceiling is not so difficult to assemble with your own hands if you act consistently. The main thing is to start by choosing not the most complex designs and easy-to-implement lighting schemes, for example, based on an LED strip.