Stretch ceilings do not smell. Smell from suspended ceilings - is it harmful and what to do? Should a normal stretch ceiling smell after installation?

Stretch ceilings do not smell. Smell from suspended ceilings - is it harmful and what to do? Should a normal stretch ceiling smell after installation?

Any new thing usually has a specific aroma of one intensity or another. The same goes for the smell from a stretch ceiling, from which you can tell a lot.

Determining the source

If you suspect that the suspended ceiling smells, you must exclude all other options. If the stench appeared after installing the system, then most likely the source is the tension fabric. It sometimes happens that similar miasmas are emitted by energy-saving light bulbs, which is easily verified by replacing them. If vinyl wallpaper or linoleum was used during the renovation of the apartment, then it is worth considering options with them. The same goes for buying new household appliances or furniture.

Especially often, the “plastic” smell is emitted by synthetic wallpaper, which creates the effect of clogging the room. If you arrange good ventilation and airing, the air will quickly become fresh. In cases where, despite all the measures taken, the smell continues to remain persistent for a long time, this is a rather alarming symptom. Moreover, if it comes from a suspended ceiling system: it is important to understand how long the suspended ceiling smells, and what exactly spoils the atmosphere in the house.

What does the smell indicate?

The main device for identifying miasma, despite the presence of advanced equipment, continues to be the human sense of smell. Previously, fake PVC ceilings were indicated by the lack of a quality certificate and external defects. Over time, “basement” manufactories learned to visually hide signs of falsification by providing “fake” documentation. What cannot be seen visually can be detected by the human sense of smell.

The smell of a stretch ceiling can be:

  • Harsh chemical.
  • Sweetish chemical.
  • Rotten (putrid).

There are also odorless stretch ceilings, but this can be either a good or a bad sign. Good – high quality material is used that does not contain toxins or fragrances. However, it may also be that a stale product was purchased, which simply lost some of its properties due to a long stay in the warehouse. To understand what to do if there is a smell from a stretch ceiling, it is important to first determine the type of quality of PVC film. It is also important to pay attention to how long the smell from suspended ceilings lasts.

The following quality levels of PVC film are distinguished:

  1. High. The canvas has a pungent chemical odor that is felt immediately after installation. It usually disappears completely in 3-4 days. Such materials are absolutely harmless and can be used in any room, including children's rooms and bedrooms.
  2. Average. A similar pungent chemical smell can last up to 2 weeks. Given its mild toxicity, it is recommended to avoid staying indoors continuously during this time.
  3. Short. Film of this quality level has a pronounced sweetish odor, which can be felt from 2 weeks to 6 months. In some cases, it never disappears. As a rule, in this case we are talking about very toxic substances that are harmful to health.

What should a stretch ceiling smell like?

New PVC film, fresh off the production line, is characterized by a plastic-rubber aroma. As a rule, it disappears quite quickly. Polyvinyl chloride is considered a harmless, non-flammable material. It is used to make a lot of things that are found in any home. We are talking about linoleum, household appliances, various rugs, metal-plastic windows and doors.

Another thing is that some unscrupulous manufacturers, trying to reduce costs, include cheap additives in the PVC composition, which in fact often turn out to be toxic. In addition, the purpose of additives may be to impart additional decorative or functional characteristics to the material.


A sweetish chemical smell may indicate the presence of the following substances:

  • Phenol. Has harmful effects on people and animals. After penetration into the body (which happens quite quickly), it begins to negatively affect the brain. Signs of phenol effects on the body are sneezing, coughing, pallor, dizziness, nausea, headache. This component belongs to substances of a high level of danger (class 2).
  • Methylbenzene. A potent toxin, very similar in this regard to benzene. It has some narcotic effect, which is often used by substance abusers. Under the influence of methylbenzene vapor, the unequal system begins to experience serious upheavals. The vestibular system can be damaged to such an extent that it takes many years to recover. In addition, the hematopoietic function of the body begins to suffer, which provokes hypoxia and cyanosis.

Another option for what to do if stretch ceilings smell is to conduct an appropriate examination. To do this, specialists are invited to the house to take air samples and subsequent research in laboratory conditions. There is another reason why stretch ceilings smell.


The following signs indicate it:

  1. The smell is reminiscent of the one that was present during the work of the installation crew.
  2. The room smells not of chemicals, but of decaying organic matter.
  3. The furniture and decoration of the room were saturated with this aroma.

As a rule, these are signs of propane, which is used by ceiling installers when stretching PVC film. In this case, it must be heated to a certain temperature, for which gas guns are usually used. If the stagnant propane is not drained from time to time, the heaters begin to emit a strong stench when operating. Subsequently, walls, ceilings, and decorative items are saturated with this miasma. For the air in a room to be completely cleaned, sometimes you have to wait several months. Even if you completely replace the suspended ceiling, the smell will not disappear.

Consequences of installation work

There is no new suspended ceiling without odor. The fact is that good quality film is in any case treated with special antiseptics, fire retardants and other substances. All of them are designed to increase the performance of the material. What to do if suspended ceilings stink after installation - minimize the presence of people and animals in the room for the first time.

It is also recommended to remove indoor plants. By arranging good ventilation, you can quickly get rid of this problem. As a rule, after 3 days the finished room can be operated at full capacity.

Reasons for the smell of high-quality PVC sheets

The consumer wants to know in advance how long stretch ceilings smell. It happens that, despite the use of high-quality PVC films, the smell continues to be felt for a long time.

The reasons may be as follows:

  1. The room has a large volume.
  2. The existing ventilation is far from effective.
  3. The temperature in the room is constantly rising. As a rule, this happens due to installation errors of built-in lamps. PVC film can withstand heating up to +70 degrees. Exceeding the norm provokes decomposition and deformation of the material, so experienced electricians must organize lighting. Sometimes, in order to reduce the thermal impact on the ceiling, it is necessary to abandon some of the lamps. As a rule, a high (within permissible) temperature in the room helps to quickly get rid of the smell of a stretch ceiling.
  4. High air humidity. In such conditions, the smell lingers longer than usual. To eliminate this cause, it is recommended to increase the ventilation efficiency or install a dehumidifier.
  5. Exposure to direct sunlight. Ultraviolet radiation, when it hits the surface of PVC film, provokes its decomposition. This is accompanied by the spread of volatile substances.
  6. Fragrant vapors remain in the ceiling space (between the film and the floor slab). To get rid of the smell of suspended ceilings, as professionals say, you need to ventilate this space. This is done using the so-called method. “shaking”, for which an installation team is usually invited.

Air freshening methods

There are several ways to do if the stretch ceiling smells:

  • Ventilate the room vigorously for several days.
  • Buy an effective air purifier.
  • Use traditional methods to eliminate unpleasant odors. The simplest of them is to evenly sprinkle salt in the room or place containers with saline solution.
  • It is recommended to use a respirator while working to eliminate unpleasant odors.
  • A good option for what to do when the suspended ceiling stinks is to purchase some indoor plants. First of all, we are talking about spathiphyllum, chlorophytum, sansevieria, some ficus, etc. This way you can not only remove the smell, but also get rid of volatile toxins.

In order not to ask questions about how long it takes for a stretch ceiling to weather, it is recommended that you initially refuse to purchase low-quality products.

The following tips will help in this regard:

  • If possible, it is advisable to use fabric panels instead of PVC films. They contain much less synthetics, which emit specific aromas. Although a rubber substitute (polyurethane) is used as a base, the smell after installation of such a finish is several times less.
  • Purchase products only from trusted companies with a good reputation.
  • Require quality certificates when purchasing, indicating the conclusions of the relevant examinations.
  • Check in advance how long the suspended ceiling lasts.


The smell from suspended ceilings will not affect human health in any way if the material was purchased from trusted suppliers and manufacturers who provided quality guarantees. PVC film contains elements such as phenol and toluene, which can negatively affect your health.

Dizziness, weakness, and headache may occur. If a person is prone to allergies, then these components can aggravate the allergic reaction. If the coating is of high quality, the smell will be sharp after installation, but it will dissipate over some time.

Three durability categories

Based on the persistence of the “aroma,” the film is divided into three categories. The first category includes high-quality film that has a weak aroma or no aroma at all. This “aroma” will disappear in the near future. This coating is harmless and can be installed in any residential area.

The second category includes medium quality canvas. The stench lasts for half a month, no more. It is better not to stay in this room for two weeks. This coating is suitable only for those rooms where they do not remain for a long time. Most often they are installed in the bathroom, toilet or hallway.

Attention. Low quality material has a sweetish odor that does not dissipate over the course of a month. It is not recommended to install such a coating at all, as it has a negative impact on health.

Why does the linen smell?

The strengthening of the “aroma” is influenced by:

  • elevated temperature, the higher it is, the stronger the smell of the ceiling,
  • when the lamps are heated, the “aroma” may also intensify,
  • surface height, the lower it is, the stronger the smell.

In order for the stench to disappear faster, it is necessary to ensure that there is no humidity in the room.

Fabric covering

Compared to film, fabric stretch ceilings have virtually no odor, so they are harmless to humans. Only in rare cases can fabric coverings stink, so they are best installed in children's rooms. When choosing, you should pay attention to the smell; high-quality material should not have a strong odor. If there is one, then the coverage should be abandoned. Before purchasing this material, you should make sure that all certificates are available.

How to choose?

Currently, there are many companies and small organizations that sell both high-quality and low-quality materials. First of all, you should not save money and choose cheap Chinese fabric. Preference should be given to trusted manufacturers, such as France and Germany. However, recently, domestic fabric has become of high quality, this is explained by the fact that it is produced on modern imported equipment.

Important detail. To understand whether a canvas is of high quality or low quality, it is worth looking at the country that produces it. If the manufacturer line says Belgium, then you should refuse such a film, since this country does not produce film. Most likely this is China.

European manufacturers produce canvases with a width of 2 to 3 meters. Therefore, if the film is larger or smaller in width, then it is better to pass such material aside.

Source: potolokvdoma.ru

Can a good stretch ceiling smell?

If the ceiling emits a pungent and persistent “chemical” odor that does not disappear, sound the alarm. The canvas may be unsafe for health. The consequences are the most unpredictable: from various allergic reactions to serious poisoning with chemicals. The most common symptoms: weakness, headache, watery eyes (similar to a cold).

This ceiling will have to be dismantled. Before you buy suspended ceilings. thoroughly familiarize yourself with the activities of the performing company. Check the certificates (they cannot fail to exist), study the terms of the contract, the conclusion of which is mandatory, read the reviews, ask where and under what conditions the film was made.

How long can the smell last?

The smell from a stretch ceiling disappears completely within 3 to 14 days. It all depends on the quality of the canvas. The higher it is, the sooner the smell disappears. This is an axiom. This is why European ceilings (France, Germany) are always better than Chinese ones (however, this is not the only reason).

Video on the topic: Stretch ceilings: lighting, smell.

Where does the smell come from?

The basis of the suspended ceiling fabric is PVC film (polyvinyl chloride material, which has a rather specific smell even without heating). It is logical that during and immediately after installation, when the temperature rises significantly, the “aroma” of the PVC sheet intensifies. This should not cause you any concern. Even very expensive films have a vinyl smell.

To neutralize it, it is enough to ventilate the room well. For example, the smell after installing a French-made canvas can evaporate literally after 3 - 4 days (depending on the intensity of ventilation and the temperature to which the film was heated).

Let's sum it up

  • In 99 cases out of 100, the newly installed ceiling smells (when heated, almost everything starts to smell differently, and you've probably noticed this).
  • The smell disappears within 3 to 14 days (2 weeks is the upper limit). In practice, 3 to 4 days are usually sufficient.
  • High-quality stretch ceilings should not smell for a long time.
  • The smell may not be harmful, but if you are concerned, the sheets should be checked for harmful substances (replaced if necessary).
  • Before purchasing, request fire and hygiene certificates and ask all your questions.

Source: potolki-samara.ru

Odor from suspended ceilings: occurrence and elimination

Topuol and phenol are used as components in production. These substances can cause poor health:

  • Weakness and headache may occur,
  • Allergic reactions may also worsen. This should be taken into account when choosing material.

Attention: Today, many cheap Chinese products of dubious production have appeared on the market. Give preference to famous European brands. Their price is not much higher than the low quality ones. Just when purchasing, be sure to check the certificate of quality and origin. They can also sell counterfeits of a well-known brand. There are instructions for each of the supplied products.

There is one peculiarity. Especially when you do the installation yourself, you will determine this immediately. There is always a smell in PVC film. But in a quality product it is harsh and quickly dissipates, has a chemical tint. Phenol, on the contrary, has a sweetish odor.

PVC film is conventionally divided into three types based on odors:

  • Material made with high quality has no odor or it is very low. Complete weathering occurs within three days.
    This product can be installed almost anywhere, even in a children's room,
  • Not high quality PVC, which is characterized by a more intense odor and weathering takes much longer. This can happen over 2-3 weeks.
    You shouldn't stay in such a room for a long time,
  • The smell from the stretch ceiling has a strong sweetish odor with a chemical tint that lasts for at least two weeks. This design can greatly harm your health and it is better to get rid of it.

What affects the persistence of the odor? Let's look at what can influence the persistent odor from the coating. True, it should not be confused simply with the one that appears during storage in a warehouse and it dissipates quite quickly.

  • The intensity of the odor increases when exposed to a warm environment. The higher the temperature, the greater the intensity,
  • The height of the ceiling will also affect this. The higher it is, the less noticeable the smell,
  • This can also be affected by lighting, which increases odors when heated. For example, incandescent lamps should be installed using reflectors.
    And the best option is to use energy-saving lamps. You can read a detailed article on this topic on the pages of our website,

Attention: To eliminate odors, you need to make the room dry. In a humid environment it will become even more saturated and will bother you for a long time. To do this, you can simply purchase a dehumidifier that will help cope with the task.

Fabric base of the ceiling

Now let's look at such suspended ceilings. whether they have a smell and for what reason will be discussed below. This design includes polyurethane, which is used to impregnate the polyester fabric.

The fabric base is the most harmless to human health. This stretch ceiling has virtually no odor. It can manifest itself only in 20 cases out of a hundred. They can be installed in a children’s room without any problems. Therefore, pay attention to this when purchasing. It should not be too pronounced.

Attention: If you experience a strong odor when purchasing such material, then you should discard it. It may be counterfeit. Check all the paperwork for the sale of these products.

Differences in quality products. High-quality material can be distinguished by the following characteristics:

  • By size. European manufacturers supply goods in rolls with a width of 2-3 meters.
    If you are offered a 3.5 meter product, then quality is out of the question, refuse it,
  • Please note the manufacturer. China can often indicate Belgium as a manufacturer. This cannot happen either.
    This country does not produce such fabric at all,

Now you know that a ceiling, even a high-quality one, can smell. Only it should not have a pronounced sweetish smell. Don't worry, if the material is of high quality, then the smell will go away quickly enough. Basically everything smells. Only poor quality products can cause harm.

Source: sdelaipotolok.ru

Smell from stretch ceiling

The smell from a stretch ceiling for the first few days after installation is absolutely normal. Think about it, we are surrounded by a lot of new things that smell just like the ceiling. This includes electronics (video, audio equipment) and clothing, especially if made from non-natural raw materials.

All these items have a very strong smell, but this smell goes away after a week. It's the same story with the ceiling. Almost all stretch ceilings are made of PVC film (polyvinyl chloride), which creates an unpleasant odor from the stretch ceiling. But the higher the quality of the film, the faster the smell disappears.

You probably think the worst ceiling is Chinese, but that’s not entirely true. Chinese stretch ceilings come in different varieties; there are those produced in factories, in compliance with technologies and standards; such a ceiling is in no way inferior to European manufacturers. But there is also a cheap Chinese ceiling made at home, such a ceiling will smell longer, but still the smell from such a stretch ceiling will also disappear.

The smell disappears completely in 3 days to 2 weeks. It all depends on the quality of your ceiling. The higher the quality, the less odor. But the price of “like European stretch ceilings” differs several times.

But sometimes installers of suspended ceilings pass off cheap Chinese ceilings as European brands; it is now almost impossible to distinguish them. Even certificates do not help them to be easily forged. However, you can distinguish them by smell. So, to make the ceiling smell less, supposedly it is of better quality, the installers use a trick.

  • Before installation, the ceilings lie in a warehouse for a couple or three weeks, the smell from such a ceiling goes away, which means it can be passed off as an expensive European one.
  • The ceiling will smell stronger in a warm room than in a cold room. However, in a warm room the ceiling will lose its smell faster. Therefore, if the ceiling is installed in a cool room, then the smell from it is less and it can also be passed off as a ceiling of higher quality.
  • Humidity. Also, the smell from suspended ceilings is caused by humidity. The drier the room, the faster the suspended ceiling will weather. The higher the humidity, the stronger the smell. Therefore, the ceiling in the toilet and bathroom will smell stronger.
  • Ceiling height. The higher the ceilings, the less the smell, also tested.
  • Of course - ventilation, if you do not do the repairs yourself, but the craftsmen do it for you, then before they arrive they can simply ventilate the room, thereby removing the smell from suspended ceilings from the apartment. No - the smell will remain, but it will not be as strong, so you can also pass off the ceilings as expensive. And after a couple of weeks, the smell will completely disappear.
  • Room dimensions. The larger the room, the faster the smell disappears. Usually this is a day or two. In small spaces, it lasts much longer.
  • Lighting. The more lighting fixtures you have built into the ceiling, the more it will heat up, and the longer the smell will linger in the apartment.

Remember this and don't be fooled. Do not panic! The smell from the stretch ceiling is normal! In a couple or three days, and at most in a couple of weeks, not a trace will remain. And you will enjoy the aesthetic ceiling. Ventilate the room more often, the smell will go away much faster.

Source: remo-blog.ru

Smell from stretch ceilings - what to do?

The main reason that a smell appears after installing a stretch ceiling is hidden in the raw materials from which the ceiling is made. The majority (90%) of all suspended ceilings are made of polyvinyl chloride. And it has a special smell. If the raw material was of sufficient quality, then when the canvas is heated, a smell will appear.

But not intense. And within 2-5 hours it will disappear. But if the raw materials are of poor quality, then the unpleasant feeling of staleness in the apartment will not leave you even after 5 days. There are three categories of PVC stretch ceilings:

  • high quality - this one does not smell much, weathering takes place within 3 days,
  • average quality - the specific aroma disappears after 1 maximum 2 weeks,
  • low quality - has a strong smell of phenol. May wear off within a month. It is not safe.

It can also happen that the smell appears a few days after the ceiling is installed. This is primarily due to its improper operation. For example, exposure to ultraviolet rays leads to the decomposition of PVC fabric. It is accompanied by an unpleasant specific odor. At the same time, it is important to know what specific substances the ceiling was made of; such information should be in the certificate.

Many will think that it is better to install fabric stretch ceilings, and the odor problem will not arise at all. But that's not true! A fabric ceiling can also stink, this happens in cases where you purchase a Chinese clandestine fabric. Branded companies are responsible for the quality of soy products; you will find markings on such canvases. Therefore, be careful when buying a fabric ceiling.

Is the smell harmful to health?

With the appearance of a smell from the ceiling, our mood clearly changes; it is unpleasant for us to think that perhaps a low-quality stretch ceiling was installed. We clearly feel the psychological impact of specific scents on ourselves. But does smell actually affect a person’s physical health? This is worth looking into.

They release volatile substances. And consumers of PVC stretch ceilings very often complain about the following symptoms in their health:

  • headache for no apparent reason and weakness of the body,
  • allergic rashes, sneezing, watery eyes,
  • dizziness,
  • fainting state.

But let’s not mislead anyone and explain that all of the above symptoms can only appear as a result of installing a low-quality underground stretch ceiling. European manufacturers operate to strict safety standards. Reputable producing countries include:

Stretch ceilings from these companies can be considered practically harmless to health; they have almost no smell unless you smell them closely. There are types of suspended ceilings, for example, “clipso-hospital”, which are installed in medical institutions; the fabric fabrics of these companies are also safe for children’s rooms.

Poorly produced stretch ceilings can be produced in Ukraine, China, and Russia. Of course, such fabrics do not have certificates, and on fabric ones you will not find any markings or trademarks. Counterfeit products initially have a pungent odor.

But if you nevertheless installed a suspended ceiling of dubious manufacture, and after a while you feel bad symptoms, monitor your health over time, perhaps you were actually sold and installed a fake. It’s better not to risk your health, consult a doctor, and replace the suspended ceilings.

Factors of odor persistence. Let's figure out what can influence the persistence of the smell, why for some it disappears immediately, while others suffer and figure out how to eliminate the smell. First of all, let’s make a reservation: we will talk about the smell that comes from the substances that make up the material of the stretch ceiling, and not about the smell that appeared during storage in a warehouse with poor ventilation. So, the persistence of the odor is influenced by:

  1. Temperature conditions. The smell from the linen goes away much faster at high temperatures than when the room is quite cool. But in a warmer room the smell is much stronger than in a cold one.
  2. Indoor humidity. A direct relationship between humidity and durability has been established; the higher the humidity level, the more persistent the smell will be. Conversely, in dry rooms, the smell from the stretch ceiling will linger less.
  3. Air convection. The better and better the ventilation in the room, the faster the smell will disappear.
  4. Ceiling height. In a room with high ceilings, the smell is less noticeable and may disappear the next day after the ceiling is installed.
  5. Number of lighting devices. Light bulbs built into the suspended ceiling heat the canvas; the more of them, the stronger the “aroma” will be.
  6. Storage duration. The time a roll of linen has been in storage can also affect the persistence of the odor. The longer he was there, the more the smell dissipated.

How to eliminate the smell?

By finding out all the causes of the smell, as well as understanding the factors that influence the intensity and duration of the smell in the room, you can speed up its elimination. Here are some tips on how to do this:

  • Firstly, ventilate the room more often, but at the same time keep the temperature in the room high enough; for this you can use a heater.
  • Secondly, use an electric dehumidifier, which will reduce the humidity in the room, so the smell will go away much faster.
  • Thirdly, try not to turn on the lights in the room for about a week, especially if there are a lot of lighting fixtures. Use a separate table lamp. In the future, whenever possible, use energy-saving lamps that minimally heat the canvas.
  • Fourthly, only a specialist can eliminate a persistent, poorly weathered odor, so do not skimp on your health, let a professional deal with this issue.

So, let’s note the most important thing - the smell from a stretch ceiling can only appear from poorly produced material, in violation of safety standards. High-quality canvases, especially fabric ones, do not pose a danger to human health; they can even be installed in hospitals and children's bedrooms.

Before ordering the installation of a stretch ceiling, carefully study all the documentation for it, try to be at home during installation to see on the spot whether there is a trademark on the fabric. In addition, you will be able to immediately feel a pungent odor, which will immediately alert you, and the slight specific odor will disappear within a few hours, which you will also pay attention to. The main thing is not to worry, because everything can be fixed, there are no hopeless situations.

Source: fotopoto.ru

Is there a smell from the stretch ceiling?

Stretch ceilings made on a fabric basis have no odor. A certified product that is manufactured in compliance with quality and safety standards and regulations does not smell or absorb environmental odors. That is, fabric stretch ceilings remain absolutely neutral in relation to specific aromas, both during purchase and installation, and during their further use.

Canvases based on polyvinyl chloride film - PVC stretch ceilings - have an odor. Only the installed ceiling smells the same as new linoleum or freshly painted doors or windows. If the product is of high quality, then the unpleasant smell after installing the ceiling will disappear very quickly. As a rule, this requires from two to fourteen days with active ventilation of the room.

If the smell remains after this period, there may be several reasons.

  1. Counterfeit film. Film that is manufactured in violation of technology can emit a strong, toxic odor that can be harmful to health. Unfortunately, the buyer cannot always protect himself from the risk of buying a stretch ceiling of dubious quality. To prevent this from happening to you, before purchasing products, ask to see a fire certificate and a certificate of compliance of the product with established sanitary standards and requirements.
  2. Overheating of the canvas. A PVC stretch ceiling, which is installed using the harpoon method, is heated before installation. As a result, the fabrics begin to emit a more intense odor. If the temperature regime has been exceeded, the canvas may retain an unpleasant odor for a longer period. And it will also be felt stronger. Therefore, you need to carefully select not only the manufacturer of suspended ceilings, but also the installer. A lot depends on the quality of installation of a stretch ceiling: aesthetic appearance, strength and reliability of the installed structure, its safety and service life.
  3. Environment. How long the smell will persist in the room after installing a PVC ceiling also depends on the rest of the interior decoration of the room. Porous materials, if present in the room, actively absorb surrounding odors, which is why weathering will take much longer. Therefore, before ordering the installation of a stretch ceiling. consult with specialists. They will help you choose the option that best suits your conditions.

It should also be recalled that PVC suspended ceilings are allowed for installation in all types of premises, including living rooms, as an environmentally friendly material. Therefore, if two weeks after installation the suspended ceiling still smells unpleasant, we recommend contacting the installer who installed it. A responsible company that values ​​its reputation in the market will understand the situation and offer a way out of it with minimal losses for its client.

Source: mossiling.ru

How to get rid of the unpleasant smell of a stretch ceiling?

Any new synthetic product initially gives off a slight chemical smell, and suspended ceilings are no exception. They are made of PVC film, which has a weak (safe for humans) specific odor, which slightly intensifies when the sheets are heat treated during installation. A high-quality ceiling (precisely high-quality!) from a reputable manufacturer will give off an odor during the first 1-2 days after installation, after which the odor will disappear forever.

It should be noted that recently the category of “quality ceilings” includes many licensed Chinese models, which we are traditionally accustomed to classifying as low-quality goods - technologies that have recently been used in China allow local manufacturers to compete on equal terms with their European elite counterparts.

On the other hand, it is from China and some countries of Southeast Asia that a large number of handicraft ceiling canvases are supplied, which suffer from a strong chemical odor that does not disappear for a long time. If you do not want to encounter this problem, then try to buy stretch ceilings from reputable brands from trusted sellers!

Please note that when stored in a warehouse for a long time at low temperatures, the smell of low-quality fabric practically disappears. When installed in a residential area, where the normal temperature is higher than in a warehouse, the ceiling sheet begins to emit a chemical odor much more actively.

The unpleasant smell from a new stretch ceiling can be eliminated quite simply - ventilate the room or create a small draft. The smell should dissipate quickly and reliably within a few days. This is especially important in summer and in rooms with “difficult climatic conditions”. For example, a suspended ceiling in a bathroom. which is often exposed to temperature changes and high humidity, needs to be ventilated especially intensively.

Source: www.potolok-minsk.by

The smell after installing suspended ceilings, the reason, how long it lasts

Regardless of which company you installed the ceiling, it will still emit an odor. This is not affected by the price or quality of the ceiling film. Even the most expensive suspended ceiling will still emit an odor, but it will not be as strong and pungent as from a cheap canvas.

But don’t worry, if you install a high-quality canvas, the smell will go away within 3-4 days with constant ventilation. The smell is emitted by PVC film, which is used as a ceiling sheet. Conventionally produced films can be divided into 3 groups:

  • The material is of the highest quality and has a subtle odor that disappears after a few days. By the way, the FACTORY OF CEILINGS company works only with such materials,
  • The material is of average quality, the weathering period of which is 1-1.5 weeks. If the renovation budget is very small, such canvases can be installed in the hallway. But in any case, it is not recommended to stay in the room for a long time until the smell completely disappears,
  • low-quality materials that have an intense sweetish odor and can be hazardous to health. You need to avoid encountering such a ceiling by all means. Usually such materials are the cheapest, but sometimes you can find a fake of an expensive film that is of such low quality.

Video on the topic: Toxic repairs: how to choose suspended ceilings without chemicals

If the material is of high quality and has the necessary certificates, it is absolutely safe for humans and does not affect our health in any way. Of course, the higher the quality of the film, the more expensive it is, and accordingly the rate of weathering directly depends on the quality of the material. Expensive ceiling fabrics emit a less intense odor, which disappears faster.

Based on the reviews and experience of people who have suspended ceilings in their homes, we can identify a number of reasons why the unpleasant odor does not go away. Firstly, at least 10 days must pass from the moment the ceiling was installed for the odor problem to be considered urgent. Secondly, choose high-quality stretch ceilings.

Thirdly, it is necessary to thoroughly ventilate the rooms so that the smell disappears completely. An unpleasant odor may also occur in the room if the humidity level is high and the ventilation system is not working properly. The intensity of the smell can also be affected by the number of installed lamps.

The more of them, the more the canvas heats up and the more intense the unpleasant odor is released. But there is consolation for those who love a lot of light: the higher the temperature, the faster the smell disappears completely. If you decide to install fabric stretch ceilings, then the problem of odor will most likely bypass you. This is due to the difference in impregnations that are used in the manufacture of PVC and fabric material.

Source: fabrika-potolkov.su

The stretch ceiling smells - is that how it should be?

The main component of PVC ceilings is polyvinyl chloride. It is this that causes so much inconvenience to owners of such finishes. However, it is worth mentioning right away that the smell appears during installation and disappears fairly quickly. Usually, two or three days are enough for the unpleasant odor to completely disappear.

The fabric fabrics do not contain polyvinyl chloride, but there is another “fragrant” component - a special polyurethane impregnation, which gives the fabric its unique properties. It is worth noting here that fabric coverings practically do not smell immediately after installation, unlike their film counterparts.

Do expensive materials smell?

When choosing a specific type of canvas, some are of the opinion that more expensive materials will not create such discomfort. In part, this approach is justified - expensive linen will practically not give you “aromatic” problems. However, there will still be a smell, even if you choose the most expensive option.

All new things usually smell. The sensations are not always pleasant, and in the case of stretched fabric, the aromas will be enhanced by the use of a heating device - a heat gun, which is used to install the structure. Therefore, if you ask the question: can expensive stretch ceilings smell, you will receive an affirmative answer.

Video on the topic: Stretch ceilings, features of choice.

How long has this been going on

During the installation of PVC coating, a heat gun is used. Accordingly, during installation the sensations will be enhanced by heating. However, within a few hours after installation, the ceiling will no longer smell so strong that it causes inconvenience. The complete disappearance of unpleasant sensations will occur in 3 to 10 days, depending on the quality of the material.

With fabric coverings everything is much better - the covering stops disturbing the sense of smell after a couple of hours, and the highest quality materials do not cause such problems at all. Therefore, it is recommended to install textile types of coverings in children's rooms - they will not harm the child.

Accordingly, the above removes the question of whether suspended ceilings smell after installation. Of course, they will irritate your nose for a few days, but then everything will stop and nothing else can darken the joy of using them.

Is it possible to distinguish quality material

Yes it is possible. If the fabric emits a sharp and unpleasant odor, it was made without complying with certain hygienic standards and is most likely counterfeit. In this case, it is better to refuse the purchase. A normal situation is the presence of a slight, slightly “rubbery” aroma.

If your installed ceiling exudes a “chemical” odor even after a few weeks, it’s time to sound the alarm. Such a coating is most likely unsafe for health and will have to be dismantled so as not to harm your body.

How to protect yourself from low-quality products

Unfortunately, your sense of smell won't help here. The only reliable way not to purchase a fake canvas is to check the certificates of conformity for the material. If they refuse to provide them to you, it is better to choose another company. Competition in this market is very high and you can easily find another option.

In addition, it is worth devoting a little of your time to finding exactly the company that has positive reviews about its work. Having a good reputation for a company means quite a lot. At the same time, larger companies can also provide a discount as part of some promotion, which is also nice.

Source: wikipotolok.com

Are stretch ceilings hazardous to health?

Before starting renovations using modern building and finishing materials, it is worth finding out whether they are harmful to our health. In particular, we will talk about stretch ceilings. Currently, there are many myths about the dangers of suspended ceilings. There are their unconditional fans, and there are also malicious opponents.

When choosing a stretch ceiling, we often rely on the visual appeal of the ceiling structure, without paying attention to the material from which the canvas is made. But this is very important - the chemicals in a particular material, if it is of poor quality, significantly affect our well-being.

Video on the topic: Chinese seamless stretch ceilings
High-quality ceilings do not have foreign odors and do not emit volatile compounds into the air. It is advisable to choose only well-known brands that guarantee safety and under no circumstances buy suspended ceilings in markets where counterfeit products can easily be slipped in.

The impact of low-quality materials on people's well-being

Fabric ceilings- this is the safest material for the manufacture of ceilings from the point of view of its impact on health. High-quality fabric ceilings must be certified in accordance with European standards. Whether fabric-based stretch ceilings are harmful depends entirely on the manufacturer. Unscrupulous manufacturers will not be able to provide the appropriate documentation, therefore, this fact should alert the buyer.

The impact of counterfeit suspended ceilings on health is noticeable almost immediately. After a few weeks, residents will begin to notice that they begin to tire too quickly, weakness, fatigue, drowsiness and poor health in general.

It is possible that allergic reactions or poisoning from toxic substances that are released into the air may occur, and you may not even understand why you are so “stormy.” If there is an unpleasant odor in the apartment after installing ceilings, then it is better to abandon them. In any case, any self-respecting company gives a guarantee for its products and it is important to stipulate in the contract the conditions for returning the goods.

PVC film ceilings are now considered a very controversial option for finishing an apartment. There are a lot of rumors about the dangers of vinyl; they say that polyvinyl chloride can cause cancer in people closely associated with PVC. You should not rely solely on rumors - the harmfulness of PVC stretch ceilings is determined by a certification commission, based on whose research a quality certificate is issued. It must accompany the goods.

So why can’t experts come to a common denominator regarding suspended ceilings? It's all about phenol, which is necessarily contained in polyvinyl chloride. Indeed, phenol is harmful to health, but in a certain concentration and not in the composition of any chemical compounds, but in a free volatile form.

In the composition of the material for suspended ceilings, phenol is contained in a stable compound, from which the phenolic group is not released over time. And the concentration of this substance in PVC films is negligible and is strictly regulated by European quality standards. Large Russian manufacturers try to adhere to these standards and, moreover, the phenol content in domestic films is even lower than in European analogues. Therefore, buy domestic products.

Don't be afraid of polyvinyl chloride - it surrounds us everywhere, for example, car upholstery, the body of household appliances and kitchen appliances, even toothbrushes and credit cards. These are all also made of PVC, but there have been no disputes about their harmfulness until now. If you still doubt the safety of PVC ceilings, then it is better to abandon it, and at the same time, the comfort of your home, because it will give you peace of mind.

Greenhouse effect in the room

There is an opinion that suspended ceilings impede the ventilation of the room; the “native” ceiling can become damp and become covered with fungus. We hasten to reassure you that fabric ceilings allow air to pass through perfectly. The fabric for suspended ceilings is made with complex mesh weaving and is “breathable”.

A separate issue is suspended ceilings made of PVC film. Indeed, this is practically the same film as any other, so it cannot be “breathable”. But nevertheless, those who doubt the safety of PVC ceilings do not think to look at their feet, but the linoleum on which we walk every day also does not allow air to pass through and so far no one has complained about fungus under the floor covering.

If there is poor ventilation in the room, even an ordinary concrete ceiling will become damp and collect condensation from steam or gas. The outer surface of the PVC ceiling is ventilated and dried by simple ventilation through a vent or window. And in order to expel air masses inside the tension structure, ventilation ducts are provided, which must be taken care of during the installation of ceilings and ensure that the installers carry them out conscientiously.

Usually, a reputable company does not have to remind you of such a trifle; this should be included in the range of ceiling installation services. Especially when it comes to installing a tension structure in the bathroom. This is where ventilation ducts are simply necessary. It is even advisable to install a blade fan for forced, intense air circulation.

In ordinary rooms, ventilation ducts can serve as technological gaps between the walls and the canvas. These cracks are usually covered with ceiling plinths, but this does not interfere with air access.

Good day everyone! Dear experts, how long can a ceiling smell after installation, and what to do if the smell does not disappear for a long time.

It's been over two weeks now. I won’t say that the room is unbreathable, but the faint chemical smell still lingers. I contacted the company that installed them, they shrugged their shoulders - they say, this is the first time this has happened. They even invite you to their other facilities to compare.

I really haven’t heard any bad reviews about them, only positive ones, which is why I turned to them. But if it's not the film, then what?

Stepan Nikolaevich

Hello, Stepan Nikolaevich. Many people face your problem, so we will try to answer the question in detail.

Why do ceilings smell?

Most customers are interested in stretch ceilings - do they have a smell, how harmful is it to health and how long does it last?

Since the film is made from the synthetic material polyvinyl chloride, it, of course, smells. But only when heated, since with increasing temperature the structure of the material changes. Once cooled, the smell should disappear within a few days at most.

For reference. Plastic windows and wall panels are made from the same PVC. But they are installed without the use of high temperatures, so they do not emit volatile substances.

There are several reasons why the smell of suspended ceilings does not disappear. We list them in descending order of frequency of occurrence.

  • Poor quality film. Unfortunately, there are now many fakes and materials made with violations of technology. It is profitable for installers to buy cheap film, since customers are always looking for the most affordable product. Therefore, a low price should always raise suspicions.

Advice. If you doubt the quality of the ceiling, ask the installers for fire and hygiene certificates for the film. Inquire about the manufacturer and try to make sure that they are stretching the material you have chosen.

  • Failure to comply with installation technology. The instructions clearly regulate the heating temperature of the film during installation. If it is overheated, irreversible changes may occur in the structure of the material.

  • The ceiling is heated by built-in lamps. Not all lamps can be used in combination with suspended ceilings. Halogen and incandescent lamps become very hot and transfer heat to the film, which as a result begins to emit a chemical odor.

What to do if the smell does not go away

It depends on the reason for its appearance. It is clear that low-quality film needs to be changed. The matter is complicated and nerve-consuming, since you will have to contact the company that installed it for you, and they are unlikely to admit their sins without an examination.

Advice. If nerves are worth more than money, it’s easier to contact another company that will stretch you a new fabric onto an existing frame.

But before you start a “war”, make sure that the suspended ceiling emits a smell for this very reason. You may be able to fix it yourself. What should be done?

  • First of all, ventilate the room well by opening the windows.
  • Then make sure that the lamps have energy-saving or LED lamps.
  • If everything remains the same, perhaps an unpleasant odor has accumulated between the stretch ceiling and the ceiling and is seeping out from there in small portions. This happens with perfectly smooth walls, when the space between the ceilings is hermetically sealed. Try removing one lamp or removing a glass from a chandelier and pulling the protector ring several times, causing the blade to vibrate, expelling the smell into the hole.
  • Finally, make sure that the unpleasant odor is coming from the ceiling and not from fresh paint on the walls or new furniture.

Conclusion

Specialists who install suspended ceilings often shoot videos during installation and talk about its features.

You can familiarize yourself with one of them here and find out whether stretch ceilings have an odor and how to deal with it.

Stretch ceilings are chosen for several reasons: speed of installation, relative cleanliness during the work and a completely humane price for an even and durable coating. Multi-colored and even multi-level canvases have long taken root in the homes of Belarusians. The majority live and rejoice. But not everyone’s relationships with “stretchers” are successful. Minsk resident Alexander shared his story with Onliner.by.

- In December 2016, I entered into an agreement with a well-known company for the installation of suspended ceilings in my apartment,- says the man. - The main criterion for me when choosing was quality and an official contract. On the company's website I chose the appropriate option in terms of color, texture, etc. When drawing up the contract, the manager said that there was a good manufacturer available - MSD (China) - with certificates, verified and who works for Europe. I liked this option. I also immediately clarified the nuances about the release of odor after installation, to which I was assured - a maximum of 2-3 days, then everything will disappear.

The ceilings were installed, I made payment according to the contract. However, after installation and diligent ventilation, there was a terrible smell in the premises (at that time no one lived in the apartment). Two weeks later, I insisted that the ceilings be removed, because it was primarily about the health of small children...

The canvas was removed, and the company representatives and I verbally agreed to redo everything. But a few days later a call came in with the information - “everything is fine with you, we can put the ceilings back on for money.” I refused. Then the installer company simply lay low and did not try to solve the problem in any way. I had no choice but to contact the Ministry of Health to find out whether a product such as a stretch ceiling fabric needs a hygiene certificate? To which I received a written answer: yes, it is necessary (Resolution No. 666 of the Council of Ministers).

After this, I submitted a written complaint to the installer for the provision of a hygiene certificate in accordance with this standard. The answer came as follows: we are not importers, we do not have our own production (although the website says “our own production” in black and white). The importer is a certain LLC, the manufacturer is also a third company. The written response was also accompanied by hygiene certificates for the linen, issued to a certain LLC by the Ministry of Health.

But the most interesting thing is that such a manufacturer, which is indicated in the provided certificate, was not on the installer’s website (this “jamb” has now been corrected). This is the first time I’ve heard about the manufacturer Hailide - I made an agreement with MSD, and the manager made a note about it on the contract with his own hand.

Screenshot from the site taken last month

They write on the Internet that Hailide is cheaper and less environmentally friendly, because it uses local Chinese raw materials, unlike the one I ordered and paid for. It turns out I was misled.

The Harmony of Comfort company, to which all the Minsk resident’s complaints are addressed, comments on the situation as follows:

- The work was completed on December 1, 2016 and accepted by the customer with the signing of the acceptance certificate for the work performed. The customer had no complaints about the quality of the work performed.

The production of suspended ceiling sheets commissioned by the private enterprise "Harmony-Service" is carried out by the private enterprise "Production Systems". Until 2015, production was part of the activities of the private enterprise “Harmony-Service”. In 2015, a decision was made to separate production into an independent legal entity and the private enterprise “Production Systems” was registered. But, as before, and at the moment, the private enterprise "Harmony-service" is the main customer of canvases for suspended ceilings from the private enterprise "Production Systems", the management of the private enterprise "Harmony-service" participates in the approval of materials purchased by the private enterprise "Production systems" ( manufacturers, colors, textures) for the production of suspended ceilings, timing and quality of their production. All this gives us the right to position this production on the website as our own.

In the production of canvases for suspended ceilings, PVC film from such manufacturers as MSD, Pongs, Hailide is used. What information is available on our website in the “Prices” section. The contract concluded with the private enterprise “Harmony-Service” and the Minsk resident did not indicate a specific manufacturer of the material, and the manufacturer of the material was not agreed upon with the customer. The production of canvases at the time of ordering at the production site is carried out from materials available, taking into account the texture of the film, color and width.

After the installation of stretch ceilings on December 14, 2016, Alexander contacted us by phone with a complaint that a specific smell emanated from the stretch ceilings installed to him. A production specialist visited him regarding this fact, who subsequently explained that in the customer’s premises, in addition to the installed suspended ceilings, new chipboard furniture was also installed, which at that time had a persistent characteristic odor.

Despite this, at the request of the client, on December 17, 2016, employees of the private enterprise “Harmony-Service” dismantled 5 satin stretch ceilings that had previously been installed for him. On January 3, 2017, the company received another complaint requesting an examination of the installed ceilings to determine the smell and level of formaldehyde. On January 16, 2017, in the presence of the client, a sample of the PVC film previously installed in his apartment was submitted to the Minsk City Hygiene Center for a study on the smell and level of formaldehyde. The application for the study did not contain the name of the manufacturer of this PVC film. At the request of the employees of the Minsk City Hygiene Center, the application was added by hand: satin texture, white color, width 320 cm. According to the client, manufacturer MSD. Studies of the submitted sample were carried out to determine the level of odor and formaldehyde; it was these requirements for the study that were put forward by the Minsk resident. This kind of research does not allow us to determine the manufacturer of the PVC film.

Also, at Alexander’s request, he was provided with a copy of the sanitary and hygienic report on the installed PVC film from the importer MaxiOffice LLC, from which it follows that this PVC film complies with the “Unified Sanitary, Epidemiological and Hygienic Requirements for Goods Subject to Sanitary and Epidemiological Surveillance (Control) )", SanPiN 2.1.2.12-25-2006, GN "Hygienic requirements for the design, equipment and maintenance of residential buildings" (post. Ministry of Health of the Republic of Belarus 08/20/2015 No. 95).

The presence of a sanitary and hygienic report from the importer, and even more so the results of examining a sample of the film of a previously installed stretch ceiling, allows us to conclude that the specific smell in the premises did not come from the suspended ceilings installed to him, the presence of which was claimed by this citizen.

We have been providing services for installing suspended ceilings under the “Harmony of Comfort” trademark for more than 5 years. At the moment, we have more than 2,000 satisfied customers; not a single customer has received complaints of this kind.

Stretch ceilings have gained immense popularity due to their high decorative qualities and speed of installation. Often, a specific smell appears in a room decorated with their help, causing anxiety among the people there.

All suspended ceilings are divided into two large groups:

Classification of odors

There are three grades of quality of PVC film, which affect the intensity of the odor:

  1. High. Linen of this quality either does not smell at all, or has some chemical aroma that disappears after a maximum of 3-4 days. After this, the owners of the room no longer feel any changes in the air. It is these ceilings that are recommended for use in bedrooms and children's rooms.
  2. Average. A specific pungent odor may bother you for several days after installation of the canvas. As practice shows, complete weathering takes up to two weeks. During this time, it is recommended to avoid prolonged stay in such premises.
  3. Low. After installing a structure of this type, a pronounced, somewhat sweet miasma appears in the home. The head begins to hurt, drowsiness appears, it hurts the eyes and itches in the throat. The stench is so persistent that it usually lasts for several months (or does not go away at all).

New PVC fabric usually has unobtrusive rubber smell, with some hint of plastic, which disappears after a couple of days. Although high-quality polyvinyl chloride is not a natural material, it is harmlessness has long been proven. In addition to suspended ceilings, it is included in plastic windows, doors, linoleum, household appliances, etc. However, some unscrupulous manufacturers of stretch films introduce additional substances into the PVC composition (as dyes or modifiers).

Typically, stretch ceilings have a rubbery smell with a slight admixture of plastic

Especially dangerous in this regard, phenol and toluene:

  • Phenol. A very toxic substance that has a negative effect on the brain of people and animals. A person who has inhaled phenol begins to sneeze and cough; he begins to feel dizzy, pale and nauseous. Phenol has a gouache smell.
  • Toluene. No less dangerous connection. With frequent inhalation of toluene, a slight intoxicating feeling occurs, as if from a drug. As a result, the nervous system is affected, emotional and mental reactions are dulled, and the vestibular apparatus is upset. With prolonged exposure to toluene, the body's blood-forming function begins to suffer, with a real risk of hypoxia and cyanosis. Has a sharp specific smell.

Both substances belong to the second hazard class.

You should immediately understand that any stretch film, even the highest quality, will smell. Another thing is how quickly this smell disappears. Some manufacturers of suspended ceilings present their products as “completely odorless.” You should be wary of things of this kind, since verification often turns out that the problem is not the absence of toxins, but the presence of additional flavorings that interrupt the smell.

Any suspended ceiling will smell for several days after installation

In addition to polyvinyl chloride, antiseptics and fire retardants can also emit aroma. They are introduced into the composition of the material to protect against fungus and fire. The procedure of tensioning the fabric is accompanied by its heating, which also increases the “emission” of volatile polymers. Some of the alien odor is introduced by the gas burners used by the installers. As experts recommend, after finishing the room, it must be well ventilated, and only then used.

The low quality of the stretch film used and the presence of harmful toxins in it are not always the cause of a persistent odor after installation. It happens that even after installing proven material, the specific aroma does not disappear for weeks.

Potentially possible reasons for this situation:


  • Use of protective coatings on film. We are talking about special talc-based lubricants, which are applied by some manufacturers to protect the material. In this case, there is no danger to health, but the time it takes for the smell to disappear after installing the ceiling increases.

  • Specifics of the room microclimate. Favorable factors for the appearance of a rubber smell in a room with suspended ceilings are increased temperature and humidity.

  • Poor ventilation. The absence of normal exhaust hood will lead to blockage of the room. In such an atmosphere, any odors sharply intensify, including evaporation from the polymer surface of the ceiling.

Passively waiting for the smell to disappear on its own after installing the tension system can delay a favorable outcome for weeks, or even months. There are several effective ways to help create a fresh, pleasant atmosphere in a room. Sometimes this can help even if you use low-grade tension fabric.

If a specific odor from a new tension fabric is detected in a room, it is recommended to take the following measures:

  1. Increase ventilation intensity. This will greatly speed up the removal of aromatic volatile substances emitted by the PVC surface outside the home. In winter, it is advisable not to overdo it with ventilation, since frosty air deteriorates the quality of the decorative film.
  2. It is recommended to blow the stretched PVC fabric with a stream of warm air for several hours. This will accelerate the release of free chlorine and phenol molecules from the surface of the material. For these purposes, you can use a regular fan heater.
  3. In the first week after installation, it is recommended to refrain from using lamps built into the surface of the canvas. This also applies to pendant chandeliers located close to the tension surface. The fact is that the final stabilization of the film after tension occurs after a few days. At this time, it is better to limit yourself to table lamps and lamps.

  4. Use LED strips and lamps to illuminate the room. The advantage of these devices is the creation of uniform and pleasant light without any heating of the surrounding space. This has a beneficial effect on the safety of nearby delicate surfaces and helps save energy.
  5. Carefully clean the surface of the canvas using high-quality detergents or soap. This will make it possible to wash off the protective lubricant that is used during storage and transportation of the material.
  6. Green the room with indoor plants that intensively absorb volatile toxins. We are talking about spathiphyllum, chlorophytum, sansevieria, and various ficuses. In addition, you can use special air purifiers or traditional methods. It is a well-known fact that containers of water, baths of salt and burning candles placed indoors help normalize the microclimate.

As practice shows, the measures described above help eliminate unpleasant odors as quickly as possible. If after a month the picture has not changed, you can safely contact representatives of the manufacturer for clarification.