How to make a plasterboard ceiling with lighting - detailed guide of 3 stages

Are you planning to update the interior in the apartment, and do not know what to do with the old one? concrete ceiling? I want to offer an original and inexpensive solution - two-level false ceilings with plasterboard with backlight. I will tell you how you can make them yourself, and I will offer a choice of two options for ceiling lighting.

Two-level false ceiling device

Installation of two-level ceilings will help to realize the most daring and original design ideas, and direct or backlighting on the ceiling will allow you to do without a traditional chandelier or ceiling lights.

The shape and configuration of the contours of the second level can be any, and will depend solely on your imagination. Below I will briefly describe how such a design works:

Upper level- this is the ceiling plane itself:

For rooms with a ceiling height of more than 2700 mm, I advise the entire area of \u200b\u200bthe main ceiling to be completely sewn up with plasterboard sheets on a metal frame. This will allow you to get a perfectly flat surface without cracks, cracks and joints;
If the ceiling height is less than 2700 mm, and the main ceiling is not very dead, it can be puttied and painted, and then used as the top level.

Second level- made in the form of a rectangular or figured space box of metal frame sewn with drywall sheets:

The height of the box can be from 100 to 250 mm, and the width is selected depending on the geometric shape and size of the room;
Most often, it is located along the walls around the entire perimeter of the room, and the backlight is directed to the center of the room;
In some cases, it is mounted in the central part of the ceiling. When backlighting is turned on, an interesting visual effect is obtained - a voluminous figured box floating in the rays of light under the ceiling.

It makes sense to do two-level plasterboard ceilings only if the height of the room is from the level of the finished floor to the capital ceiling is at least 2500 mm.

Ceiling lighting options

Light sources for suspended ceilings are installed inside the second level plasterboard boxes. Depending on their location and the direction of the light flux, ceiling lighting can be of two types:

Direct backlight- open spotlights are located at some distance from each other in the lower plane of the box, and the luminous flux is directed from the ceiling to the floor.

This option gives a fairly strong diffused light, which at night can normally illuminate the entire room;
As light sources, halogen, energy-saving or LED lamp. If their price seems high to you, you can use ordinary incandescent bulbs.

Backlight- a solid LED strip is attached from the inside of the protruding canopy in the lower part of the box, and the light flux is directed upwards to the main ceiling:

The backlighting of the ceiling with LED strip gives a soft reflected glow, which is scattered throughout the ceiling;
It is used to create visual effects and as an additional light source.

Until recently, hidden backlighting of the ceiling was carried out using neon tubes. They require high-voltage transformers to operate, and they are heavy, consume a lot of electricity, and are unsafe in terms of fire protection, so I do not recommend using this option.

Production of a two-level ceiling with lighting

Stage 1: preparation of tools and materials

To make a volumetric box on the ceiling with lighting, you will need ordinary construction tools. You can buy all materials in the construction hypermarket and in the electrical goods store:

Illustration	Tools and materials
	Construction tools: Electric perforator with a set of drills; Electric jigsaw with wood saws; Cordless screwdriver with a set of interchangeable nozzles; Planer for cutting edges; Hacksaw with fine teeth; Scissors for metal; Middle hammer; Sharp knife with replaceable blades; A set of metal spatulas; Construction level, rope plumb and tape measure.
	Drywall installation materials: Galvanized guide profiles "CD" and "UD" Direct remote suspensions; Corner and straight connectors for profiles; Drywall sheets 9 mm thick; Phosphated self-tapping screws for drywall; Reinforcing mesh "serpyanka"; Starting and finishing acrylic putty; Interior acrylic paint.
	Light fixtures: Flexible LED strip on a self-adhesive basis (as in the photo); Electronic power supplies with output voltage 12 V; Mounting cable ShVVP 2x0.75 mm²; Spot spotlights.

Stage 2: fixing the supporting frame

Below is an instruction for the manufacture and installation of a volumetric box from plasterboard with lighting on a concrete ceiling:

Illustration	Description of works
	Marking application: Before you make a box, you need to develop a sketch and draw its contours on paper; In accordance with the sketch, mark the concrete ceiling; It is convenient to control the straightness of lines and angles using a laser level.
	Mounting guides: Fasten the guide profiles "UD" to the ceiling along the marking contour; To make radius sections on the outside of the profile, make several small cuts with metal scissors; Fasten the lower horizontal guides to the wall at the level of the lower part of the box.
	Side wall fixing: From the “CD” profile, cut a lot of small segments, the length of which should be slightly less than the height of the future box; From drywall, cut strips with a width equal to the height of the box; Using self-tapping screws, fix the strips and sections of the profile to the upper guides; Follow the level so that they are located strictly vertically; The step between the profiles should be about 400-500 mm.
	Installation of horizontal jumpers: At the bottom of each strip on the inside of the box, fix the guide profile "UD"; From the “CD” profile, cut horizontal jumpers along the length equal to the width of the box; Fix each jumper with one end to the guide on the side strip, and with the other end to the profile on the wall; Thus, you should get a solid three-dimensional frame.

Stage 3: plasterboarding and lighting installation

If you are doing two-level suspended ceilings in residential areas, I advise you to use a combined backlight. In this case, both an LED strip for backlighting and spotlights for the main light are installed.

Illustration	Description of works
	Side stitching: Sew up all sides of the metal frame with drywall strips; To bend the drywall strip, several deep cuts must be made on the outside of the radius; Putty the concrete ceiling and sidewalls of the box, sand it and paint it with interior paint.
	Setting backlight: After the paint is completely dry, glue the LED strip around the entire perimeter of the box on the sides; Install power supplies inside the box, and bring out all the wires there; For ease of maintenance and repair, it is better to install them all in one place; Lay wires inside the box for connecting ceiling lights.
	Ceiling installation: To the bottom of the box, hem sheets of drywall; From the inside, it should protrude to the center of the room by 80-120 mm.
	Rough finish: Fasten the guide profile to the protruding visor around the entire perimeter from the inside; From the outside, sew it up with a narrow strip of drywall 50-60 mm wide; Putty the lower plane of the box and paint with acrylic paint.
	Installation of spotlights: In the lower plane do a few round holes with a step of 600-1200 mm; Connect spotlights to pre-laid wires, and install in the holes; Outside, fix a decorative plinth or cornice on the end of the visor.

Conclusion

Now you know that it’s not difficult to make a backlit plasterboard ceiling yourself. You can ask me all your questions in the comments, and do not forget to watch the video in this article.

Suspended ceilings are one of the most common types of apartment design, thanks to which it has become possible to make the interior in residential premises original and non-standard. A variety of technologies are used for this purpose. However, to achieve a greater effect and variety of forms, it is the plasterboard ceiling that allows. This type of ceiling design is by far one of the most common. The reason for the popularity of ceiling systems made of drywall lies in the technological features of the material itself, and in the originality of the finished structures.

Working with drywall opens up a wide field for the realization of the most daring design fantasies and ideas. If desired, and with limited technical capabilities, you can limit yourself to the construction of the simplest ceiling systems in one level, or vice versa, create your own from drywall beautiful ceilings with backlight. Nobody limits you in the choice of design options.

The technology of installation of suspended ceiling plasterboard systems is well studied. The construction of such structures is not associated with particular complexity. With a minimum set of tools at hand and minimal drywall skills, you can get to work on your own. All ceiling design options should be considered. Ceilings with decorative lighting elements look very interesting. Let's try to deal with the questions of how to make a backlit ceiling from plasterboard on your own, without resorting to the services of professionals.

What are the main features of a plasterboard ceiling with lighting

Ceiling finishing is the final stage of interior finishing works. It is at this stage that you can fully realize your technological ideas and imagination. Plasterboard ceilings in one or several levels with lighting will help you not only improve the quality of the interior of the room, but also raise your own professional level. Why is the illuminated ceiling arousing such interest among consumers? The answer lies on the surface. By combining the configuration of the ceiling surface and new lighting technologies, it has become possible to obtain a completely striking visual effect. A neatly made ceiling, illuminated in certain places, completely transforms the entire interior space. The visual perception of the interior space is radically changing.

The idea of using lighting in apartment design is not new. Previously, the stake in this regard was made on the use of chandeliers, sconces and other lamps located in open areas. Today, the emphasis in ceiling design is shifting to the use of hidden or open light sources for ceiling design, built directly into the ceiling surface.

Note: recessed luminaires are used only in those suspension systems where the design has a frame base, during the construction of which it is necessary to take into account the dimensions of the luminaire body and their number.

However, not everyone can afford such an option, when recessed lighting fixtures take on the main load in terms of lighting. The thing is that suspended ceiling systems eat up the precious height of the premises, which in many apartments is already limited by rigid frames. Even when constructing ceilings in one tier, it will be necessary to lower the entire structure by 15 cm. The thickness of the plasterboard sheet and the height of the recessed lamp body, which is at least 10 cm, are taken into account.

You can use the second level for this, which will be made in the form of steps or one central element in the central part of the ceiling surface. This is provided that the area of \u200b\u200bthe room is large enough. In small rooms, especially in corridors, in hallways and in bedrooms, a false ceiling equipped with lighting perfectly copes with this task. This technology simultaneously solves two problems:

maintaining the height of the ceilings in the room;
adds more aesthetics to the design of the ceiling part.

How to do this, and what types of illuminated ceilings are applicable in practice, let's take a closer look.

What are the illuminated ceilings made using drywall

Modern ceiling design is distinguished by the fact that it allows you to calmly build almost any structure in the upper part of the premises. Differences can be in the complexity of the forms and in the configuration. Designs in which the main effect is achieved by backlighting are very popular.

At the first acquaintance with such ceilings, there may be an erroneous opinion that such systems are expensive and the installation of such a ceiling is associated with great difficulties. However, a detailed analysis and acquaintance with the arrangement of suspension systems with lighting elements reveals a completely different picture. Thanks to the use of drywall sheets and basic knowledge of the electrical part, you can get such a ceiling without special efforts.

In everyday life, the following types of suspended ceiling plasterboard systems are used today:

one, two and three-level ceilings with open lighting;
single and multi-tier ceiling structures with hidden lighting.

In the first case, spot recessed or outdoor lamps are used. In the second case we are talking about lamps hidden in a special niche.

On a note: as an option, you can use ordinary ceilings equipped with baguettes or ceiling plinths. These decorative elements are glued to finished ceilings. The design of the baguette has a special groove into which the diode tape is placed. In this way, you can solve the problem with tonal lighting in rooms where it is not possible to build frame ceiling systems.

When choosing the first option, with an open installation of fixtures, it is necessary to use only diode and halogen lamps. It is highly undesirable, in order to increase fire safety, use lamps equipped with conventional incandescent lamps. For recessed luminaires drywall sheets holes are pre-drilled. When installing a chandelier, it is important to consider the weight of the lamp. It is recommended to use chandeliers, the weight of which does not exceed 10 kg, and it is better to strengthen the frame in the places where the lamps are installed.

It should be said that when choosing this design option for ceilings, the main emphasis is on the shape of the ceiling and the external data of the fixtures. There is no need to talk about the design approach and originality in this situation. If they allow technical capabilities, it is better to use the option with hidden light sources. This technology immediately takes the level of the interior to a completely different level.

With the hidden placement of lamps in special niches, the light is evenly distributed over the entire ceiling surface, enhancing the visual perception of a large interior space. This technology is very successful when equipping ceilings in small rooms. Thanks to hidden light sources, even a corridor in a small apartment, a bathroom or a small kitchen can be visually enlarged and expanded.

What types of fixtures are used in combination with plasterboard ceilings

In order to achieve the desired effect, it is necessary to focus on the following recommendations when choosing lighting sources:

what is the true purpose of lighting in this room;
whether your financial capabilities allow you to equip a complex lighting system;
what type of ceiling structure will you have to work with: one, two or multi-level;
what is the condition of the electrical wiring in this part of the house, and who will install the fixtures;
whether there are elements of sound and heat insulation in the suspended structure.

On the this moment ceiling lighting technology is focused on the use of a wide variety of lighting fixtures. Most often used for these purposes are pendant and overhead lamps and chandeliers. In terms of interior perfection, recessed spotlights with halogen and diode lamps are actively used. For a combined lighting option, both the first and second options are usually used, reinforced with decorative lighting elements. In each case, the choice is always yours. Drywall technically allows you to solve almost any complexity, especially when it comes to equipment the best option lighting systems.

Note: in large rooms where bright and intense light is required, it is recommended to use a combined option. The central lighting sources will be complemented by spotlights of a hidden or open type. Where there is a complex design in the upper part of the room, hidden LED lighting will look best. It is worth dwelling on the latter option in more detail, since the illumination of a ceiling made of plasterboard using an LED strip is economical and has a good visual effect.

The figure shows a section of a plasterboard structure on the ceiling, equipped specifically for installing decorative lighting.

Arrangement and installation of plasterboard ceilings with lighting

The main advantage that a plasterboard ceiling has, designed for the installation of a lighting system, is the absence of time-consuming work on laying electrical wiring. You can always make a choice in favor of a single-level or multi-level ceiling structure.

For reference: all wires that are in the interceiling space must be laid in special channels or tubes, thereby increasing the level of fire safety. When installing multiple light sources, take into account their total power and plan the connection accordingly.

For ceiling parts with open lighting, use only luminaires equipped with halogen and LED lamps. It is economical and safe. In addition, such lamps give an even light of a pleasant tone.

The correct choice of lighting sources plays a key role in this case. Open lighting mainly bears the technological load, providing the interior space with the necessary level of artificial lighting. Places are specially prepared for the installation of recessed luminaires. Holes are made in drywall sheets, markings are made on the base ceiling surface. To improve the visual effect, do not be afraid to use decorative lighting to equip your ceilings. Modern technologies built on the use of new lighting fixtures that have a simple and safe design.

Installation in a false ceiling made of plasterboard, LED strip is not something technically complicated. The main thing is to correctly determine the parameters of the illuminated area and, accordingly, choose the right length of the tape.

Use baguettes or frame bases for this purpose. It all depends on what kind of ceiling design you have to work with.

In custody

In order to make the interior space attractive, cozy and comfortable, you can use complex relief and curly shapes on the ceilings. It is enough to competently approach the issue of organizing lighting. The lighting system, which most types of ceiling design are focused on today, is based on the use of a wide variety of lighting fixtures. In conclusion, I would like to highlight the following points:

1. Drywall is the most convenient and practical material for ceiling lighting equipment.

2. When organizing lighting, use an open or closed type of backlight

3. For these purposes, the following are used:

invoices and pendant lamps;
recessed spotlights;
neon and LED strips.

4. When equipping decorative lighting, you must have a clear wiring diagram and know in advance the location of the lamps

Drywall is one of those materials that are often used for finishing ceilings, this material allows you to install numerous lighting devices. different ways. One of these methods is hidden ceiling lighting. This enables designers to create the maximum harmony of ceiling and room lighting with the interior. This effect is achieved by a successful selection of lighting devices, such their placement and combination, when open and hidden lighting systems are used in combination.

Selection of elements of hidden lighting

Suspended ceilings made of plasterboard (gypsum board) are in most cases multi-level, at least two levels. Traditional suspended lighting elements are installed on the upper level, and hidden ceiling lighting is installed in the second level box. Several types of lamps are suitable for this box:

point open and built-in lamps;
LED Strip Light;
duralight or flexible neon.

To do right choice, there are many factors to consider:

design features of the ceiling, it can be single-level, figured or multi-level with a shelf;
the presence of heaters or materials for sound insulation above drywall;
how the installation is carried out - in boxes or niches;
the purpose of lighting is the main one or the illumination of individual elements;
financial capabilities and other factors are also taken into account.

Basically, hidden plasterboard ceiling lighting is used to create comfortable conditions, the night background highlights individual elements of the interior, determines the direction for movement. Properly selected and placed backlight elements achieve various goals:

uniform lighting;
selection of individual elements;
the effect of visual expansion or reduction in the amount of space.

All these effects are combined various designs plasterboard ceilings and lighting fixtures.

Classic designs

The simplest for constructive solution, difficulties installation work and appearance are considered the following options:

Plasterboard box with a niche along the perimeter of the ceiling, if only an LED strip with batteries and controls is placed in it. The design does not require large areas and volumes. We describe how to do this in several stages:

Along the perimeter of the room, under the ceiling and on the walls, galvanized steel guide profiles are installed horizontally.
Between them, after 40-50 cm, rack-mount profiles are placed, forming the basis on which the niche is attached, the horizontal and vertical edges of the box.
The profile is attached to the walls with dowels, and is connected to each other with self-tapping screws.

Wiring is laid in the resulting frame, if necessary, power supplies and a control trimmer are attached.
The whole structure is closed with drywall, the sheets are attracted to the profile with self-tapping screws. The lower edge protrudes 10-15 cm towards the center of the ceiling, it is wider than the box. It is she who hides the light sources, LED strip, flexible neon or duralight.

Closer to the wall (in the figure on the right), recessed spotlights can be installed on the underside of the box.

Get combined lighting with open and closed elements, spotlights will illuminate the room, and the light from the niche will illuminate the ceiling, all tinsel, power supply, wiring, connectors will be hidden in the box. This method is not the cheapest and easiest, it requires a lot of material and labor. To create such a ceiling with hidden contour lighting, at least 2 people are involved in the work.

Plasterboard or polystyrene cornices on a single-level plasterboard ceiling. When the ceiling is already set, in order not to pile a box on it, a simple solution is used that allows you to hide light sources - you need to install wide ceiling cornices below the perimeter. An LED strip is laid on top of them, but it must be borne in mind that the cornice will not withstand power supplies and trimmers.

These elements and wires can be hidden under the ceiling or taken out to another room. The cornice is lightweight and can be easily attached by one worker:

a line is applied, a horizontal level 8–12 cm below the ceiling;
priming the installation site special solution for the strength of the plaster at the point of attachment of the cornices;
2-3 hours after the primer dries, we glue the cornice on the liquid nails;
for a more even surface, the joints between the individual elements of the cornice are glued;
the entire structure around the perimeter is painted to match the overall tone of the interior;
a tape or duralight is laid on top.

Everything, you can connect and enjoy the fabulous view of your ceiling, this method is both easier and cheaper. Note! It is not recommended to use drywall constructions in the bathroom or in the kitchen, in any places with high humidity.

According to statistics, cracks appear in such premises after 2–3 years, followed by destruction. If you really want hidden lighting and financial possibilities allow, it is allowed to put moisture-resistant drywall in the kitchen, such a ceiling with hidden lighting will delight you and your loved ones for a long time.

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

general information

Backlit plasterboard ceiling is very popular design decision. It is distinguished by external beauty and practicality. For the arrangement of the electrical part, various combinations of various lighting devices can be used. As a result, it is possible not only to change the intensity of the light flux, but also to influence the spatial perception of the room.

Strengths of use false ceiling backlit:

Creation of an absolutely even base on the surface of the base without the use of time-consuming screed and plaster.
Significant simplification of the procedure for preparing a rough foundation. It is allowed that the former finish, drops, cracks, etc. remain on it.
The possibility of convenient disguise under the suspended canvas of various communications - cables, wires, pipes, ventilation ducts, etc.
High decorative possibilities. In particular, this applies to the creation of a multi-level suspended plasterboard ceiling 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 plasterboard ceilings with lighting.
The complexity of the procedure. In any case, you will need an assistant and certain experience in arrangement electrical systems. If you install and switch lighting fixtures incorrectly, this can have very sad consequences. As a result of this short circuit sometimes causes a fire.

When developing a plan for mounting a plasterboard ceiling with lighting, it is recommended that special attention be paid to the following important points:

Use of several lighting zones in the room. As doctors say, for eye health it is better to use several low-power lamps than one bright lamp.
The drawing of the location of spotlights is developed in the most careful way. Needs separate lighting in the kitchen working surface and place of eating. In the bedroom, contour lighting around the bed has proven itself well. Often used additional lighting cabinet, bookshelves and desk. Lighting zoning is also used in the hallway: a hanger, mirrors and the ceiling perimeter are equipped with spotlights.
Light imitation of sun glare, northern lights and starry sky has excellent decorative characteristics.
Light fixtures should be positioned in such a way that they do not blind the eyes.
Thanks to the correct placement of the backlight, you can achieve adjustments to the proportions of the room. If you direct the light on the walls, there will be an effect of visual expansion of the space.
Each group of luminaires in different functional areas of the room needs an independent switch.
It is desirable to decorate small rooms with multi-level plasterboard ceilings with LED backlight.
Before you make a plasterboard ceiling with lighting, a detailed diagram of the future design is developed. It contains information about all sizes, varieties 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 lighting, emergency lighting, zoning of premises, illumination of the working area, etc. are equipped. This type of lighting belongs to the budget, and is suitable for lighting a plasterboard ceiling of any configuration. Such schemes are very easy to implement: as a rule, such work is done on their own, without the involvement of a professional electrician. To achieve the final aesthetics of the finished structure, it is necessary to carefully equip the holes in the plasterboard, strictly according to the diameter of the lamp. Spotlights most often play an auxiliary role in combination with the main lighting.
Chandelier (ordinary or LED). Products of this type are presented in a significant variety of shapes and colors. To install them, you do not need to change the wiring. In combination with suspended drywall systems, overhead and pendant lights are not always optimal solution. The fact is that their use further exacerbates the effect of the lost height of the room.

Daylight. Mainly installed in non-residential premises. They are cheap and easy to install. electrical energy they consume little. Lamp life daylight, in the presence of a stable voltage, large enough.
fiber optic. These lamps are an innovative development that allows you to create the effect of a starry sky. Installing fiber optic luminaires is expensive and labor intensive. 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 whole line strengths. They are able to create uniform diffused lighting, replacing a conventional 200W lamp. Installing the tape is very simple: 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 LED strip

Light-emitting diode (LED) tape is a narrow flexible strip with a width of not more than 9 mm. Conductive tracks, diodes and resistors are applied on top of the product.

When choosing the right option for mounting a plasterboard ceiling with LED lighting, it is recommended to pay attention to the following points:

diode type. The most common diodes are SMD3528 and SMD5050. The first variety (3528) always gives one color of illumination, the second can be white or multi-colored. The SMD5050 diode is more expensive, and consists of three crystals, which ensures its durability. SMD3528 tapes last less due to the gradual burnout of the phosphor. The hue of the light because of this becomes blue.
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 illumination increases. To equip a plasterboard ceiling with perimeter lighting, the density of the SMD3528 tape should be at the level of 30 or 60 diodes. If the goal is to illuminate a glossy stretch ceiling or partial illumination of a room, it is recommended to use SMD5050 tape with a density of 60 diodes or more.
Shades. To achieve multi-colored illumination, it is necessary to purchase 5050 strips, the base of which contains blue, red and green diodes.
Degree of protection. Tapes can be equipped with additional protection against moisture. Such products are torn by a special silicone insulation, which allows you to effectively resist flooding from above.
Equipment. LED strips must be equipped with a power supply. As additional equipment, SMD5050 tapes can contain a remote control system and a controller. You also need to choose plinths for LED strip, which are optimally suited to the ceiling.

What are plasterboard ceilings with lighting

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

How to make a backlit drywall ceiling

For arrangement 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 suspensions.
Mounts. Dowels, self-tapping screws, etc.
Fastening mesh for additional reinforcement of butt sections.
Metal shears, pliers, screwdriver, knife, screwdriver and puncher.
simple pencil, building level, twine.
A set of spatulas and putty.
LED strip kit. In addition to the lamp itself, there is a power supply, wiring with a cross section of at least 0.75 mm, insulating materials.

Mounting the top level frame false ceiling backlit is carried out in the following sequence of operations:

An indent of 10 cm is made from the floor slab and a solid line is beaten off along the perimeter of the room being finished.
The starting profile is screwed along the broken line. It acts as a guide for the main profile, which is fixed to the ceiling with hangers. Mounting step - about 40 cm.
The elements of the main profile are reinforced with additional jumpers, which are cut from the same profile. This makes the frame more rigid.
Finished construction sewn up with plasterboard plates, using self-tapping screws for this.

After that, they proceed to the arrangement of the box for illumination:

The base surface is equipped with a lower-level configuration drawing. The applied marking acts as a guide for installing the guide profile. The shelves of the ceiling element should be directed down, and the wall element - in the direction of the opposite wall. To fix the ceiling guide, the profile of the main frame is used.
Racks-suspensions are made from the main profile. When cutting blanks, the height of the ceiling of the lower level is taken as a guideline.
One of the sides of the suspension is equipped with an incision (4-5 cm), followed by bending rear wall inside. When calculating the number of suspensions, the dimensions of the ceiling are taken into account. Installation step - 1 suspension / 50-60 cm.
The finished elements are mounted inside the guide profile with the whole end. Self-tapping screws are used for fixing.
The ceiling profile also serves as a material for the manufacture of jumpers, 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 racks.
The blanks are immersed inside the wall guide profile, fixing them on self-tapping screws. When joining the back edge of the workpiece with the suspension, it is necessary to observe an angle of 90 degrees.
The result is a skeleton of a backlit ceiling niche with a protruding profile. All protruding parts are made out with plugs from the same ceiling profile. On top of the finished base, drywall sheets will subsequently be installed.

Installation of plasterboard sheathing

Pre-prepared narrow strips of drywall are installed as follows:

Plasterboard elements are screwed along the niche shelves.
Next sheathe vertical sections structures: the sheets are installed here on suspension racks and ceiling guides.
At the next stage, the horizontal area of the niche is sutured.
At the end of the procedure, drywall strips form the end sections of the box, 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, how to make a backlight in the plasterboard ceiling:

There are marks on the LED strip where you can cut.
Switching of individual sections of the tape is carried out using a soldering iron or special LED connectors.
When choosing a power supply, it is recommended to provide a power margin of 20-30%.
Installation on metal areas frame requires the mandatory use of insulating pads. Before starting installation work, the system must be de-energized.
When mounting a multi-color diode, it is important not to confuse the polarity: blue and black wires are a minus, and red is a plus.
Before the final fixation of the tape, it must be tested for performance.
Long sections of tape when connected in series are switched in different ways. As practice shows, parallel connection of segments from 5 m long demonstrates greater safety. For this, wires with a cross section of 1.5 mm are used. In this case, the power supply must be taken more powerful than usual.

Finishing

Ready drywall construction impregnated with a primer and puttied, paying special attention to the joints. After drying, grinding and painting is carried out. Wallpaper can be used instead of paint.

Ceiling lighting will create a special coziness and atmosphere in the room. Unique interior design elements are presented in many variations, which not only add extra volume to the room, but also visually lighten plasterboard and stretch ceiling structures.

In the article we will look at popular types and give tips on how to make ceiling lighting with your own hands.

In addition to aesthetic functions, a similar technique:

Visually increases the height of the room.
Gives a soft diffused light that will not distract you from watching TV in the evening or while getting ready for bed.

Before you decide to include lighting in the interior, you need to understand that such a system can take the height of the room by about 10-15 cm. When developing the future design of the room, consider these points. Use the suggestions below. They will help you make the right choice.

The installation of the backlight should be provided at the stage of installing the ceiling frame in order to be able to hide in advance electric wires, platforms for lamps, etc.
Plasterboard, rack, stretch ceilings can be made in several tiers, and using complex geometry, give them originality. In this case, your imagination is not limited by anything. Which of the ways to design the ceiling surface to choose is up to you.

On multi-level drywall constructions, you can combine different kinds illumination. For example, a starry sky in the middle and halogen lighting at the edges.
For stretch ceilings in view of their originality, it is worth limiting yourself only to the LED strip around the perimeter of the room. Please note that different textures give completely opposite effects.
The main disadvantage of stretch ceilings is that not all light bulbs are allowed to be mounted on it, but only a certain power.
To visually increase the space, you can hide the backlight in the recesses on the ceiling and niches.
Evening illumination of the ceiling will help to dilute the meager interior in colors.
If financial resources do not allow you to original ceiling, get a ceiling plinth and lay LEDs under it.

Ceiling lighting options

The variety of lighting fixtures offered by manufacturers will help illuminate the room and radically change its appearance. Common ceiling lighting options include:

LED strips installed along the edges of the room. For multi-level structures, this technique can emphasize individual tiers or highlight geometric shapes.
are represented by randomly or evenly spaced light bulbs mounted in a ceiling system.
neon tubes change better than others appearance space. Differ in long service life.

In addition, depending on the purpose, the backlight is divided into:

target. Used to visually divide the area into zones. For example, or a dining table in the kitchen.
General. Represents the main lighting. In this case, spotlights are usually installed.
Designer. This option will not give much artificial light, but it will make the room cozy and comfortable. This includes luminous patterns or perimeter lighting.

To choose suitable option, decide on the location of the backlight, the brightness you want to get, and of course, consider general style premises.

Ceiling lighting with LED strip

Criterias of choice

When choosing an LED strip, be guided by the following criteria:

How dense are the diodes.
How much power does the product consume?
Is moisture protection provided?

LED strips are offered for sale in various color variations. By shades they are divided into:

Monochrome - one color.
Universal or RGB strips give several different variations red, green, blue. RGBW strips additionally emit white.

At the price of the products are almost the same, so it is better to choose RGBW. For such diodes, the set is equipped with a special controller, which makes it possible to adjust the shades and the degree of intensity of the glow.

LED backlights also differ in the density of the arrangement of diode bulbs: from 30 to 120 pieces per meter of tape. If you intend to illuminate a large-sized ceiling, purchase products with a frequent arrangement of diodes; for a directional light source, you should use lower indicators.

How brightly the diode bulbs will glow depends on the power consumption. The SMD 5050 and SMD 3528 models are recognized as popular. The first gives 4.8 W / m at a density of 60 pieces of diodes per meter of tape, the second at the same density - 14.4 W / m.

Often included in the design of bathroom ceilings. Then it is better to use strips with additional protection against moisture. The price for them depends on the degree of security.

LED Lighting Options

LED lighting can be mounted in different places of the suspension system. We give the most common examples:

In niches. This arrangement seems to raise the ceiling into the air, creating a floating effect. Usually, niches are purposefully included in ceiling structures for decoration with LED lighting. The upward facing LEDs emit a soft diffused light. Side lighting with a tape will make the light directional, sliding along the “floating” ceiling surface.

Inside false ceiling. The tapes are mounted in the space between the draft ceiling and the translucent film web. This design makes the glow soft and diffused, and the ceiling seems to glow from the inside.

Behind the eaves. This method is the easiest and most affordable. In this case, you do not have to mount a tension or suspension system. The cornice is attached to the wall, and an LED strip is laid along the edge of the plinth.

Do-it-yourself ceiling lighting LED strips we have already considered in the articles, both for drywall and tension structures. Therefore, we will dwell in more detail on the nuances of installation associated with neon lighting and spotlights.

Peculiarities

The classic version of neon lighting is represented by glass tubes filled with an inert gas - neon. On the inner surface of the "cones" is applied special powder- a phosphor that emits a glow under voltage.

Due to the fact that neon ceiling lighting requires high voltage, together with it you will have to install a special current converter. One device is placed at seven meters. The locations of the converting devices are determined at the stage of ceiling installation. Usually in concrete floor make niches where converters are placed.

Neon lighting has the following features:

Such variations are used only as decorative design, because they give a small brightness with a significant consumption of electricity. A wide range of shades will become an organic addition to the overall style of the room.
A quality product will last from 10 to 15 years.
The standard sizes for this type of fixtures are 1.5 length and 1.5 cm diameter. The temperature of the heated bulbs does not exceed 40 degrees, and the design works almost silently.
The junctions of the elements do not form dark spots, so the glow is uniform and continuous.
Instead of standard products, you can decorate the ceiling with a neon cord. Its flexibility greatly simplifies installation, and the device emits the same glow as lamps. The only downside is the expensive price.

Usually, neon lighting of a hidden type is most often used for rooms, placing products in hidden niches. Moreover, the narrower the opening for the exit of artificial lighting, the brighter the luminous strip.

You can select with the help of neon individual elements of decor or interior items. This will complement the overall design of the room, make the room harmonious and beautiful.

How to make neon lights

Having decided on the option you like, you can proceed with the installation.

Before you can make neon ceiling lights, you will have to replace the wiring from the switch to the fixture. The first step is to cut the wall for laying a new cable. Subsequently, the cracks can be sealed with putty flush with the surface.

Therefore, it is necessary to determine the placement of lighting devices, as well as to bring the wires before installing the ceiling and repairing the room as a whole.

Neon lighting on the ceiling is laid in a special plasterboard box or behind ceiling plinths. The first method is chosen by carrying out artistic decoration at the repair stage, before the final decoration of the walls and ceiling with finishing materials.

Backlighting is laid in the plinth during the final finishing of the ceiling surface at the final stage of the repair. For a clearer design of neon lighting, you need to attach a small ledge to the plane of the eaves. To get diffused light, the board on the cornice does not need to be installed.

It is better to choose a larger skirting board for such work, because it is very difficult to mount transformers in narrow elements. If you still want to minimize the finish, just "drown" the transformer in the wall niche.

Usually neon lamps come in a kit, which, in addition to the lighting element, includes cords, fasteners, circuits, so there should not be any particular difficulties when connecting.

How to arrange appliances

In addition to the requirements for, it is necessary to take into account their correct location on the ceiling surface:

Uniform used in simple designs consisting of one level. In this case, the fixtures are placed around the perimeter of the room on the entire plane of the ceiling.
group designed to illuminate individual areas. For example, when zoning space. Most often, such variations are combined with the main source of artificial light - a chandelier.

On a note! Group lighting is often used to highlight figures on stretch or plasterboard ceilings.

Before you buy appliances, carefully plan and consider possible variations in their location. Be guided by the following parameters:

Type of light source, its power and technical characteristics.
View of the ceiling surface.
Placement method.

Installation of spot lighting involves the following procedure:

Lay the wires and bring them to the installation sites of the devices at the stage of assembling the frame.

Important! The permissible distance between the lamps and the metal base of the suspended structure should be at least 25-30 cm.

Lay the wires in special corrugations to protect them from moisture, and fasten them to metal profiles with plastic clamps.
In the ceiling finish, make the required number of holes corresponding to the size of the fixtures.
Install drywall on the ceiling and install appliances.

For stretch ceilings, fixing of fixtures is carried out after fixing the canvas, but all preparatory work(supplying electricity, installing platforms, etc.) are carried out at the stage of assembling the frame.

When arranging lighting in your apartment, remember that for the most part it performs a decorative function. Before starting work, please read possible options lighting design on the ceiling on the Internet, since illiterate methods can make the design heavier. This is especially true for multi-level suspension systems.