When it comes to ceiling finishes, many people wonder: what’s better — drywall or a stretch ceiling? Both options have their pros and cons, and the choice depends on specific needs and preferences. In this article, we’ll compare drywall and stretch ceilings to help you make the right choice.
Design possibilities
Drywall ceilings offer a wide range of design possibilities. You can create multi-level structures, niches, and other complex shapes. It’s a great choice for those looking to implement a unique design project.
Stretch ceilings alsooffer a variety of design solutions. They come in various colors and textures, with modern options for seamless ceiling-to-wall transitions, which can look just as elegant as drywall constructions.
Complexity and installation speed
Installing a drywall ceiling takes more time and effort. It involves frame installation, attaching sheets, sealing joints, sanding, and painting. This can take days or even weeks, especially for complex designs. Also, construction and painting are often done by different teams, which can negatively affect timelines and quality.
The installation of a standard stretch ceiling takes only a few hours. Professionals quickly install a perimeter profile, stretch a pre-prepared canvas, and the ceiling is done. This minimizes renovation discomfort and saves time.
Durability and maintenance
Drywall ceilings are durable but prone to cracking, especially in homes with unstable foundations. They require regular maintenance, including patching cracks and repainting.
Stretch ceilings are extremely durable. They don’t crack and are easy to clean, making them an excellent choice for areas where ease of maintenance is important.
Water resistance
Drywall ceilings are not water-resistant, so in high-humidity areas like bathrooms, they can warp, swell, or even develop mold. In case of flooding, a drywall ceiling often needs to be fully replaced, a complex and costly process that involves removing damaged sections, installing new sheets, and refinishing.
Stretch ceilings are perfect for humid spaces as they are completely water-resistant. Moreover, they can hold a significant amount of water in case of leaks from above. Restoring them after flooding is simple — you just need to drain the water and dry the canvas.
Cost
Drywall ceilings are more expensive because, in addition to labor costs, you’ll likely need to buy and transport materials yourself — framing profiles, drywall sheets, and finishing materials like joint compound, sanding tools, and paint.
Stretch ceilings are cheaper to install, especially for standard ceilings. However, modern stretch ceiling technologies can significantly increase the price.
Choosing between drywall and stretch ceilings depends on your preferences and the specifics of your space. Drywall is ideal for those who value eco-friendliness and are prepared for a more complex installation process. Stretch ceilings are a great option for those who want a quick, stylish, and long-lasting update with minimal effort.
If you’ve decided on a stretch ceiling, contact our specialists. We will help you choose the best materials and lighting that meet your needs and budget.
Design possibilities
Drywall ceilings offer a wide range of design possibilities. You can create multi-level structures, niches, and other complex shapes. It’s a great choice for those looking to implement a unique design project.
Stretch ceilings alsooffer a variety of design solutions. They come in various colors and textures, with modern options for seamless ceiling-to-wall transitions, which can look just as elegant as drywall constructions.
Complexity and installation speed
Installing a drywall ceiling takes more time and effort. It involves frame installation, attaching sheets, sealing joints, sanding, and painting. This can take days or even weeks, especially for complex designs. Also, construction and painting are often done by different teams, which can negatively affect timelines and quality.
The installation of a standard stretch ceiling takes only a few hours. Professionals quickly install a perimeter profile, stretch a pre-prepared canvas, and the ceiling is done. This minimizes renovation discomfort and saves time.
Durability and maintenance
Drywall ceilings are durable but prone to cracking, especially in homes with unstable foundations. They require regular maintenance, including patching cracks and repainting.
Stretch ceilings are extremely durable. They don’t crack and are easy to clean, making them an excellent choice for areas where ease of maintenance is important.
Water resistance
Drywall ceilings are not water-resistant, so in high-humidity areas like bathrooms, they can warp, swell, or even develop mold. In case of flooding, a drywall ceiling often needs to be fully replaced, a complex and costly process that involves removing damaged sections, installing new sheets, and refinishing.
Stretch ceilings are perfect for humid spaces as they are completely water-resistant. Moreover, they can hold a significant amount of water in case of leaks from above. Restoring them after flooding is simple — you just need to drain the water and dry the canvas.
Cost
Drywall ceilings are more expensive because, in addition to labor costs, you’ll likely need to buy and transport materials yourself — framing profiles, drywall sheets, and finishing materials like joint compound, sanding tools, and paint.
Stretch ceilings are cheaper to install, especially for standard ceilings. However, modern stretch ceiling technologies can significantly increase the price.
Choosing between drywall and stretch ceilings depends on your preferences and the specifics of your space. Drywall is ideal for those who value eco-friendliness and are prepared for a more complex installation process. Stretch ceilings are a great option for those who want a quick, stylish, and long-lasting update with minimal effort.
If you’ve decided on a stretch ceiling, contact our specialists. We will help you choose the best materials and lighting that meet your needs and budget.