Professionals say that the quality of the repair is judged primarily by the ceiling. It should be free from blemishes, cracks, and perfectly flat. If desired, any ceiling can be made perfectly even. Currently, there are two ways to align them – “wet” and “dry” (using construction terminology).
The “raw” method consists in applying special mixtures to a previously prepared surface.
The “dry” method involves the use of dry finishing materials – plates, panels, slats, etc..
If the maximum difference in height is no more than 5 cm, you can use the “raw” method.
With a slight difference in height (up to 0.5 cm), you can use a leveling putty, which is smeared on the ceiling and, after letting it dry, is sanded with fine-grained sandpaper.
If the height differences are 2 – 3 cm, then one filler is not enough, and first you will have to put a reinforcing mesh (apply a “bandage”).
There are two types of mesh: metal and paint.
Painting (also called serpyanka) looks like a medical bandage or gauze, it is attached to the ceiling with PVA glue or other adhesives, the main thing is that the mesh adheres well to the ceiling and the plaster adheres to it. Recently, a self-adhesive serpyanka has appeared on sale.
The metal mesh is attached to the ceiling with special brackets, hooks or “studs” with wide hats. It is needed when a thick layer of plaster is needed (3 – 5 cm). In general, it recommends putting the net on all joints and seams..
When the plaster is dry, a layer of leveling putty is applied. And if the ceiling is subsequently painted, it is also necessary to apply a layer of primer..
For a high-quality repair of the ceiling, it is better to use putties, paint primers from one manufacturer. Only in this case will the “compatibility” of the materials be guaranteed.
To summarize, it should be noted that “raw” leveling the ceiling is a laborious and “messy” process associated with many inconveniences. With its help, you can remove only small irregularities, and in the event of a leak, the ceiling will have to be repaired, otherwise smudges, cracks and even mold may appear. In addition, alas, even a master – “golden hands” can not always guarantee that after some time cracks will not appear on the ceiling.
In cases where it is impossible to level the ceiling in a “raw” way, it is much easier and safer to make a false ceiling. It is a decorative structure that covers the “native” ceiling (ceiling slab). Experts call this method dry due to the absence of dirt during repair work. Today, there are three options for the execution of false ceilings: ceiling sheathing, suspended and tension.
The ceiling cladding process is as follows. First, the surface of the ceiling is cleaned of old paint and base (putty, primer). Then a crate is attached to the ceiling slab – metal slats, which are a frame for the decorative material (canvas), which will be sheathed with the ceiling.
Is there a foolproof method or technique to achieve a perfectly flat ceiling? I’ve been struggling with uneven surfaces and imperfections and could use some guidance. Any tips or tricks would be greatly appreciated!