Ceiling on the balcony with your own hands: from what to make photo and video

Converting your balcony into a comfortable haven can be a rewarding do-it-yourself project that improves your living area and increases the value of your house. One essential aspect of balcony improvement is installing a ceiling. Even though it might seem difficult at first, you can make a stunning and useful balcony ceiling with the correct supplies and advice. We’ll go over how to install a ceiling on your balcony in this post, providing you with step-by-step instructions, pictures, and videos.

There are various choices available to you when it comes to balcony ceiling materials, each with unique benefits and visual appeal. Wood is a popular option because it gives the room a cozy, natural charm. As an alternative, you could choose PVC panels, which are perfect for outdoor use because they are lightweight, simple to install, and resistant to moisture. Metal ceiling tiles provide a sleek, contemporary appearance and are a durable alternative. Whichever material you decide on, it’s critical to pick one that complements your personal style, your financial situation, and the local climate.

It’s important to evaluate your balcony’s condition and make sure it’s structurally sound enough to support the additional weight of the ceiling before starting the installation process. Before moving further, look for any indications of deterioration or damage, such as rusting metal or decaying wood, and take care of these problems. Think about whether any adjustments are necessary to make room for fans, lighting fixtures, or other accessories in the ceiling area.

Now that your balcony is ready and you have acquired the required supplies, it’s time to dig in and get to work. Measure your balcony’s dimensions and determine how much material will be needed for the ceiling first. Then, install your chosen ceiling material according to the manufacturer’s instructions (adhesive application, nailing, or screwing) making sure the panels or tiles are level and firmly fastened to avoid sagging or detachment over time.

As you work through the installation process, don’t be afraid to refer to online guides, instructional videos, or ask more seasoned do-it-yourselfers for advice on how to solve any problems you run into. Always work safely, make use of the proper tools and protective gear, and take your time to produce work of a high caliber. After installing your balcony ceiling, take a moment to appreciate your work and the beauty and utility you’ve brought to your outdoor area.

Types of finishes

Stretch ceiling

Despite the widely held belief that these systems are only utilized in large rooms, this is a long-standing misconception that "does not look." Making the very tiers that are so vividly painted design brochures is quite feasible, even on 1-1.5 m2. Easy installation and the fact that all aluminum bases are tiny—they are not five meters, as in a larger living room or bedroom with a better arrangement.

Benefits of specific kinds of stretch ceilings include:

1. The glossy finish enhances the space and smooths out any unevenness;
2. Polyester is moisture resistant, non-flammable and not subject to fading in the sun;
3. The coating well tolerates severe frost and temperature fluctuations;
4. The material does not mold and repels pathogens.

Suspended ceiling

What distinguishes this type from the preceding type? In summary, the primary working material is not polyester fabric, but rather PVC panels or any other material requested by the customer. The installation procedure is accelerated multiple times.

The main benefit of such a system is height conservation, which is crucial for typical high-rise structures from the 1980s to 1990s, since their ceilings are already fairly low. The panels’ hollow structure and particular arrangement make the system as a whole lightweight, flexible, and long-lasting.

Plasterboard

Is it feasible to pursue and even take into consideration this option? Yes, you can, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, the balcony and the apartment itself shouldn’t be situated in an area with high humidity as this is the main enemy of delicate materials.

The manufacturer may claim that their gypsum board ceilings have exceptional moisture resistance and increased strength, but you shouldn’t believe them. All of this only pertains to isolated incidents involving the unintentional entry of a small amount of water; maintaining a dry balcony will still need to be considered "in the long term."

One of the unquestionable benefits is the sturdy aluminum strip frame, which makes wiring installation simple. Another is the lighting, which can be achieved with either a full-fledged chandelier or decorative LED bulbs, depending on budget and taste.

There are a few more minuses, and they extend beyond moisture sensitivity:

• The need for regular painting;
• Vulnerability to low temperatures;
• Reducing the height due to the frame;
• Necessity of puttying, reinforcement and installation of skirting boards.

With the aforementioned drawbacks taken into account, gypsum board is regarded as the most reasonably priced and dependable material, offering many years of service with proper installation.

Slatted ceiling

It’s referred to as a bath style, or retro style finishing, in jest. If nothing else, both names are appropriate given that the process of installing wooden laths, or lathing, is comparable to designing a sauna or bathhouse’s interior.

It is often forgotten that the slats are composed of more than just wood; they can also be made of any appropriate or preferred material, such as the same PVC or aluminum. The open or closed type of subsequent installation procedure is the only distinction.

Most people are familiar with the first option: slats are spaced apart from one another, and the hollow spaces inside produce a distinctive "striped" pattern.LED lighting, including multicolored lighting, is frequently installed inside this pattern. Some masters choose to use decorative strips to seal the cavities, and then they cut holes for lighting.

The "smooth" ceiling that is implied by the closed installation method is not appropriate for non-standard shapes due to the high labor intensity and needless use of numerous materials.

What to cover the ceiling with

A range of materials are used to finish the balcony’s ceiling. Ceiling surface decorations include plastic, wood veneer, gypsum plasterboard sheets, aluminum laths, stretch ceilings, and suspended structures. Options vary greatly from one another. How can the balcony ceiling be covered?

Facing is limited to insulated surfaces only. For tiling, reasonably priced ceiling tiles are available. However, it has the ability to change color over time. Sunlight often causes the material to become dark or yellow. Thus, you should consider whether to use these tiles to cover the balcony.

On our loggias and balconies, plasterboard also makes frequent appearances. Its practicality and durability are what make it easy to use. It is simple to work with this material. It is simple to drill, bend, and cut. The piece must be moistened and rolled with a needle roller in order to be bent. The sheet can be bent using a template once the internal gypsum softens over time. It maintains its new shape after drying.

It is best to use green, moisture-resistant sheets to finish the ceiling of a balcony or loggia. Plastic boards can also be used to decorate ceilings. These panels are securely fastened to a prefabricated wooden or metal batten. It’s simple to wash and clean the ceiling. It doesn’t get mold or fungus on it. Lighting fixtures can be installed into holes drilled in the ceiling’s surface.

The traditional method of finishing balcony and loggia ceilings involves using wooden planks and laths for cladding (wagons). It appears lovely, but it is inexpensive. However, we must also remember that wood has specific maintenance requirements that the owners must follow. Occasionally, the coating requires treatment with specific liquids. It can be painted any color you choose, or you can apply multiple coats of clear varnish.

A useful material is metal lath. Parts made of steel or aluminum have a stunning appearance and form. This substance is incredibly robust. Any level of complexity can be achieved in a ceiling covering using it. Metal is extremely resistant to the effects of moisture and can tolerate temperature changes. This is the perfect finishing material for balcony ceilings.

Balcony finishing has also started to employ stretch structures. They are advantageous in that they can conceal every imperfection on the upper slab. Behind them, any communications can be concealed. This material resists frost well. It is moisture-resistant and doesn’t need any special attention. Installing a structure of that caliber by hand is a challenging task, but experts can complete it in one to two hours. You can select a canvas with a variety of hues and tones. It has light fixtures installed in it.

In the quest for a cozy and energy-efficient home, insulating and heating are pivotal. When it comes to transforming your balcony, crafting a ceiling with your own hands not only adds aesthetic appeal but also enhances comfort and functionality. From choosing suitable materials to the step-by-step process, this article, complete with helpful photos and videos, serves as your guide. By delving into DIY techniques, you not only save costs but also gain a sense of accomplishment. Whether opting for wood, PVC panels, or other materials, the key lies in understanding the unique requirements of your space and climate. With creativity and determination, you can elevate your balcony into a retreat, ready to be enjoyed year-round.

Insulation

It won’t help to simply glaze the balcony to create a pleasant microclimate. Starting with insulation can come after waterproofing. Completely insulate the balcony, not just certain areas. Ultimately, you cannot rely on your neighbors’ diligence.

Insulating the terrace. Image 3

These are appropriate for insulation:

1. Sprayed polyurethane foam. A material that is perfect for balconies. It is perfectly attached to any surface and creates a completely water- and vapor-proof seamless coating with good thermal insulation features. From the minuses: the need for special equipment, experience in performing work. The price of such insulation is higher than with the use of other materials.
2. Minwool. Quite common material, however, has a number of disadvantages. Mineral wool has a high hygroscopicity. It is able to absorb moisture even from the air. In order to prevent the material from getting wet and mold from developing, moisture and steam must be prevented from entering the insulation material. Minwata is recommended to cover with a special barrier of foil or film.
3. Plastic foam. This material has a lot of disadvantages. When decomposing, it emits toxic vapors. The structure of the material itself is quite fragile and brittle. But all the disadvantages overlaps a huge plus – Styrofoam has an affordable price, and is sold in almost every store. Styrofoam has a homogeneous structure, does not let air, steam, does not absorb moisture, is more durable than Styrofoam. The material belongs to the category of low-combustible.
4. Penofol (rolled polyethylene foam. Its thickness is varied: from 0.3 to 2 cm. For insulation of the balcony is suitable 0,4-0,5 cm. The foam base is covered with a layer of foil on the outside, which helps to retain heat in the room. The material is excellent for the balcony in all characteristics. Small thickness does not take away precious centimeters of the already small space. Foam foil is often used in combination with other insulators. The foil layer has good vapor, water resistance, thermal insulation. It is an excellent complement to minwool.

Polyurethane foam sprayed on. Image 4

Plastic panels

The balcony ceiling can be finished almost as cheaply with a plastic ceiling. Because of its technical qualities, plastic wool is ideal for balconies. Wetness and moisture do not pose a threat to the ceiling, even in cases where it is not insulated. Each lamella weighs very little, so installing it—which involves making a lightweight frame—is very easy. You can also use aluminum profile or wooden bars for the frame.

Installation of plastic panels

Work will need the following supplies and equipment:

• stepladder;
• tape measure;
• electric jigsaw/metal hacksaw;
• hammer;
• ceiling plastic skirting board;
• Stapler/scrapers or nails (if the frame will be made of a profile, then self-tapping screws);
• beam or profile for the frame;
• level;
• panels.

The piece of art appears as follows:

1. Use a level to make a framework.
2. As in the previous case, the ceiling is insulated.
3. The panels can be attached using two methods. On the perimeter you install a plastic ceiling skirting board. After measuring and cutting the panels of the required size. The panel is simply inserted into the guide and fixed in the middle with a self-tapping screw to the battens. Another option is to install all the panels and then attach the ceiling skirting/baguette afterwards.
4. When joining the panel, make sure that the seam has no gaps. If the model provides for a small gap, it should be the same everywhere, if not, the ceiling should turn out seamless.

As you can see, installing plastic panels is a fairly easy process.

How to finish

All of the materials that are going to be used for the repair need to look good with the rest of the renovation, withstand changes in humidity, and resist cold well. These are the fundamental prerequisites that need to be followed.

Polystyrene ceiling tiles

One of the most affordable options is ceiling tiles. It is going to be very inexpensive and easily adhered to by anyone. But using this design option isn’t always feasible. It also has benefits and drawbacks.

• Low cost
• Ability to hide small defects in the ceiling
• Speed and ease of installation

• Low weather resistance. The coating will quickly lose its "marketable" appearance and fall into disrepair
• Inability to hide fairly large defects in the ceiling, of which there are many on balconies

Despite all of its benefits, it is best to avoid using this kind of decoration. Unless your budget is extremely tight. Too simple to look at, and appearance quickly ruined.

Plastic panels

Can be one of the best choices when it comes to finishing the balcony ceiling. They will blend in seamlessly with the remaining décor. There will be some installation work to be done, but the outcome will be passable.

• Excellent appearance
• Not too high cost
• Ease of assembly and installation
• Ability to hide large defects and "ugly" on the ceiling
• They are easy to wash or wipe

• The overall height of the room will need to be slightly reduced
• Some skill with tools is still required

When considering the price-quality ratio, this design is among the most appealing options. Finishing insulated loggias allows you to install lighting fixtures while concealing all of the wiring in the overhead area. Minimal tools are needed, and specialized knowledge is not needed.

Plasterboard

Likewise applicable. The information is well-known and understood. With the exception of the fact that installing is more difficult than gluing tiles or mounting plastic panels.

• Looks great
• The resulting surface can be painted, treated with plaster, in general, give it the necessary appearance, which will better fit in with the rest of the design
• It will be possible to install lighting fixtures

• It is quite difficult to install. Requires a little special knowledge and skills
• The price after full finishing will be acceptable, but quite high
• The height of the room will decrease, although not very significantly
• It is desirable to perform the work with an assistant

Plasterboard ceilings are a great option, especially for heated rooms. Given that the cost will be high, it makes sense to decorate the ceiling in this manner when a designer will be decorating the entire space or paying a premium for the remaining repairs.

Wagon.

One of the versatile materials that can be used to decorate a room or a basement, almost. On the balcony, it is frequently observed.

• Very easy to install
• Serves long enough
• The price in the middle range, makes the material very affordable
• Special skills for work will not be required
• Drywall is very environmentally friendly

• Wood will require special treatment and constant care. Otherwise, the material can quickly lose its beautiful appearance
• This type of decoration was considered obsolete, although recently, has become fashionable again
• Without painting, or other additional processing, looks rather dull
• The cost will not be the smallest

There will always be wood. particularly if, as is typically done, you use it to renovate the entire space. In the video below, you can observe how the balcony is finished by hand using wagons:

Everything is covered in enough detail for this video to serve as a mini manual for doing repairs.

Stretch coating

That will be a pretty costly fix. But for the price, this room-decorating method is the most beautiful and has many other advantages.

• Very nice looking
• Installation does not take much time
• Atmospheric resistance at a very high level
• Ability to embed lighting fixtures
• Minimal space required for installation

• Quite high cost
• Impossibility to do all the work yourself

It has a lot of benefits, but it also has two drawbacks: the cost and the requirement to work with a specific company to create the coating. However, since all work will be done by special masters, sparing the owners from having to do anything, the second point cannot be viewed as a drawback. This kind of decorating looks fantastic on a balcony or loggia.

How to make a wood finish

First things first, the following supplies and equipment must be ready:

• Finishing boards, 40×40 or 50×50 mm timber profiles.
• Fastening elements – dowels, screws or anchor bolts. They are necessary for fixing the bar on the basic foundation.
• Self-tapping screws, clamps or nails. Devices for fixing the finishing elements.
• Antiseptics, fire retardants and a brush for their application.
• Perforator (drill), electric jigsaw and hacksaw for working with lumber.
• Measuring tools – tape measure, angle, construction level.
• Marker or simple pencil.

You will also need plate insulation (polystyrene or Styrofoam), cement-based adhesive, dowels in the shape of umbrellas for additional insulation fixation, and a mounting knife if extra thermal insulation of the floor is assumed. There won’t be any condensation on the ceiling after insulation. Temperature variations are the cause of this phenomenon, particularly if the neighbors’ balcony above is unglazed.

Preparing the base plate. This includes removal of the old finish and treatment with an antiseptic primer.
Marking the fixing points for the guide bars. They are placed along the perimeter of the walls at the very edge of the balcony slab. This will make it possible to lay the ceiling panels on the balcony in a transverse direction.
Making the necessary lengths of bar sections for the guides. The bars are equipped with a series of holes with a spacing of 50-60 cm: they will be used to fix the profile on the floor slab. When selecting the diameter of the drill bit is oriented on the parameters of fasteners – anchor bolts or dowels.
Marking the points for fixing the rails to the ceiling. To do this, alternately put the bars to the base and put marks through the holes: it is at these points that drilling will be carried out. You will need an impact drill or perforator as a tool.
Installation of guides

Getting a single plane is important when screwing the joists together. To even out any unevenness in the base plate, wooden pads are utilized.

The horizontality is checked by means of a construction level.
If necessary, the space between the bars is filled with thermal insulation material. It is most convenient to use board insulation, cutting it with a sharp knife. To fix the boards, a special dry compound is used: before starting work, it must be diluted in water and stirred up. The finished substance is spread on the base in a thin layer, after which the insulation is applied. For reliability, the boards are tacked with plastic umbrella dowels: drilling holes is done directly through the polystyrene foam.
The beginning of laying of finishing panels is selected the area at the far wall. On the first slab you need to cut the spike, which will make the fit to the wall as tight as possible. Subsequent elements are tightly inserted into each other, achieving a complete lock connection. To fasten the wagon on the frame are used self-tapping screws, nails or clampers.
The finished cladding needs additional treatment. To do this, use wood paint, varnish or liquid "Penotex" of the desired shade.

Finishing options

The balcony ceiling

Prior to purchasing the materials you’ll need to build the loggia’s ceiling, it’s best to become knowledgeable about all of your options and weigh the pros and cons of each. These days, ceiling variations include:

• Painted
• Suspended or lined
• From ceiling tiles
• Stretch

Every choice has advantages and disadvantages. Let’s examine each finishing option in isolation. You get to choose what materials to use to create the ceiling.

Painted

Completion of the loggia’s ceiling

Painting is a great option if you don’t want to insulate the ceiling. The exact facade paint is needed to create such a ceiling. It is not afraid of temperature changes, to which all loggias without insulation are susceptible. Also, there is a good selection of colors, making it simple to select the one that best suits your needs. It is also possible to paint the ceiling in the future.

But this finishing method calls for some advance planning. It will look more aesthetically pleasing if the ceiling is leveled before painting. It’s important to use primer correctly.

Suspended or suspended

These systems are very affordable and simple to set up. Such a ceiling is not hard to make with your hands. On the balcony, suspended ceilings are certainly an option, but false ceilings will work best. The way they are fastened and the lowest they can be lowered are where they differ.

Underlayment systems come in the following varieties:

1. Metal laths
2. Plastic panels
3. Wooden lathing
4. Plasterboard

The option using metal laths will be best if the loggia repair is done during inclement weather. Despite the fact that insulated balconies can still be used with it, this kind of finishing looks absolutely amazing. They can also be used to create ceilings in any shape or design.

Handcrafted ceilings on balconies and loggias

Plastic panels do not mind humid air and can withstand abrupt changes in the weather. Attach the panels to a wooden or aluminum profile crate. They are easy to install, long-lasting in operation, and very practical in terms of cleaning—all it takes is a damp cloth to wipe them down.

Wooden wool is an additional choice. There is a long history of using this kind of finishing. In addition to being aesthetically pleasing and harmonious, wooden ceilings are simple to install and eco-friendly. It has soundproofing qualities overall. Additionally, the appearance fosters a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.

Often during repairs on the loggia use plasterboard ceilings. Such material is durable, and even beginners can cope with its installation. However, it should be remembered that, despite its claimed moisture resistance, it may not be able to cope with weather conditions. Make the ceiling with the help of such materials can be done, if you are sure that the loggia is reliably protected from atmospheric influence. It is necessary to fix all the existing cracks and remove the dirt. To everything after the installation of such a ceiling requires finishing. If you have a sufficiently spacious and glazed balcony, then a painted gypsum plasterboard ceiling will fit perfectly into the design of your apartment.

Ceiling tiles

Using your hands to complete the loggia’s ceiling

Naturally, the owner’s preferences and the intended use of the loggia will determine what material should be used for the ceiling. Finishing with ceiling tiles is one of the most basic types. It is very simple and quick to glue on, and it effectively conceals the flaws in concrete slabs. It has a beautiful appearance and occasionally even serves as insulation.

Stretch

Ceiling lining and finishing on loggias and balconies

Stretch ceilings are being used by more and more people to arrange their loggias. They come in a wide variety of colors, can be ordered with photo printing, and are easily installed. This option is very easy to maintain and, most importantly, hides all of the ceiling space’s imperfections. An insulation layer must be installed prior to the installation of such ceilings. The loggia will look very lovely with this design. When selecting this finishing option, it is preferable to enlist the aid of experts or recruit assistants.

Ceiling Material	Advantages
PVC Panels	Easy to install, low maintenance, variety of colors and designs
Wooden Planks	Natural aesthetic, DIY friendly, environmentally friendly option
Drywall	Smooth finish, can be painted or decorated, good for insulation
Polycarbonate Sheets	Translucent, allows light in, durable and weather-resistant

Building a balcony ceiling is a useful and satisfying do-it-yourself project that can improve the outdoor area’s appearance and usability. A well-built balcony ceiling can significantly impact your comfort and enjoyment all year long by offering insulation and enhancing weather resistance.

Think about things like longevity, affordability, and aesthetic appeal when selecting the materials for your balcony ceiling. Traditional options like wood or PVC panels can be replaced with more contemporary options like metal or composite materials. Before choosing a material, carefully consider your priorities as each one has benefits and drawbacks.

Make sure you measure and plan the project thoroughly before starting the installation process. Consider any existing elements on your balcony, like light fixtures or railings, and adjust as needed. A successful installation process can be ensured with adequate preparation.

Use the proper tools and equipment and pay close attention to safety instructions when performing the installation. For larger projects, enlist the aid of friends or family, and don’t be afraid to seek professional assistance when necessary. To prevent expensive errors, always work methodically and double-check your measurements and alignments.

After installing your balcony ceiling, spend some time adding ornamental accents and unique touches to improve the space’s aesthetic appeal. To create a warm and welcoming ambiance, add hanging plants or string lights, or paint or stain the ceiling to match your current décor. You can make your balcony a chic and useful addition to your house with a little imagination and work.

Video on the topic

Exterior finishing of balconies and loggias

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PVC plastic panels on the ceiling installation

Options for finishing the balcony inside