Ceiling with backlighting: how to make it yourself

A backlit ceiling is a great way to give any space a dash of contemporary elegance. It’s a design decision that not only improves the look but also gives your room a warm, inviting glow that can make a big difference. You’re at the right place if you’re considering trying your hand at this do-it-yourself project. Without the assistance of a professional, you can create a gorgeous ceiling with backlighting by following this guide.

To start, let us discuss the fundamentals. To create a soft, diffused light effect behind a ceiling feature, such as a cove or tray, backlighting entails installing LED strips or other light sources. This technique is very simple and highly customizable, which is its beauty. From sleek and modern to warm and traditional, you can modify the design to fit any space and style.

Everything you need to know to create your own backlit ceiling will be covered in this article. Planning and material selection will come first, followed by installation advice and guidance on how to make sure your lighting is perfect. You’ll have all the information you need by the end to finish this do-it-yourself project and take pleasure in a gorgeously lit ceiling in your house.

General characteristics of ceilings with lighting, key features

New concepts for residential lighting arise as a result of technological advancements in the building industry. These days, lighting can be used for more than just conventional floor lamps and chandeliers. It now plays a significant role in room design, utilizing the architectural features of the space and influencing the mood of the user. We are referring to ceilings that are lit by LED strips, specialty lamps, and other modern technology.

Plasterboard covering, which consists of metal frames with material sheets attached, is a design element that lets you make any kind of design you want.

Two primary categories of backlights exist:

The distinction between the two is that in an open arrangement, the lamps are readily apparent to the observer, whereas in a hidden arrangement, the light sources are intentionally concealed from the viewer’s view. The latter is utilized in design, for instance, when constructing plasterboard ceilings that are known as "floating ceilings" and have backlighting.

Depending on the frame’s characteristics, lighting-equipped ceilings can be:

• single-level;
• two-level;
• multi-level.

The main purpose of backlighting, which serves as auxiliary lighting and produces a lovely appearance, is decoration. The primary lighting fixtures continue to provide full lighting; interior design requires backlighting.

The following light sources can be employed to create such a coating:

• LED strips;
• Duralight strips;
• Neon tubes;
• Spotlights. The latter are also called spotlights if they are equipped with rotation mechanisms.

Any color and style can be incorporated into a DIY plasterboard ceiling with backlighting; GKL enables you to construct intricate structures that take into consideration the unique creativity and design concepts of each individual.

Although large, multi-level ceilings work best in rooms with high ceilings, owners of smaller spaces can also use their imagination and create an impressive single-level configuration by wrapping luminous tape around the perimeter.

Important requirements for installation work. Pros and cons

The lamps cannot weigh more than 10 kg in total. Heavy weight is not supported by the plasterboard ceiling’s metal frame.

The power of lighting fixtures embedded in the coating is limited. Therefore, it is advised to speak with a specialist before selecting and buying plasterboard. Since work on adding more lighting is done while the metal frame is being installed, this is done during the design stage.

It should be noted that lighting is typically completed in conjunction with finishing and repair work. This will enable you to cover up wiring and other electrical device traces and perform installation correctly.

Among the benefits of light-colored ceilings are:

• visual increase in the space of the room when additional lighting is turned on;
• an unusual appearance, which in many cases is characterized by the word "magical". It noticeably affects the mood of residents;
• lack of design templates: installation is carried out according to individual design schemes. The backlight can be of completely different colors, and the ceiling design can evoke various associations;
• financial availability of such a design. Using backlighting can save electricity and reduce electricity costs;
• Installation and arrangement are simple enough to create a plasterboard ceiling with backlighting with your own hands.

There are essentially none since all procedures have been optimized for every customer by means of contemporary construction technologies. The only drawback is that this type of ceiling may not always look lovely in tiny spaces.

Making a backlit ceiling for your room can be a great do-it-yourself project if you want to give it a modern, stylish feel. This tutorial will take you step-by-step through the easy process of installing a backlit ceiling, from choosing the appropriate materials to producing the ideal glow. You can make your space into a visually stunning area that blends functionality with a sleek, contemporary look with a few simple tools and a little perseverance.

How to make a plasterboard ceiling with backlighting: description of work

The steps involved in installing plasterboard and installing lighting will be thoroughly explained below.

Marking, assembly of the first level frame

It is essential to gather a variety of tools; these include:

• tape measure;
• construction knife;
• level;
• puncher and screwdriver;
• primer, putty and tools for work.

1. At a distance of 10-15 cm from the ceiling, put a mark, and using a level, draw a line along the perimeter of the room.
2. At the same time, marking the future location of lighting devices for electrical wiring is carried out. The wiring is brought in advance so that with the installation of GCL all cables are hidden from the eyes.

Suggestions. To ensure fire safety, it is advised that electric wires be installed with thin corrugated pipes.

Installed in the locations where cables connect, boxes ensure that the connections are secure and unplugged.

1. The metal frame is installed. In accordance with the markings, the starting profiles are fixed on the walls, special dowels are used in this case with a step of 25-30 cm. On its installation, fixation brackets are immediately attached at a distance of 80 cm from each other.
2. The main profile is fixed, the correctness of the mount is controlled by the level.
3. To obtain the frame of the first level, the main profile is cut into segments, which are installed perpendicular to the already fixed profile using special "crabs". As a result, it should look like a grid with a cell size of 40 cm by 40 cm. For this, the "crabs" are installed at a distance of 40 cm from each other.

Installation of plasterboard on the ceiling frame

1. Using 25 mm screws, plasterboard sheets are installed on the metal frame. It is recommended to use a material no more than 9.5 mm thick, so you can hem the profile in two layers.

Crucial! The metal frame can only support one layer of plasterboard lining if the gypsum board used is 12.5 mm thick.

1. The sheets have a standard size of 2.5 m by 1.2 m, screws are attached at intervals of 25 cm.
2. The gaps between the gypsum board sheets are sealed in the traditional way, with putty and tape.

The structure is strengthened when the gypsum board is fastened in two layers; however, adding the second layer has unique advantages.

• all joints of the first layer should be sealed, cracks should be removed;
• Apply glue to the sheets of the second layer first;
• fasten the second layer of drywall, shifting the joints so that they do not coincide with the first layer. Long screws of 35 mm are used.

Installation of the second level frame, creation of niches

Niches, where the lighting will be installed, are set aside specifically for the installation of the backlight. This is essential for ceilings that float.

1. Marking is done in the manner described above.
2. Marking is applied, with the help of which the transition between levels is located (second level step). Lighting installation locations are determined, electrical cables are connected to these points.

Take note! At least 20 centimeters should separate the free ends of wires from the ceiling in order to properly connect lamps to the electrical network.

1. In accordance with the marking, the starting profile is installed. Depending on the design, a profile for curvilinear structures can be used.
2. After that, the main profile parts are mounted on the second level, on which plasterboard sheets of the appropriate size and trim are installed.

In order to achieve the stunning "floating" effect of a floating plasterboard ceiling with backlighting, specific niches must be made where the lighting is located. You should use a special sideboard to shield your eyes from the light source in order to achieve this.

• The plasterboard should protrude 8-12 cm from the previously installed step.
• A 5-6 cm high sideboard cut from plasterboard is attached to its edge – this piece is glued to the U-shaped profile.
• The resulting joints are puttied.

A backlit ceiling is an excellent way to improve the atmosphere in any space. It adds a modern and sophisticated touch to your space by fusing style and functionality. You can turn your ceiling into a gorgeous focal point that gives your house a cozy, inviting glow by following the suggested steps.

Although the process may initially seem difficult, it can be made manageable with proper planning and the appropriate supplies. Always start with a well-defined plan in mind and make sure you have all the tools you’ll need. Accurate measurement and careful cutting are essential for producing a finished product that looks professional.

This DIY project’s flexibility is one of its best features. Depending on the mood you want to create and your personal preferences, you can adjust the color, type, and even intensity of the lighting. Whether you choose a more dramatic look or a gentler, more diffused light, your ceiling will become a special feature in your space.

Don’t be scared to take your time and try new things. Your home will gain a stunning and useful addition as a result of the work you put into creating a backlit ceiling. Take pleasure in the journey and feel proud of the exquisite area you have created on your own.

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