When transforming your conservatory into a year-round living space, the ceiling is a critical aspect of the project. At 2Hot2Cold Ltd, we offer two distinct ceiling options: UPVC ceilings and plasterboard ceilings finished with either tape jointing or plaster. But how do you decide which is best for your space? Here's everything you need to know.
UPVC Ceilings: Low Maintenance and Light Reflective
UPVC ceilings are a popular choice for many of our customers, and it's not hard to see why. They come with several key benefits:
- Instant Finish: Once installed, the job is done. There's no waiting for paint or plaster to dry.
- Light Reflection: The slight sheen of UPVC panels helps brighten your conservatory by reflecting natural light.
- Low Maintenance: Forget about repainting or repairs. A quick dusting now and then is all it takes to keep your UPVC ceiling looking pristine.
- Flexibility with Insulation: For bespoke timber rafter roofs, which include two layers of insulation, UPVC is ideal. Insulation can expand and contract with temperature changes, and UPVC accommodates these movements without cracking—unlike plaster.
- Durability Against Vibrations: Conservatories with more glass than solid walls may experience occasional vibrations (e.g., from a door slamming). A UPVC ceiling remains intact, while plaster could crack under these conditions.
Plasterboard Ceilings: Tape Jointing vs. Plaster
For those who prefer a smooth, elegant ceiling finish, we offer plasterboard ceilings that can be finished with either tape jointing or plaster. Here’s how they compare:
- Tape Jointing: This method involves reinforcing the joints between plasterboard sheets before applying a smooth skim coat and paint. It offers added durability, reducing the risk of cracks in conservatories that may experience minor structural movement or vibrations. The result is a polished, seamless finish.
- Plaster: For a more traditional approach, plaster creates a smooth, flawless surface ready for painting. While visually stunning, plaster is less forgiving in conservatories with slight movement, which may lead to cracking over time.
Why Tape Jointing is Our Recommendation
While both methods create a high-quality finish, we often recommend tape jointing for conservatories. This is because conservatories are inherently less stable than house walls, making tape jointing a more resilient solution. The reinforced joints provide additional strength, ensuring a longer-lasting finish that withstands the unique challenges of conservatory structures.
Tailoring the Ceiling to Your Roof Type
The choice of ceiling also depends on the type of conservatory roof you have:
- Timber Rafter Roofs: UPVC ceilings are the perfect match, thanks to their flexibility and durability with expanding insulation layers.
- LEKA Warm Roof: Choose between UPVC or plasterboard with either tape jointing or plaster for a polished look.
- Warmer Roof: Plasterboard ceilings finished with tape jointing or plaster are the ideal options for this modern system.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're looking for the low-maintenance convenience of UPVC or the seamless elegance of a plasterboard ceiling, we’ll help you find the best fit for your conservatory. Every ceiling we install is designed to complement the structure of your conservatory and withstand the unique conditions of the space.
Get in touch with our team today to discuss your conservatory transformation and discover the ideal ceiling solution for your home.