Shadowline Ceilings vs Other Cornices
When you’re building, there’s a lot to think about. Often overlooked is the way the ceiling and walls are joined or finished off. From traditional cornices to modern shadowlines and squareset junctions, there’s a wide range of ceiling finishes to suit whatever style you’re going for.
What is a shadow line ceiling?
A shadowline ceiling is a specialised ceiling junction that can be used instead of traditional cornices. There is a small gap between the ceiling and the wall, causing the ceiling to appear as if it is floating. The result is a clean and minimalist architectural ceiling which is a popular choice for modern spaces.
The gap between ceiling and wall is actually a 10x10mm recess created by the use of metal angles called P50 shadowline beads. After the wall and ceiling sheets have been cut correctly and neatly, the metal angles are installed in between the ceiling and wall. The corner where the angle meets the plasterboard is plastered over to hide the metal and then sanded to a high level finish, ready to be painted.
What’s better: P50 shadowline or cornice?
Creating a shadowline ceiling requires a high level of expertise and takes longer than traditional cornices. Ceiling and wall sheets must be cut precisely and neatly as any rough edges will be clearly visible. However, the result is worth the extra effort. Shadowline ceilings achieve an architectural standard finish which complements modern designs and styles.
In comparison, traditional cornices are simpler and cheaper to install. They also require less installation expertise as the cornice can hide any rough edged after the ceiling and wall sheets have been cut. If you’re renovating an old home, you might prefer to install heritage cornices with ornate details to complement the original charm of the house.
P50 shadowline vs squareset
A squareset joint creates a clean 90 degree finish. Like the shadowline joint, squareset finishes are modern and minimalist and avoid drawing too much attention to the area. Squareset joints are slightly less labour intensive than shadowline ceilings, but they also require expert application to achieve a high standard finish.
One criticism of squareset joints is that they can be prone to cracking as a building settles over time. In contrast, the gap in p50 shadowline joints allows the structure to expand and contract without damaging the plaster.
Choose the perfect finish to complement your room
Functional and aesthetic, cornices or ceiling joints can have a big impact on the overall feel of a space. When choosing the ideal cornice or joint, think about the size and height of your room, the decorating features and the age of the building. Do some research into the different styles to see what you’re drawn to and get a range of quotes from local ceiling contractors.
Crafting the perfect look for your room is all about making all the elements work together. Whether you decide on shadowline, cornices or squarestet joints, make your choice based on the overall style of the room. A well thought out decision can make all the difference.
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