Frequently Asked Questions

What is the lifespan of a cold stretch ceiling?

A high-quality cold stretch ceiling, properly installed and well maintained, can last on average more than 20 years. Unlike some traditional finishes, the fabric stays tight over time without warping or sagging. It’s a stable solution that doesn’t crack, crumble or yellow, even after several years.

Its longevity depends largely on the quality of the product used, but also on the precision of the installation. A professional installation guarantees a durable and aesthetic result. In addition, the fabric’s easy maintenance helps preserve its original appearance over the long term.

How do you clean a cold stretch ceiling?

For normal use, light maintenance is enough: a simple pass with a vacuum cleaner fitted with a brush attachment, once a year, removes dust without damaging the fabric. For a localized stain, you can use a slightly damp magic eraser, always testing first in an inconspicuous area. Then rinse gently with a damp cloth and dry immediately with a clean, dry cloth.

If the fabric is heavily marked, it can be repainted as a last resort with a suitable acrylic paint to restore a clean and uniform appearance.

Avoid: detergents, dust cloths and excess water, which may leave stubborn or irreversible marks.

Can you install spotlights in a cold stretch ceiling?

Yes, absolutely. A cold stretch ceiling allows the integration of spotlights, access panels, and other technical elements. Accessories such as spotlight supports are designed to ensure a clean, solid and well-finished installation.

For this type of integration, specific accessories are used to guarantee the overall solidity. Depending on the project, these sub-structures can be custom-made, allowing perfect adjustment of the position and support of technical elements, without compromising the tension or aesthetics of the fabric.

What is the lifespan of a heat stretch ceiling?

A heat stretch ceiling is designed to last for many years. Its average lifespan is between 15 and 25 years, and sometimes more with proper maintenance and normal use. The PVC film used resists deformation, temperature variations and UV rays, ensuring a uniform and tight appearance over time.

What is the lifespan of a printed stretch ceiling?

SWALprint™ uses high-quality inks designed to resist light and aging. Under normal conditions, without excessive direct UV exposure or aggressive agents, the colors stay vibrant and accurate for many years. This durability ensures the ceiling maintains its visual impact over time, without yellowing or notable degradation.

Is printed fabric resistant to UV and fading?

Yes, SWALprint™ fabrics are designed to last even with exposure to natural light. They are printed with professional-grade inks (UV, Latex or Sublimation technologies) offering excellent resistance to ultraviolet rays.

This technology significantly reduces color fading and dullness, keeping the visual sharp and vibrant for years. This durability is essential for bright environments such as commercial spaces, offices or public areas exposed to strong light.

Can you install a stretch ceiling yourself?

Yes, it’s possible — but to get it right the first time, proper training is recommended. Our training modules are accessible to everyone: beginners or professionals wanting to improve. Wall installation, ceiling, corners, finishes… every step is explained and practiced with real material and personal guidance. You leave with solid foundations for installing our cold stretch fabrics efficiently and more confidence for future projects. And if you prefer professional installation, our experienced teams can also take care of it.

Is stretch fabric fire-retardant or compliant with fire safety standards?

SWALtradition™ wall fabric is designed to meet strict fire safety requirements. It is classified M1, guaranteeing its fire behavior according to European standard EN 13773 class 1.

This classification means the fabric is difficult to ignite and limits the spread of flames and toxic fumes. It is suitable for both homes and public buildings where fire safety is essential.

How do you maintain and clean stretched fabric?

Maintenance is simple and does not require special products. To clean the surface, use a soft cloth dampened with clean water. For light stains, gentle cleaning with a slightly humid magic eraser can be done, being careful not to rub too strongly. Avoid harsh chemicals or solvents, which may damage the fabric. Regular cleaning helps preserve the material’s appearance and quality, ensuring a clean and welcoming interior.

Can acoustic stretch fabric be installed on walls with rounded corners?

Yes, with flexible tension profiles specifically designed for curves, the fabric can be installed on walls with rounded corners. This system ensures even and smooth stretching, providing a flawless and aesthetic finish. Rounded angles do not compromise the look or durability of the stretched wall, offering great architectural and design freedom.

Can the fabric be replaced without redoing the entire installation?

Yes. One of the major advantages of the profile system is the ability to replace the fabric easily without dismantling the entire structure. This modularity simplifies maintenance, whether changing decor, replacing damaged fabric or adapting acoustic treatment. It significantly reduces renovation costs and time.

Are acoustic stretch fabrics UV-resistant and fade-resistant?

Yes, the fabric is formulated to offer excellent UV resistance, greatly reducing fading caused by prolonged exposure to natural light. Color fastness is certified Class 6 according to ISO 105 B02, a very high level of durability. This ensures your stretched wall retains its fresh look and aesthetic quality even in bright rooms.

What is the average cost of a stretched wall?

The average cost ranges from €80 to €150 per square meter, installation included. This can vary depending on several factors such as fabric type (acoustic, printed, etc.), complexity of installation, surface area and chosen finishes. Despite this, stretched walls remain a competitive solution, appreciated for quick installation and a high-end look.

Can a stretched wall be installed in a humid room such as a bathroom?

Yes, as long as you choose a fabric suitable for humid environments. Some of our fabrics are water-repellent, making them resistant to moisture and compatible with bathrooms.

Is the SWALor™ kit compatible with all doors?

The SWALor™ kit is designed to fit most standard-size doors, whether wooden, metal or even glass (as long as the surface is flat).

With its no-drill fastening system, it can be installed on different materials without damaging them. Whether for an interior door, front door or reinforced door, SWALor™ offers a reliable, aesthetic and easy-to-install solution.

Can I use the SWALor™ kit for something other than a door (e.g. a headboard)?

Yes, the SWALor™ kit can be repurposed. Its size and easy installation make it ideal for creating a stylish headboard, decorative wall panel or acoustic feature. The faux-leather padding brings both comfort and a premium look you can adapt to your interior design.

Can a backlit fabric be integrated into a home automation system?

Yes, SWALlight™ backlit fabrics can be integrated into a home automation system, provided the lighting control system (dimmer, remote control, DALI console, etc.) is compatible. This allows you to control lighting scenarios, adjust intensity or color temperature and create custom atmospheres. Support from a professional is recommended for optimal configuration.

How do you maintain a heat stretch ceiling?

Thanks to its PVC film composition, a heat stretch ceiling is very easy to keep in good condition. A deep cleaning is recommended every 6 to 7 years in humid rooms, and every 8 to 10 years in others. Use a microfiber cloth slightly dampened with water mixed with a mild plastic-safe cleaner, such as window cleaner. After cleaning, rinse with clear water to avoid streaks. For localized stains, it’s best to widen the cleaning area with broad strokes to avoid visible contrast between the cleaned zone and the rest of the ceiling.

Is a heat stretch ceiling compliant with safety standards?

Yes, SWAL™ heat stretch ceilings meet strict fire safety standards. They are certified Euroclass Bs2d0, meaning excellent fire resistance, limited flame spread and reduced toxic smoke. This guarantees safe installation in public, professional or residential spaces.

Can an acoustic ceiling be installed in a room with low height?

Yes, SWALtex™ Acoustic is designed for low-ceiling spaces. It requires very little overhead space — sometimes only a few centimeters — while providing effective sound absorption. It’s ideal for small rooms or renovations where losing ceiling height is not an option.

Is it easy to access cables and equipment after installing an acoustic ceiling?

Yes, SWALtex™ Acoustic ceilings are fully removable. You can take off a section of the fabric to reach cables, spotlights or access points, then reinstall it without damaging the material or losing tension. This makes technical maintenance much easier and avoids heavy or costly work.

Is the acoustic ceiling compliant with safety standards?

Yes, SWALtex™ Acoustic is certified B-s1,d0, offering strong fire resistance, very low smoke emission and no flaming droplets. It provides a high level of safety in both public spaces and homes without compromising acoustic performance.

What format should be used for printing on stretch fabric?

Our graphic studio uses Adobe Creative Cloud, regularly updated, including Photoshop® and Illustrator®. Files must be compatible with these versions.

Images should be sent in .tiff or .eps with flattened layers. Vector files should be in .pdf, .ai or .eps, with text outlined. Color mode must be CMYK.

Files must be print-ready, meaning no crop marks or extra graphic information, with a minimum resolution of 300 dpi at 1:1 scale. A minimum 5 cm bleed must be added for installation or finishing.

Example: a 300 × H240 cm wall Add 5 cm bleed → total print size 310 × 250 cm File to provide: 310 × 250 cm.

How much does a stretch ceiling cost?

The price of a stretch ceiling depends on several factors:

• • type of fabric (standard, acoustic, printed, backlit, etc.)
• • surface area
• • installation complexity (angles, obstacles, ceiling height)
• • whether the installation is done by a professional

On average, you can expect:

• • From €60/m² installed for a standard stretch ceiling
• • Up to €100/m² (or more) for technical or decorative versions (custom printing, acoustic fabrics, integrated lighting, etc.)

What is the average lifespan of a stretched wall fabric?

A high-quality stretched wall fabric, properly installed and maintained, can last over 20 years. Unlike some traditional coverings, the fabric remains tight without deforming, cracking or yellowing.

Its stability and resistance ensure a long-lasting, like-new appearance year after year. Longevity also depends on product quality and the precision of installation, ideally carried out by a professional. Simple maintenance also helps…

Quel est l’épaisseur d’un cadre SWALopus™ ?

L’épaisseur d’un cadre dépend du profilé en aluminium utilisé. Chez SWAL™, nous proposons trois épaisseurs : 21 mm, 50 mm et 80 mm. Un cadre de 21 mm est très discret et convient lorsque l’objectif est esthétique. Le 50 mm offre un bon équilibre entre design et performance acoustique, tandis que le 80 mm est recommandé si vous souhaitez maximiser l’absorption du son. Votre choix dépend donc de la configuration de la pièce et du niveau de correction acoustique recherché.

Un cadre acoustique est-il obligatoirement mural ?

Non, l’installation d’un cadre acoustique ne se limite pas aux murs. Les cadres SWALopus™ offrent une grande flexibilité et peuvent être suspendus au plafond, installés en cascade, montés en îlots, utilisés en baffles verticaux ou même transformés en cloisons acoustiques. Ces configurations permettent de s’adapter aux contraintes de chaque espace et de traiter l’acoustique de manière ciblée, tout en créant des compositions design et modulables.

Peut-on combiner plusieurs cadres pour un effet acoustique renforcé ?

Oui, il est tout à fait possible de combiner plusieurs cadres acoustiques SWALopus™ pour créer un traitement acoustique plus complet et efficace. En associant plusieurs cadres dans une même pièce, on augmente la surface d’absorption sonore, ce qui réduit davantage la réverbération et améliore significativement le confort auditif. Cette configuration permet aussi de concevoir un rendu esthétique moderne et personnalisé, en jouant sur les formes, les tailles et les couleurs des cadres. Que ce soit en suspension, au mur ou en îlots, l’assemblage de plusieurs cadres offre une grande modularité pour s’adapter aux contraintes et aux usages de chaque espace.

Quel est le coût d’un traitement acoustique ?

Un traitement acoustique de qualité représente un certain investissement. Il faut généralement compter à partir de 110 € HT/m2, pose comprise. Ce tarif peut rapidement augmenter en fonction des options choisies : intégration d’éclairage, impression personnalisée, rétroéclairage, complexité du chantier, etc.

Même si la solution peut paraître onéreuse, elle offre une double fonction (esthétique + acoustique), une grande durabilité et un confort sonore incomparable. Un devis sur mesure permet d’avoir une vision claire du coût selon vos besoins.

Peut-on intégrer des éléments techniques dans une solution acoustique ?

Oui, les systèmes acoustiques par toile tendue sont entièrement adaptables. Il est possible d’y intégrer des spots encastrés, des trappes d’accès, des bouches de ventilation, ou encore des détecteurs. Des sous-constructions spécifiques et des découpes sur mesure sont utilisés pour épouser parfaitement les éléments techniques sans nuire aux performances acoustiques. Ce type d’intégration est prévu dès la conception du projet pour assurer un rendu à la fois fonctionnel, esthétique et performant.

Les solutions acoustiques sont-elles compatibles avec les pièces humides ?

Certaines toiles acoustiques sont conçues pour résister à l’humidité et aux variations de température. Elles peuvent donc être installées dans des cuisines, salles de bains ou autres environnements humides, à condition de choisir les bons matériaux. Il est important de bien identifier les contraintes du lieu pour sélectionner une toile adaptée et garantir une bonne tenue dans le temps. L’expertise de nos équipes est également essentielle pour vous conseiller au mieux et assurer une finition durable dans ce type de pièce.

Quel est le taux de diffusion d’une toile rétroéclairée ?

Le taux de diffusion varie en fonction du type de toile utilisé, car toutes les toiles n’ont pas la même capacité à transmettre la lumière. Il dépend également de l’éclairage choisi et de la hauteur du plénum, c’est-à-dire l’espace entre les LED et la toile. Une configuration bien pensée, associant toile adaptée et système LED performant, garantit une diffusion homogène, sans zones d’ombre, pour un rendu lumineux de qualité.

Quelle distance faut-il prévoir entre les LED et la toile pour un rétroéclairage homogène ?

En général, on recommande de laisser un espace de 10 à 15 cm entre la toile et les LED pour assurer une diffusion lumineuse uniforme. Cependant, cette distance peut varier selon la puissance et le type de LED utilisés, ainsi que selon les contraintes du lieu. Le choix des LED est essentiel pour éviter les points lumineux visibles ou les zones d’ombre. Il est donc préférable d’opter pour des LED de qualité, issues d’un fournisseur fiable. Les néons ou systèmes similaires ne sont pas conseillés, car ils ne permettent pas d’obtenir une lumière uniforme et douce.