ᐅ Ceiling: plastered or better with non-woven wallpaper?

Our painter recommended plastering the ceiling since the walls will also be plastered, and it looks better that way. What about the risk of cracking? Wouldn't a non-woven wallpaper (transparent, then painted white) be a better option? What do you think? Maybe he suggested plastering simply because it's quicker or easier for him?......

Normally, nothing cracks there. I would also plaster it. Do you have a consistent look for the walls?

One thing has nothing to do with the other, right?

What is the current condition? Are the drywall panels taped and finished, or is it just a raw concrete ceiling? Some preparation is also necessary for wallpapering, which is quite similar to plastering.

The ceiling is currently made of concrete. However, there are always joints that have been filled with spackle. Opinions on this vary. Our plasterer, who also does painting work but is not contracted as the general contractor for us, suggested covering the ceiling with fleece wallpaper, as these joint areas tend to act like predetermined breaking points and repeatedly develop cracks. In terms of appearance, a plastered ceiling would create a uniform look. The painter said it wouldn’t crack. Personally, I would prioritize pragmatism over appearance here. If cracks form in the ceiling later, the appearance will be affected anyway. I want to minimize, if not completely avoid, additional work in the future.

For this reason, there are different plastering quality levels, such as Q1, Q2, and so on, and to my knowledge, from Q3 onwards, a mesh must be applied at such joints to prevent cracking.

Because even if wallpaper is simply applied over it now, the wallpaper can still tear in those spots (this is the situation in our currently occupied rental apartment).

In the end, it will come down to cost. Applying at least Q3 level plaster to the ceiling to prevent cracking is significantly more expensive than just using fiberglass wallpaper, paint, and that’s it.

The work with fleece is defined as Q2. Plaster would be Q3. However, I only partially agree with you: In my opinion, the necessary preparatory work must also be done even for "just" Q2. If the ceiling is not smooth, you cannot properly apply wallpaper. Simply sticking it on would be too basic. I think the labor cost for plastering is lower than for installing fleece wallpaper. The painter offers me plastering at no extra charge. Somehow, I feel there is more to it than just kindness.