Wondering if you can plaster over artex without the hassle of removal? Discover the professional secrets to transforming your dated ceiling into a smooth, modern surface.
Understanding Artex and Safety Considerations
Before embarking on any ceiling renovation project, it’s crucial to understand what Artex is and the potential risks involved. Artex is a textured coating that was immensely popular in British homes from the 1970s through the 1990s. The distinctive patterns and textures were seen as a stylish way to add character to ceilings and walls. However, modern interior design trends favour smooth, clean surfaces, leading many homeowners to seek solutions for covering their Artex finishes.
What is Artex and Why Was it Popular?
Artex is a branded textured coating that gained widespread popularity due to its ability to hide imperfections and add decorative interest to otherwise plain surfaces. The material could be applied in various patterns, from subtle stippled effects to more dramatic swirls and peaks. Its popularity peaked in the 1970s and 1980s, with many British homes featuring Artex finishes in multiple rooms.
The Critical Asbestos Check: Pre-1999 Artex Concerns
- All Artex applied before 1999 may contain asbestos fibres
- Professional testing is essential – DIY testing kits are not recommended
- Local authorities can provide guidance on asbestos testing
- Costs for testing typically range from £50-£100
- If asbestos is present, do not attempt to scrape or sand the surface
- Professional asbestos removal may be required, costing £30-£50 per square metre
Safety Measures and When to Call Professionals
When dealing with Artex, safety should always be your primary concern. If your property was built or decorated before 1999, professional assessment is crucial before any work begins. Even if asbestos isn’t present, proper protective equipment including dust masks, eye protection, and suitable work wear should be used during any ceiling work.
Assessing Your Artex Ceiling
A thorough assessment of your ceiling’s condition is essential for determining the most appropriate approach to covering your Artex. The texture pattern, overall condition, and structural integrity will all influence the method you choose and the likelihood of success.
Evaluating the Artex Pattern and Thickness
- Measure the depth of the pattern using a straight edge
- Note any particularly heavy texturing or deep patterns
- Check for loose or flaking areas
- Look for signs of previous repairs or patches
- Document any cracks or damage in the pattern
Checking Ceiling Stability and Surface Integrity
Before proceeding with any plastering work, ensure your ceiling is structurally sound. Check for signs of water damage, cracks, or areas where the Artex may be coming away from the substrate. Tap the ceiling gently – a hollow sound might indicate underlying issues that need addressing first.
Deciding Between Different Coverage Methods
Based on your assessment, you’ll need to choose between direct plastering, overboarding, or complete removal. Each method has its advantages and specific applications, depending on your ceiling’s condition and your desired outcome.
Professional Methods for Plastering Over Artex
The most common and effective method for covering Artex is through professional plastering. This approach requires careful preparation and the right materials to ensure a lasting, smooth finish. At Kent Plasterers, we’ve refined this process over years of experience to deliver exceptional results.
Surface Preparation and Cleaning
- Thoroughly clean the ceiling with sugar soap
- Remove any loose or flaking material
- Sand down particularly prominent peaks
- Fill any significant gaps or cracks
- Ensure the surface is completely dry before proceeding
Applying Bonding Agents and PVA
A crucial step in the process is the application of appropriate bonding agents. We typically use a PVA solution mixed at a ratio of 5:1 (water:PVA) to seal the surface and promote adhesion. For particularly challenging surfaces, a specialized bonding agent may be necessary.
The Skimming Process Explained
The actual plastering process involves applying two thin coats of finishing plaster. The first coat is applied with firm pressure to work the material into the Artex texture, while the second coat creates the final smooth finish. This requires significant skill and experience to achieve professional results.
Alternative Solutions and Special Considerations
While direct plastering is often the preferred solution, there are situations where alternative approaches might be more appropriate. Understanding these options helps ensure the best possible outcome for your specific situation.
Plasterboard Over-Boarding: When and Why
- Ideal for very heavy Artex patterns
- Provides a completely fresh surface
- May require ceiling height adjustment
- Costs approximately £25-£35 per square metre
- Usually takes 1-2 days to complete
Dealing with Heavily Textured or Damaged Artex
For ceilings with particularly heavy texturing or significant damage, additional preparation work may be necessary. This might include partially removing the Artex or applying a levelling compound before plastering can begin.
Cost Comparisons and Time Considerations
The cost of covering Artex varies depending on the chosen method and ceiling condition. Direct plastering typically costs £20-£30 per square metre, while overboarding might cost £25-£35 per square metre. Project timelines can range from 1-3 days depending on the size and complexity of the work.
Achieving the Perfect Finish
The key to a successful Artex covering project lies in the attention to detail and proper execution of each step. Professional plasterers understand the importance of timing, technique, and material selection in achieving a flawless finish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping proper surface preparation
- Using incorrect mixing ratios for PVA
- Applying plaster too thickly
- Not allowing adequate drying time between coats
- Rushing the final finishing process
Aftercare and Decoration Tips
Once the plastering is complete, proper aftercare is essential. Allow the plaster to dry completely (typically 5-7 days) before decorating. Use a mist coat of watered-down emulsion for the first paint application to ensure proper adhesion of subsequent coats.
When to Seek Professional Help
While some DIY enthusiasts might be tempted to tackle this project themselves, professional plastering over Artex requires significant skill and experience. At Kent Plasterers, we recommend professional installation for the best possible results and to avoid potential costly mistakes.
Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice for Your Ceiling
Covering Artex with plaster is a viable and popular solution for updating dated ceilings. The key to success lies in proper preparation, using the right materials, and either having the necessary skills or engaging professional help. Whether you choose direct plastering or overboarding, ensuring the work is done correctly will result in a smooth, modern ceiling that adds value to your property.
FAQ
Why is Artex unpopular?
Asbestos in artex Asbestos is a hazardous substance that can be dangerous if breathed in. It was routinely added to plaster to create the texture for patterning until the practice was banned in 1999. If you’re aware that your artex contains asbestos, you’ll have to disclose its presence to your buyer.
How long do asbestos fibers stay in the air?
Disturbed asbestos can stay airborne for between 48-72 hours and will settle eventually. However, once settled even the slightest breeze can disturb these tiny fibres and release them once again into circulation. This is why contacting a professional asbestos removal expert is important if you discover asbestos.
Does all Artex have asbestos?
Does All Artex Contain Asbestos? No, not all artex contains asbestos. Asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999 so any artex produced after this should be free from asbestos. However, if the artex in your building was built or refurbished before 1999, then there’s a strong possibility that it contains asbestos fibres.
How to tell if it’s Artex or plaster?
Most textured coatings are painted white. However, if a small area is damaged, it may reveal the true colour of the coating beneath the paint. For example, an orangey-brown or grey colour will usually indicate that the coating is plaster (as opposed to a true Artex coating).
Sources
[1] https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/ask-a-trade/can-you-plaster-over-artex-ceiling/
[2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b11Gn6IFDG8
[3] https://www.myjobquote.co.uk/questions/advice-on-plastering-artex-ceiling-as-a-long-term-solution