Artex plaster - hairline cracks

Question

Are hairline cracks in an artex ceiling something to be concerned about. They have, apparently been there for years and would polyfilla work?

Shaun · Accepted Answer

No filler will not work as they will open open up again over time and you can’t im state the artex pattern so would look dreadfull. A new coat of multi finish would do the job you need. You would lose the artex pattern but would have a new fresh flat ceiling. Needs to be ore plaster primed before by who ever did it then a super mix on for first coat and two coats of multi finish plaster after this.  Shaun SMG PLASTERING

Paul · Answer

Polyfilla will work for a  while but the cracks will come back. It's usually one of 2. things; 1. Movement in the ceiling or 2. The laths or plasterboards need reinforcing (scrim is missing on joints).

Ryan · Answer

Yes filler would be a temporary fix but I would get it re skimmed

David · Answer

Something to note here.

If the Artex is old ie before mid 80's then it may contain asbestos so best to go easy on it. More info here https://www.rbasbestos.co.uk/artex-ceiling-asbestos/

If the cracks are quite fine they usually aren't a problem and can be covered with something like Pollycell crack-free ceilings. The trick is to paint the cracks with a brush and work it in well and then apply a second coat to the whole ceiling.

If they are more than hairline then they would need raked out a bit and then filled. Bearing in mind the note above about asbestos. 

Pollyfilla might not be the best option but in any case, you don't want to alter the pattern of the Artex so sanding is not a good way to go. What I would do is mix up some "Easifill" or similar jointing compound and try and brush it into the cracks and then gently wipe off the excess with a damp cloth so there is nothing to sand when dry.

Hope this helps.

Kathryn · Answer

Polly filler will work, use a contoring pad to sand it after

Alan · Answer

What I do to fix this problem is use scrim tape to tape the cracks and replaster. You can also do the same with easifill and try blend in with old artex. Or just keep filling the crack, if doing this dig the crack out slightly deeper and fill. In terms of seeing the blemish, this is called flashing

Michael · Answer

Filla would work to a certain extent, may not have the best finish afterwards but it would be a quick repair, my opinion is to give it a whole new re skim over the ceiling

Alin · Answer

Better solution is decorating caulk. Be sure it is going deep inside of the crack. Leave to dry and paint with a vinyl good quality paint.

Steve · Answer

Its nothing to worry about and envy type off filla would be good enough 👍

Alex · Answer

Hi, polyfilla can work if there is no movement in ceiling/plasterboard 
Have to check before applying

Artex plaster - hairline cracks

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