How to remove artex from a ceiling

Question

We've just bought a place with artex on every ceiling and I can't stand it. Is it a case of scraping it off or getting it skimmed over, and is asbestos a worry with 80s artex?

Mihai · Answer

Artex applied in the 1980s may contain asbestos, so do not scrape or sand it before testing. Arrange for a sample to be taken by a trained professional and analysed by a UKAS accredited laboratory.

If the result is negative, the ceiling can usually be scraped and skimmed, or skimmed directly if the coating is firm and well bonded. If asbestos is present, the safest options are usually professional encapsulation, overboarding and skimming, or controlled removal by a properly trained contractor.

Gary · Answer

You try scraping it with a scraper a big scraper, but it doesn’t all have to come off. Only need a proud bits then you can plaster over no problem.

Dion · Answer

As someone has already stated,the artex could contain asbestos, the best way over this is to overboard the ceilings and skim the new boards,at least then the ceilings are guaranteed to last without any future problems.

Shannon · Answer

Hi Patrick 
Do not scrape it off 
Overboard and skim the ceiling

Iosif · Answer

If it’s asbestos-free, you can either have the Artex removed/prepared and the ceiling replastered, or have a plasterer skim over it if the surface is sound. If asbestos is confirmed, don’t sand, scrape or drill it yourself—get advice from a suitably qualified contractor on the safest treatment/removal option.

Dave · Answer

How to remove Artex from a ceiling

With an Artex/textured coating dating from the 1980s, I would not scrape, sand or disturb it until it has been tested for asbestos.

Some older textured coatings contained asbestos, and unfortunately you cannot reliably tell whether asbestos is present simply by looking at the ceiling.

The sensible first step is to have a small sample professionally tested. If the result is negative, options can then include removal or preparing and skimming over the existing coating, depending on its condition and how well it is bonded to the ceiling.

If asbestos is identified, I would take advice from an appropriate asbestos professional before deciding whether it should be left undisturbed, encapsulated/overboarded or removed.

So in this particular case, testing first and deciding on the finish afterwards would be my recommendation.

Kind regards,
Dave
Redstone Renovations & Landscaping Ltd

James · Answer

Board over the ceilings is the best way in my opinion

Cliff · Answer

hi can’t scrap artex of as it contains a low amount of asbestos you can plaster over it or board over it or completely take down with care

John · Answer

You have 2.opptions blue grit and skim or replaster board then skim the. 1st opption whould be the.chepest way hope this has help you jt.lee plasterer

Mo · Answer

Roof basalt and install a new roof or other plastering

How to remove artex from a ceiling

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