How to Plaster Over Artex?

Artex is difficult to remove and has fallen out of favour because to its outdated appearance. Artex can also be plastered over.

Plastering over Artex, however, is far more labor-intensive than plastering over a standard surface like plasterboard or a previously plastered surface.

Artex ceilings were popular in the 1970s and 1980s, and many homes still have the original plaster dimples and swirls from those eras. Some people can't handle living under Artex ceilings, while others can't fathom the thought of leaving their current residences.

Before 1985, asbestos-containing Artex ceilings were common.

White asbestos, which is less dangerous than other forms because it can be washed out of the body if it comes into touch with water, was really used.

Plastering over Artex is equally as challenging as plastering over any other surface.

Primarily, it was mounted on the ceilings.

Artex on ceilings should be removed and replaced with new plaster as soon as feasible.

The low cost of artex makes it seem like a no-brainer to remove it from a ceiling, but doing so without experience can cause serious difficulties for the ceiling and even health issues for the removal worker.

The declining popularity of Artex can be attributed to the evolution of consumer tastes in home decor.

Plastering will be required for many surfaces, including those with artexed designs. It's simpler than you might think to plaster over Artex.

If the surface is properly prepared, the plaster is applied uniformly, and it is allowed to dry and set for the appropriate amount of time, there shouldn't be any issues.

Knowing for sure that Artex is asbestos-free requires an inspection by a professional, as the material was still being discovered as recently as 1999. But use your best judgement while deciding whether or not to follow the suggestions made.

Take precautions, though the risk is likely to be tolerable.

Painting Over Artex

Plastering over Artex makes it possible to restore even heavily textured Artex to a flat finish.

Depending on the ceiling's current state, different forms of plastering can be put over Artex.

If your ceiling is textured, you may need to apply a thicker coat of plaster.

It's possible that you'll need to either replace the ceiling or cover it with plasterboard, depending on its condition. If you are worried about white Asbestos being present in the Artex you have, we may do tests to determine whether or not it is there.

Any Artex pattern may be concealed with the right equipment and supplies. To prevent scratching the Artex and possibly upsetting the Asbestos, we often apply a thin coat of bonding undercoat plaster over larger designs and rub it out before adding finishing plaster.

Artex's durability made it a popular choice for hiding ceiling damage.

If the ceiling is in bad condition, such a broken lathe and plaster ceiling, plastering over the Artex coating could cause additional problems. Damage like cracking and bulging, or even collapse, is more likely to occur as a result of the extra weight.

If you have a modern plasterboard ceiling, you may cover up any imperfections with artex and make it seem wonderful.

Take the widespread use of nail-up plasterboard ceilings as an example.

The nails, alas, might become loose over time and "bust" the plaster.

When there is movement and insufficient taping, even joints made with nailed plasterboard could break.

In addition, you should examine the Artex to see if it is firmly adhered to the ceiling.

Coverings with poor adhesion make it easy for plaster to flake off.

Plaster put over improperly applied or otherwise damaged Artex might cause the Artex to peel and flake.

Your Artex ceiling is either tainted with asbestos and requires removal by a professional service, or it has been covered up with plasterboard, both of which are undesirable.

If you want to plaster over an Artex ceiling, the best way to do it is using plasterboarding, which will provide a sturdy base for your plaster.

Instructions

• Don the proper protective gear (PPE). Gloves, a face mask, and goggles are all essential safety items.
• Scotch tape is used by builders overseas to patch up damaged ceilings.
• The first step is to prime the area with PVA that has been diluted with water (1 part water to 5 parts PVA) and then let it dry.
• Put a heavy layer of PVA on the ceiling (5 parts glue, 1 part water).
• If it doesn't feel just right, wait a little longer.
• Prepare a Multi Finish paste that is far more substantial than usual. Bonding Plaster can help you feel more confident about your next move. In order to move on to Step 11, however, you must wait a full day for the Bonding Plaster to dry.
• Use the new material to cover the Artex ceiling, creating a flat, consistent surface. Trowel off any Artex that has risen to the surface while wearing protective gear.
• Coating the ceiling in the same way as in stages 6 and 7 is required.
• The first layer is complete.
• When the plaster has started to dry.
• Prepare a fresh batch of the regular Multi finish plaster.
• Use as a topcoat over an already existing layer.
• Steps 9 and 10 can be repeated until the ceiling is completely covered. To maximise the results of Bonding Plaster, a second coat of multi finish should be used.
• Get the wet trowels ready and use the leftover paste to fill up any gaps or cracks when the time comes.
• Plastering is the finishing touch that sets it apart from the rest.
• Admire your works of art by snapping images of them.

Plaster Over Artex

• When Artex that was placed more than 30 years ago is sanded or scraped, asbestos fibres are released into the air.
• First, you should remove the flaking artex. Before moving on to the smaller stipples, the bigger ones should be scraped away to create a more even surface for the Artex.
• Using PVC adhesive will ensure that your plaster stays put. It's available at practically any hardware or home improvement shop. Plaster absorbs water from the air and then the artex or masonry underneath, leading to poor quality when applied straight to a wall without a PVC under-layer. The drying out time of plaster is short. Since the PVC will prevent air from escaping, the plaster can be applied flush to the wall.
• Before used, the PVA must be well combined with water at a 1:1 ratio. When the PVC mixture has cooled, it can be painted or brushed onto the wall or ceiling. Verify that you have secured all necessary areas. If you want the best results, apply two coats.
• You should start preparing to plaster right away. Put down tarps to protect the floor and any other surfaces you don't want plaster on. When preparing the plaster, be sure to do so in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Use a paddle attachment on a mixing drill to thoroughly combine the ingredients for the plaster. Mix it up until it's nice and creamy.
• For a professional result, just plaster how you normally would. Use a trowel and a hawk loaded with a modest amount of plaster to apply the plaster to the walls. To provide an equal coating, apply it with broad, even strokes. There should be no ridges or valleys.
• After the plaster has cured and hardened, it can be smoothed out to a nice finish (but not so much that it has entirely set). When the plaster starts to harden, just a quick spray with water will make it pliable again. This will give it the same kind of sleek, reflective quality as glass.

Plastering Over Artex That Contains Asbestos

Although your options for dealing with asbestos in Artex may be limited, it is still possible to do so.

• Utilizing Artex to Excessive Degrees. Asbestos-containing Artex should not be scraped, period, mask or no mask. After covering patterned Artex with PVA to make it flat, it can be skimmed. Stippled Artex is not a good candidate for this technique.
• A reduction in the cap, if you will. This is without a doubt the least dangerous option when dealing with Artex. Drylining a drop ceiling is an easy way to make it seem like new again. In the end, you'll be left with a smooth floor where the Artex once was. The beauty of drylining materials is that they let you to jump right into the decorating process.

How to Keep the Vacuum Under Control and Avoid Blisters

Be sure the plaster has dried completely so there won't be any blisters.

The plaster base coat, which could be Bonding Coat, must dry before the top coat is applied. Before the Bonding Coat has entirely cured, it should be smoothed out to remove any unwanted trowel marks or bulges that may appear as the Coat hardens and sets.

Depending on the weather, you can apply plaster, wait for it to cure, and then skim it all in one day. In order to work with the plaster before it dries, you may need to dampen it down with water if you want to leave it for another day, since the suction may be too strong otherwise.

Try flicking some water over the area you're plastering to see if it absorbs it; if it dries rapidly, you'll need to deal with the suction.

Applying water or PVA on the surface varies the suction. Performing this action when it is not required will only cause the plaster to harden more slowly.

If you don't adjust the suction when necessary, the worst case scenario is that it dries out and becomes useless too quickly.

Smooth Out the Uneven Surfaces by Scraping

You can use a scraper or a pair of scissors to get rid of any protruding bits.

Choosing the right Artex can mean the difference between a quick and easy process and a long and unpleasant one.

While some are quite easy to grasp, others are mind-bogglingly complicated.

However, the alternative is doomed to failure. Instead, you need to take every measure possible to ensure a smooth, even ceiling that can be plastered without further work. If you put in more effort now, the next steps will be easier.

PVA The Artex

It's quite essential that we're here right now. After you've finished removing the Artex from your ceiling, you can cover the area with a fresh coat of PVA using a roller. When the first layer of PVA has dried, apply a second.

If you do this, your plaster won't dry out quite so fast. You can get extra time to plaster if you apply two coats of highly concentrated PVA to the porous Artex.

You should feel terrible about missing this performance. Trust me. Without priming the walls with PVA first, plastering over Artex is a nightmare. In this case, we recommend reading our article on PVA before plastering for more information.

There's a chance that the Artex ceiling in your house does not include any asbestos

There are three options available for getting rid of Artex if you are confident that it does not contain asbestos.

• Remove the Artex. Artex's rigidity makes it the most expensive material choice.
• Slim down by removing the excess fat. Some swirls, unlike dimples, can be scraped away to reveal a flat back. A PVA coating and skim coat of plaster can then be applied to the surface.
• Mask for the Ceiling. Artex with dimples or stipples can be concealed with a false ceiling made of drylining plasterboard. While this does provide a level surface to work on, it also lowers the ceiling.

Linked Artex

If your home's Artex is particularly showy, you might want to consider bonding it.

Experienced plasterers frequently do this. British Gypsoms Bonding is a similar method to the one previously used for building and levelling ceilings.

The safest approach is probably to refrain from scraping the Artex and, in turn, preventing the release of Asbestos.

The high ceiling doesn't present any difficulties in movement.

While this strategy is taken by some, we find it to be totally ineffective. Plasterers with experience often opt for this procedure despite its difficulty and potential slowness.

If you're having issues with your Artex ceiling, you won't find a better choice than the one we're about to reveal to you. Tear it down and start fresh!

Why Is It a Good Idea to Plaster Over Artex?

As has been demonstrated above, there is evidence that some varieties of Artex may contain asbestos.

Avoiding the time-consuming (and perhaps dangerous) removal operation is desirable, and plastering directly over this surface will prevent the future release of any asbestos.

However, the aesthetic benefits of a smooth plaster finish must also be considered.

Plaster is an excellent option if you want to modernise the look of your home or company because it creates a smooth and even surface.

In order to make it blend in with the rest of the decor, it might be painted or sealed.

Modern plaster formulations can create surfaces that last for decades with only occasional maintenance if they are applied properly.

Cutting, Boarding, and Skimming

Restarting can often be the best choice when faced with a difficult situation in life. If you've never worked with plaster before but are interested in learning, you might try your hand at this.

Even though it's not perfect, it's far easier to put anything new onto a blank page than to try and restore an old one.

Attempting this last resort is generally worth the work involved.

To Plaster Over Artex or Not to Plaster Over Artex?

Some Artex items may contain asbestos. Artex used in Edinburgh buildings before the year 2000 may contain chemicals that are dangerous to humans. For this reason, most expert plasterers advise against removing it.

Professional asbestos abatement technicians are required for the safe removal of Artex from a structure.

Unless you're dead set on it, though, you should probably just plaster over the Artex to keep the asbestos contained and under control.

The removal of Artex generates potentially hazardous dust, and adding to the inconvenience is unnecessary.

The fact that Artex can be safely plastered over is encouraging. The majority of our business in Australia consists of plastering over Artex.

Our plasterer will send some samples of your Artex to a lab in Australia to determine whether or not it poses any health risks, and then he'll offer you his expert judgement.

If the Artex you need taken down also contains Asbestos, you'll need to hire a professional removal service to get the job done safely and in line with the law.

Applying two coats ensures a smooth and even surface, ready for painting.

Artex leakage can be avoided and asbestos dust can be contained through the use of over-skimming and over-boarding.

This method, which is endorsed by plastering experts, has quickly become the standard for both new homes and commercial buildings.

Ceiling Plastering - How It's Done

You can find plasterboard at any home improvement store. Among the many sizes of plasterboards, the 1.8m x 0.9m boards are the most convenient to work with. Purchase some 32 mm plasterboard screws as well.

The technique is made much more difficult by the necessity for plasterboarding skills. Putting up wallpaper over Artex is a hassle, and so is plastering over it.

Plasterboarding, however, is entirely doable if you have a labourer or a friend to help you out. Take your time, stay focused, and use lots of fasteners. Don't scrimp on the screws; they're always in demand. One screw every 300 mm is all that's needed to secure each joist. A further option is shown in the next pick.

Can Life Exist Without Artex?

It's important to evaluate whether or not removing the Artex is the best course of action prior to beginning the plastering process.

Our team is here to assist you make the best decision for your building.

Asbestos-containing Artex formulations are widely used, raising further safety concerns.

If you're not sure whether or not the Artex supplies you have include asbestos, you should contact R&B Plastering.

Furthermore, our plastering contractors can provide additional information about the methods by which we intend to fulfil your remodelling requirements.

Access to Qualified Assistance

Plastering is not something you should try doing on your own, first and foremost.

Particularly when working with larger or uneven ceiling surfaces, this process requires a great level of competence.

Because of how crucially important a flawless end result is, it's crucial to use a skilled plastering service.

If homeowners hire our crew of skilled plastering professionals, they may also anticipate these advantages:

• Having the ability to complete large projects on time.
• Everyone was totally forwards and honest.
• Workmanship of the highest calibre.
• Plastering techniques that won't empty your bank account.

Conclusion

Artex's decline in favour results from shifting preferences in interior design.

Artex ceilings, which included asbestos, were widely used before 1985. Even Artex's substantial texture can be returned to a smooth surface with plaster.

With the proper tools and materials, an Artex pattern can be hidden.

We usually put a thin coat of bonding undercoat plaster over larger designs to minimise scratching the Artex and possibly upsetting the asbestos.

Plastering could worsen ceiling issues if they already exist, such as with a damaged lathe and plaster ceiling. Asbestos fibres can be released into the air when Artex installed over 30 years ago is sanded or scraped.

To ensure that your plaster doesn't fall off, use PVC adhesive. Put on two coats of Bonding Plaster for a finished look that rivals a pro's. No asbestos mask or not, Artex that may contain asbestos should never be scraped.

Restoring the appearance of a drop ceiling with dry lining is quick and simple. Drylining materials are wonderful because they allow you to skip the priming and painting stages entirely. Depending on your Artex, your project may fly by or drag on forever.

The Artex ceiling in your home may or may not contain asbestos. If you know that your Artex does not contain asbestos, you have three alternatives for disposing of it.

Some samples of Artex may have been found to contain asbestos.

If you plaster right over it, you won't have to worry about any asbestos fibres being released into the air.

Avoid the trying (and sometimes risky) removal process if possible. In a positive turn of events, Artex can be plastered over without risk. Two coats of primer should be applied to ensure a flawless, paintable surface.

Content Summary

• Artex is difficult to remove and has fallen out of favour because of its outdated appearance.
• Plastering over Artex, however, is far more labour-intensive than plastering over a standard surface like a plasterboard or a previously plastered surface.
• Before 1985, asbestos-containing Artex ceilings were common.
• Plastering over Artex is equally as challenging as plastering over any other surface.
• It's simpler than you might think to plaster over Artex.
• Knowing that Artex is asbestos-free requires an inspection by a professional, as the material was still being discovered as recently as 1999.
• Depending on the ceiling's current state, different forms of plastering can be put over Artex.
• Any Artex pattern may be concealed with the right equipment and supplies.
• If the ceiling is in bad condition, such as a broken lathe and plaster ceiling, plastering over the Artex coating could cause additional problems.
• In addition, you should examine the Artex to see if it has firmly adhered to the ceiling.
• If you want to plaster over an Artex ceiling, the best way to do it is using plaster boarding, which will provide a sturdy base for your plaster.
• Don the proper protective gear (PPE).
• Coating the ceiling in the same way as in stages 6 and 7 is required.
• Prepare a fresh batch of the regular Multi finish plaster.
• To maximise the results of Bonding Plaster, a second coat of multi-finish should be used.
• Using PVC adhesive will ensure that your plaster stays put.
• When the plaster starts to harden, a quick spray with water will make it pliable again.
• Although your options for dealing with asbestos in Artex may be limited, it is still possible to do so.
• Drylining a drop ceiling is an easy way to make it seem like new again.
• To work with the plaster before it dries, you may need to dampen it down with water if you want to leave it for another day since the suction may be too strong otherwise.
• You can use a scraper or scissors to remove any protruding bits.
• Choosing the right Artex can mean the difference between a quick and easy process and a long and unpleasant one.
• After removing the Artex from your ceiling, you can cover the area with a fresh coat of PVA using a roller.
• Plastering over Artex is a nightmare without priming the walls with PVA first.
• There's a chance that the Artex ceiling in your house does not include any asbestos. Three options are available for getting rid of Artex if you are confident it does not contain asbestos.
• A PVA coating and skim coat of plaster can then be applied to the surface.
• Mask for the Ceiling.
• If you need help with your Artex ceiling, you won't find a better choice than the one we're about to reveal.
• Tear it down and start fresh! As has been demonstrated above, there is evidence that some varieties of Artex may contain asbestos.
• However, the aesthetic benefits of a smooth plaster finish must also be considered.
• Some Artex items may contain asbestos.
• Professional asbestos abatement technicians are required to remove Artex from a structure safely.
• Unless you're dead set on it, you should plaster over the Artex to keep the asbestos under control.
• The fact that Artex can be safely plastered over is encouraging.
• The majority of our business in Australia consists of plastering over Artex.
• Applying two coats ensures a smooth and even surface, ready for painting.
• Putting wallpaper over Artex is a hassle, and so is plastering.
• It's important to evaluate whether or not removing the Artex is the best course of action before beginning the plastering process.
• Our team is here to assist you in making the best decision for your building.
• If you need to figure out whether or not the Artex supplies you have include asbestos, you should contact R & B Plastering.
• Because a flawless result is crucially important, it's crucial to use a skilled plastering service.