Artex & Textured Ceiling Removal — Hertfordshire & North-West London

Artex and other textured ceiling finishes were widely used in UK homes from the 1960s to the early 1990s. While fashionable at the time, most homeowners now prefer the clean, modern look of a smooth plaster ceiling — and this is one of the most common jobs Roger is called in to complete.

There are two main approaches: skimming directly over the Artex using a layer of bonding or base coat plaster, or removing the Artex entirely and replastering. Which method is appropriate depends on the depth and profile of the texture, the condition of the ceiling behind it, and whether pre-1985 Artex needs asbestos testing first.

Artex manufactured before 1985 may contain chrysotile (white) asbestos fibres. Roger does not remove Artex of this type — instead he will cover it in place using a plasterboard overlay or advise you on arranging professional asbestos testing before any removal work. He will always flag this clearly and honestly when he visits.

What to Expect

1. Ceiling inspection and date assessment — pre-1985 Artex gets asbestos guidance first
2. For cover-over: plasterboard overlay fixed and skimmed
3. For post-1985 removal: Artex dampened and scraped back, surface prepared
4. Bonding coat applied where required
5. Finishing skim coat applied and trowelled smooth
6. Crisp edges at coving and walls

Common Questions