QA

Will Plaster Stick To Artex

Plastering over artex is a very common part of our trade now. Any artex must have a backing (bonding) coat applied first as as skim coat is only 3 mm thick. Once the bonding coat is dry you apply PVA to reduce suction when skimming the top coat. This will give you the desired flat finish.

Can you plaster over artex without scraping?

Skimming Over Artex. We wouldn’t recommend scraping artex with asbestos in it, even with masks. If you have patterned Artex, it’s possible to coat it with PVA to achieve a flat surface, and then skim it.

Do you have to remove artex before plastering?

Artex containing asbestos can be dangerous if you don’t remove it correctly and safely. We would highly recommend not plastering over if it contains asbestos materials. If it does have asbestos the best and safest option is to get an asbestos specialist to remove it so you have peace of mind it has gone completely.

What is the best way to plaster over artex?

Ensure surface is clean, dry and firmly bonded to the background. Lightly dampen the surface with a large, wet sponge. Remove any loose or prominent texture ‘nibs’ using a stripping knife (or spatula provided, if using Smooth-It kit) Apply Artex Stabilex liberally, to seal the surface, and allow to dry.

Do I need to PVA over artex before plastering?

Yes you need to apply 1 coat of PVA to make sure the plaster adheres. The PVA can be applied the day before as the artex provides a rough surface which will act as a good key.

Can you just skim over Artex?

Plastering over artex is a very common part of our trade now. Any artex must have a backing (bonding) coat applied first as as skim coat is only 3 mm thick. Once the bonding coat is dry you apply PVA to reduce suction when skimming the top coat. This will give you the desired flat finish.

Should I remove Artex or skim over?

It is standard practice to just skim over the artex. If no asbestos is present in the artex the loose artex needs to be removed and other areas soaked to ensure they remain bonded. Then you can apply a couple of coats of PVA and skim over.

Does Artex ceilings devalue a house?

Now, Artex ceilings can actually devalue a house. It’s very difficult to match up new repairs onto old Artex patterns. Undamaged and painted Artex is usually harmless. However, many people don’t like asbestos–based building materials in their home and will take any opportunity to remove it.

How can I cover my Artex walls without plastering?

Part 1 – Prepare Artex Ceiling Surface Dilute the PVA with a 1:1 ratio with water and mix well. Using a large emulsion brush, paint the PVA solution on the ceiling and leave the PVA to dry (roughly one hour) Apply a second coat and then leave to dry again.

Can I remove Artex myself?

Can I Remove Artex Myself? Yes, as long as it has been passed as safe from asbestos and you are comfortable doing so. Alternatively, any tradesperson will happily take on the job for you.

Is it worth plastering over Artex?

Artex is often considered outdated and removing it can be difficult. Another option is to plaster over the artex. Plastering over the artex is much harder than plastering over a normal surface such as plaster board or a surface that has previously been plastered.

What is the easiest way to remove Artex from a ceiling?

1 – How To Remove an Artex Ceiling The most popular way to remove Artex is to use a steamer to loosen it and then ease it off with a scraper. This process is slow but effective, if you hold the steamer in the same place for too long, however, the Artex will liquefy and run everywhere making a mess.

How much does it cost to skim a room UK?

Repairing or re-skimming over existing plaster to correct blemishes in plaster. For a small room, prices range between £380 and £500. For medium rooms, you can expect to pay from £420 and £550 respectively. Average duration is between 1 and 2 days depending on the size of the room.

How much does it cost to skim a ceiling UK?

The average cost to skim a ceiling can range anywhere between £200-£500 for a professional plasterer. Prices will depend on the size of the surface area and the complexity of the task. If you’re replastering your ceiling to remove Artex, it’s worth getting clued up on the costs with our dedicated guide.

Can you PVA day before plastering?

We essentially want to apply 2 coats of PVA at a 3:1 ratio to our walls. You apply the first coat, wait for it to completely dry and then apply the second coat. The second coat is slightly different. You want to roll this on just before you start plastering and wait for it to take up.

How can I make my Artex ceiling look nice?

Using the spatula, load the smoother with Artex Easifix Smooth-It. Apply an even coat with firm, sweeping strokes. When the whole surface is covered, allow to dry until firm to the touch. Repeat the process as many times as required to reach the desired smoothness.

Is plastering a ceiling messy?

If you’re using a wipable paint all the better as plaster splashes can be wiped off; a good plasterer will make very little mess. At the very worst you might have some touching up to do but I’d rather do this than decorate a house full of furniture, curtains, carpets, people, pets, etc.

Can you skim over textured ceiling?

Popcorn ceiling—If you have a heavily textured ceiling and just don’t like the look, you have a few options. With painted texture, some pros scrape as best they can and then ‘skim coat’ the entire ceiling with a thin layer of joint compound. Scraping dry texture is a dusty mess, and skim coating requires some practice.

Is it safe to plaster over Artex ceiling?

However, most processes, like putting plaster over your artex ceiling, will involve scraping or weakening it in some way. This could expose harmful asbestos fibres and release them into the air, which is very dangerous.

Should I remove Artex?

Is it safe to remove Artex? Yes, you can remove Artex or other textured ceiling or wall coverings using the X-Tex product. X-Tex keeps the covering wet whilst it is being removed and ensures there are no harmful dust or asbestos dust fibres that can be inhaled.

How much does it cost to plaster a kitchen UK?

The average cost of plastering a room in the UK is between £15 to £25/hr, or £150 to £200 per day. Alternatively, typical charges of £150 per ceiling, £250 per wall or about £400 to £600 for an average room, including materials.