Does my Artex ceiling contain asbestos?
Which textured ceilings might, how to find out, and the safe way to get a smooth ceiling.
“Artex” is often used for any textured ceiling or wall coating. Some of these coatings, put up before 2000, contained a small amount of asbestos to make them stronger.
Should I worry?
In good condition and left alone, it’s generally considered low risk. The danger comes from disturbing it: sanding, scraping or drilling can release fibres.
What to do
- Don’t scrape, sand or steam it off yourself.
- Get a sample tested. It’s quick and not expensive, and we can arrange it.
- The usual answer is to skim over it, which seals the old coating safely underneath and gives you a smooth ceiling.
If the test comes back negative, you have more options. Either way, you’ll know what you’re dealing with.