Can you always skim over artex?

In most cases, yes. Very deep or coarse textures (like blown vinyl or stipple over wallpaper) may need different treatment. We'll assess this when we quote.

Does artex contain asbestos?

Artex manufactured before approximately 1984 may contain chrysotile (white) asbestos at low levels. Modern artex does not. If you're unsure of the age of the artex in your property, we recommend an asbestos test kit or a survey before any work is done.

Is skimming over artex better than removing it?

For most homeowners, yes. Artex removal is dusty, time-consuming and expensive. Skimming over gives an equally smooth result at a fraction of the cost and disruption.

How long will an artex cover-up last?

A properly prepared and skimmed artex ceiling should last as long as any other plastered surface – decades, if looked after.

Plastering Over Artex in Poole, Bournemouth & Christchurch

Cover artex ceilings and walls to a smooth, clean finish – without the mess and cost of full artex removal. A very common job across Poole, Bournemouth and Christchurch.

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What's included

Artex was used heavily in UK homes from the 1960s to the 1980s. The textured patterns on ceilings look dated and are hard to paint neatly. In most cases we can skim directly over the artex to produce a smooth, flat surface without needing to remove it. This is quicker, cleaner and less disruptive than removal, and gives a result that looks and performs just as well. Note: artex manufactured before the mid-1980s may contain low levels of chrysotile asbestos. We can advise on testing before we start.

Skim coat directly over most artex textures
Woodchip and swirl patterns both coverable
Ceilings and walls treated with stabilising PVA before skim
Smooth flat finish ready for painting or wallpapering
Advice on asbestos testing if required (pre-1985 properties)
Full tidy-up on completion

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Artex Cover-Ups across Poole, Bournemouth & Christchurch

Artex Cover-Ups in Poole

We provide artex cover-ups services across Poole and the surrounding postcode areas. Free quotes, fully insured, small jobs welcome.

View Poole area page

Artex Cover-Ups in Bournemouth

We provide artex cover-ups services across Bournemouth and the surrounding postcode areas. Free quotes, fully insured, small jobs welcome.

View Bournemouth area page

Artex Cover-Ups in Christchurch

We provide artex cover-ups services across Christchurch and the surrounding postcode areas. Free quotes, fully insured, small jobs welcome.

View Christchurch area page

Common questions

Can you always skim over artex?: In most cases, yes. Very deep or coarse textures (like blown vinyl or stipple over wallpaper) may need different treatment. We'll assess this when we quote.
Does artex contain asbestos?: Artex manufactured before approximately 1984 may contain chrysotile (white) asbestos at low levels. Modern artex does not. If you're unsure of the age of the artex in your property, we recommend an asbestos test kit or a survey before any work is done.
Is skimming over artex better than removing it?: For most homeowners, yes. Artex removal is dusty, time-consuming and expensive. Skimming over gives an equally smooth result at a fraction of the cost and disruption.
How long will an artex cover-up last?: A properly prepared and skimmed artex ceiling should last as long as any other plastered surface – decades, if looked after.

Skimming Repairs & Patching Plasterboarding