From textured coating to smooth ceiling
Artex is often used as a general name for patterned or textured ceiling coatings. A smoother appearance may be possible through a suitable covering system, but the pattern alone does not identify the material or show whether the ceiling underneath is sound.
Assess older coatings before disturbance
Some older textured coatings contain asbestos. Do not sand, scrape or drill the surface to investigate it. Arrange appropriate assessment where its composition is uncertain before work that could disturb it. HSE guidance explains why the material and the proposed work need to be considered together.
Further guidance: HSE guidance on asbestos in textured coatings.
Choose covering or another ceiling treatment
Skimming and overboarding are different covering approaches, and neither should be assumed suitable without assessment. Background condition, coating, attachment and the required finish all matter. A quotation should state the selected method and which checks or preparation must happen first.
Allow for ceiling depth, fittings and retained edges
Additional layers can affect ceiling height, light positions and decorative edges. Bulging or sagging changes the priority from appearance to condition and support. Existing coving may also need attention if the new finish changes the junction between wall and ceiling.
Set out the ceiling covering scope
Ask for a scope that separates material assessment, preparation and covering. Provide the coating's approximate age if known, any survey or testing information and photographs taken without disturbance. Do not assume a covering quote includes hazardous-material removal or specialist remediation.
PRACTICAL SERVICE DETAILS
Common questions
Can every textured ceiling be covered?
No. The coating, ceiling condition and proposed system need assessing before a covering method is chosen. Some issues require separate specialist work first.
How is the coating assessed?
History and competent inspection help determine what information is needed. Where asbestos is possible, appropriate testing or assessment may be required before disturbance.
Will covering change the ceiling height?
It can, particularly with overboarding. Discuss the proposed build-up alongside light fittings, coving and the room's existing height.
Is removal included in a covering quote?
Not automatically. Covering, removal and any specialist hazardous-material work are different scopes and should be identified explicitly.
