Remove or plaster over textured ceiling? the choice explained
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An article from the PandFix knowledge base about plastering: practical explanation, without sales talk. At the bottom you can request a tailored quote.
Short answer
An Artex ceiling usually does not need to be removed. If the layer is firmly attached, a bonding coat is applied first, followed by a smooth plaster layer: less dust, less work. Removal is only necessary if the Artex is coming loose or if you want to return to the bare substrate. If the spray coating dates from before 1994, have it tested for asbestos first before anyone sands or scrapes.
- Plastering over: usually the quickest and cleanest route to a smooth ceiling.
- Removal: only if layers are loose or if absolutely necessary.
- Spray coating from before 1994: asbestos test first.
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What is a textured ceiling?
"Spack" is the common name for sprayed textured plaster on ceilings and sometimes walls: a grainy or irregular layer that was widely used to quickly finish concrete ceilings and joints. It is practical, but many people find it dated, it collects dust and it is difficult to repair after a leak or a new light fitting.
Overplastering: how it works
When plastering over, the artex stays in place. Loose parts are removed, the layer is primed with a bonding coat and then a plaster layer is applied on top which is finished smooth. Joints and cracks are reinforced with mesh in the same process.
- Advantages: little dust and demolition work, shorter execution time, no disposal of old material.
- Please note: the layer must be firmly attached. If the ceiling sounds hollow anywhere or comes loose when you press on it, that part is removed first.
Removal: when necessary?
- If the textured coating is coming loose or flaking over large areas.
- If the ceiling has been wet and the layer is soft or discoloured.
- If a new structure is being installed, for example a new plasterboard ceiling, the old ceiling often simply remains above the new one. Read more in plasterboard or plastering.
Removal is done by wetting the layer and scraping it off. That creates a lot of mess and requires good covering. Afterwards, the substrate often still needs to be prepared before plastering can begin.
Old spray coating and asbestos
Spray plaster, textured paint and decorative plaster applied before 1994 may contain asbestos. If in doubt, have a sample tested before sanding, chiselling or demolishing. Plastering over an intact layer is often possible; we discuss this beforehand. Asbestos has been banned in the Netherlands since 1993; spray work applied later does not contain it. If you do not know how old the layer is, do not sand or scrape it yourself.
Textured ceilings by building period
We mainly see textured ceilings in properties from the 1960s to early 1990s. On our municipality pages you can see per municipality how many properties date from that period and which type of ceiling we most commonly encounter there.
Ceiling plastering per municipality:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you plaster over a textured ceiling?
Yes, if the layer is firmly attached. A bonding coat goes on first, then the plaster layer.
Will the texture still show through?
No. The plaster layer fills in the texture and is finished smooth; afterwards you will see a flat ceiling.
How do I know if my textured ceiling contains asbestos?
Only a laboratory test of a sample provides certainty. Spray work from after 1993 contains no asbestos.
Can I remove artex myself?
It is possible, but it is heavy and messy work. If the layer is from before 1994, have it tested first. Usually plastering over is the better choice.
How do I request a quote?
Call, send a WhatsApp message with photos and measurements, or fill in the form on this page. You'll hear the price before we start.