Are you tired of the bumpy and unattractive Artex walls in your home? If yes, then this guide is perfect for you. Artex is a textured coating that was used in the UK between the 1960s and 1980s. It once was a popular and trendy way to introduce texture to walls. However, Artex not only went out of style but has also been discovered to contain asbestos, which is hazardous to health. Therefore, it is essential to remove Artex as soon as possible. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide to Artex Removal.

Safety First: Safety should be your topmost priority when removing Artex. Asbestos fibers in Artex can pose significant health risks if inhaled. To start with, get an Artex testing kit to determine whether your Artex contains asbestos or not. You can purchase Artex testing kits online or from your local DIY store. If the test comes back positive, ensure to hire a licensed and experienced asbestos removal contractor. However, if the Artex test is negative, you can undertake the removal process.

The Removal Process: There are two popular methods of Artex removal: Wet Method and Dry Method.

Wet Method: This technique involves spraying water on the Artex to soak it and make it easier to scrape off using a scraper. It is called the Wet Method because water is sprayed on the textured surface. The Wet Method is ideal if you are dealing with Artex containing asbestos.

Dry Method: The dry method involves scraping the Artex without using any water. This method is ideal if you are dealing with Artex that doesn't contain asbestos. It would help if you were careful when using the Dry Method because it can send small amounts of asbestos dust into the air, which can be dangerous when inhaled.

Whichever method you use, ensure you wear protective gear such as safety goggles, dust mask, gloves, and overalls to ensure your safety.

Time and Cost: The time and cost of removing Artex depend on the size of the area, method used and the extent of the Artex. Wet Method costs more than the Dry Method because you need specialized equipment, but it is safer. Additionally, it would take you less time to remove Artex with the Wet Method than with the Dry Method. The time it takes to remove Artex will depend on the size of the Artex, texture, and area being worked on.

Result of Artex Removal: The result of Artex removal is smooth and beautiful walls. You can choose between repainting the wall or applying wallpaper to give your room a fresh and modern look. Once you have removed Artex, ensure that you dispose of it safely and appropriately. You can contact your local council to find out how to dispose of asbestos waste safely.

Seeking Professional Help: Lastly, if you are not confident in removing Artex yourself or you think it contains asbestos, seek professional help. Many professional Artex removal companies can do the job for you safely and efficiently. Make sure that the company you choose is licensed, experienced, and can provide you with a certificate of clearance after they have finished the job.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, removing Artex can be a challenging task, but it's important to remove it as soon as possible for your health and safety. This article has provided you with a comprehensive guide to Artex removal, including safety precautions, removal methods, time, and cost, results, and the importance of seeking professional help. By following these instructions, you can safely remove Artex and enjoy smooth and beautiful walls.