Here’s why you should hire a specialist to carry out Artex removal
Buildings constructed around the end of the 20th century may require Artex removal ahead of maintenance or renovation works to safeguard tradespeople and building occupants from hazardous asbestos fibres.
In this blog post, we will discuss what Artex is, the dangers, and how to tell if Artex walls and ceilings in your property contain asbestos fibres.
What is Artex?
Artex is a textured plaster that was popular in interior design between the 1950s and the 1980s. It was commonly used to create decorative appearances on ceilings and walls. As opposed to smooth plaster, Artex was created to allow the decorator to produce texture and pattern in their designs. Stipples, swirls, fans, and shells were popular designs, as was an all-over ‘bobbly’ finish.
The risk of Artex asbestos exposure
Textured coatings like Artex did used to contain asbestos, which was used as a binding agent.
If the Artex is in good condition and is left alone, it poses no threat to human health. The asbestos in Artex only becomes a threat when damaged or disturbed. If you are considering renovating or conducting DIY and have Artex ceilings or walls, it is recommended that you seek professional assistance.
How do I know if the Artex in my property contains asbestos?
Not all Artex plaster will contain asbestos. The UK government banned asbestos in wall and ceiling coverings in 1999, meaning any Artex applied after the millennium should be asbestos-free. However, if your building was built or refurbished before 1999 and contains Artex, it will most likely contain asbestos fibres.
Having the Artex on your property examined by an accredited analytical company is the only way to be 100% certain that it is asbestos-free.
If you have Artex in your building and are planning to carry out any construction or maintenance work, you should first have an asbestos survey carried out.
Do you need a licensed contractor to remove Artex?
Due to the health risks associated with asbestos removal, this procedure must be carried out by an experienced professional.
Although there is no need for an HSE licence to remove asbestos Artex, it is still the property owner or manager’s legal responsibility to ensure the removal is carried out appropriately and under government rules and regulations.
Hiring an HSE-licensed contractor will provide you with peace of mind that any ACMs are safely and effectively removed from your property. Using a licensed contractor is always a safer alternative, even if the work doesn’t require specific licensing.
How Henderson Environmental can help
Henderson Environmental is fully licensed by HSE. We are CHAS accredited and members of ARCA (The Asbestos Removal Contractors Association).
If you require assistance with the removal of Artex on ceilings or walls, contact our removal specialists today.