Asbestos in Artex

Asbestos Products - Asbestos Artex

Artex commonly contains asbestos. But what is Artex?

Artex is a trade name for a type of textured coating commonly found on walls and ceilings in homes and businesses throughout the UK. It was applied throughout the 70's and 80's, and a similar form of textured coating is still used today.

How do I know if my Artex contains asbestos?

Most textured coatings are painted white. However, if a small area is damaged, it may reveal the true colour of the coating beneath the paint. For example, an orangey-brown or grey colour will usually indicate that the coating is plaster (as opposed to a true Artex coating). Plaster coatings are generally more modern, and so are unlikely to contain asbestos fibres.

However, if the coating is white throughout, then we recommend that you contact us to arrange for asbestos sampling to be undertaken prior to disturbing the material, as this generally indicates a true 'Artex'-type coating. Artex and other similar textured coatings may contain chrysotile asbestos fibres (white asbestos) that can contaminate the air if the material is drilled or disturbed.

The only way to know for certain is to have it tested for asbestos fibres. Our asbestos surveyors will take a small scraping of the Artex, usually from the four corners of the room. This is then analysed under laboratory conditions to determine whether or not asbestos fibres are present.

Is it safe?

Artex containing asbestos is safe when it is in good condition and does not pose a health risk. The asbestos fibres are bound into the material and will not become airborne under normal conditions.

The problem with asbestos-containing Artex arises when you intend to drill or disturb the material in some other way. Appropriate precautions must be taken, such as wearing the appropriate RPE (face mask) and PPE (disposable overalls). We will provide you with all of the necessary safety information for free if your results return as positive.

Additionally, if the Artex is deteriorating, e.g. due to a burst pipe, or you plan to carry out refurbishment work that will disturb the material, dust containing asbestos fibres may become airborne and pose a health risk.

Can I make an appointment?

Contact us on 0800 061 2597 or email us at surveyinfo@djsurveying.co.uk to arrange for sampling of your Artex to be carried out.

Our price for asbestos sampling is just £49 for the first sample, with a great low rate for additional samples. You may wish for additional samples to be taken if Artex is present in more than one area of the property but you cannot be sure that it was all applied at the same time.