Preparing Artex For Skimming

[j0nb0y]

I have a DIY job artex in my bedroom that I am getting skimmed at the weekend, the plaster has asked me to knock off the deeper knobbly bits (if that makes sense). But I have been reading about the dangers of asbestos in artex and am now a bit concerned. I am not intending to sand the entire ceiling, merely knock off the larger bits, is this safe to do? or do I need to get it checked for asbestos first? Any advice much appreciated.

[tonyav]

Check this out.
https://www.mybuilder.com/questions/v/9070/how-do-i-know-if-the-artex-in-our-ceilings-have-asbestos-in-them

[Vulcanite10]

Apparently , asbestos as such hasn't been used in Artex for 20-30 years but If you really do need to break pieces off, I would suggest visiting yellow pages and find a company who can test it. Either that or tell your plasterer to put on a thicker coat of skimming.

[j0nb0y]

Thanks Tonyav, it seems quite an ambiguous topic. Obviously asbestos CAN be dangerous, but I have no idea when the ceiling was artexed. Some say the levels in artex are very low and pose very little risk, others say dont risk it. I am only knocking off the high points, but still wouldnt want to risk my health for the sake of a smooth ceiling. I have put down lighters in my kitchen, which I believe has artex under the smooth surface, so have probably been exposed to any potential risk by drilling the holes for them.

[j0nb0y]

vulcanite, some sites say it was still in artex applied in the year 2000. My house was build in the late 70's, but this is a diy artex, probably done in the 80's or 90's.

[tonyav]

probably done in the 80's or 90's.

Don't risk it then.

[j0nb0y]

Another thought that has just occured to me is that I worked in builders merchants in the 1990's and used to lug bags of artex on and off lorries, sweep up bust bags etc. Thats a bit worrying if it still had asbestos in it. What about the guys who have been applying artex for years? are they at a high risk?

[The Builder]

Very little risk. jonboy... if any at all. For peace of mind, wear a mask while you knock off the bits.
I guess the plasterer will use a standard 2-coat system of skimming.

If the surface is still quite rough, then a first coat of "Carlite Bonding" will cover it. Then lay it down with one coat of finish.