If your home has an Artex ceiling, you’re not alone. Artex was a popular choice in UK properties from the 1960s through to the 1980s, and many homeowners now desire a more modern look — without the disruption, cost, or risk of removing the ceiling entirely.
The good news is that it’s often possible to modernise a room without removing or disturbing an Artex ceiling, provided the right approach is taken.
Why Artex Needs Care During Renovation
In some older Edinburgh properties that were renovated between the 1960s-80s, some Artex ceilings may contain asbestos. While not all Artex contains asbestos, it is impossible to tell by sight alone. Having asbestos in the Artex doesn’t automatically make a ceiling dangerous; the risk arises when the material is disturbed, for example, through sanding, drilling, scraping, or poor plastering.
Because of this, many renovation projects stall at the ceiling stage, with homeowners unsure whether they need removal or whether there’s a safer alternative. If you get the Artex ceiling tested and it is positive for asbestos, there are some options instead of ripping it out, using a specialist contractor:
Renovation Without Ceiling Removal
Modernising a room doesn’t have to start with ripping everything out. A well-thought-out design can transform the space while leaving the ceiling undisturbed.
Some of the most effective strategies include:
1. Updating Lighting Without Disturbance
Lighting that doesn’t focus on the ceiling can change the feel of a room and give less emphasis to the ceiling. Thus avoiding unnecessary interference with the Artex above.
2. Changing Wall Finishes and Colours
Neutral colours, feature walls, textured paints, or modern wall panelling can draw the eye away from the ceiling entirely. In many renovations, the ceiling becomes far less noticeable once the rest of the room has been updated thoughtfully.
3. Covering up the Artex with Plaster Skimming
If the ceiling itself is visually dated or cracked but otherwise stable, covering up the Artex with plaster skimming can be an effective solution. When carried out correctly, this approach:
- Avoids fibre release associated with disturbance
- Reduces disruption compared to full removal
- Provides a clean, contemporary finish
- Allows the room to be decorated normally once complete
It’s important to note that not all ceilings are suitable for this approach. Condition, adhesion, and future plans for the property all play a role in deciding what’s appropriate.
4. Add a False Ceiling
If you want a flat ceiling and new lighting, such as downlights, the safest professional route is often False Ceilings (Drop Ceilings). This involves fixing a new timber frame and plasterboard underneath the Artex, leaving the original ceiling completely undisturbed.
Why DIY Plastering Isn’t Recommended
Homeowners are often tempted to skim over Artex themselves as part of a DIY renovation. Unfortunately, this can involve scraping high points, sanding, or drilling — all of which can disturb the material. Professional plasterers know how to cover up Artex to avoid disturbance, using techniques that protect both occupants and the property.
Planning for Future Works
A key part of renovating around Artex is thinking long-term. If you are considering adding recessed ceiling lights or downlights, or if there will be structural alterations, then Artex covering may not be the right solution now (a false ceiling could be the answer). Take advice on what’s the best thing to do.
A Modern Finish Without Unnecessary Risk
Renovating a room with an Artex ceiling doesn’t mean compromising on style or safety. With a design-led approach and the right professional input, it’s often possible to achieve a modern, clean look without removing the ceiling at all.
