How To Plaster Over Artex

How to Plaster Over Artex: A Comprehensive Guide

Artex, that textured ceiling and wall finish popular in the mid-20th century, is now often considered outdated. Its textured surface can trap dust and allergens, making it difficult to clean and maintain. Many homeowners choose to remove or cover it with plaster for a smoother, more modern aesthetic. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of plastering over Artex, explaining the necessary steps, safety precautions, and considerations for a successful outcome. This guide covers everything from preparation and materials to the finishing touches, ensuring you achieve a professional-looking result.

Introduction: Understanding Artex and the Plastering Process

Artex is a brand name for a type of textured coating applied to walls and ceilings. It comes in various textures, from swirling patterns to more granular finishes. While once fashionable, it's now often viewed as dated and difficult to maintain. Plastering over Artex is a viable alternative to complete removal, especially if the Artex is adhered well to the underlying surface. The process involves preparing the Artex surface, applying a bonding coat, and then applying several layers of plaster to achieve a smooth, even finish. Remember, this is a physically demanding task, requiring time and patience.

Step-by-Step Guide to Plastering Over Artex

1. Preparation is Key: This stage significantly impacts the final result. Thorough preparation minimizes issues later on.

• Assessment: Carefully inspect the Artex. Look for loose or flaking areas. Any significant damage must be repaired before plastering. Use a scraper to remove loose sections and fill any holes with suitable filler. Allow to dry completely before proceeding. This is crucial because loose Artex will compromise the adhesion of the plaster.

• Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the Artex surface using a stiff brush or vacuum cleaner to remove dust, cobwebs, and any loose debris. A damp cloth can help remove stubborn dirt. Ensure the surface is completely dry before the next step. A clean surface promotes better adhesion.

• Primer Application: Artex often has a slightly porous surface. Applying a primer-sealer will help bind the plaster and prevent it from being absorbed too quickly into the Artex. This is a crucial step for a long-lasting finish. Apply the primer evenly, following the manufacturer's instructions. Allow it to dry fully – usually a few hours, depending on the product and environment. This will ensure proper adhesion of the bonding coat.

• Safety First: Always wear appropriate safety equipment. This includes dust masks (especially during cleaning and sanding), safety goggles to protect your eyes, and gloves to protect your hands. Working with plaster can be messy, so old clothes are recommended.

2. Applying the Bonding Coat: This coat acts as a bridge between the Artex and the finishing plaster.

• Choosing the Right Bonding Coat: Select a plaster bonding agent specifically designed for textured surfaces. This will provide the best adhesion and prevent the Artex from showing through.

• Application: Apply the bonding coat using a wide, flat trowel, working in manageable sections. Apply a thin, even layer, ensuring complete coverage. Avoid overloading the trowel, as this can lead to drips and unevenness. Allow the bonding coat to dry completely, which usually takes several hours depending on environmental conditions.

3. Applying the Finishing Coats: Once the bonding coat is dry, it's time to apply the finishing coats of plaster. Multiple thin coats are better than one thick coat.

• Multi-Layer Approach: Apply two or three thin coats of plaster, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. This approach avoids cracking and ensures a smooth, even finish. Each coat should be approximately 2mm thick.

• Trowel Techniques: Use a wide, stainless steel trowel to apply the plaster evenly. Work in smooth strokes, feathering the edges of each layer to blend seamlessly with the previous layer. This technique produces a more professional finish.

• Drying Time: Allow ample drying time between each coat. This is crucial to prevent cracking and ensures the plaster sets properly. Over-working wet plaster can weaken it, so patience is essential.

• Sanding: Once the final coat is dry, gently sand the surface using fine-grit sandpaper to remove any imperfections or bumps. Start with a coarser grit (e.g., 80-grit) for larger imperfections and finish with a finer grit (e.g., 120-grit) to achieve a smooth surface. Always wear a dust mask when sanding.

4. Finishing Touches: This final stage ensures a professional and long-lasting result.

• Filling Imperfections: Even with careful application, minor imperfections might remain. Use a high-quality filler to fill these, allowing it to dry and then sanding it smooth.

• Priming and Undercoating: Once the filling is done and dry, a coat of primer-sealer is recommended before applying the final finish. This provides a uniform base for paint, improving its adherence and preventing the plaster from showing through.

• Painting: Finally, apply your chosen paint. Two coats are usually sufficient for good coverage and a durable finish.

Scientific Explanation: Adhesion and Material Properties

The success of plastering over Artex hinges on the principles of adhesion and material properties. The primer-sealer and bonding coat create a strong bond between the Artex and the finishing plaster. This bond is crucial to prevent the plaster from cracking or peeling. The porous nature of Artex necessitates a primer to enhance adhesion. The thin layers of finishing plaster allow for even drying and minimize the risk of stress cracks. The choice of plaster itself is also crucial; a high-quality plaster with suitable properties will ensure a durable finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I plaster directly over Artex without a bonding coat? While you can try, it is strongly discouraged. A bonding coat significantly improves adhesion and reduces the risk of the plaster cracking or peeling.

• What type of plaster is best for plastering over Artex? A multi-finish plaster or a gypsum-based plaster is generally recommended for its workability and ease of application.

• How long does it take for the plaster to dry completely? Drying time depends on factors such as temperature, humidity, and the thickness of the coats. Allow at least 24 hours between coats, and longer if conditions are less ideal. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions.

• What happens if the plaster cracks? Cracks can occur due to insufficient drying time or uneven application. Minor cracks can be filled and sanded, but significant cracking indicates a problem with the preparation or application process.

• Is it cheaper to remove Artex or plaster over it? Plastering over Artex is generally cheaper than removing it, especially if the Artex is firmly attached to the wall or ceiling. However, if the Artex is damaged or loose, removal might be more cost-effective in the long run.

• Can I use any type of primer? No, use a primer specifically designed for use with plaster and suitable for textured surfaces.

• What if the Artex is heavily damaged? It’s important to assess the extent of the damage. Heavily damaged Artex might require complete removal before plastering. Loose or crumbling sections must be completely removed before proceeding.

Conclusion: Achieving a Smooth, Modern Finish

Plastering over Artex is a viable and often cost-effective way to update the look of your home. By carefully following these steps and adhering to safety precautions, you can achieve a smooth, professional-looking finish. Remember that preparation is crucial, and patience is key. While time-consuming, the result – a beautifully plastered ceiling or wall – is well worth the effort. This comprehensive guide provides you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle this project successfully, transforming your dated Artex into a modern, clean, and allergen-friendly surface. With careful planning and execution, you can enjoy the satisfaction of a DIY project well done.