If you live in Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch or the wider Dorset area, chances are you’ve come across an Artex ceiling. Popular in the 1970s and 1980s, Artex was used to create textured finishes like swirls, stipples and patterns. Fast forward to today, and most homeowners prefer smooth, modern ceilings. That’s where the big question arises:
Is it better to board over an Artex ceiling, or to scrape, PVA, and skim with plaster?
As a plasterer with over 20 years of experience in Bournemouth, I’ve worked on hundreds of ceilings and will break down the pros and cons of each method so you can make the best decision for your home.
First Things First: Is Artex Dangerous?
Before doing anything, you should know that some older Artex (pre-2000) may contain asbestos. While it’s generally safe if left undisturbed, scraping or sanding can release fibres. If your property was built before the year 2000, I always recommend getting it tested by a professional asbestos surveyor before any work begins.
In Bournemouth and Dorset, this can usually be done quickly and affordably, giving you peace of mind.
Option 1: Scrape, Seal (PVA) and Skim the Artex Ceiling
This is the more traditional approach.
The Process:
- Scrape down the high spots of the Artex pattern to flatten it.
- Apply a coat (or sometimes two) of PVA bonding solution.
- Skim over the surface with 2 coats of multi-finish plaster to achieve a smooth, modern ceiling.
Advantages:
- Cost-effective – usually cheaper than boarding over.
- Less disruptive – ceilings stay at the same height.
- Quick turnaround – in most cases, completed within 1–2 days depending on room size.
Disadvantages:
- If the Artex pattern is particularly deep, it may take more plaster to cover, adding to the cost.
- Any movement in the ceiling underneath (old lath & plaster, cracked boards) can cause the skim coat to fail in the long run.
- Not suitable if asbestos is present unless encapsulated safely.
Option 2: Boarding Over the Artex Ceiling
This method involves fixing new plasterboard directly over the existing Artex ceiling.
The Process:
- Secure plasterboards over the existing ceiling joists or over the old plasterboard.
- Tape and joint the seams.
- Skim the new boards with 2 coats of finish plaster.
Advantages:
- Perfect fresh start – you’re essentially creating a brand-new ceiling.
- Stronger and more durable – eliminates the risk of old ceiling cracks reappearing.
- Asbestos safe – no need to disturb the original Artex, it gets sealed in.
- Ideal for very uneven ceilings where skimming wouldn’t give a flat finish.
Disadvantages:
- More expensive – due to materials and extra labour.
- Slight loss of ceiling height – around 12.5mm (the thickness of plasterboard) plus skim.
- Extra disruption – particularly in rooms with coving, light fittings, or ceiling edges that need adjusting.
Which Option Is Best in Bournemouth Homes?
It depends on your ceiling and your budget:
- If your Artex is shallow, in good condition, and you’re looking for a quick, cost-effective solution, then scraping, PVA and skimming is usually the best route.
- If your ceiling is cracked, uneven, or potentially contains asbestos, then boarding over is the safer, longer-lasting option.
Professional Recommendation
As a plasterer in Bournemouth for over two decades, I often advise:
- For small rooms or low-budget renovations → Skim the Artex.
- For whole-house refurbishments or if cracks/asbestos are a concern → Board over for a completely fresh ceiling.
Either way, the end result will be a smooth, modern ceiling that completely transforms the look and feel of your home.
Plastering Services in Bournemouth
If you’re considering having your Artex ceilings removed, skimmed or boarded, it’s always best to use a qualified local plasterer. Based in Bournemouth, I cover:
- Bournemouth
- Poole
- Christchurch
- Ringwood
- Ferndown
- Wimborne
- Surrounding Dorset & Hampshire areas
I provide free quotations and can advise you on the best method for your specific property.
When it comes to Artex ceilings in Bournemouth, there’s no “one size fits all” answer. Skimming is faster and cheaper, while boarding over offers a cleaner, long-term solution. The right choice depends on the condition of your ceiling, your budget, and whether asbestos is present.
For expert advice, smooth finishes, and professional plastering in Bournemouth, always trust a local specialist with years of hands-on experience.
