How Much Does Artex Removal Cost and Is It Safe?

Category: Plastering & Rendering

Author: Central Scotland Tradesmen

Published: 2026-03-22

Learn about the safety, cost, and alternatives of Artex removal, including asbestos risks, professional help, and DIY considerations.

Got an outdated textured ceiling you’re desperate to refresh? Removing Artex can modernise your home, but there are costs and safety concerns to consider first, especially if asbestos is involved.

What Is Artex and Why Is It a Concern?

What is Artex?

Artex is a decorative textured coating often used on ceilings and walls in UK properties built before the 1990s. It was popular for its ability to cover imperfections and add character.

Why Is Artex a Safety Issue?

Older Artex applications may contain asbestos, a harmful material banned in 1999. If disturbed during removal, asbestos can release fibres that pose significant health risks.

Can I Test My Artex for Asbestos?

Conducting Artex asbestos testing before starting removal is critical. Contact a professional asbestos testing service to collect samples safely and provide a detailed report.

How Can You Safely Remove Artex?

Step 1: Test for Asbestos

Always assume Artex may contain asbestos if your home was built before 1999. A professional test is the safest way to confirm its presence. Attempting to remove Artex with asbestos without proper equipment can be highly dangerous.

Step 2: Professional Removal Options

  • Hire a Specialist: Professional asbestos removal contractors have the proper gear, training, and licences to manage this task safely.
  • Encapsulation: Instead of removing, you could seal the surface using specialist coatings to prevent asbestos fibres from being released.
  • Professional Scraping: If no asbestos is present, plasterers can scrape the texture off manually and smooth the surface.

Plasterer’s Tip

Applying a skim coat of plaster over a textured ceiling is a less messy alternative to removal. A professional plasterer can help achieve a flawless finish.

Step 3: DIY Artex Removal

If you’re confident there’s no asbestos, you can attempt removal yourself using a steamer and scraper. Here’s how:

  1. Protect the room with dust sheets and masking tape.
  2. Use a wallpaper steamer to soften the Artex.
  3. Scrape off the softened texture carefully, being mindful of the underlying surface.

Plasterer’s Tip

DIY methods can be challenging and time-consuming. For larger areas or hard-to-remove Artex, investing in a professional plasterer can save you time and achieve a higher quality finish.

How Much Does Artex Removal Cost?

Service Average Cost (UK) Details
Asbestos Testing £50-£150 Cost depends on the number of samples tested.
Professional Artex Removal (No Asbestos) £15-£25 per m² Includes labour and equipment for removal and disposal.
Professional Asbestos Removal £50-£100 per m² Specialised removal with licensed contractors.
Encapsulation or Skim Coating £20-£30 per m² Ideal alternative if removal isn’t an option.
DIY Removal (No Asbestos) £5-£10 per m² Covers cost of tools like scrapers, steamers, and safety gear.

How to Choose the Right Tradespeople

Selecting a qualified professional is crucial for safety and quality. Here’s what to look for:

  • Accreditation: When dealing with asbestos, ensure your contractor is licensed by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
  • Experience: Choose a plasterer or removal specialist with proven expertise in dealing with textured ceilings.
  • Reviews: Check online reviews or ask for references from previous customers.
  • Quotes: Obtain multiple quotes and ensure they’re transparent in their pricing and include disposal fees.

For trusted plastering services in Central Scotland, visit our Plasterers in Central Scotland page for expert help.

Find Trusted Tradespeople in Central Scotland

Driveways & Groundworks in Central Scotland Roofing & Guttering in Central Scotland Kitchens & Bathrooms in Central Scotland Extensions & Structural in Central Scotland Windows & Doors in Central Scotland Plastering & Rendering in Central Scotland

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Artex always dangerous?

No, Artex is only dangerous if it contains asbestos and is disturbed. Testing is essential to know for sure.

Can I remove Artex myself?

Only if testing confirms it’s asbestos-free and you follow safety guidelines. Otherwise, hire a professional.

How long does Artex removal take?

Professional removal may take 1-3 days depending on the size and complexity of the area.

What if my Artex contains asbestos?

You should contact a licensed asbestos removal company to handle it safely.

Is encapsulation safer than removal?

Encapsulation is a safe and affordable alternative that contains the asbestos without disturbing it.

Do all tradespeople handle asbestos?

No, only HSE-licensed contractors can safely remove asbestos-containing materials like Artex.