Artex was originally created with small amounts of asbestos, the reasoning behind this was it would strengthen the product. This process of mixing was used up until the mid 80’s. Note: If your home was built before 1979, the texture might contain asbestos, which can do serious damage to your lungs. So before removing texture, it must be tested (you’ll find lots of labs and instructions online). You can remove texture that contains asbestos yourself as long as you carefully follow safe procedures. For all of these reasons—mess, time, skill level, asbestos—covering a ceiling is often easier than removing texture. Another option to consider is covering your popcorn ceiling with drywall instead of removing it. Here’s how. It is strongly advised you don’t break off any of the artex to send as a sample yourself, as you could risk exposure to harmful fibres.

Such a good guide, thank you! Just quarter of a room of glue spots to go now 😅 how did you go about repairing the corner between the wall and the ceiling? Ours looks like it’s been chewed… Although very popular in the 1950s, Stucco ceilings, sometimes called, “Popcorn” or “acoustic ceilings”, are now less commonly seen in homes.

Popcorn ceiling removal is fairly easy, but it does require specific tools. Here's what you need.

Next, you’re going to want to wet the ceiling with a pump sprayer. This will make for easier scraping and much less dust during the removal process. If you already have a garden pump sprayer, that’s the perfect tool to mist the ceiling gently. Just be sure to let it soak for about 15 minutes before scraping. I’m currently in the process of renovating a bungalow. I had no idea how to remove polystyrene tiles from the ceiling until I found your blog. Only thing I would add is that I used a Worx Sonicrafter with a scraper attachment and the tiles came off great, leaving very little adhesive. With lots more work to do, I can’t wait to read the other articles

The only way to be 100% certain that there is asbestos present in your artex would be to take a sample and have it analysed by a specialist. We have a bedroom with large polystyrene sheets covering both the walls and ceiling but have then been wall papered over. You don't have permission to access "http://www.homedepot.ca/product/homax-popcorn-ceiling-texture-scraper-6204/1001076387" on this server. People are now seeking how to remove Artex from ceilings because of the asbestos content It is important to note not all Artex contains asbestos and there ways you can test if the artex in your home contains these dangerous fibres. Even though the X-Tex product is safe to use and ensures that no dust will escape during the usage, we would still advise you to protect yourself and use a dust mask whilst removing the artex.Even if the artex in your home does not contain asbestos, the removal of this if sanded and scrapped can still cause dust, therefore it’s important to protect yourself fully before jumping in feet first. If you do decide to move forward with popcorn ceiling texture removal, you’ll want to begin with a scrape test. In an inconspicuous spot (a closet if possible), moisten the surface by misting it with water and let it sit for 15 minutes to soak in. Then use a putty knife held at a low angle to see how easily the texture scrapes away. You’ll know right away if paint is keeping water from penetrating and loosening the texture. If you can’t easily scrape away the texture, there isn’t an easy way to strip the texture from the ceiling in the room. Think carefully about continuing. It may be that hours of tough work will be in your future. A popcorn ceiling removal tool, or ceiling texture scraper, is used to remove popcorn and other acoustic ceiling textures. The tool has a broad metal blade, a lower frame with an attached plastic catch bag, and a threaded end for joining an extension pole. Popcorn Ceiling Removal Tool vs. Similar Scraping Tools

Once you’re done scraping, you’ll likely have some dings and gouges to fix, so use a sander to get it nice and smooth. Before you remove Artex from your wall or ceiling, it's advised to test a small area first. This will give you a good idea on the time it will take to complete your project.Expect that some scrapes and gouges will occur. Fix by smoothing over with drywall compound, then lightly sanding.