Asbestos Testing Surveys Bournemouth - Artex Ceilings

Asbestos Artex Ceiling Testing Surveys in Bournemouth
Provided by Butler and Sons Plastering

At Butler and Sons Plastering, we specialise in professional asbestos surveys in Bournemouth, with a particular focus on Artex ceilings. Many homes and commercial properties built or refurbished before the year 2000 feature Artex – a once-popular textured coating that can contain hazardous materials. If you’re planning any ceiling renovation or plastering work, it’s essential to ensure your ceiling is safe to work on.

We offer reliable testing and advice, helping you understand what’s in your ceiling before you proceed. Our service is quick, compliant, and designed to minimise disruption while keeping safety at the forefront.

Why You Should Test Artex Ceilings:

Artex was commonly used from the 1960s through the 1990s to add decorative texture to ceilings and walls. However, many of these coatings were manufactured using chrysotile asbestos, a mineral once used to improve fire resistance and durability. While undisturbed asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) pose minimal risk, problems arise when these materials are sanded, drilled, scraped, or removed without proper precautions.

Exposure to asbestos fibres can lead to serious long-term health issues, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. That’s why proper asbestos ceiling testing is crucial before starting any form of renovation or ceiling preparation.

Our Survey Process:

We offer a streamlined, professional service to test textured coatings like Artex safely and accurately. Here’s what you can expect when you work with us:

1. Site Assessment
   We begin by inspecting your property to identify areas where textured coatings may be present. Based on the age and condition of the ceiling, we’ll advise if sampling is necessary.

2. Safe Sample Collection
   If testing is needed, we carefully collect a small sample of the material using approved safety methods. The area is cleaned and restored to ensure no fibres are released or left behind.

3. Laboratory Analysis
   The sample is sent to a UKAS-accredited laboratory, where it is analysed under controlled conditions. The lab will determine whether asbestos is present and identify the specific type if found.

4. Results and Reporting
   You’ll receive a detailed report within a few working days. We explain the results clearly, without technical jargon, so you understand your next steps.

5. Follow-Up Advice
   If asbestos is found in your Artex ceiling, we’ll guide you through your options, including safe encapsulation or removal routes, depending on the scope of your project.

Your Options After Testing:

In the event that asbestos is detected, there’s no need to panic. You have safe, compliant, and cost-effective options available:

• Overboarding and Skimming
  One of the most common solutions is overboarding—installing new plasterboard over the existing ceiling, followed by a fresh skim coat. This method safely seals the ceiling and avoids disturbing the underlying material.

• Encapsulation with Plaster
  Depending on the condition of your ceiling, we may be able to plaster directly over the textured surface to encapsulate the asbestos. This is done with care to ensure no fibres are released during the process.

We’ll help you choose the best method based on the condition of the ceiling, the test results, and your long-term plans for the space.

Why Choose Butler and Sons Plastering?

• Local Knowledge
  We’re based in Bournemouth and have years of experience working with homes across Dorset. We understand the common materials used in local properties and how best to handle them.

• Fully Compliant
  Our work complies with all relevant safety standards, and testing is handled through certified laboratories to ensure reliable results.

• One-Stop Service
  From initial testing to final plastering, we provide a seamless service that’s built around your safety and convenience.

• Clear, Honest Advice
  We don’t upsell or pressure you—we’re here to give you the facts and help you make informed decisions about your property.

Book a Ceiling Testing Survey Today:

If your property features Artex ceilings and was built or decorated before 2000, don’t take any risks. Our trusted team provides thorough asbestos testing surveys in Bournemouth, helping you move forward with your project safely and confidently.

Whether you’re refreshing a single room or renovating an entire home, Butler and Sons Plastering is here to guide you from testing to completion.