Artex is a brand of textured decorative coating that has been popular in the UK since the 1960s. It was commonly used on walls and ceilings to create a textured finish, which was then painted over. However, there has been growing concern over whether Artex contains asbestos, a mineral that was commonly used in building materials until the 1980s when its use was banned due to health concerns.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used in a wide range of building materials, including insulation, cement, and textiles. It was valued for its heat-resistant properties and was used extensively in construction until it was discovered that exposure to asbestos can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer and mesothelioma.
Artex was manufactured using a range of materials, including gypsum plaster, cement, and cellulose, among others. Some Artex products contained asbestos, particularly those that were manufactured prior to the 1980s. In these products, asbestos was used as a strengthening agent, and it was added to the textured coating to make it more durable.
However, it is important to note that not all Artex products contain asbestos. The use of asbestos in building materials was banned in the UK in 1999, so any Artex product manufactured after this date is asbestos-free. Nevertheless, if you have an older property or are unsure about the presence of asbestos in your home, it is important to take precautions when working with Artex.
The best way to determine whether Artex contains asbestos is to have it tested by a qualified professional. We offer an asbestos survey that can provide you with a detailed report on the presence of asbestos in your home. If you do find that Artex in your home contains asbestos, it is important to take appropriate measures to manage the risk of exposure.
In conclusion, some Artex products do contain asbestos, particularly those that were manufactured prior to the 1980s. However, the use of asbestos in building materials has been banned in the UK since 1999, so any Artex product manufactured after this date is asbestos-free. If you are unsure about the presence of asbestos in your home and you want a professional to check this out, call us on 01642 054698.