Artex, a popular brand of textured wall and ceiling coatings used in homes and commercial properties, can sometimes contain asbestos. Asbestos was used in Artex and similar products due to its fire-resistant properties and ease of application. Identifying asbestos in Artex coatings involves a combination of visual inspection, historical knowledge, and laboratory testing. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you identify asbestos in Artex coatings:
1. Understand the Risk
Artex coatings were commonly used in homes from the 1960s to the 1980s, a period when asbestos was still widely used in construction materials. While not all Artex contains asbestos, it’s essential to be cautious, especially if the coating was applied during this time.
2. Look for Key Indicators
While visual inspection alone cannot confirm the presence of asbestos, certain indicators can suggest a higher likelihood:
- Age of the Coating: Artex applied before the mid-1980s is more likely to contain asbestos. Products manufactured and applied after this period are less likely to have asbestos, as its use was increasingly regulated and restricted.
- Texture and Appearance: Asbestos-containing Artex often has a distinctive rough, textured appearance. The texture can vary, but it generally appears as a bumpy, uneven surface.
- Documentation and Historical Data: Check any documentation or records related to the building’s renovation or construction. If the Artex was installed during a period when asbestos use was common, it increases the likelihood of asbestos presence.
3. Avoid Disturbance
If you suspect that your Artex coating may contain asbestos, do not disturb or attempt to remove it yourself. Disturbing the coating can release asbestos fibres into the air, posing health risks.
4. Conduct an Asbestos Test
The most reliable way to confirm the presence of asbestos in Artex is to have a sample tested by a qualified laboratory.
- Hire a Professional: Engage a licensed asbestos surveyor or contractor to take a sample from the Artex coating. They have the expertise to safely collect samples without releasing fibres.
- Sample Collection: A small sample of the Artex is carefully collected and placed in a sealed container to prevent contamination. This must be done in a way that minimises the risk of fibre release.
- Laboratory Analysis: The sample is then sent to an accredited laboratory for analysis. The laboratory will use techniques such as Polarised Light Microscopy (PLM) or Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) to determine the presence and concentration of asbestos fibres.
5. Interpretation of Results
Once the laboratory analysis is complete, you will receive a report detailing whether asbestos was detected in the Artex coating. The report will also provide information on the type and concentration of asbestos if present.
- Asbestos Detected: If asbestos is found, it is crucial to manage the situation carefully. Do not attempt to remove or disturb the coating yourself. Consult with a licensed asbestos removal contractor for safe removal or encapsulation.
- No Asbestos Detected: If the test results are negative for asbestos, you can proceed with any necessary repairs or renovations without additional asbestos precautions
Identifying asbestos in Artex coatings requires a combination of understanding the potential risks, observing indicators, and conducting laboratory tests. To ensure safety, avoid disturbing the coating and seek professional help for testing and removal. For expert advice and assistance with asbestos-related concerns, get in touch with us.
