Skimming vs. Overboarding: Which Is Better For Your Artex Ceiling?

If you live in an older property in Newcastle upon Tyne, chances are you’ve spent more than a few minutes staring up at a dated Artex ceiling, wondering how to get rid of it. Whether it’s the classic "swirl," "stipple," or "broken leather" pattern, these textured finishes can make even the most beautiful rooms feel trapped in the 1970s.

Beyond the aesthetics, there’s often a nagging worry: Is there asbestos in my ceiling? and How do I get a smooth finish without making a massive mess?

At MSP Plastering Solutions, we help homeowners across Jesmond, Gosforth, and the wider North East reclaim their living spaces. Deciding between skimming and overboarding is the most common hurdle our clients face. This guide will break down the pros, cons, and safety essentials of both methods so you can make an informed choice for your home.

The Elephant in the Room: The Asbestos Factor

Before we talk about plastering techniques, we must address safety. Artex coatings applied before 1999 often contained white asbestos (chrysotile) to strengthen the mixture. While it is generally safe if left undisturbed, it becomes a health hazard if you sand, scrape, or drill into it.

Our professional advice: If your home was built or renovated before the late 90s, we strongly recommend getting a small sample of your Artex tested. This simple step ensures the safety of your family and our team before any skimming or plasterboarding begins.

Option 1: Skimming Over Artex

Skimming is the process of applying a thin layer of finishing plaster directly over the existing textured surface to create a flawless, smooth finish.

When it works best:

• The Artex is in good structural condition (no flaking or damp).
• The texture is relatively shallow (light stipple rather than heavy peaks).
• Asbestos testing has come back negative (allowing for minor "knocking back" of high spots).

The Pros:

• Preserves Ceiling Height: You won’t lose any room height, which is vital in cottages or properties with lower ceilings.
• Cost-Effective: Generally, skimming is faster and requires fewer materials than overboarding.
• Less Disruption: There is no need to remove or replace existing coving in most cases.

The Cons:

• Surface Prep: If the texture is deep, it requires a "bonding" coat first, which adds weight and time.
• Risk of Cracking: If the original ceiling has movement or cracks, skimming alone may not prevent them from reappearing.

Option 2: Overboarding the Ceiling

Plasterboarding (or overboarding) involves fixing new 9.5mm or 12.5mm plasterboard sheets directly over the old Artex ceiling. These are screwed into the wooden joists above, then the joints are taped and the entire surface is skimmed.

When it works best:

• The Artex contains asbestos (overboarding encapsulates it safely without the need for scraping).
• The existing ceiling is badly cracked, sagging, or uneven.
• The Artex texture is very deep or "heavy."

The Pros:

• Superior Safety: By overboarding, we avoid disturbing the Artex. This is widely considered the safest way to deal with asbestos Artex without full professional removal.
• Perfectly Flat: It provides a brand-new substrate, ensuring a stunning, level finish that hides all previous sins.
• Structural Integrity: It reinforces the ceiling, making it much more resistant to future cracks.

The Cons:

• Height Loss: You will lose approximately 15-20mm of ceiling height.
• Coving & Electrics: Existing coving usually needs to be removed, and light fittings may need adjusting to sit flush with the new lower level.

Comparison Table: Which Should You Choose?

Why Choose MSP Plastering Solutions for Your Ceiling?

We understand that having work done on your ceilings can be daunting. The thought of plaster dust covering your furniture is enough to put anyone off. That’s why we’ve built our reputation in Ponteland, Darras Hall, and Whitley Bay on more than just high-quality finishes.

1. We are exceptionally clean and tidy

We treat your home like our own. We use heavy-duty floor protection, plastic sheeting for furniture, and we always clean up after ourselves. You won't find us leaving a trail of white footprints across your hallway.

2. Over 300+ Positive Reviews

Our commitment to quality and reliability is backed by homeowners across the North East. We are proud to have built a massive base of satisfied customers:

• 220+ reviews on Checkatrade
• 45 reviews on Trustpilot
• 62 reviews on Google

3. Local Expertise

From the traditional terraces of Heaton and High Heaton to modern builds in Great Park and Kingston Park, we know the specific challenges different Newcastle properties face.

Transforming Your Space

Removing Artex is often the first step in a larger home transformation. Many of our clients in Tynemouth and Killingworth combine ceiling work with the installation of media walls to create a truly modern living environment. A smooth ceiling provides the perfect backdrop for integrated lighting and sleek, modern décor.

Whether you need a small patch repair or a full-scale renovation, our fully qualified team is here to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you just sand down Artex?

Absolutely not. If the Artex contains asbestos, sanding will release dangerous fibres into the air. Even if it doesn’t contain asbestos, the dust is incredibly fine and difficult to clean. Always opt for skimming or overboarding.

How much does it cost to cover an Artex ceiling in Newcastle?

Costs vary based on the size of the room and the method chosen. Overboarding is generally more expensive due to the cost of boards and the extra labour involved in fixing them. Contact us for a free, no-obligation quote tailored to your home.

How long does the ceiling take to dry before I can paint?

Typically, you should wait 3–5 days for the plaster to turn from a dark pink to a uniform light pink/white colour. For the best results, always apply a "mist coat" (thinned-out paint) before your final topcoats.

Do you offer services for commercial properties?

Yes! While we do a lot of residential work in Jesmond and Gosforth, we also provide professional plastering and rendering services for commercial property owners across the North East.

Ready to say goodbye to your Artex ceilings?
Contact the team at MSP Plastering Solutions today for a professional assessment and a free quote. Let’s make your ceilings seamless and your home stunning.