When it comes to interior design, there are a variety of options available. Two popular choices for wall and ceiling surfaces are plastering and Artex. The key to choosing the right option for your home is understanding the differences between the two techniques. This article will explore the advantages and disadvantages of plastering and Artex to decide which method would work best in your home.
At Plymouth Plastering Pros, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality service to our customers. We offer a wide range of plastering services, from a small repair job to whole house restoration; we can help you. We understand that there are better forms of home improvement than plastering, so we are always available to answer your questions and walk you through the process.
Definition
Plastering is a process of covering walls and ceilings with a smooth finish. It involves using plaster, a mix of gypsum, lime, sand, and water. The plaster is applied in layers onto the surface of the wall or ceiling using different tools such as trowels or floats. It creates an even smooth finish that can be painted or decorated further.
On the other hand, Artex is a textured coating popular in the 1970s and 1980s. Specialised tools such as combs or brushes often create patterns on ceilings or walls. Unfortunately, Artex can be difficult to remove as it usually contains asbestos which can be hazardous if not dealt with carefully.
Plastering has become more popular than Artex in recent years due to its versatility and ability to create a smoother finish without texture. However, there are still instances where textured finishes may be desired for decorative purposes, such as creating feature walls or adding character to older properties.
Advantages of Plastering
One of the main advantages of plastering over Artex is that it provides a smooth, even finish that can be painted or wallpapered, ideal for creating a modern or traditional look in any room.
Another advantage of plastering is its durability. Unlike Artex, which can crack and become brittle over time, the plaster will remain vital for years. It also offers excellent heat retention, helping warm your home during winter.
Finally, plastering is an affordable option for those on a budget. While Artex may seem like a cheaper alternative at first glance, it often requires additional labour costs due to its uneven texture. Plastering provides a cost-effective solution that delivers superior results with minimal upkeep required. Overall, the advantages of plastering make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve their home or business space without breaking the bank or compromising on quality.
Advantages of Artex
Artex is a popular alternative to traditional plastering. One of the main advantages of Artex is its versatility. It can be applied to any surface, including walls and ceilings, and is available in various textures and patterns. This flexibility allows homeowners to create unique looks that fit their style.
Another advantage of Artex is its durability. Unlike plaster, which can crack or crumble over time, Artex remains intact for years with minimal maintenance. Additionally, because it is water-resistant, it can be used in bathrooms or other areas prone to moisture without fear of damage.
Finally, Artex offers an affordable option to update their home’s appearance. Compared to traditional plastering methods, which can be costly due to the labour-intensive process involved, Artex requires less time and effort to apply, making it a more cost-effective solution for homeowners on a budget. Overall, Artex provides several benefits over traditional plastering methods and continues to be a popular choice among homeowners seeking an easy-to-use and durable decorative finish option.
Disadvantages of Plastering
One of the most significant disadvantages of plastering is that it is time-consuming and messy. First, the surface must be prepared before plaster can be applied. It means removing any old wallpaper or paint and cleaning the walls thoroughly. Once this is done, the plaster must be mixed and used in several layers to achieve a smooth finish. It can take several days when the room will be unusable.
Another disadvantage of plastering is that it can crack over time. Even if the surface was prepared correctly, changes in temperature or humidity could cause the plaster to expand or contract, leading to cracks or even chunks falling off. It means periodic maintenance may be required to keep your walls looking their best.
Disadvantages of Artex
One of the most significant drawbacks of Artex is its tendency to crack over time. In addition, it can be unsightly and difficult to repair, requiring removing the entire coating and starting again.
Another disadvantage of Artex is that it can be challenging to clean. Due to its textured surface, dust and dirt can become trapped within the grooves, making it almost impossible to remove without damaging the coating. Additionally, change your decor or repaint your walls or ceilings. In that case, Artex can be difficult and time-consuming to remove. The texture makes it harder for paint or wallpaper adhesives to stick appropriately.
Compared with plastering, Artex needs more versatility, too, with plastering offering a smooth finish that allows for more extensive customisation options like adding intricate patterns or mouldings, which would not be possible with Artex. While artex may have some benefits, such as quickly hiding imperfections on your walls, homeowners should weigh these against long-term disadvantages before deciding whether this type of wall finishing option is right for them.
Conclusion
Plastering and Artex are two popular choices for finishing interior walls and ceilings. However, while Artex was once a popular option for adding texture to walls, it has fallen out of favour recently due to its association with outdated decor styles. On the other hand, plastering is a timeless choice that can be used for modern and traditional interiors.
While there may be specific situations where Artex is still appropriate or desired, plastering remains the more versatile choice for most homeowners who want quality results that will stand the test of time. Of course, whether you choose plastering or Artex depends on your preference, so it’s always best to consult an expert before making your final decision.
