Is Overboarding a ceiling OK?
Yes it is possible to overboard the existing ceiling. I prefer to remove them (you can limit the mess by cleaning above the ceiling in the loft space) but if this is not possible then overboarding is your best bet. It is fine to plasterboard straight over the top of the existing ceiling.
Can you skim lath plaster ceiling?
You can board over it, but you should be aware that there is a lot of weight in these ceilings and the plaster can be up to an inch thick. You really don’t want to be underneath it if a chunk of that comes down.

Can you skim over asbestos ceiling?
Can I cover up or skim over textured coatings that contain asbestos? If the textured coating/Artex is in good condition then it is safe to apply a sealant, cover the coating with new plasterboard or skim over it with a new layer of plaster.
Can you put new plasterboard over old ceiling?
It is possible to fix plasterboard over an existing ceiling, but you’ll need to determine where the joists are first. For upstairs rooms this can be done by measuring the joist gaps in the loft. Downstairs you’ll have to prod the ceiling with an awl or lift the floorboards in the room above.

How thick should ceiling plasterboard be?
9.5 mm to 12.5 mm
Standard plasterboard thicknesses for ceilings are usually 9.5 mm to 12.5 mm, while walls can be 12.5 mm to 15 mm.
Should I board over a lath and plaster ceiling?
To be done properly the lath and plaster ceiling really needs to be pulled down and re-boarded directly on to the ceiling joists with 12.5mm plasterboards. You must however make sure the artex on the ceiling does not have any asbestos in it as pre 1980 may very well be artex that used asbestos.
Is it OK to plaster over asbestos?
Asbestos was originally added to plaster to create the texture for patterning. This practice became unlawful in 1999, but ceilings created prior to that probably contain asbestos. It’s important to find out because plaster containing asbestos needs to be removed by licensed specialists.
Is it best to remove Artex or plaster over it?
It is much safer to plaster over the top of Artex than it is to try to remove it. Asbestos is only dangerous when disturbed, the fibres get into the air and you breathe them in.
When did builders stop using lath and plaster?
Lath and plaster largely fell out of favour in the U.K. after the introduction of plasterboard in the 1930s. In Canada and the United States, wood lath and plaster remained in use until the process was replaced by transitional methods followed by drywall in the mid-twentieth century.
Should you leave a gap between plasterboard?
Leave a 3mm gap between boards: this helps the filler to get a good grip. Once all the boards are in place, tape over them with perforated plasterboard tape. Mix up the joint filler so that it makes a smooth, but fairly stiff paste.
How long does a lath and plaster ceiling last?
The lifespan of lath and plaster can extend across several centuries, if the property it is applied to is well-kept and maintained. However, the finish may require some repair work in this time to keep it in its ideal condition.
Does lath provide structural support?
The lath DOES provide additional, unnecessary structural support to your wall. Personally Id take the lath out in such a way that it could be saved and reattached after electrical is installed.
How do you cover asbestos ceiling?
Encapsulation means covering an asbestos material so it cannot release asbestos dust. Asbestos popcorn ceiling can be covered with new ceiling panels or vinyl paint. One way to cover popcorn ceiling is with gypsum board ceiling panels. This material is like drywall but lighter.
How do you remove asbestos from Artex ceiling?
There are two ways in which this is completed. One is through the application of steam which gently removes the asbestos Artex along with hand scraping. The other is through chemical gel application which when left to soak allows the asbestos Artex to be scraped away. Both ways are messy and time-consuming procedures.
How can I make my Artex ceiling look nice?
Using the spatula, load the smoother with Artex Easifix Smooth-It. Apply an even coat with firm, sweeping strokes. When the whole surface is covered, allow to dry until firm to the touch. Repeat the process as many times as required to reach the desired smoothness.
Does Artex devalue house?
Now, Artex ceilings can actually devalue a house. It’s very difficult to match up new repairs onto old Artex patterns. Undamaged and painted Artex is usually harmless. However, many people don’t like asbestos–based building materials in their home and will take any opportunity to remove it.
Can you board over lath and plaster?
Should I use battens or boards for ceiling overboarding?
Indeed – if the ceiling is not as flat or sound as it should be for overboarding, then battens are best – and as you say,you can set up for the boards for minimum waste and ease of fixing. If you need to find a tradesperson to get your job done, please try our local search below, or if you are doing it yourself you can find suppliers local to you.
Can you board a ceiling over an old ceiling?
That would work a treat, providing the old ceiling you’re boarding over is strong and not going to fall down. The 25×50 timber battens correctly spaced will be perfect, but you will need to fit bits of timber between each batten at either end of the ceiling to give you somewhere to screw to,, and stagger each row of boards.
Should I rip down a sagging ceiling to repair it?
depends on ceiling but if its sagging I’d rip it down cos getting it level again would be a bugger! Or get the customer to do it. They’re usually up for being destructive and saving some money. I’d steer clear of letting them put up the new ones cos you’ll waste a day bonding in the three inch gaps they leave!!