When it comes to updating the look of your walls, you might find yourself wondering, "What to cover Artex with?" Artex, a textured coating popular in the mid-20th century, can be a challenge to work with, but with the right approach and materials, you can transform your walls into a modern, stylish space. Let's delve into the world of Artex and explore the best coverings to help you achieve your desired look.
Before we dive into the coverings, it's crucial to understand that Artex is a porous surface. This means that any covering you choose must be able to adhere well to this type of surface. Now, let's explore the best options to cover Artex with.
Sanding and Painting
One of the most straightforward methods to cover Artex is to sand it down and paint over it. This approach allows you to create a smooth, modern finish that's easy to maintain. However, it's essential to note that sanding Artex can be a dusty and time-consuming process.
To achieve the best results, you'll need to use a combination of coarse and fine-grit sandpaper. Start with a coarse grit to remove the textured surface, then switch to a fine grit to smooth out any remaining imperfections. After sanding, ensure you clean the walls thoroughly to remove any dust, and then apply a primer before painting.
Using Wallpaper
Wallpaper can be an excellent option for covering Artex, as it can add a touch of elegance and style to your space. However, it's crucial to choose the right type of wallpaper and prepare the surface correctly to ensure a successful application.
Vinyl wallpaper is an excellent choice for Artex surfaces, as it's durable and easy to clean. When applying wallpaper to Artex, it's essential to ensure the surface is smooth and free of any imperfections. This may involve sanding the Artex as mentioned earlier, followed by applying a wallpaper primer to seal the surface and provide a smooth base for the wallpaper to adhere to.
Applying Plasterboard
For a more significant transformation, you might consider applying plasterboard (drywall) over the Artex. This approach allows you to create a smooth, seamless surface that's easy to paint or wallpaper. However, it's a more involved process that requires careful planning and execution.
To apply plasterboard to Artex, you'll need to secure the boards to the existing walls using screws or adhesive. It's essential to ensure the boards are level and well-supported to create a smooth, even surface. Once the boards are in place, you can tape and fill the seams, sand any imperfections, and then paint or wallpaper as desired.
Using Texture-Matching Compounds
If you want to maintain some texture on your walls but want to update the look, consider using texture-matching compounds. These products can help you create a new, modern texture that complements your space while covering the existing Artex.
Texture-matching compounds come in various forms, including spray-on and trowel-on applications. Some popular options include knockdown texture, orange peel texture, and popcorn ceiling texture. When using these compounds, it's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to achieve the best results.
Knockdown Texture
Knockdown texture is a popular choice for covering Artex, as it creates a subtle, modern look that's easy to maintain. To apply knockdown texture, you'll first need to apply a base coat of texture compound using a trowel or hopper gun. Once the base coat has dried, you'll use a knockdown knife to smooth out the texture, creating a subtle, uniform finish.
Knockdown texture is an excellent option for those who want to maintain some texture on their walls but want a more modern, updated look. It's also a good choice for those who want to create a seamless, cohesive look between their walls and ceiling, as it can be applied to both surfaces.
Orange Peel Texture
Orange peel texture is another popular option for covering Artex, as it creates a unique, textured look that's easy to maintain. To apply orange peel texture, you'll use a special spray nozzle to apply the texture compound to the walls. The compound is sprayed onto the surface, creating small, evenly spaced droplets that resemble the skin of an orange.
Orange peel texture is an excellent choice for those who want to create a distinctive, textured look on their walls. It's also a good option for those who want to hide minor imperfections in the Artex, as the texture can help to disguise any unevenness or inconsistencies in the surface.
In your quest to decide what to cover Artex with, it's essential to consider your personal style, budget, and the time you're willing to invest in the project. Whether you choose to sand and paint, apply wallpaper, use plasterboard, or opt for a texture-matching compound, with the right approach and materials, you can transform your Artex walls into a stylish, modern space that you'll love.