Unfortunately sometimes it is necessary to remove old artex before skimming ceilings smooth.
For the majority of cases the old artex can just be sealed and then skimmed over.
However, if there is a chance that artex has been applied over a previous layer of artex, then it is always a good idea to remove it first before plastering.
If this is not done then there is the risk that the new plaster and the old artex will all fall down in a soggy heap!
In this picture Gareth is removing old artex with a steamer.
It is time consuming but much better than having a big mess and wasted plaster on your head!
