Artex Asbestos Testing

Are you worried your artex might contain asbestos?

At Blue Star Asbestos, we are ready to help those on the South Coast of the UK who are looking for a trusted professional asbestos tester that can carry out an extensive asbestos test on a range of Artex-coated materials. With over 10 years in the asbestos industry, our consultants and asbestos testers are all fully qualified to British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS) standards.

Our team of asbestos management experts are ready at a moment’s notice no matter the size of the area with Artex in. Blue Star Asbestos operates from Hampshire and offers an Artex asbestos testing service for both commercial and domestic properties in the south of the UK.

Prices from £85

Certified and fully insured

Our Memberships & Accreditations

Blue Star Asbestos is proud to be a member of Local Surveyors Direct and is rated 10/10 on Checkatrade.com

Do I need an Artex asbestos test?

You may need an Artex asbestos test if a full survey is not required. If you have any Artex ceilings, walls or other areas containing textured finishes in a commercial property or your home, you should contact a professional asbestos surveyor and tester as they will be able to offer further advice and service if needed

Our expert asbestos testing team are based in Portsmouth, Hampshire and can give you the best advice on the next steps you should take in regards to testing Artex ceilings and walls. Getting Artex tested in UKAS accredited laboratory is the only way to get a definitive answer as to whether your ceiling or wall contains asbestos or not.

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What is Artex?

The term ‘Artex’ has come to be widely used in reference to a popular type of textured coating for interior decorating and design, but this name actually originates from the name of the company that produces the coating – Artex Ltd, who have recently had a rebrand at the beginning of 2024 and now have changed their name to Okarno.

Artex coating differs from plaster in that it was promoted as a material intended to receive a textured finish, which meant a ceiling or wall could have a textured finish without plastering skills. It was widely used throughout the UK in the 1960s, 70s, 80s, and 90s, but as times moved on its popularity declined due to health concerns. Artex can still be bought in 2024.

To find out more information regarding asbestos in Artex, see our definitive guide.

Learn More

Testing for Asbestos in Artex

  1. Dampening the sample area to prevent fibre release
  2. Placing the sample in a self-sealing polythene bag
  3. Securing this within a second self-sealing bag
  4. Sealing the sampling point
  5. Sending the sample for analysis at a UKAS-accredited laboratory

Get Your Artex Tested for Asbestos

To find out more about how we test for asbestos in artex, visit our dedicated guide to see how we check for asbestos. Asbestos self-sampling kits are available to use, but we recommend you contact a trusted and professional asbestos testing service to ensure that the highest levels of health and safety are followed.

Get In Touch Today

Fill out the form or call 023 92 811788. Our expert team is fully prepared to assist homeowners and businesses across the south with any and all enquiries regarding asbestos management in your property.

From initial consultation to detailed guidance, we ensure safety and compliance, providing you with peace of mind and a healthier living environment.

For emergencies, it’s usually best to give us a call – subject to demand, we aim to visit these appointments on the same day.

    Based in Hampshire

    Prices from £85

    Common Questions

    asbestos artex ceiling

    What types of Artex asbestos tests do you provide?

    All of our Artex tests ensure that if there is any asbestos present upon visual inspection of the Artex or other textured decorative coating, we will carry out extensive samples whilst working to minimise asbestos disturbance and keeping the duty holder informed throughout the process. We work within industrial properties and normal occupation buildings across the south of the UK.

    • Domestic Artex Asbestos Tests
    • Commercial Artex Asbestos Tests
    • Popcorn Ceiling Asbestos Tests

    Contact a professional today.

    Why should I choose Blue Star Asbestos?

    Blue Star Asbestos Ltd offers a completely independent, cost effective and professional service – we are not affiliated with any asbestos removal contractors so you are guaranteed impartial advice.

    • All types of asbestos surveys covered
    • Over 150+, 5-star reviews
    • Quick response times
    • Fully insured and certified
    • Easy to understand reports
    • Low cost asbestos surveys
    • Highly trained and experienced team

    Can I take a sample of my Artex myself for testing?

    It is not recommended to collect asbestos samples yourself, as improper handling can release harmful fibers into the air. Avoid exposure to asbestos and hire a professional asbestos testing service that ensures safe sampling and compliance with safety regulations.

    What should I do if asbestos is found in my Artex?

    If asbestos is detected in your artex, you should consult an asbestos professional for advice on management or removal. Do not attempt to remove or disturb the material yourself, as this can increase the risk of fiber release and exposure.

    How do I know if my Artex contains asbestos?

    Asbestos was commonly used in textured coatings such as Artex before asbestos was banned in the UK. If your ceiling or wall texture was applied before 2000, it may contain small amounts of asbestos to strengthen the material. Artex coatings are usually found on plastered ceilings and walls with a swirled or stippled pattern. Because asbestos cannot be confirmed by sight alone, the only reliable way to determine if your Artex contains asbestos is through a professional asbestos survey and laboratory testing.

    What happens after an asbestos Artex survey?

    Once samples are analysed by a UKAS-accredited laboratory, you’ll receive a report confirming whether asbestos is present and what type it is. The surveyor will explain the findings and advise on the safest next steps, which could include leaving the artex intact if it’s in good condition, encapsulating it, or arranging for licensed removal.



    You can contact Blue Star Asbestos via telephone, email or post


    Phone number: 02392811788

    Email address: enquiries@bluestarasbestos.co.uk

    Address: Holland Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO4 0EB

    Get In Touch Today

    Fill out the form or call 023 92 811788. Our expert team is fully prepared to assist homeowners and businesses across the south with any and all enquiries regarding asbestos management in your property.

    From initial consultation to detailed guidance, we ensure safety and compliance, providing you with peace of mind and a healthier living environment.

    For emergencies, it's usually best to give us a call - subject to demand, we aim to visit these appointments on the same day.