Question 1

Can you skim over an Artex ceiling to make it flat?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in most cases a sound Artex ceiling can be skimmed directly over to give a smooth, flat finish, though very uneven or loose Artex may need overboarding first.

Question 2

How do you know if a ceiling needs overboarding rather than reskimming?

Accepted Answer

If the existing lath and plaster or old plasterboard is sagging, cracked extensively or unsound when tested, overboarding gives a more reliable long-term result than skimming over a failing base. Louis will assess this on site before quoting.

Question 3

Why does my ceiling keep cracking after previous repairs?

Accepted Answer

Recurring cracks are often a sign the underlying board or lath has moved or failed, meaning a surface skim alone will not solve the problem. A proper flat ceiling job addresses the base as well as the finish.

Question 4

How messy is ceiling plastering work?

Accepted Answer

Ceiling work does produce dust and debris, particularly when removing old textured coatings, but the room is dust-sheeted and cleaned thoroughly at the end of each day.

Question 5

Can you work around light fittings and smoke alarms?

Accepted Answer

Yes, fittings are removed or protected during the work and reinstated once the ceiling is finished, or Louis can coordinate with your electrician if wiring changes are needed too.

Question 6

How long does a flat ceiling take to dry before painting?

Accepted Answer

A skimmed ceiling typically needs around a week to dry in normal conditions before a full paint finish, with a mist coat applied first to seal the fresh plaster.

Question 7

Do you replace ceilings damaged by a water leak?

Accepted Answer

Yes, water damaged ceilings are a common repair, whether replacing a stained patch or the whole ceiling if the board has failed, and this work often falls under insurance repair claims.

Question 8

Can a flat ceiling be fitted with downlights afterwards?

Accepted Answer

Yes, ceilings are commonly finished flat ready for an electrician to fit downlights or other fittings once the plaster has fully dried.

Question 9

Do you do flat ceilings in extensions and loft conversions?

Accepted Answer

Regularly, flat ceiling plastering is one of the final finishing jobs on most extensions and loft conversions before decoration begins.

Question 10

Is flat ceiling work available for commercial premises?

Accepted Answer

Yes, offices, shops and other commercial spaces have ceilings flattened and finished in the same way as domestic properties, scheduled around your operating hours.

Flat Ceilings in Havant and across Hampshire

Flat ceiling work typically includes:

A sample of finished plastering and building jobs

Other services we offer

Frequently asked questions about flat ceilings

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