Share
Hello @bh619
I propose breaking the surface cover with Zinsser PaperTiger Wallpaper Removal Scoring Tool in combination with Zinsser 650ml DIF Liquid Concentrate Wallpaper Stripper along with a very sharp paint scrapper. I understand the wallpaper has been removed, but this is to break up the petrified wallpaper adhesive. However, before you begin, in the interest of health and safety, I suggest having your wall tested for asbestos first. If the test is positive, you'll need the services of an asbestos removal specialist. If the test is negative, you can proceed with your project.
On the condition that there is no asbestos on the wall, I suggest using an Ozito 800W Belt Sander BSR-7000 to totally strip the wall of paint and wallpaper adhesive. Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles and face mask. I recommend starting with a low grit, either 60 or 80 to strip the hard surface paint. Please note that if the sandpaper is too rough it will eat into the material of the wall as well.
I propose looking at using BondCrete to prime the surface before you use the cornice cement. Make sure to follow the application instructions on the container. My best advice is to remove all the sanding dust and making sure that the surface is clean and free of debris.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
Hi Ben (@bh619), that’s a really sensible question to ask.
Hardwall plaster over cement render on brick walls did not commonly contain asbestos, especially when compared to products like fibro sheeting, soffits or some textured coatings from that era. In most cases, traditional hardwall plaster and cement render were asbestos-free. That said, houses from the 1960s can be a mixed bag, and asbestos was sometimes added to various building products for strength and fire resistance, particularly in backing layers, patch repairs or skim coats applied later.
Because of that uncertainty, the safest general rule is that unless you can positively confirm a surface is asbestos-free, it’s best to treat it as if it could contain asbestos. That might sound overly cautious, but when it comes to sanding, grinding or aggressive surface preparation, being careful is never a bad thing. If you’re only doing light scuff sanding, the risk is lower, but heavy sanding or mechanical removal increases the potential exposure.
If you want complete peace of mind before doing any more aggressive prep, having a small sample tested is relatively inexpensive and removes the guesswork entirely. Otherwise, minimising dust, using appropriate PPE and avoiding power sanding on suspect surfaces is the prudent approach.
Mitchell
