Skirting Board 101: Everything You Need to Know

A skirting board is an essential part of any room, providing protection from scuffs and dust as well as a decorative finish. Skirting boards can also hide unsightly gaps between the wall and flooring. Whether you are looking for something classic or contemporary, there’s a style to suit every room – so why not buy skirting boards online from Skirting World? Here we discuss everything you need to know about skirting boards – what they are, the different types available and how to use them.

What Are Skirting Boards?

Skirting boards (also known as baseboards or mouldings) are thin pieces of wood which line the bottom edge of walls in a building. They are often used to provide a decorative touch but also serve practical purposes such as hiding joints between two surfaces, protecting walls from dirt and damage, and covering uneven floors. The most common type is made from MDF (medium-density fibreboard), although other materials including pine and oak may be used.

Types of Skirting Boards

Many different styles of skirting board are available, ranging from simple lines to ornate designs featuring carvings or shaped edges. Some popular options include:

• Traditional

Traditional skirting boards typically feature plain lines, with no additional details aside from a clean finish at the top and bottom. These give rooms an elegant feel without being overly ornamental – perfect for adding period charm without overwhelming the other elements of your design scheme.

• Contemporary

Contemporary skirting boards have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their sleek designs and modern finishes such as high gloss or matte paint effects. These can add an up-to-date twist on traditional rooms while still offering protection against scuffs and dust particles around the perimeter of the space.

• Ornate

For those looking for something more elaborate, ornate skirting boards offer unique shapes with detailed carvings or patterns along their length – perfect for adding interest to otherwise plain walls! From intricate geometric designs to floral motifs, these types of mouldings bring personality into any space while still protecting it from wear and tear over time.

How To Install Skirting Board

Installing new skirting board can be done by anyone with basic DIY skills – all you need is some patience (and perhaps a few extra hands!). The process usually involves measuring out where each piece should go before marking it on the wall using masking tape then cutting it down to size using either a saw or jigsaw if necessary. Once cut down, fit it into place using nails or adhesive before filling any holes with filler if needed for an even finish!

How To Paint Skirtings Boards

Painting skirting board is not always necessary but can be done if desired in order to match existing decor in your home or update its look completely! Start by ensuring that all surfaces are clean before applying primer (if required). Then use a brush or roller depending on your preference when painting; this will help ensure even coverage across all sides of each piece – leaving you with smooth edges that look great! Allow enough time for drying between coats before finishing off with sealant once dry if desired.

Caring For Your Skirtings Boards

To keep your skirtings looking like new for a long time, there are several steps you should take to maintain them properly! Firstly, regular cleaning with warm water and a mild detergent should do the trick, although harsher chemicals may be needed if they accumulate dirt quickly in high-traffic areas! In addition, waxing from time to time will help protect against moisture damage and also make them easier to wipe down – just make sure you do not use anything too abrasive! Finally, keeping furniture away from the edges will reduce the chance of scuff marks appearing which could potentially ruin the overall aesthetic look – especially with lighter coloured options where marks can stand out more easily than darker ones!

The bottom line

Skirtings offer both practicality and aesthetics within interiors – making them a must have in many homes today! With so many different varieties available it’s easy to find one to suit every budget plus taste; whether you prefer something classic traditional design through to contemporary style choices there’s bound to be something for everyone here at Skriting World online store! By following simple guidelines when installing/painting/maintaining these products correctly customers can rest assured knowing their money well spent will result in a long lasting beautiful finish whatever room they decide to put them in!