The Essential Guide: Choosing and Installing Skirting Board Covers

31st January 2024

When it comes to decorating or renovating your home, it is essential to choose the right types of skirting board covers, which serve as an added feature to bring a polished finish to your walls and floors. Skirting boards are essential not only for aesthetic purposes but also for practical reasons, as they protect the base of your walls from skirting boards. Skirting boards come in a wide range of materials and styles, making the options endless. In this essential guide, we have put together some information to help you choose and install the right skirting board covers for your home.

 

Types of Skirting Board Covers

There are many types of skirting board covers in the market available today. The most common type of skirting board used in homes is MDF (medium-density fibreboard). It is the most popular choice because it’s affordable, easy to cut to size and paint. Another option is PVC skirting boards, which are highly durable, easy to clean and come in various colours, providing you with numerous options to select from. Wooden skirting, on the other hand, is more expensive, but aesthetically pleasing and can be cut to different heights and profiles.

 

Profile and Height

The height of skirting boards is determined by personal preference, the ceiling height, and whether you want them to be a decorative feature or purely functional. Most columns, modern properties or higher ceilings generally need higher skirting boards. The profile refers to the design shape and pattern of the skirting board cover. Trends today lean towards slim profiles, plain designs as they are more modern in appearance and much easier to paint over.

 

Colour

The colour of your skirting board cover should be in harmony with the rest of your home’s colour scheme. White-skirting board covers are the most popular as they are versatile and can easily blend in with most wall colours. However, depending on your wall colour, you can select a darker shade that complements it, making the skirting boards stand out, adding a touch of elegance to the room.

 

Installation

Installing skirting board covers requires precision, skills and the right tools. The process involves measuring the area where the skirting board will be placed, cutting the board to size, marking the correct height, and fixing them to the wall. The most suitable fixing method will depend on the skirting board’s type, material and wall’s surface. If you are not confident in DIY or installing skirting board covers, it is best to hire a professional who can ensure the job is done correctly.

 

Maintenance

Maintaining skirting board covers is easy. They do not require any specialist cleaning, just dusting regularly to remove dirt and dust. For stubborn marks, just wipe them with a damp cloth or sponge. Wooden skirting boards will need to be polished occasionally, and PVC skirting boards should be wiped down if they become dirty.

If you’re looking to upgrade the look of your home, adding skirting board covers might be just the thing to do! Skirting board covers can add a touch of elegance to a room, while also protecting your walls from scuffs and damage. But with so many options to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start. In this essential guide, we’ll walk you through the various types of skirting board covers available, as well as give some tips on installation. By the end of this post, you’ll be well-equipped to choose and install skirting board covers in your own home.

 

Types of Skirting Board Covers

There are a few different types of skirting board covers to choose from. One common type is the MDF (medium-density fibreboard) cover, which is a popular choice due to its affordability. Another option is oak veneer or solid oak covers, which are very durable and can add a natural, classic look to a room. PVC (polyvinyl chloride) covers are another choice, which are lightweight, easy to clean and maintain, and moisture-resistant. Finally, there are aluminium covers, which are sturdy and sleek-looking, but might be pricier than the other options. Consider your budget and the look you’re going for when choosing the material for your skirting board covers.

 

Measuring and Cutting the Covers

To install your skirting board covers, you’ll first need to measure the length of each wall. Make sure to measure at the base of the wall where the skirting board will go, not at the top or bottom. Once you have your measurements, use a saw to cut the boards to size. If you’re not comfortable doing the cutting yourself, some stores or contractors may offer this service for an additional fee.

 

Preparing the Wall

Before installing the skirting board covers, it’s important to prepare the walls. Remove any old skirting boards or other hardware, and then sand any rough areas on the walls down to create a smooth, even surface. You may also want to paint or wallpaper the area before installing the covers. This will save you from having to do it later, and will ensure that the covers match the rest of the room.

 

Installing the Covers

To install the skirting board covers, start at one end of the wall and work your way along, attaching the covers using adhesive and/or screws. Make sure to use a spirit level to keep everything straight and level as you go. Once the covers are in place, use caulking to seal any gaps or seams between the covers and the wall. This will give the finished product a clean, professional look.

 

Finishing Touches

Once your skirting board covers are installed, you may want to add some finishing touches to really tie the room together. Consider adding corner pieces or end caps to cover any gaps or rough edges. You can also paint or stain the covers to match the rest of the room, or add decorative moulding for a more ornate look.

 

Conclusion:

Installing skirting board covers is a great way to protect your walls from damage, adding style to your home. It can be challenging to choose the right type of skirting board covers for your home, but with this guide’s help, you are on the right path to selecting the perfect option. Remember, the correct installation process is essential for lasting and beautiful results, so if you do not have the skills, always seek a professional’s help. With the right care and maintenance, your new skirting board covers will keep their appeal and add elegance to your home for years to come.

Adding skirting board covers can be an easy and affordable way to elevate the look of your home. With the right materials and a bit of know-how, you can install these covers yourself, without the need for a professional contractor. When choosing the type of cover, consider your budget and the look you’re going for. Once you’ve got your covers picked out, follow our guide to measuring, cutting, and installing them. With a bit of care and attention to detail, you’ll have beautiful, professional-looking skirting board covers in no time!