Skirting boards, also known as baseboards, are a stylish home feature that have several benefits. Besides safeguarding the lower parts of your walls from scratches, dents and knocks usually caused by furniture or people dragging things across them they conceal gaps between the wall and floor that may contain electrical wiring or cables and they help to make rooms soundproof as they act as a buffer. They are available in a wide variety of colours, styles and finishes to compliment or contrast with your interior design theme.
They are relatively easy to install and can be fixed with either nails or screw fixings depending on the species and your desired finish. If you choose to use screws it is a good idea to countersink and fill the screw holes afterwards. If you prefer a painted or waxed finish on your skirting board mouldings then you will need to sand down the surface of the wood and then apply the chosen paint, oil or wax.
Decorative skirting boards or ‘mouldings’ come in an extensive range of profiles to suit different decor styles, from period-style Victorian designs to contemporary plain and simple options. They can be made from a wide variety of materials, including oak, walnut and pine. They can be left with a natural, untreated finish or finished with paint or oils and waxes to enhance the beauty of the wood and protect it from moisture damage.
For those with a little DIY know-how, installing the correct skirting boards can be a rewarding DIY project. However, it is a job that requires precise measurements and some basic tools. If you are working with a more complex material such as walnut or intricate design it may be best to leave the installation to a professional.
Wooden skirting boards are durable, beautiful and have a long lifespan if they are regularly cared for and maintained correctly. Using a soft cloth with a mild detergent, warm water and a light brushing is the most effective way to clean them. The wood should be wiped down regularly to remove dust and dirt that can lead to the build-up of bacteria and mould. A damp cloth can also be used to wipe down the surface of the wood and it is a good idea to treat them with an occasional application of a wooden care product such as waxes or oil, which will help to preserve and protect your skirting boards from moisture and sunlight.
There are also many alternatives to traditional wood based skirting boards, such as hardwearing laminate or durable UPVC. They are ideal for kitchens and bathrooms, where they will be protected from moisture and stains and they can easily be wiped down to keep them clean. They are less expensive than wooden versions and can be bought in a wide variety of colours to match the colour of your flooring.