Avoid These Common Mistakes When Fitting Skirting Boards

Skirting boards, also known as baseboards, add a finishing touch to any room. They cover the joint between the wall and the floor, protecting walls from kicks, scuffs, and furniture. However, even seasoned DIY enthusiasts can make mistakes when fitting skirting boards. This blog post will guide you through common pitfalls and how to avoid them, ensuring a flawless finish for your home improvement project.

Choosing the Wrong Material

Understand Material Types

Not all skirting boards are created equal. They come in various materials, such as MDF, hardwood, and softwood. Each material has its pros and cons. For instance, MDF is budget-friendly and easy to paint but isn’t as durable as hardwood.

Match Your Home’s Aesthetic

Choose a material that complements your home’s style. Hardwood works well in traditional settings, while MDF suits modern homes. If you select the wrong material, your skirting boards might clash with your décor.

Budget Wisely

While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, consider durability and maintenance. Hardwood might be pricier initially but lasts longer and withstands wear and tear better than MDF.

Incorrect Measurements

Measure Twice, Cut Once

A common mistake is inaccurate measurements. Always measure the length of each wall twice before cutting your skirting boards. This ensures you don’t cut too short or too long, wasting materials and time.

Account for Obstacles

Consider obstacles like door frames, radiators, and electrical outlets. Failing to account for these can lead to awkward gaps and uneven skirting boards. Measure around these features to ensure a snug fit.

Use the Right Tools

Use a measuring tape, spirit level, and try square for precise measurements. These tools help you achieve straight cuts and even skirting boards, reducing the risk of mistakes.

Poor Surface Preparation

Clean and Smooth Walls

Before fitting skirting boards, make sure your walls are clean and smooth. Dirt and uneven surfaces can prevent the skirting board from adhering properly, causing gaps and misalignment.

Remove Old Adhesive

If you’re replacing old skirting boards, remove any residual adhesive. This ensures a flat surface for the new boards and prevents lumps and bumps.

Fill and Sand Imperfections

Fill any holes or cracks in the wall with filler and sand them smooth. This creates a seamless surface, allowing your skirting boards to sit flush against the wall.

Ignoring Expansion Gaps

Why Expansion Gaps Matter

Wood expands and contracts with temperature and humidity changes. Ignoring expansion gaps can cause your skirting boards to warp or crack over time.

Leave a Gap

Leave a small gap between the skirting board and the floor. This allows for natural expansion and prevents damage. Use spacers or offcuts to maintain a consistent gap.

Seal the Gap

After fitting, seal the gap with flexible caulk. This fills any gaps while allowing for movement, giving a neat finish and preventing dust and debris from accumulating.

Misaligned Joints

Use a Mitre Saw

One of the biggest challenges is achieving perfect joints, especially at corners. Use a mitre saw to cut angles accurately. For internal corners, cut at a 45-degree angle to create a snug fit.

Test Fit First

Before securing the skirting boards, test fit the joints. This allows you to make adjustments and ensure a perfect fit. It’s easier to correct alignment issues before nailing or gluing them in place.

Secure Properly

Use a combination of adhesive and nails to secure skirting boards. This ensures they stay in place and reduces the risk of gaps forming over time.

Skipping the Finishing Touches

Fill Nail Holes

After securing your skirting boards, fill any nail holes with wood filler. This creates a smooth surface and prepares the boards for painting or staining.

Sand Smooth

Once the filler is dry, sand the surface smooth. This removes any excess filler and ensures a flawless finish when you paint or stain the skirting boards.

Apply Finishing Coats

Finally, apply paint, stain, or varnish to your skirting boards. This not only enhances their appearance but also protects them from wear and tear.

Conclusion

Fitting skirting boards might seem straightforward, but common mistakes can lead to a less-than-perfect finish. By choosing the right material, measuring accurately, preparing the surface, allowing for expansion gaps, aligning joints properly, and adding finishing touches, you can achieve professional results. Avoid these pitfalls, and your skirting boards will enhance your home’s aesthetic for years to come.