The skirting boards also referred to as skirting panels or baseboards are an essential final touch to any space. They are not just the appearance of a piece but also serve a purpose as they cover the gap between the floor and the wall. Skirting boards can increase the look of an area as well as protect walls from damage and conceal unattractive wiring gaps or holes. If you're considering installing skirting boards at house, you must consider crucial aspects to take into consideration for a successful and professional installation. This article we'll explain what you need to be aware of before installing skirting boards. This includes picking the right material as well as measuring and cutting and a proper method of installation.
Making the Right Choices Skirting boards are made of diverse materials, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most popular options:
1. Wood: Wood is a traditional and versatile option to skirt boards. It has a natural and warm appearance and is easily stained or painted to match your decor. Hardwoods like pine and oak are popular due to their strength and durability.
2. MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) MDF skirting boards created of a composite material comprised of wood fibers and resin. They are affordable, simple to work with and give a smooth, even appearance. MDF skirting boards come in a variety of profiles and can be painted to create an desired look.
3. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) PVC skirting boards last a long time. They are durable and water-resistant. They're also simple to clean, which makes them suitable for places that are prone to moisture such as kitchens and bathrooms. They are available in different designs and colors, as well as alternatives that mimic the look of wood.
Measurement and Cutting Accurate measurements and precise cutting are crucial to an easy installation. This is what you must take into consideration:
1. Height Take the measurement of the wall's height in relation to the flooring. This will determine the length of skirting. The standard height ranges between 2 and 5 inches, however you can select the height that best suits your space's proportions and design.
2. Length: Measure the lengths the walls where skirting boards are to be put in. It is recommended to add a couple of inches to each measurement in order to take into account any miter cuts or corners.
3. Cutting Miter saws or a coping see to cut precise cuts at 45 degrees to cut corners. For straight cuts either a miter saw or a handsaw may be employed. Be sure to mark and measure the skirting board precisely prior to cutting in order to avoid mistakes.
Correct Installation Methods to ensure a safe and professional installation, you must follow these steps:
1. Prepare the walls and floors are free of dirt. If needed, sand uneven surfaces or fill in any gaps with filler and let it to dry prior to proceeding.
2. Then, you'll need to place one of the skirting boards against the wall and aligning them with floor. Utilize a spirit level to make sure that it's completely vertical.
3. Fixing: Choose an adhesive that's suitable for the material you've chosen and then apply it to the your skirting board. The board should be firmly pressed to the wall making sure it's level to the flooring. To ensure stability, you can utilize screws or nails to hold the skirting board to the wall.
4. Corners: For corners that are internal cut the skirting board at an angle of 45 degrees to make a neat and seamless joint. For exterior corners, you will need miter saws or a an coping saw to make the right angles.
5. Finalization: After all skirting boards are in place and glued in place, cover any screw or nail holes using wooden filler and putty. Sand the areas that have been filled to smooth the surface. Paint or stain the skirting boards in order to get the desired appearance.
Maintenance and Care to keep the look of your boards at their best, you should follow these tips for maintaining them:
1. Regular cleaning Vacuum or dust your skirting boards frequently to eliminate dirt and dust. Make use of a soft cloth or sponge soaked in moderate soapy water remove any stain that is difficult to remove.
2. Avoid harsh Chemicals Use harsh cleaners or solvents which could damage the surface or the material that is used to make skirting boards.
3. Reconstruction and Repair: Examine your skirting boards on a regular basis for signs of wear or damage. Repair any scratches or chips by using appropriate touch-up paints or filler.
In the end the installation of skirting boards can give a professional look to your home's interior as well as providing practical advantages. If you select the best materials, taking precise measurements, and following the proper procedures for installation, you will get a professional, refined appearance. Regular maintenance and cleaning can maintain your boards' skirting in good condition for many years to be. No matter if you decide to go with wooden, MDF or even PVC the skirting boards can improve the overall look of your house and create seamless transitions between the flooring and walls.