Skirting, also known as a baseboard or skirting board, is a board that runs along the bottom of an interior wall where it meets the floor. Its primary purpose is to cover the joint between the wall and the floor, which can help to create a finished look in a room.
Skirting boards can be made from different materials, such as wood or plastic, and can come in a variety of styles and sizes to suit different preferences and interior design styles.
In short
Skirting refers to the baseboards or base molding that runs along the bottom of an interior wall where it meets the floor.
In this article, we will explore some of the most popular types of skirting along with their uses.
Purpose of skirting boards
- Conceals the gap between the wall and the floor, providing a neat and finished appearance to a room.
- Protects the bottom of the wall from damage caused by furniture, vacuum cleaners, and other items.
- Helps to prevent drafts and heat loss by closing off the gap between the wall and the floor.
- Can hide unsightly wires, cables, or pipes that run along the bottom of the wall.
- Enhances the overall look of a room by providing a smooth transition between the floor and the wall.
- Can be used to visually balance a room by adding weight to the lower portion of the wall.
- Provides a surface for cleaning by catching dust and dirt before it accumulates in the gap between the wall and the floor.
Standard dimensions of skirting
The standard height for skirting boards (also known as baseboards or mopboards) is usually between 7.5 and 10 cm, while the standard thickness is between 1.5 and 2.5 cm. Also, note that the dimensions and thickness may change for different types of skirting.
In general, the most common standard skirting dimensions in centimeters are:
- Height: 7.5 cm, 10 cm, 12.5 cm, 15 cm, 18 cm, 20 cm, 22.5 cm, 25 cm, 30 cm
- Thickness: 1.5 cm, 2 cm, 2.5 cm
Types of skirting boards
There are different types of skirting boards available in the market, each with its unique features, and benefits. Here is the list of the most used skirting types:
- Timber skirting
- MDF skirting
- PVC skirting
- Tile skirting
- Metal Skirting
- Composite skirting
- Round skirting
- Square skirting
- Bull nose skirting
- Moulded skirting
- Double-Layer skirting
- Colored skirting
- Flush skirting
- Stone Skirting
Brief introduction about types of skirting with uses
1. Timber skirting
It is made from wood and available in various profiles such as ogee, torus, and chamfered.
Timber skirting is a type of skirting that is made from natural wood. It is a popular choice for traditional or classic interior design schemes, as it can add warmth and character to a room.
Timber skirting is available in a range of wood species, such as oak, pine, or beech, and can be stained, painted, or finished to enhance the natural beauty of the wood.
2. MDF skirting
It is made from medium-density fiberboard and can be less expensive than timber skirting while offering similar profiles and finishes.
MDF skirting is a type of skirting that is made from medium-density fiberboard.
It is a popular choice for modern or contemporary interior design schemes, as it is a low-cost and versatile material that can be molded into a range of shapes and designs.
MDF skirting is often pre-primed and ready for painting and can be used in conjunction with other MDF products, such as architraves or cornices.
3. PVC skirting
PVC skirting is a type of skirting that is made from polyvinyl chloride, a type of plastic.
It is a low-maintenance and durable material that is resistant to moisture, rot, and insects.
PVC skirting is often used in bathrooms, kitchens, or other areas where moisture is present, as it is easy to clean and maintain.
PVC skirting is available in a range of colors and finishes and can be painted or finished to match the decor of the room.
4. Tile skirting
Tile skirting is a type of skirting that is made from ceramic or porcelain tiles.
It is often used in bathrooms or kitchens, as it provides a seamless transition between the floor tiles and the wall tiles.
Tile skirting can be installed in a variety of designs and patterns, and can be finished with a glaze or a matte finish.
5. Metal skirting
Metal skirting is a type of skirting that is made from metals such as aluminum, stainless steel, or brass.
It is often used in modern or industrial design schemes, as it can add a sleek and sophisticated look to a room.
Metal skirting is available in a range of finishes, such as polished, brushed, or matte, and can be used in conjunction with other metal products, such as handrails or door frames.
These types of skirting can be installed as a separate element, or as a part of a metal wall panel system.
6. Composite skirting
Composite skirting is a type of skirting that is made from a combination of materials, such as wood particles and plastic, that are pressed together to create a durable and low-maintenance product.
Composite skirting can be made to look like natural wood but is more resistant to moisture, insects, and rot. It is often used in outdoor applications, such as decks or patios, but can also be used indoors.
7. Rounded skirting
Round skirting, also known as bullnose skirting, is a type of skirting that has a curved, rounded edge instead of a sharp or square edge.
These types of skirting are often used in contemporary or modern interior design schemes, as it can help to soften the look of a room and create a sense of flow.
8. Square skirting
Square skirting is a type of skirting that has a straight, flat edge that runs parallel to the wall.
This type of skirting is often used in traditional or classic interior design schemes, as it can help to create a sense of symmetry and balance.
Square skirting is available in a range of materials, including wood, MDF, and PVC.
9. Bullnose skirting
Bullnose skirting, also known as round skirting, is a type of skirting that has a curved, rounded edge that runs along the top of the skirting.
This type of skirting is often used in contemporary or modern interior design schemes, as it can help to soften the look of a room and create a sense of flow.
Bullnose skirting is available in a range of materials, including wood, MDF, and PVC.
10. Moulded skirting
Moulded skirting is a type of skirting that has a decorative design or pattern on the surface of the skirting.
This type of skirting is often used in traditional or classic interior design schemes, as it can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to a room. Molded skirting is available in a range of materials, including wood, MDF, and plaster.
The design can range from simple and understated to intricate and ornate.
11. Double-layer skirting
Also known as dual-layer skirting or two-piece skirting, refers to a type of skirting board that is made up of two layers.
The first layer is a baseboard that is fixed to the wall, while the second layer is a decorative layer that is fixed to the top of the baseboard.
12. Colored skirting
As the name suggests, is skirting that has been colored or painted to match the decor of the room.
These types of skirting are available in the market in different colors like white, brown, black, grey and many more.
This can be done to create a cohesive and coordinated look or to add a pop of color to a space.
13. Flush skirting
It is a type of skirting that is designed to sit flush against the wall, creating a clean and seamless finish.
Unlike traditional skirting which protrudes from the wall, flush skirting is recessed into the wall, creating a channel for cables or wires to be hidden.
14. Stone skirting
Stone skirting is a luxurious and high-end option that adds a touch of elegance to a room. Stone skirting is made from natural or engineered stone, such as marble, granite, or quartz.
Stone skirting is durable and resistant to moisture and stains, and it comes in a variety of colors and patterns.
Stone skirting can be cut and installed to match the size and shape of the room.
