Skirting in construction refers to the trim that fills the space between the floor and the bottom of your wall. Skirting goes beyond aesthetics as it contributes to various important purposes for homeowners. Firstly, it safeguards your walls from daily scratches and bumps from activities such as cleaning and moving furniture. Skirting also gives a polished touch to a room and a visually appealing look. There is a wide range of materials and designs available, so you can pick something that suits your existing decor.
Skirting in construction acts as a channel to conceal electrical lines and cover up imperfections at the floor-wall junction. However, it can provide the impression that a room is small, especially in low ceilings areas. So, you must thoroughly analyse the pros and cons to understand if skirting is the ideal choice for your home.
What is skirting in construction?
Skirting is not merely a decorative statement; it is a powerful tool that caters to different purposes in your home. The main feature of skirting is to create a polished look in the space where the wall and floor unite. It covers any minor flaws or gaps that might arise during construction, providing you with a finished look and stylish interior.
Skirting in construction: 5 reasons it is essential for home
Skirting in your home goes beyond look and appearance. It plays a pivotal role in providing a polished look, functionality and longevity for your home. Here are five reasons why skirting in construction is essential for your home:
Creates a polished look
Skirting adds a clean and finished look to your home by forming a clean line in which the space wall and floor come together. It hides any minor flaws that might happen during construction, adding a professional touch to the interior.
Protects walls from damage
Skirting serves as a shield between your walls and daily wear and tear. It handles all the damages including scratches, bumps, and dents, ensuring your walls stay in perfect condition for years to come.
Conceals gaps and imperfections
Minor imperfections are sometimes visible between the wall and the floor during construction. Skirting plays an important part in hiding these gaps or flaws, ensuring a smooth and stylish appearance throughout your home.
Adds durability and impact resistance
Skirting offers an additional layer of protection for your walls, especially in areas with a lot of traffic. It perfectly handles the bumps and scratches, protecting your drywall from dents and cracking.
Enhances cable management
Skirting can be a lifeguard when it comes to handling cables. Some skirting boards come with integrated channels that allow you to cover up unsightly cords and electrical wires to keep your house neat and orderly.
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How to choose the right skirting in construction for a home?
Choosing the right skirting for your home involves considering the combination of style and functionality. These aspects will help you to choose the perfect skirting that can improve the aesthetics of the home. Here is the breakdown of major factors to help you make an informed decision:
Interior style and design
Analyse the interior style and design of your home when choosing the skirting. You can consider a skirting board with curves and detailing for traditional space, while clean lines and simple profiles are perfect for modern homes.
Material
It is important to check the functionality of the space before finalising the Skirting. You can consider durable materials like solid wood or metal in hallways and other high-traffic areas. Furthermore, you can also explore water-resistant options such as medium-density fibreboard (MDF) in moisture-prone areas like bathrooms or kitchens.
Budget
Skirting materials prices vary due to quality, material and other factors. It is available in a wide range from cost-efficient MDF to high-end solid wood. So, decide your budget to select the best options that perfectly match your overall design scheme.
Size and proportion
Skirting height must balance the size of the room. Higher ceilings manage taller skirting boards to create a cohesive look. On the contrary, shorter skirting adds a cosy and comfy touch to the space with lower ceilings.
Colour
The skirting colour must complement the overall colour scheme of the space to create a balanced look. You can consider white or neutral shades for versatility or bolder colours to add a dramatic statement.
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Types of skirting in construction for home
There is a wide range of skirting options available to homeowners, and each one offers unique features and functionalities. Here is the breakdown of some popular types of skirting in construction that can be considered for your project:
Wooden skirting
Wooden skirting is a classic and timeless option, adding a touch of warmth and elegance to the space. It comes in a variety of profiles and finishes to match both traditional and modern styles. However, wood needs regular maintenance like painting or staining.
MDF skirting
MDF or Medium-density fibreboard skirting is an inexpensive, smooth finish and flexible option as it comes in pre-defined profiles. It offers durability, and moisture-resistant and is available in various styles to match different design preferences.
Chamfered skirting
Chamfered skirting is a popular design known for its clean lines and simple looks. It complements various interior design styles ranging from modern to traditional. Its chamfered edges create a sense of sophistication and style in a space.
PVC skirting
PVC skirting is a perfect choice for those looking for a functional and low-maintenance option. It is ideal for moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. It can be cleaned easily with a damp cloth and comes in a variety of colours and finishes.
Metal skirting
Metal skirting is a contemporary and sleek choice among homeowners as it perfectly complements industrial design themes. It is a great option for those looking for a durable, easy maintenance, and modern aesthetic for their home.
Bullnose skirting
Bullnose skirting is one of the most preferred options for homeowners owing to its versatility and clean lines. It is available in various interior design styles ranging from modern to traditional. Its smooth and curved edge reduces the gaps where dust and dirt can assemble, making cleaning look easy and quick.
Things to know before installing skirting in your home
Here are some crucial things to consider before installing skirting in your home. Check the important factors below:
Measure accurately
Before choosing Skirting for your home, you must thoroughly measure the perimeter of each wall where you plan to install it. Check for corners, pipes, and outlets to ensure you have sufficient materials. Add some extra length to prevent cutting mistakes.
Choose the right skirting type
Consider the aesthetics before finalising the skirting of your space. Bullnose and chamfered skirting provides clean lines for contemporary or simple styles. Traditional skirting with detailing is the perfect option for classic homes.
Tools and materials
You must collect all the necessary tools like a mitre saw for fine angle cuts, a drill, a screwdriver, nails or screws, measuring tape, and a spirit level to check the alignment. Do not forget safety gear like goggles and a mask while cutting scrap pieces of skirting. This will allow you to achieve sleek and correct angles for a polished look.
Plan your cuts
You must practice on scrap material before actually cutting the boards. This will help you to build a grip on a 45-degree mitre cut for a smooth finish at corners. There are many online videos and resources out there to assist you throughout this process.
Price of skirting in construction
The price of skirting in construction may vary due to various factors such as material, design, height and thickness, brand and retailer. To choose the best skirting, you can compare prices, avail sales and discounts, or consider buying in bulk as it will help you negotiate better for a lower price. Here is the rough estimate of skirting in construction for reference purposes:
Summing up, skirting goes beyond decorative components as it adds both style and functionality to your home. It safeguards walls, hides imperfections, and creates a finished look in the wall-floor junction space. Choosing the right material, size, and style is crucial to complement the overall design scheme. By understanding all the aspects and considering the options available, you can choose the perfect skirting that elevates your home interiors.
