How Important Are Skirting Boards For Wood Flooring

We pay a lot of attention to the appearance and maintenance of our wooden floors. This includes ensuring they remain in perfect condition and re-coating the finish for durable protection. After all, wood floors represent a significant investment, and we want to keep them intact for as long as possible to maximise this investment's value. However, we often neglect some important details related to wood flooring.

While we focus on the big picture, it's essential to remember that the details are often even more important. Flooring accessories, such as skirting boards, not only enhance the aesthetics of a wooden floor by hiding gaps and imperfections but also contribute to safety, comfort, and functionality. Therefore, flooring accessories should be treated with the same level of care and attention as the floors themselves.

What are Skirting Boards?

One of the most commonly used flooring accessories is skirting boards, also known as baseboards. These have been utilised for many years across all types of real wood flooring, including solid wood, engineered wood, and parquetry. Skirting boards serve several important purposes:

1. Aesthetic Enhancement:

   • Decorative Function: They create a sleek and finished look for the floor, blending seamlessly with the flooring or contrasting it for a bold style.
   • Variety of Designs: Available in different styles, skirting boards can suit any interior decor, from simple wooden planks to elaborate designs.

2. Wall Protection:

   • Prevent Damage: Skirting boards protect walls from accidental knocks, bumps, and wear and tear caused by furniture and cleaning activities like vacuuming and mopping.

3. Hiding Expansion Gaps:

   • Necessary Space: Expansion gaps allow wooden planks to expand and contract in response to moisture and temperature fluctuations, preventing damage. Skirting boards conceal these gaps, providing a clean finish.

Planning Your Wood Flooring Project

If you are planning a wood flooring project—whether it's a new installation or a renovation—consider incorporating skirting boards. Here are some steps to take:

• Choose the Right Style: Select a skirting board that complements your flooring and interior design.
• Install Properly: Ensure skirting boards are securely attached to the wall, following the room's perimeter.
• Consider Functionality: Think about the protective and aesthetic benefits skirting boards will provide to your wood flooring.

Skirting Boards and Floor Renovation Projects

When undertaking a wood floor renovation project, it's likely that you already have skirting boards installed in the room. One crucial question arises: should you leave the skirting boards attached to the wall during the renovation, or should you remove them to protect them from accidental damage?

Considerations for Leaving Skirting Boards

Leaving the skirting boards in place can be beneficial, but there are some factors to keep in mind:

• Avoiding Damage to Walls: Removing skirting boards, especially in older houses, can result in the removal of a significant amount of wall plaster along with them. This can lead to additional repair work and costs.
• Preventing Larger Issues: Many homeowners and specialists prefer to leave skirting boards intact to avoid causing further damage to the walls during removal.

Risks of Keeping Skirting Boards

While leaving skirting boards in place can be advantageous, it also comes with risks:

• Potential Damage from Equipment: Sanding equipment can be heavy, and accidental bumps may lead to breaks or serious damage to the skirting boards.
• Hiding Risks: If the boards are not removed, you may not fully assess their condition, which could lead to issues later on.

Making Your Decision

When deciding whether to leave or remove skirting boards during a floor renovation project, consider the following:

• Age of the House: Older homes may have more fragile plaster, making removal riskier.
• Type of Renovation: If extensive sanding or heavy machinery is used, the risk of damaging skirting boards increases.
• Condition of Skirting Boards: Assess whether the skirting boards are already in poor condition, which might warrant removal for repair or replacement.

Ultimately, the decision should be based on the specific circumstances of your renovation project. Consulting with a flooring professional can provide valuable insights tailored to your situation.

Skirting Boards and New Wood Floor Installation Projects

When installing a new wooden floor, you have the flexibility and freedom to select new skirting boards that complement your design vision. Here’s what you need to consider:

Choosing Skirting Boards

1. Style and Design: Choose a style and design that harmonises with both your new floor and the overall interior style of the room. Options include:

   • Traditional: Classic profiles that offer a timeless appeal.
   • Modern: Sleek and minimalist designs for contemporary interiors.
   • Decorative: Intricate patterns or moulding for a touch of elegance.

2. Material: Consider the material of the skirting boards to ensure durability and aesthetics:

   • Wood: Matches well with wooden flooring but may require regular maintenance.
   • MDF: Cost-effective and can be painted, offering versatility.
   • PVC: Water-resistant and easy to clean, ideal for areas prone to moisture.

Importance of Expansion Gaps

Regardless of the style you choose, it's essential to remember that an expansion gap should be left between the floorboards and the walls. This gap allows for:

• Natural Movement: Wooden floorboards naturally expand and contract with changes in humidity and temperature.
• Preventing Damage: Avoids buckling or cracking of the floorboards due to pressure against the walls.

Final Thoughts

By carefully selecting your skirting boards and ensuring proper installation practices, you can achieve a polished and cohesive look for your new wooden floor. Always consult with a flooring professional if you're unsure about the best options for your space.