Why should I install skirtings?

When it comes to finishing your flooring project, one essential element is often overlooked—skirtings. Whether you're installing hardwood, laminate, vinyl planks, tiles, high-pressure floors, or strong wood flooring, skirtings are a key component that brings both practicality and style to your home.

1. Concealing expansion gaps for a seamless look

One of the primary reasons to install skirtings is to conceal the necessary expansion gap around the perimeter of your floor. All types of flooring, including hardwood, laminate, and vinyl, expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity. Without this gap, your floors could warp over time. However, leaving a visible gap can make the space look unfinished and untidy. Skirtings neatly cover these gaps, ensuring a seamless transition between your walls and floor.

2. Adding sophistication and tidy finish

Skirtings do more than just hide expansion gaps. They also elevate the appearance of any room. By covering the base of your walls where the flooring meets, skirtings create a clean, polished line. This touch adds a sense of sophistication to the overall design, making your flooring appear more professionally installed. Whether you're opting for a traditional wooden skirting or a more modern PVC or MDF option, it adds a refined edge to the room's decor.

3. Protecting your walls from damage

Another benefit of skirting boards is their ability to protect the lower portion of your walls from damage. Everyday activities such as vacuuming, mopping, or moving furniture can scuff or chip the base of your walls. Skirtings act as a barrier, absorbing the impact and keeping your walls intact. This is particularly helpful in high-traffic areas like hallways, kitchens, and living rooms where damage is more likely to occur.

4. Versatility with different materials and styles

Whether your floor is hardwood, laminate, or vinyl, there’s a skirting option to complement it. You can choose from a wide range of materials including MDF, wood, and PVC, each with its own benefits. MDF skirtings are budget-friendly and easy to paint for a custom finish. Wood skirtings offer a more traditional, durable option that can be stained or painted to match your décor. PVC skirtings, on the other hand, are moisture-resistant, making them ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.

5. Hiding wiring and cables

Skirtings can also be used to conceal unsightly wiring and cables. Modern homes often have a range of wires running along the edges of walls, from internet cables to television wiring. Instead of leaving these exposed, you can use skirting boards to tuck them neatly away, maintaining the clean look of your home while keeping cables easily accessible.

6. Enhancing resale value

Home improvements that add both function and style can significantly increase the value of your property. Installing skirtings is a simple yet effective way to enhance the overall look and durability of your flooring. Prospective buyers often appreciate the attention to detail and the professional finish that skirting boards provide.

Conclusion 

In summary, skirtings are a small but vital element of any flooring installation. They conceal expansion gaps, protect your walls, and enhance the aesthetic of your home. Whether you’re installing hardwood, vinyl, laminate, or any other type of flooring, skirtings provide the finishing touch that pulls everything together. Plus, with so many styles and materials available, you can find an option that perfectly complements your décor while boosting your home’s value.

Ready to install skirtings and add that perfect finishing touch to your flooring project? Get started today for a more polished, stylish, and durable space!