Skirting boards, though an element that often goes unnoticed, are crucial to the overall aesthetic and functional quality of your home. These unassuming boards play a vital role in concealing gaps, providing a visual anchor for the room, and even protecting your walls from scuffs and damage. But with a myriad of options available, how do you choose the skirting boards that are perfect for your home? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the key considerations to make the best selection, ensuring that your choice enhances every room in your living space.
Assessing the Aesthetic
Skirting boards come in various profiles and sizes, and it's essential to select a style that complements your home's interior design. Modern homes with clean lines and minimalistic decor are typically served well by skirting boards that are simple - those with a square-edged profile, for example. In contrast, traditional or period homes often require skirtings with more ornate detailing, such as torus or ogee profiles, to maintain the historical charm.
Consider the overall style of your home and the other architectural details. The skirting should harmonize with the dado rails, cornices, and architraves in the room. Additionally, you need to decide on the height of the skirting. Taller skirting boards can add a touch of grandeur, while shorter ones might suit more contemporary spaces.
To get a sense of your preferences, browse through home decor magazines and websites. Visualize different styles in your home by saving images or using online room visualizers provided by various skirting board companies.
Material Matters
Skirting boards are available in a range of materials, each with its own set of characteristics and maintenance requirements. MDF (medium-density fiberboard) skirting boards are a popular, cost-effective choice for many homes. They offer a smooth, ready-to-paint finish and are more resistant to bowing and warping than natural wood. Real wood skirting, on the other hand, provides an unmatched warmth and character that cannot be replicated.
Durability is another key factor. PVC skirting boards are practically maintenance-free and are particularly suitable for areas prone to dampness or high traffic, such as bathrooms and hallways. These are also easy to clean with a damp cloth.
When selecting the material, be mindful of the installation process and the ease of achieving your desired finish. MDF can swell if it comes into contact with water, and solid timber skirting requires sealing, particularly in wet areas like the kitchen.
Function and Maintenance
Skirting boards primarily serve a practical purpose. They hide the expansion gaps left between the floor and the wall and protect the wall from damage caused by furniture, cleaning, and day-to-day living. If you have children, you might want to consider rounded profiles to minimize injury risk.
Maintenance is another important aspect to consider. Lighter colors or wood finishes can require more frequent cleaning to look their best. Simpler profiles with fewer grooves and edges are easier to dust and keep clean.
Think about the long-term wear and tear in your home. Will certain rooms necessitate a more robust skirting board material? Will the lower portions of your walls need more protection due to pets, kids, or heavy traffic?
Installation and Adaptability
Finally, consider the practicalities of installation. Are you going to fit the skirting boards yourself, or will you require a joiner? The complexity of the profiles and the material will affect the ease of installation.
Adaptability is also important, especially if you're considering making any changes in the future. Skirting boards can add to the architectural authenticity of your home, and if you're in a listed or period property, it's essential to choose skirting that can be adapted to your changing décor needs without losing its character.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that not only enhances the beauty of your home but also ensures that your skirting boards serve their dual purpose effectively for years to come.