Skirting board, also known as baseboards, are decorative strips of wood or other materials that run along the bottom of walls, covering the gap between the wall and the floor. They serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of skirting boards, exploring their types, materials, installation, and maintenance.
Overview of Wickes Skirting Boards
Wickes provides a range of MDF and wood skirting boards, designed for durability and style. Key features of these skirting options include:
Profiles and Designs
Torus and Ogee Profiles: These traditional designs are dual-purpose, meaning they can be installed in two ways—showing either profile outward. This offers flexibility in styling based on the room’s aesthetic.
Chamfered & Bullnose: Sleek, modern designs for those seeking minimalism.
Square Edge: A contemporary and subtle design, ideal for modern homes.
Edwardian and V-Groove: For vintage or period-style interiors.
Materials for Skirting Boards
Skirting boards can be made from a variety of materials, each with its advantages and disadvantages:
Wood: Wood is a popular choice for skirting boards due to its natural beauty and durability. Common wood types include oak, pine, and MDF.
MDF: Medium-density fiberboard is a versatile and affordable material that can be painted or veneered to match any decor.
PVC: Polyvinyl Chloride is a durable and water-resistant material that is easy to clean and maintain.
Metal: Metal skirting boards are often used in contemporary or industrial-style interiors. They can be made from aluminium, steel, or brass.
Sizes and Lengths
Wickes skirting boards are available in various thicknesses (14.5–19 mm) and widths (94–169 mm). Standard lengths range from 2.4 meters to 4.2 meters, providing options for both large and small spaces.
Prices
Prices vary according to design and material, with MDF options starting around £5 per meter. Decorative profiles, such as the dual-purpose Torus/Ogee skirting, tend to be more expensive but offer greater versatility and aesthetics.
Types of Skirting Boards
Skirting boards come in various styles and designs to suit different interior aesthetics. Some of the most prevalent kinds are as follows:
Traditional Skirting Boards: These are classic, simple designs often made from wood. They can be plain or have subtle moulding details.
Modern Skirting Boards: Sleek and minimalist, these skirting boards have clean lines and often feature a flat profile.
Ornate Skirting Boards: Elaborate and decorative, these skirting boards feature intricate carvings and mouldings. They are ideal for period properties or rooms with a vintage or baroque theme.
Shadow Gap Skirting Boards: These boards create a subtle gap between the wall and the floor, casting a shadow that adds depth and dimension to the room.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Skirting Boards
When selecting skirting boards for your home, consider the following factors:
Interior Style: Choose a style that complements your overall decor.
Room Size and Layout: Larger rooms may benefit from bolder skirting boards, while smaller rooms may look better with more subtle designs.
Material: Take into account the various materials’ strength, upkeep needs, and visual attractiveness.
Budget: Set a budget for your skirting board project to help narrow down your options.
Installation of Skirting Boards
Installing skirting board is a relatively straightforward DIY project, but it requires precision and attention to detail. Here’s a basic guide to installing skirting boards:
Measure and Cut: Measure the walls and cut the skirting boards to the correct length using a mitre saw.
Prepare the Walls: Ensure the walls are clean, dry, and free of any imperfections.
Attach the Skirting Boards: Use a combination of adhesive and screws to secure the skirting boards to the wall.
Fill Gaps and Paint: Fill any gaps between the skirting boards and the wall with filler, then sand and paint the boards to match your desired colour.
Skirting Boards and Interior Design
A skirting board can significantly impact the overall look and feel of a room. Here are some tips for using skirting boards to enhance your interior design:
Create a Visual Flow: Use continuous skirting boards throughout a room to create a sense of flow and unity.
Add a Pop of Color: Paint your skirting boards a contrasting colour to add a bold accent to your space.
Highlight Architectural Features: Use skirting boards to draw attention to architectural details like fireplaces or bay windows.
Match Your Trim: Coordinate your skirting boards with other trim elements in the room, such as door frames and window casings.
Benefits of Wickes Skirting Boards
Pre-Primed for Convenience
MDF skirtings come pre-primed, saving you time when painting to match your interior.
Cable Management
Some skirting boards, particularly dual-profile ones, allow cables to be neatly concealed behind them, reducing clutter and creating a tidy look.
Moisture Resistance
Wickes MDF skirting boards are designed to resist moisture, making them ideal for use in damp environments such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Environmentally Friendly
Many skirting products at Wickes are FSC-certified, indicating they are sourced from sustainable forests, helping customers reduce their environmental impact.
FAQs
What types of skirting boards are available at Wickes?
Wickes offers various designs, including Torus, Ogee, Square Edge, Chamfered, Bullnose, and more. Customers can choose between MDF or natural wood options based on personal preference and room requirements.
How much does skirting cost at Wickes?
Prices start from £5 per meter for basic MDF skirting boards and can go up to £8-10 per meter for more decorative profiles like Ogee.
Can I paint MDF skirting boards from Wickes?
Yes, MDF boards are typically pre-primed, meaning they require minimal preparation before painting.
Are Wickes skirting boards moisture-resistant?
Yes, most MDF skirtings at Wickes are designed to resist moisture, making them suitable for use in bathrooms and kitchens.
What delivery options are available?
Wickes offers free delivery for orders over £85 and a convenient Click & Collect service, allowing customers to pick up their items from stores within 30 minutes of ordering.
Can I hide cables behind skirting boards?
Some skirting boards, such as the dual-profile Torus/Ogee, have space for cable management, making them ideal for creating a tidy room.
Is it better to nail or glue skirting board?
Both methods are effective. Adhesive offers a clean finish without visible fixings, but nails provide extra security, especially in high-traffic areas.
In Summary
Wickes offers a diverse selection of skirting boards to suit every interior style and practical need. Whether you prefer traditional wooden designs or modern MDF boards, there are options for every room and budget. With pre-primed, moisture-resistant boards available, Wickes makes it easy to achieve a polished look with minimal effort. Additionally, the convenience of Click & Collect and home delivery options makes shopping straightforward.
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