Skirting boards are more than just decorative elements in your home. They play a crucial role in protecting your walls and floors from everyday wear and tear while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your space. If you are considering upgrading your interiors, understanding the benefits of Skirting Board Types and knowing where to Buy Skirting Board can make a huge difference. At Period Mouldings, we provide a wide selection of premium skirting boards designed to blend style with functionality.
What Are Skirting Boards and Why Are They Important?
Skirting boards, also called baseboards, are the finishing touch where your walls meet the floor. They cover the joint between the wall and floor, hiding uneven edges and gaps. More importantly, skirting boards act as a protective barrier against impacts, scuffs, and dirt. High-traffic areas such as hallways and living rooms are particularly prone to damage, and a well-chosen skirting board can save you from costly repairs over time.
Beyond protection, skirting boards add architectural interest to a room. Whether you prefer a simple, modern design or an ornate, traditional style, the right skirting boards can complement your décor perfectly. Period Mouldings offers a wide range of skirting board designs suitable for any interior style, ensuring both durability and elegance.
How Do Different Skirting Board Types Protect Walls?
Understanding the variety of Skirting Board Types is essential for selecting the best option for your home. Different materials and designs offer varying levels of protection and visual appeal. Here’s a breakdown:
1. MDF Skirting Boards
MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) is a popular choice due to its affordability and smooth finish. MDF skirting boards are resistant to cracking and warping, making them ideal for protecting walls in humid areas like kitchens and bathrooms. They are easy to paint, allowing homeowners to match them perfectly with wall colors.
2. Timber Skirting Boards
Timber skirting boards offer natural strength and timeless appeal. Hardwoods such as oak or maple provide excellent protection against knocks and dents. Softwoods like pine are more budget-friendly while still offering reasonable durability. Timber can be stained or painted to enhance its appearance, ensuring it complements your interior theme.
3. PVC and Vinyl Skirting Boards
PVC and vinyl skirting boards are highly resistant to moisture, making them perfect for areas prone to dampness. They are also flexible, which helps in protecting walls in rooms with uneven floors. Maintenance is simple, as these materials can be wiped clean easily.
4. Decorative Skirting Boards
Some skirting boards come with intricate patterns or profiles, adding a layer of sophistication to any room. Decorative skirting boards can double as protective elements while enhancing interior aesthetics. They prevent wall damage in high-contact areas while creating a striking visual impact.
Can Skirting Boards Protect Floors Too?
While walls are the most obvious beneficiaries of skirting boards, floors also gain protection. Skirting boards prevent furniture from scratching the floor when pushed against walls. They also reduce the risk of water seeping under floorboards, particularly in kitchens or bathrooms, by creating a barrier along the wall’s base. Installing skirting boards is a simple, cost-effective way to maintain your flooring’s longevity.
Where Should You Install Skirting Boards for Maximum Protection?
Proper installation is key to maximizing the protective benefits of skirting boards. Here’s where they matter most:
- High-Traffic Areas: Hallways, living rooms, and kitchens are most prone to bumps and scuffs. Durable skirting boards in these areas provide excellent protection.
- Around Doors and Corners: Corners and door frames often take the brunt of knocks from furniture and daily use. Installing sturdy skirting boards here prevents damage to both walls and floors.
- Moisture-Prone Rooms: Bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens are exposed to water splashes and humidity. Moisture-resistant skirting boards like PVC or treated timber help prevent warping and mold growth.
How to Choose the Right Skirting Board Types for Your Home
Choosing the right skirting board involves balancing protection, style, and maintenance. Here’s what to consider:
- Material: Assess the level of protection required. Timber is ideal for impact resistance, while MDF and PVC are great for smooth finishes and moisture resistance.
- Height and Thickness: Taller skirting boards offer better wall protection, particularly in rooms with high furniture contact. Thickness contributes to sturdiness and impact absorption.
- Style: Consider your interior design. Classic homes may benefit from ornate profiles, while contemporary interiors suit minimalist designs.
- Ease of Installation: Some skirting boards, like MDF or PVC, are easy to install with adhesive or screws, making them perfect for DIY projects.
At Period Mouldings, we provide a comprehensive guide to help you select the perfect Skirting Board Types that fit both your style and functional needs.
How to Buy Skirting Boards Online Safely
With so many options available, knowing where to Buy Skirting Board is crucial. Reputable suppliers ensure quality, accurate sizing, and timely delivery. Here are tips for online purchases:
- Check Material Specifications: Ensure the board is suitable for your room’s conditions, such as moisture or high traffic.
- Read Customer Reviews: Feedback from previous buyers can provide insight into durability and ease of installation.
- Measure Your Space Accurately: Provide precise wall lengths and consider any irregularities in corners or door frames.
- Look for Custom Options: Many suppliers, including Period Mouldings, offer bespoke sizes and finishes for a perfect fit.
What Maintenance Practices Keep Skirting Boards Effective?
Skirting boards are low-maintenance but require some care to maintain their protective function. Dusting and cleaning regularly prevents dirt accumulation, which can lead to scratches on both walls and floors. For timber skirting boards, occasional polishing keeps the surface resistant to moisture and impacts. If damage occurs, minor scratches or dents can often be repaired with filler or paint touch-ups, prolonging the lifespan of your boards.
Why Skirting Boards Are a Worthwhile Investment
Investing in high-quality skirting boards is cost-effective in the long run. They prevent damage that could otherwise require expensive wall repairs or floor replacements. Moreover, they add an element of sophistication and style, increasing the aesthetic and monetary value of your home. By choosing the right Skirting Board Types and knowing where to Buy Skirting Board, you are making a decision that combines beauty with functionality.
Conclusion
Skirting boards are essential for protecting your walls and floors from everyday wear and tear while adding style to your home interiors. By understanding the different Skirting Board Types, selecting the appropriate material, and installing them correctly, you ensure your walls and floors remain in pristine condition for years. When looking to Buy Skirting Board, always choose trusted suppliers like Period Mouldings to guarantee quality, durability, and a perfect fit for your home.
Protecting your walls and floors doesn’t have to be a compromise between functionality and aesthetics. With the right skirting boards, you can achieve both, enhancing the beauty of your living spaces while providing reliable protection for your interiors.
