Installation Guide: Step-by-Step Procedures for Fitting Skirting Boards

Are you in the process of renovating or just moving into your new home? One of the finishing touches you may want to put on your walls is skirting boards to add style and protection to your wall’s base. Installing skirting boards is a simple and easy project that can be accomplished in just a few steps. In this installation guide, we will go into detail about the step-by-step procedures for fitting skirting boards.

Step 1: Measure and Cut Your Skirting Boards

Before you make any cuts, it’s essential to measure the length of your wall where the skirting board is going to be installed. Once you have these measurements, add 10% extra for cutting and wastage. Afterward, take the skirting board board and measure it against your wall. If there is an excess, take a pencil and mark where you need to cut. Use a saw to cut the skirting board, and make sure to cut at a 45-degree angle for the corners.

Step 2: Sand and Prepare the Skirting Boards

In this step, use a sandpaper to smoothen the rough edges of the skirting board.  After sanding, clean any dust off and prepare the skirting board for painting or staining. If you opt to paint the skirting board, then apply the base coat, wait for it to dry before you apply the final coat. Repeat the step for laminating and gloss finish. Once finished, allow the paint to dry for at least 24 hours before installation.

Step 3: Begin the Installation Process

Starting from one corner of the room, apply wood adhesive to the back of your skirting board length to length. Once the adhesive is applied, fix the skirting board to the wall, making sure you press down firmly to achieve maximum tack. Use a nail gun or pins to hold the skirting board in place while the adhesive dries. This process is done with each skirting board length. To fit around the corner, cut the board at a 45-degree angle and fix by applying adhesive, and nail in place.

Step 4: Fill in the Gaps

After instalment, thou fine cracks may appear, use fillers to cover those cracks using a smoothing tool or your fingers. When the filler is dry, smoothen with fine-grade sandpaper to make the surface even and ready for painting.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once the skirting board is installed and all gaps filled, you can now give your skirting board that professional finish touch that makes it stand out. Use caulking to seal any visible gaps between the skirting board and the wall completely. Also, seal any gap that appears between the first and the last skirting board length. Using a sharp chisel, scrape the excess adhesive or paint carefully as it may affect your paint finish.

Skirting boards are an important finishing touch that every homeowner should invest in. They are not only decorative but also serve to protect the walls from scuffs, scratches, and general wear and tear. Installing skirting boards is a simple DIY project that any homeowner can undertake with a bit of patience and some basic tools. This installation guide will give you step-by-step procedures for fitting skirting boards like a pro.

Preparation

Before you start fitting skirting boards, you will need to prepare the area. The first step is to remove any existing skirting boards, pictures or other fixtures, and fittings from the wall. Fill any holes or gaps with a quick-drying polyfilla, then sand down the wall to create a smooth surface. Once the area is clean and smooth, measure the length of the wall where you want to install the skirting boards. This will help you determine how much skirting board you need.

Cutting the Skirting Boards

To fit the skirting boards, you will need to cut them to size. Cut the skirting boards at a 45-degree angle using a miter saw or a miter box. Make sure the corners match perfectly and that the lengths are accurate. If you’re not confident in your cutting abilities, it’s always a good idea to practice on a scrap piece of timber first.

Fixing the Skirting Boards

Before you fix the skirting boards to the wall, run a bead of adhesive along the bottom edge of each skirting board. This will provide added strength and prevent any gaps from appearing between the wall and the skirting board. Fix the skirting boards to the wall by nailing through the top edge of the skirting board into the wall. Use panel pins or a pneumatic nail gun. If using panel pins, make sure they are sunk below the surface of the wood to prevent surface damage during painting or staining. Repeat this process for all the skirting boards along the wall.

Filling Gaps

Once all the skirting boards are fixed to the wall, you may notice gaps between the wall and the skirting board. These gaps need to be filled to create a smooth finish. Using a caulking gun and sealant, apply the sealant along the gap between the skirting board and the wall. Run your finger along the sealant to smooth it out and remove any excess. When the sealant is dry, sand it down lightly to create a perfectly smooth and level surface.

Painting or Staining

The final step in fitting skirting boards is to paint or stain them to match the decor of the room. After the sealant has dried, sand the skirting boards to remove any splinters and rough edges. Wipe the skirting boards clean to remove any dust and debris. If you are painting the skirting boards, apply a coat of primer first, then follow with two coats of paint. If you are staining the skirting boards, apply a coat of wood conditioner first, then apply two coats of stain, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

Conclusion:

Following the steps above will give your home that sophisticated look and protection it needs. It’s worth noting that installing skirting boards might take several hours; however, the end results are worth it, and it increases the value and aesthetic appeal of your home. So roll-up your sleeves, rally some help, and get started!

Fitting skirting boards is a simple DIY project that can be completed by anyone with a bit of patience and some basic tools. Preparation is key to ensuring a successful installation. With the step-by-step procedures outlined in this guide, you can install skirting boards like a professional and improve the appearance and protection of your walls. Remember to measure accurately and double-check your cuts and corners to ensure a perfect fit. By following these steps and taking the time to prepare and finish the skirting boards properly, you can achieve a flawless, professional-looking finish that will add value to your home for years to come.