Also referred to as baseboards, skirting boards are the wooden panels that glue, nail, and/or screw along the bottom of interior walls. Skirting boards typically reach heights between five and 12 centimetres. Because of location at the bottom of walls, skirting boards often degrade from prolonged exposure to moist conditions. Skirting boards also incur damage caused by strong impacts caused by vacuums and electronic toys.
Strip and Paint Skirting Boards
The most effective method for renovating skirting boards involves stripping and painting the wooden surfaces. Although painting a skirting board appears to be a straightforward process, we recommend several tips to ensure you maximize aesthetic appeal.
Remove Skirting Boards
Whenever possible you should remove skirting boards for stripping, preparing, and painting the wooden surfaces. It’s tough to paint over an object that runs along the bottom of a wall. With skirting boards sitting on your workbench, you have a much better visualization of the renovation process.
When Skirting Boards Don’t Budge
Some skirting boards require a Herculean effort to remove. You have to kneel on the floor to strip and paint the wooden surfaces. If you can’t remove skirting boards, make sure you pull back sections of the carpet to prevent paint from dripping on the carpet surface.
Electrical Dangers Lurk Everywhere
Electrical wires and boxes often sit behind skirting boards that require renovation. Skirting boards also attach to electrical sockets, especially in older homes that predate contemporary housing codes. Do it yourself homeowners should inspect behind every skirting board to prevent the injuries caused by electrical shocks.
What to Do About Pesky Bumps
Sometimes, you can’t smooth over skirting board bumps. The best way to remedy the eyesores involves applying silk gloss paint that also does an outstanding job of concealing skirting board stains and blemishes.
Break Out the Vacuum
Dust and other particles that cling to carpets wait for the chance to cling to newly painted skirting boards. To prevent bumps and stains from forming on freshly painted skirting boards, break out the vacuum and remove dust and sand particles from the carpet.
Protect the Carpet
We recommend that homeowners place a paint guard on carpeting to prevent paint and varnish from degrading carpet materials. Even if you don’t own a paint guard, you should cover the carpet with some type of a protective layer. Carpet materials that spring up immediately after you push the carpet down need some type of protection.
