Skirting boards, often overlooked in home design, play a crucial role in the aesthetics and functionality of a room. Choosing fully finished skirting boards can streamline the installation process and enhance the overall appeal of your living space. Here’s a comprehensive look at the pros, cons, and installation tips to ensure a hassle-free finish.
Pros of Fully Finished Skirting Boards:
Time-Saving Installation: Fully finished skirting boards come pre-painted or stained, eliminating the need for additional finishing work. This saves time during installation and reduces labor costs.
Consistent Appearance: The factory-applied finish ensures a uniform look across all boards. This consistency is especially beneficial if you require multiple rooms to have the same finish.
Immediate Use: Once installed, fully finished skirting boards are ready for immediate use. There’s no waiting time for paints or stains to dry, allowing you to move furniture back in and enjoy your space sooner.
Durability: Factory finishes are often more durable and resistant to wear and tear compared to on-site finishes. This can contribute to a longer lifespan of the skirting boards with minimal maintenance.
Wide Range of Finishes: You can choose from a variety of finishes, including different paint colors, wood stains, or even textured finishes, ensuring compatibility with your interior design theme.
Cons of Fully Finished Skirting Boards:
Limited Customization: While there’s a range of finishes available, fully finished skirting board your options might be constrained compared to on-site finishing where custom colors or finishes are possible.
Transport and Storage Considerations: Fully finished skirting boards can be more susceptible to damage during transport and storage, requiring careful handling to avoid scratches or chips.
Installation Tips for Hassle-Free Finish:
Measure Twice, Cut Once: Accurate measurements are crucial. Measure each wall segment separately, accounting for any irregularities before cutting the skirting boards.
Use Quality Materials: Invest in high-quality skirting boards and appropriate adhesives or fixings to ensure a secure and long-lasting installation.
Prepare the Surface: Ensure the walls and floors are clean, dry, and free from debris before installation. Smooth surfaces will help achieve a flush fit.
Cutting and Joining: Use a fine-toothed saw for cutting and ensure angled cuts for corners fit snugly. For joins, use a miter box or coping saw for a professional finish.
Adhesives can be quicker and cleaner for smooth walls, while nails or screws offer a more robust hold.
Finishing Touches: Once installed, fill any gaps with appropriate filler and touch up paint or stain as needed to blend seamlessly with the rest of the room.
Fully finished skirting boards offer convenience, durability, and aesthetic appeal, making them a popular choice for modern homes. By considering the pros, cons, and following these installation tips, you can achieve a hassle-free finish that enhances the overall look and feel of your living space. Whether renovating or building new, these skirting boards can be a practical and stylish addition to any room.
