Certainly! Skirting refers to the decorative or protective material used to cover the gap between the bottom of a wall and the floor. It serves both functional and aesthetic purposes in interior design. Let’s discuss the different types of skirting, their purposes, as well as their advantages and disadvantages.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF SKIRTING
There are various aspects to consider when finishing the interior design of your home. It would be ideal to look for durable, useful, and aesthetically pleasing materials. It's important to decide whether to put baseboards or skirting on your walls. Skirting boards are installed along the bottom of the wall where it meets the floor. Skirting is an interior component of a building or residence that hides the joint where the floor and the wall meet. It describes the baseboard or skirting board as the lower part of a wall that is adjacent to the floor. It is also anchored to the wall on both sides. These baseboards are available in a variety of designs and can be utilized for either residential or any other purpose.
What is Skirting?
Skirting, also known as baseboard or mopboard, is a finishing element that is installed along the bottom of interior walls to cover the joint between the wall and the floor. It serves both a functional and decorative purpose in construction. Skirting protects the wall from damage caused by furniture, vacuum cleaners, and foot traffic, and also enhances the visual appeal of the room by providing a seamless transition between the wall and the floor.
The skirting is usually installed after the flooring and wall finishes are completed and can be painted, stained, or finished in various styles to match the decor of the room.
Purpose of Skirting
There are several reasons why skirting is used in construction:
- To protect the wall-floor intersection from damage.
- To improve the aesthetics of the home, provide space between the wall and the furniture.
- Prevent stains on furniture.
- Cover the space between the wall and the floor.
- When sweeping or vacuuming, avoid scratching the walls.
- Cover any interior wiring that is exposed or unprotected.
Different Types of Skirting
There are several types of skirting that are commonly used in construction. Some of the most common types of skirting include:
Bullnose Skirting
Bullnose skirting is a type of skirting that features a curved or rounded edge. The curved profile of the skirting creates a smooth, streamlined look that can be especially effective in modern or contemporary spaces. Bullnose skirting is usually made from materials such as wood, MDF, or PVC, and can be painted or stained to match the decor of the room.
Bullnose skirting is a versatile and stylish option that can add both aesthetic and practical benefits to a home.Top of Form
Continued Skirting
Continued skirting, also known as kept skirting, is a type of board that is put in a continuous pattern against walls or staircases.
Double Layered Skirting
Double-layered skirting is often referred to as two-toned skirting. These types of skirting boards add to the room’s detailed design.
Flush Skirting
The flush skirting board adds a seamless look to the house. In this instance, the floor level is at the same level as the skirting and walls.
The main advantage of flush skirting is that it does not easily carry dust, unlike other types of skirting that remain extended out of the wall.
These skirting types save space on the floor and allow furniture to be arranged to completely suit the wall.
Metal Skirting
The metal skirting is made of stainless steel. Stainless steel gives the house a modern vibe and a rich appearance. This skirting style adds lightness to the space. One of the most significant drawbacks of stainless steel skirting is that it is easily scratched.
Pencil Skirting
Pencil skirting is an appropriate design choice for a space to create a clean, finished look. Both simple walls and textured or patterned walls can employ this style of skirting.
Wooden Skirting
This is the most popular type of skirting, which gives the inside of the house a classy appearance. Additionally, wooden skirting is used on walls, ceilings, and light flooring. The skirting used in traditional interiors is made of wood. There are many different sizes and styles of wooden skirting on the market. It comes in a variety of colors and designs, can be painted or stained to match the room’s decor, and is easy to install. Wooden skirting is attractive and is used for aesthetic reasons.
Advantages of Skirting
There are several advantages of installing skirting in a home or building, including:
Aesthetic Appeal
Skirting can add a finishing touch to the room, enhancing its overall appearance and creating a polished look. Skirting is available in a wide range of styles, materials, and colors, allowing homeowners to choose the best option to complement their decor.
Protection
Skirting protects the walls from scuffs, scratches, and other damage caused by foot traffic, furniture, and other objects. It also helps to prevent moisture and dirt from entering the walls, which can cause damage over time.
Hiding Wiring and Pipes
Skirting can be used to conceal wiring, cables, or pipes that run along the base of the wall. This can help create a neater, more organized appearance in the room, while also preventing potential tripping hazards.
Easy to install
Skirting is generally easy to install and can be done quickly and easily, making it a popular choice for home renovations and upgrades.
Easy to clean
Skirting is easy to clean and maintain, and can be wiped down with a damp cloth or cleaned with a mild detergent solution.
Insulation
Skirting can help provide an additional layer of insulation to the room, which can help improve energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling costs.
Disadvantages of Skirting
While skirting can have many advantages, there are also a few potential disadvantages to consider:
Cost
Depending on the type of material used, skirting can be expensive to install, especially if it needs to be customized to fit the space.
Maintenance
While skirting is generally easy to maintain, it can become damaged over time, especially if it is made from a softer material. Repairing or replacing damaged skirting can be time-consuming and costly.
Limited Design Options
While there are many different types of skirting available, some homeowners may find that the design options are limited compared to other decorative elements in the home.
Space Limitations
In rooms with low ceilings or limited space, skirting can make the room feel smaller and more cramped. In these situations, it may be better to opt for a thinner skirting or to forego it altogether.
Style Limitations
While skirting can add a finishing touch to a room, it may not be suitable for all decorating styles. For example, in modern or minimalist homes, skirting may be seen as unnecessary or out of place.
Ultimately, the decision to install skirting will depend on various factors, including the style and design of the space, the homeowner’s personal preferences, and their budget. By weighing the advantages and disadvantages of skirting, homeowners can make an informed decision that meets their needs and enhances the look and feel of their home.
Also Read: Different Types of Fences | Types of Insulation | Wall Cladding | Reinforcement Splicing