Alexei Volkov
Skirting board covers are a great way to rejuvenate old skirting boards without the need to remove the original boards, thus reducing the risk of damaging the wall. They are available in various styles and materials, including MDF, wood, and PVC, and can be easily installed using a few basic tools. This makes them a popular choice for homeowners looking for a durable, easy-to-maintain, and economical option for their interior decor. In this article, we will discuss the steps involved in fitting plastic skirting board covers, including measuring, cutting, and securing the covers in place.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Installation Process | Easy, user-friendly DIY process |
| Tools Required | Saw, hammer, nails/screws, adhesive |
| Installation Steps | Measure the wall, cut the board, apply adhesive, press the board against the wall, fill gaps with sealant |
| Benefits | Simple, cheap, and transformative way to refresh old skirting boards without damaging the wall |
| Materials | MDF, PVC, natural wood (oak, pine) |
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What You'll Learn
Measure the wall
Before installing plastic skirting board covers, it is important to measure the wall accurately to ensure a neat finish. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Measure the Length of the Wall
Use a measuring tape to determine the length of the wall where you plan to install the plastic skirting board cover. This step ensures that you cut the cover to the correct size. It is important to be precise in your measurements to achieve a seamless fit.
Step 2: Mark the Cutout Points
Place markings on the plastic skirting board cover to indicate the height and depth of the original skirting board. These markings will serve as a guide for cutting the cover to fit perfectly over the existing board. Use a ruler or a set square to align each marking, ensuring straight and neat lines.
Step 3: Fine-Tune Your Measurements
Double-check your measurements before cutting. It is crucial to be precise at this stage, as inaccurate cuts may result in an ill-fitting cover. Take into account any irregularities or obstacles along the wall, such as power outlets or transitions. Make any necessary adjustments to your markings to accommodate these features.
Step 4: Mark Stud Locations (Optional)
If you plan to use nails or screws for additional security, mark the locations of the wall studs. This step will guide you in placing the nails or screws accurately once the cover is in position. Typically, wall studs are spaced consistently, approximately 450mm to 600mm apart. You can use a stud finder or a simple pin/drill test to locate the studs.
Step 5: Cut the Plastic Skirting Board Cover
Using a fine-bladed saw, carefully cut the plastic skirting board cover along the marked lines. A fine blade will help ensure a smooth and clean cut. Take your time with this step to achieve a neat finish. Once you've made the cuts, you should have a rectangle that can be slotted over the original skirting board.
Accurate measurements are crucial for a seamless fit, so take your time during this process and double-check all your measurements before cutting. With careful measurements and precise cuts, you'll be well on your way to successfully installing your plastic skirting board covers.
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Cut the plastic skirting board
Cutting plastic skirting boards can be a delicate task, as incorrect cuts can ruin the entire project. The right tools and techniques will ensure a neat finish.
Firstly, it is important to choose the right tool for cutting the plastic panels. A plastic cutter, available at any hardware store, will make an even cut with minimal effort, but it will only cut in a straight line. For speed, a jigsaw is a good option, as it can cut in any direction and any spatial position. However, it is heavy and can tear the panel if the canvas is not selected correctly. For a neat finish, a hacksaw for metal is recommended, as it will create a thin, even cut. If speed is a priority, an angle grinder can be used, but the cut line will be quite wide and the edges may not be smooth. For a very fine cut, a molar knife can be used, but this can only cut in one direction.
For cutting angles, a carpenter's miter box is required to cut an angle of 45 or 90 degrees. If you do not have a miter box, you can use a ruler and pencil to measure and mark the skirting board, then cut along the line. This method is suitable for cutting an inner corner.
To cut a neat strip from a plastic skirting board, cut along the internal edges of the panel, making a cut near the rib, then another near the adjacent rib. Repeat cuts along the entire length, and a strip of plastic will fall out, leaving a groove.
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Apply adhesive
Adhesive provides the cleanest finish when installing skirting boards as there are no visible fixings. For straight, smooth walls, adhesive is often the only fixing method you'll need.
Firstly, you'll need to choose the right adhesive. There are two types of adhesive you can use: a strong double-sided tape or an adhesive sealant. If you choose to use a double-sided tape, make sure it is strong enough to hold the weight of the skirting board. If you choose to use an adhesive sealant, use a caulking gun to apply a thin, even layer of adhesive along the back of the board. For installations in high-moisture areas or outdoor applications, CT1 sealant provides enhanced durability and weather resistance.
When applying the adhesive, it's best to apply it in a zigzag pattern along the back of the skirting board. This ensures even coverage when pressed against the wall while preventing excess from squeezing out at the edges. The key to successful adhesive installation is using just enough—too little won't provide sufficient bonding strength, while too much may prevent the skirting from sitting flush against the wall.
Once you've applied the adhesive, start at one end of the wall and press the skirting board firmly against the wall. Make sure it is level and flush with the wall. Continue to work your way along the wall, pressing the skirting board into place and making sure it is level and flush with the wall as you go.
For the most reliable installation, particularly in older properties or with taller skirting, a combination of adhesive with either nails or screws offers the best of both worlds: strong mechanical fixing plus gap-filling adhesion. If you're using nails or screws, you'll need to drill pilot holes through the skirting and into the wall, then secure with nails or screws. If using screws, countersink the screw heads and fill them over with wood filler for a clean finish.
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Secure with nails or screws
Skirting board covers are an excellent way to cover old skirting boards and refresh the look of your room. They are designed to fit over your existing skirting boards, hiding any wear and tear. Before installing a skirting board cover, you must measure the length of the wall and cut the cover to the correct length.
When securing the skirting board cover with nails or screws, it is important to first mark where the nails or screws will go. Typically, this will be where the wall studs are located. You can then use a hammer to drive the nails into the marked positions. Alternatively, you can use a countersink drill bit to create pilot holes through the skirting board at the marked positions. This creates a guide for the screws and countersinks the head.
For solid masonry walls or heavy skirting boards, screws are a better option than nails as they provide stronger mechanical fixing. Screws are also ideal if you want the skirting to stay put for decades. If using screws, you will need to drill pilot holes through the skirting and into the wall, and then secure the skirting board with appropriate screws.
For the most secure installation, you can combine screws with adhesive. The adhesive fills any gaps between the skirting and the wall, while the screws provide mechanical strength.
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Paint over any holes
Skirting board covers are a great way to hide any damage to your walls without the hassle of removing the original boards. They are easy to install and can be cut to fit over the original skirting boards. However, the process of fitting the covers may result in some holes that need to be covered up.
Any holes that appear from the pins used to secure the skirting board covers can be covered with Decorator's Caulk and painted over with touch-up paint. It is important to use the same type of paint that is already on the wall, be it flat, gloss, or semi-gloss, to ensure that the touch-up paint blends in seamlessly.
Before painting over any holes, it is important to prepare the wall to achieve a smooth finish. Start by covering the screw heads and filling the nail holes with joint compound. Allow the compound to dry completely before sanding it down with fine-grit sandpaper. Smooth out any ridges or bumps and lightly sand the edges to ensure that the patch blends evenly into the surrounding wall. Avoid sanding too hard, as this may cause damage to the wall.
Once the wall has been prepared, it is time to start painting. Apply a thin coat of primer to the patched area, using a bristle brush or a foam roller. Allow the primer to dry for at least two hours before applying the first coat of paint. It is important to use a clean brush or roller for this step to avoid any unwanted textures or bumps. Blend the paint into the surrounding wall and let it dry completely.
If necessary, apply a second coat of paint, and even a third, to obtain the best match with the surrounding wall. It may take a few coats to completely camouflage the repair and ensure that it does not stand out. With the right tools and techniques, you can easily paint over any holes and achieve a smooth and seamless finish for your skirting board covers.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a saw, a hammer, and nails/screws or adhesive.
First, measure the length of the wall where you will be installing the skirting board. Use a measuring tape to get an accurate measurement. Next, use a saw to cut the skirting board to the correct length. Ensure you use a saw with a fine blade to ensure a smooth and clean cut.
You can use adhesive, nails, or screws to attach the plastic skirting board cover. Adhesive provides the cleanest finish as there are no visible fixings. For the best results, apply the adhesive in a zigzag pattern along the back of the skirting board.
