Skirting boards may seem like a minor detail in the grand scheme of home renovation, but they play a critical role in adding the finishing touch to any room. Whether you're a home renovator or a builder in the Australian construction industry, knowing how to choose the perfect skirting boards can significantly impact the overall aesthetic of your project. Skirting boards not only protect walls from damage, but they also provide a seamless transition between the walls and the floors, adding character and charm to any space.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when selecting the perfect skirting boards for your home, how to balance style with function, and the future trends to keep in mind.
Introduction
Skirting boards serve both practical and aesthetic purposes. In addition to protecting walls from scuffs, they enhance the design of your space by complementing the architectural style and overall look of the home. If you’re a home renovator or builder, the right skirting boards can tie a room together and add the finishing touch that elevates your project from good to great.
But with so many materials, styles, and sizes to choose from, selecting the perfect skirting boards can be overwhelming. This post will guide you through the process, ensuring that your choice not only meets your design goals but also fits the functional needs of the space.
Background Information
Skirting boards, also known as baseboards or mopboards, date back to the 18th century when they were primarily used to hide the gaps between uneven walls and floors. Over time, they evolved into a decorative feature in both modern and period homes. In Australia, skirting boards remain an essential part of home construction and renovation, often reflecting the architectural style of the period.
From simple, clean lines in contemporary homes to ornate designs in heritage houses, skirting boards have undergone significant changes in both function and style. Today, the trend is shifting towards custom skirting boards that can be tailored to match a home’s unique aesthetic, thanks to advancements in manufacturing and profile matching technologies.
Key Components to Consider When Choosing Skirting Boards
When selecting skirting boards for your home, several factors come into play. Let’s dive into the key components that will help you make an informed decision.
1. Material
The material you choose for your skirting boards can greatly impact their durability, cost, and overall look. Here are some common options:
· Timber: Timber skirting boards are a classic choice and can be stained, varnished, or painted to match your home’s decor. They’re durable and versatile, making them ideal for both traditional and modern homes.
· MDF (Medium-Density Fibreboard): MDF is a popular, cost-effective alternative to timber. It’s easy to paint and less prone to warping, though it may not be as durable as solid timber in high-traffic areas.
· PVC: For wet areas like bathrooms, PVC skirting boards are a practical choice. They’re resistant to moisture and can withstand frequent cleaning, though they may not offer the same aesthetic appeal as timber.
· Custom Timber Mouldings: For heritage homes or those looking for a unique finish, custom timber mouldings offer the best of both worlds. They provide the elegance of timber with the ability to create bespoke profiles that match the original architectural details of your home.
2. Profile Design
The profile, or the shape of the skirting board, is one of the most important aesthetic factors. The profile design should match or complement your home’s architectural style. Common skirting board profiles include:
· Bullnose: A simple, rounded profile that suits modern, minimalist homes.
· Ogee: A more decorative profile, perfect for traditional homes.
· Colonial: Often used in heritage or period homes, this profile is detailed and intricate, adding character to older properties.
· Square-Edge: A sleek, modern option that works well in contemporary spaces.
Custom skirting boards can be designed to replicate the exact profile of existing mouldings in older homes, ensuring continuity and preserving the historical integrity of the property.
3. Height
The height of the skirting board is another crucial factor. Taller skirting boards make a bold statement and are often used in older homes with high ceilings. On the other hand, shorter skirting boards can create a more streamlined look and are well-suited to modern homes with lower ceilings.
A general rule of thumb is to choose skirting boards that are proportional to the room’s height. For example:
· Low Ceilings (2.4m or less): Skirting boards between 100mm and 150mm in height work well.
· Standard Ceilings (2.4m to 2.7m): Boards between 150mm and 200mm are ideal.
· High Ceilings (Above 2.7m): Taller skirting boards, ranging from 200mm to 300mm, add grandeur and balance to the space.
4. Colour
While natural timber skirting boards offer warmth and texture, painted boards provide versatility. White is the most popular colour choice as it adds a crisp, clean finish and works well with most interior design styles. However, darker colours are becoming more popular for a bold, modern look. Choosing a contrasting colour for your skirting boards can create a striking visual impact, while blending them with the wall colour can make the room feel larger.
Benefits of Choosing the Perfect Skirting Boards for Your Home
Selecting the right skirting boards offers several advantages beyond their visual appeal. Let’s look at some of the major benefits for both individuals and businesses.
1. Aesthetic Enhancement
The right skirting boards can tie a room together, providing a polished, cohesive look. They can highlight architectural features, complement your home’s design, and even serve as a focal point in a room. Custom skirting boards, in particular, offer endless design possibilities, allowing you to match any period style or create a unique look that reflects your personal taste.
2. Protection for Walls
Skirting boards protect your walls from everyday wear and tear, including scuffs, knocks, and furniture damage. In high-traffic areas such as hallways and living rooms, durable skirting boards made from timber or MDF are particularly useful in maintaining the condition of your walls.
3. Increased Property Value
Investing in quality skirting boards, especially custom designs that match the period style of a home, can enhance the property’s overall value. Prospective buyers are often drawn to homes with well-thought-out details, and skirting boards are no exception. In heritage homes, accurate profile matching can preserve the property’s historical significance, further boosting its market appeal.
4. Flexibility in Design
With advancements in profile matching and customisation technologies, it’s easier than ever to create skirting boards that perfectly match your home’s design. Whether you’re restoring a heritage property or building a modern home, skirting boards can be tailored to your exact specifications, ensuring a perfect fit both aesthetically and functionally.
Challenges in Choosing Skirting Boards (and How to Overcome Them)
While choosing skirting boards might seem straightforward, several challenges can arise. Here are some common obstacles and practical solutions to ensure you make the right choice.
1. Finding the Right Profile
One of the most significant challenges, especially in heritage home renovations, is finding skirting boards that match the original design. Off-the-shelf options may not always be suitable, leading to a disjointed look.
Solution: Custom skirting boards and profile matching services can replicate any existing design or create new profiles tailored to your specifications. This ensures continuity in heritage homes and offers flexibility in modern builds.
2. Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality
It can be challenging to find skirting boards that balance aesthetic appeal with practicality. Some profiles may look beautiful but may not be durable enough for high-traffic areas.
Solution: Consider the material and finish when choosing your skirting boards. Timber and MDF offer a balance of beauty and durability, making them ideal for various rooms in the home.
3. Cost Considerations
Custom skirting boards can be more expensive than standard options, especially if intricate designs or premium materials are required.
Solution: Weigh the long-term benefits of custom skirting boards against the initial investment. While they may cost more upfront, they can increase your home’s value and provide a level of detail that standard options cannot.
Future Trends in Skirting Boards
As interior design trends evolve, so too do the styles and materials used in skirting boards. Here are some future trends to watch for:
1. Sustainable Materials
With growing awareness of environmental issues, homeowners and builders are increasingly looking for sustainable options. Recycled or eco-friendly materials for skirting boards are becoming more popular, offering a green alternative without compromising on quality or style.
2. Minimalist Designs
In modern homes, the trend towards minimalism continues to grow. Skirting boards with clean, simple lines and understated profiles are becoming the go-to choice for contemporary spaces. Square-edge or shadow line skirting boards offer a sleek, modern look that complements minimalist interiors.
3. Technology-Driven Customisation
Advances in technology, such as CAD design and CNC machines, allow for precise customisation of skirting boards. Builders and renovators can now design skirting boards that perfectly match any architectural style or design preference. Additionally, augmented reality (AR) applications will soon allow homeowners to visualise different skirting board profiles in their space before making a final decision.
Choosing the perfect skirting boards for your home is about finding the right balance between aesthetics. For more information contact us today on (03) 8771 4403 or sales@australianmoulding.com.au
