How To Fit Skirting Board

This expert guide explains how to install skirting boards to achieve a professional, seamless finish. Whether you are working with modern composites or traditional timber, these steps cover everything from measuring and mitring to final fixing for DIYers and trade professionals alike.

What is skirting board installation?

Skirting board installation is the process of fixing decorative mouldings to the base of internal walls to protect against impact and hide the expansion gap between the wall and the flooring.

When you need it / why it matters

Fitting new skirting is the “final flourish” of a room renovation. You need to install it when:

• Completing a new floor: To cover the necessary expansion gaps left for laminate or wood.

• Renovating a room: Upgrading from dated profiles to modern MDF skirting boards or high-quality softwood skirting boards.

• Covering wall damage: Hiding messy plaster lines at the foot of the wall.

Comparison: MDF vs. Softwood Skirting

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How to choose: Fixing Method

• If fixing to stud/plasterboard walls: Use grab adhesive combined with lost-head nails driven into the wooden studs.

• If fixing to masonry/brick walls: Use grab adhesive and masonry nails, or drill and plug for a heavy-duty screw fix.

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Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1. Preparation & Safety: Clear the perimeter and use a cable detector to mark “no-drill” zones. Ensure the wall base is free of old adhesive or dust.

2. Measure and Map: Measure each wall length. Map out your pieces, noting where you need mitre cuts (external corners) and scribed joints (internal corners).

3. Cut the Joints: * For external corners, cut both boards at a 45-degree angle using a mitre saw.

   • For internal corners, “scribe” the joint by cutting one board square and cutting the profile of the second board to fit over it for a tighter finish.

4. Dry Fit: Place the boards against the wall without adhesive to ensure all joints meet tightly. Trim as necessary.

5. Apply Adhesive: Apply “snakes” of grab adhesive to the back of the board. Avoid putting adhesive too close to the top edge to prevent squeeze-out.

6. Fix to the Wall: Press the board firmly into place. Secure with lost-head nails (for timber/studs) or screws (for masonry).

7. Address Gaps: Fill any small gaps between the board and wall with a paintable acrylic caulk. Fill nail holes with wood filler.

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Ignoring the Floor Level: If the floor isn’t level, scribe the bottom of the board so the top remains perfectly horizontal.

• Nailing into Pipes: Never nail directly below a radiator or light switch without checking for utilities first.

• Using the wrong adhesive: Standard wood glue isn’t enough for wall fixing; use a high-grab “instant-fix” construction adhesive.

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FAQs

Should I paint skirting boards before or after fitting?

It is best to apply a primer and the first undercoat before fitting. Once installed and filled, apply the final topcoat to hide nail holes and caulk lines.

How do I fix skirting to a curved wall?

For slight curves, use MDF skirting boards as they are more flexible than softwood. For sharp curves, you may need to make “kerf cuts” (vertical slots) in the back of the board to allow it to bend.

What is the best way to join long runs of skirting?

Don’t use a straight butt joint. Use a “scarf joint” by cutting both meeting ends at a 45-degree angle so one overlaps the other. This makes the join nearly invisible once painted.

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Summary + next steps

Properly fitted skirting boards transform a room from “unfinished” to professional. Always prioritize your corner joints, as these are the most visible parts of the job.

Find the right materials for your project:

• Browse our full skirting board category for all styles.

• Select MDF skirting boards for a moisture-resistant, easy-to-paint finish.

• Select softwood skirting boards for authentic timber character and durability.