Skirtings are one of those overlooked details in home design that make all the difference when done right. Serving both functional and aesthetic purposes, skirtings frame your walls, protecting them while adding a polished, finished look to any room. Whether you’re renovating or building your home from the ground up, choosing the right skirtings can elevate your space to a whole new level of style and functionality.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about selecting the best skirtings for your home, from materials and styles to trending designs for modern interiors.
What Are Skirtings and Why Are They Important?
Before we get into the details, let’s understand what skirtings are. Skirting boards (or baseboards, as they are often referred to in some regions) are strips of material affixed to the base of interior walls. Their primary roles include:
- Hiding the joint between the wall and the floor for a smoother transition.
- Protecting walls from scuffs, dirt, and damage caused by furniture or daily wear-and-tear.
- Enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a room by adding dimension and style.
While skirtings are deeply functional, their visual impact shouldn’t be underestimated. With the right material and design, skirtings can act as a subtle detail or even a defining feature in your home.
Popular Types of Skirting Materials
Not all skirtings are created equal. Their performance, durability, and appearance depend largely on the material you choose. Here’s a rundown of the most common materials and their characteristics:
- MDF Skirtings
Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF) skirtings are a top choice for many. They are affordable, easy to paint, and resistant to shrinking or warping. This makes them ideal for homes in varying climates or with fluctuating humidity levels.
- Timber Skirtings
Timber is a classic and luxurious material that fits both modern and traditional spaces. Hardwood options like oak or walnut provide unmatched durability and a timeless appeal. They are usually more expensive than MDF but add a premium touch to your interiors.
- PVC or Vinyl Skirtings
These are ideal for rooms with high moisture exposure, such as bathrooms or basements. PVC skirtings are lightweight, water-resistant, and easy to clean. They are also available in a variety of finishes that mimic wood or other materials.
- Metal Skirtings
Metal skirtings, often made from aluminum or stainless steel, are a sleek and modern option for contemporary spaces. They’re incredibly durable and resist scratches, making them perfect for high-traffic areas.
- Ceramic or Tile Skirtings
Typically used in bathrooms or kitchens, ceramic or tile skirtings blend seamlessly with tiled walls and floors. While they are not as versatile as other materials, they excel in specific applications.
Trending Skirting Styles for 2024
Interior design trends are constantly evolving, and skirting board styles are no exception. Selecting a trending design not only boosts your home’s appeal but ensures that your space feels relevant and modern. Here are a few standout skirting trends to consider for 2024:
High Skirtings
Architectural elegance is making a comeback, and high skirtings—ranging from 200mm to 300mm in height—are leading the way. These dramatic skirting boards draw the eye upwards and emphasize the walls’ verticality. High skirtings work particularly well in spaces with high ceilings.
Minimalist Flat Boards
For lovers of minimal design, flat skirtings offer a clean and understated look. With no grooves or intricate molding, these sleek boards align perfectly with contemporary interiors. They are also incredibly versatile and work with a variety of wall finishes.
Shadow Gap Skirtings
This ultra-modern style eliminates the traditional “boarded” look altogether. Shadow gap skirtings leave a recessed space at the bottom of the wall, creating the illusion of floating walls. It’s a designer favorite for homes seeking a futuristic vibe.
Bold Colors
Gone are the days when white was the default color for skirtings. Designers are now experimenting with bold, contrasting hues to provide a statement piece in the room. Deep blues, blacks, and earthy tones are particularly on-trend.
Textured or Custom Skirtings
From woodgrain patterns to intricate carvings, textured skirtings are another hot choice in 2024. Custom-designed skirtings are being used to add a unique touch to homes, blurring the lines between function and art.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Skirtings
Selecting the right skirtings isn’t just about trends or materials. You also have to consider the practical aspects that make them suitable for your space.
- Room Functionality
Are you installing skirtings in a high-traffic hallway or a less frequently used guest room? Durable materials like hardwood or PVC are excellent for busy spaces, while MDF can work perfectly in quieter corners.
- Ceiling Height
High ceilings pair beautifully with taller skirtings, while low ceilings may feel overwhelmed by oversized boards. Proportions matter, so balance your skirting dimensions accordingly.
- Wall Style
If your walls feature bold wallpaper or textured finishes, opt for simpler skirtings to maintain visual harmony. Conversely, plain painted walls can handle skirtings with ornate moldings.
- Budget
Skirtings are available in a wide price range, so it’s easy to find options that suit your budget. Hardwood skirtings are pricier, while MDF or PVC offer affordable yet durable alternatives.
Skirtings That Hug Tradition or Highlight Modernity?
Ultimately, the right skirtings for your home depend on your design goals and personal preferences. Whether you aim to evoke a sense of tradition with detailed wood moldings or prefer the minimalist charm of shadow gaps, there’s a perfect match waiting for you. Beyond aesthetics, prioritize quality materials that will stand the test of time.
