Skirting boards are an essential part of any house. They provide a neat finish to the base of your wall, and they protect it from scratches, dents, and stains. But as important as they are, skirting boards are also quite prone to damage. From excessive moisture to aggressive cleaning methods, there are many ways in which your skirting boards can end up looking worse for wear. So, what can you do to protect them? In this article, we’ll explore some of the best tips to help you keep your skirting boards looking like new for years to come skirting board near me.
1: Choose the Right Material
One of the first steps you can take to protect your skirting boards is to choose the right material. There are many options available, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. For example, skirting boards made from MDF are very affordable but are prone to water damage. In contrast, hardwood skirting boards are durable and resistant to wear and tear, but they can be quite expensive. Ultimately, the material you choose should depend on your budget and the conditions in your home. If you have pets or small children, for example, you may want to opt for a more durable material.
2: Keep Your Skirting Boards Clean
Another important way to protect your skirting boards is to keep them clean. Dust and dirt can accumulate on the surface of your skirting board, making them look dull and lifeless. To prevent this, make sure to dust them regularly with a soft cloth or a feather duster. If you notice any stains or marks on your skirting boards, use a mild cleaner that’s suitable for the material to remove them. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools like scouring pads, as they can scratch and damage the surface.
3: Address Water Damage Quickly
Water damage is one of the most common problems that skirting boards face. If you have a leak or a spill in your home, it’s crucial to address it quickly to prevent damage to your skirting boards. If you notice any water stains or swelling on your skirting boards, act quickly to dry them out and address the underlying issue. If the damage is severe, you may need to replace the affected boards to prevent mold growth and other issues.
4: Use Skirting Board Protectors
Another option to protect your skirting boards is to use protectors. These are thin strips of plastic or rubber that you attach to the bottom of your skirting boards to protect them from wear and tear. They come in a range of sizes and shapes to fit different skirting board styles and sizes. You can also find protectors that match the color of your skirting boards so that they blend in seamlessly.
5: Maintain Your Skirting Boards regularly
Finally, to protect your skirting boards, it’s crucial to maintain them regularly. This includes checking them for damage, cleaning them, and addressing any issues promptly. Regular maintenance can help to extend the life of your skirting boards and ensure that they continue to look great for years to come.
Skirting boards are an important part of your home decor and play a vital role in protecting your walls from scuffs and damage. Over time, skirting boards can become worn and damaged from everyday wear and tear, which can detract from their visual appeal and potentially lead to expensive repairs. In this post, we’ll discuss actionable tips and tricks you can use to protect your skirting boards and keep them looking like new.
- Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
One of the easiest ways to keep your skirting boards in good condition is to clean and maintain them regularly. Dusting your skirting boards with a microfiber cloth or vacuum attachment can help reduce the buildup of dirt and dust that can scratch or damage the surface over time. This process can also help to identify any areas that may need extra attention or repairs.
- Protect Your Skirting Boards from Furniture
Moving furniture can unintentionally scratch or cause damage to your skirting boards. Using furniture pads beneath heavy items such as sofas or tables can help prevent damage and provide an extra layer of protection. Additionally, placing area rugs beneath furniture can also help protect skirting boards from damage caused by accidental bumps or scratches.
- Avoid Water Damage
Exposure to water, especially if it is unclean or stagnant, can damage skirting boards causing swelling or warping. Bathrooms and kitchens pose frequent risks for water damage due to high moisture and foot traffic. Use high-quality waterproofing paint or varnish to protect any skirting boards installed in these areas.
- Utilize Skirting Board Protection Products
To further protect your skirting boards from damage, consider utilizing protective products such as skirting board protectors and bumper strips. Skirting board protectors are simple plastic sleeves designed to slip over your skirting board and provide a layer of protection from scratches, scuffs, and other damage. Bumper strips are designed to attach to the top of your skirting board and can help prevent damage caused by doorknobs or other hard objects that are frequently bumped against the surface.
- Professional Installation
Finalizing skirting board installation with a professional carpenter or decorator can prevent damage from improper installation. Professionals can provide essential advice on choosing the right materials, cutting to size, screwing, and nailing and filling gaps to prevent damage issues that may occur over the years.
Conclusion:
Skirting boards are an essential part of any home, and they deserve proper care and attention to keep them looking like new. By choosing the right material, keeping them clean, addressing water damage promptly, using protectors, and maintaining them regularly, you can protect your skirting boards and keep them looking great for years to come. Whether you’re renovating your home or simply looking to spruce up your skirting boards, these tips are sure to come in handy. So go ahead and give them a try, your skirting boards will thank you!
Skirting boards play an important role in providing a polished look to your home, and protecting your walls from scuffs and damage. To keep your skirting boards looking like new, it is important to invest in regular cleaning and maintenance and utilize protective products that can help prevent damage. Additionally, taking caution with heavy furniture and avoiding moisture and water exposure can help prevent costly repairs in the long run. By following these tips, you can ensure that your skirting boards will look great and provide lasting protection for years to come.