Do You Do Skirting or Carpet First?

Can you believe that 32% of homeowners in the UK planned to spend their 2024 focusing on home renovation projects? Whether driven by the soaring real estate prices or the desire to create a more personalised and comfortable living space, one trend is clear: people are investing in their homes more than ever before. But as any seasoned DIY enthusiast or first-time renovator will tell you, one question can divide opinions sharply—Do you install skirting boards or carpets first?

Understanding the Basics: Skirting Boards and Carpets

In home renovation projects, the small details can make a big difference. Take skirting boards, for example—these often overlooked yet essential architectural elements run along the base of interior walls, serving both practical and aesthetic purposes. Skirting boards conceal the junction where the wall and floor meet, hiding any unsightly gaps, wires, or imperfections. Their designs, ranging from simple to ornate, can significantly enhance a room’s aesthetic appeal.

Carpets, on the other hand, are the epitome of comfort, warmth, and style in a room. They absorb sound, add color and texture, and can transform the feel of any space. But when it comes to fitting skirting boards and carpets, the timeline of installation profoundly affects not just the process but also the room's aesthetics and functionality.

So, what should come first—skirting or carpet? 

Skirting 

Here's why.

Pros and Cons of Fitting the Skirting First

Fitting skirting boards before laying the carpet is the most traditional and widely recommended approach, and for good reason.

Pros:

1. Neater Finish: Installing skirting boards first allows carpet fitters to tuck the carpet edges neatly underneath the skirting, creating a polished and seamless look. This method hides any rough or raw carpet edges, contributing to a professional and clean finish. The result is a smooth transition between the wall and floor, enhancing the room's overall aesthetic.

2. Future Flexibility: One of the significant advantages of fitting skirting first is the flexibility it offers for future carpet replacements. Since the carpet isn’t integral to the skirting, you can easily replace it without disturbing or damaging the skirting boards. This approach is especially beneficial in homes where flooring trends may change over time or in rental properties where carpets need to be refreshed periodically.

3. Protection During Installation: With the skirting in place before carpet installation, there’s less risk of damaging the freshly laid carpet. Skirting boards can act as a barrier against paint splatters, scratches, or dents that might occur during the renovation process, ensuring your new carpet remains pristine.

Cons:

1. Potential Double Work: A minor downside to this method is the possibility of needing to adjust the skirting boards after the carpet is installed, particularly if you choose a thick or plush carpet. This might require re-trimming the skirting to ensure it doesn’t appear too short or out of proportion.

2. Disproportionate Appearance: If the carpet is particularly thick, the skirting might look disproportionately short. This issue can often be resolved by opting for taller skirting boards or making post-installation adjustments, but it’s something to consider when planning your project.

3. Precision Required: Achieving a perfect fit between the carpet and skirting can be challenging, requiring careful measurement and precision. However, the effort is worth it for the superior finish it provides.

Pros and Cons of Fitting the Carpet First

Some renovators consider fitting the carpet before the skirting boards, but while this method has its merits, it is generally not recommended for several key reasons.

Pros:

1. Flush Fit and Clean Lines: Installing skirting boards after the carpet allows them to sit directly on top of the carpet, creating a snug, flush fit. This can give the illusion of higher walls and a more spacious room, particularly beneficial in smaller spaces where maximizing height is desirable.

2. Immediate Aesthetic Impact: Fitting the carpet first allows you to see the room’s full impact before installing the skirting boards, helping you to make any necessary adjustments to skirting height or design for a customized look.

3. Tailored Finish: This method allows for a more tailored fit, with skirting boards customized to sit perfectly atop the carpet, accommodating its thickness and texture. However, this benefit is often outweighed by the complications it introduces.

Cons:

1. Difficulty in Future Carpet Replacement: One of the most significant drawbacks is the challenge of replacing the carpet later on. Removing the carpet without damaging the skirting boards can be difficult, time-consuming, and potentially costly. Often, replacing the carpet requires removing and reinstalling the skirting boards, which adds to the complexity and expense of the project.

2. Risk of Carpet Damage: During skirting installation, there’s a higher risk of damaging the carpet with tools, nails, or adhesive. Protecting the carpet requires extra care, and even then, accidents can happen, leaving marks or dents in the carpet.

3. Complicated Installation Process: Fitting skirting on top of the carpet can be more complicated, especially if the carpet is thick or uneven. Ensuring the skirting boards are level and securely attached requires additional time and effort, often leading to a less precise finish than if the skirting were installed first.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Skirting

If you’re convinced (as you should be) that skirting first is the way to go, here’s a detailed guide to help you through the installation process:

1. Preparation:

   • Clean the Walls: Ensure the walls are clean, dry, and free from any old paint, wallpaper, or debris. A smooth wall surface is essential for a seamless skirting installation.
   • Measure and Mark: Accurately measure the perimeter of the room and mark the positions for the skirting boards, noting any corners, doorways, or obstacles.
   • Cutting the Skirting Boards: Use a mitre saw for precise cuts, ensuring the correct angles for corners (typically 45 degrees). If your skirting boards have intricate designs or are taller, take extra care during this step.

2. Pre-painting:

   • Paint Before Installation: To avoid paint drips on your floor or carpet, consider pre-painting the skirting boards before installation. Apply at least one coat of primer and one or two top coats for the desired finish.

3. Installation:

   • Dry Fitting: Before securing the skirting boards, do a dry fit to ensure all pieces align perfectly. Make any necessary adjustments.
   • Attach the Skirting: Secure the skirting boards to the wall using a strong adhesive or screws. Drill pilot holes first if you’re using screws to prevent the wood from splitting.
   • Filling and Sealing: Fill any gaps between the skirting and wall with caulk or filler, then sand down rough spots and apply a final coat of paint to achieve a smooth, uniform finish.

4. Final Touches:

   • Inspect the Work: After installation, inspect the skirting boards for imperfections. Ensure all corners align perfectly and there are no visible gaps or uneven spots.
   • Cleanup: Clean the work area, removing any debris, excess adhesive, or paint spills to leave your newly installed skirting boards looking crisp and professional.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Carpets

With the skirting securely in place, you’re ready to move on to the carpet installation. Here’s how to get it right:

1. Preparation:

   • Clear the Room: Remove all furniture and old flooring materials, including any existing carpet, underlay, or tiles.
   • Floor Inspection: Check the subfloor for damage such as cracks, holes, or uneven spots. Repair any issues to ensure a smooth, even surface for your new carpet.
   • Underlay Installation: Lay down the underlay for cushioning, insulation, and prolonging the carpet’s life. Secure the underlay with staples or adhesive, ensuring it’s flat and wrinkle-free.

2. Carpet Cutting:

   • Measure the Room: Measure the room’s length and width accurately, adding a few extra inches for trimming and fitting.
   • Cut the Carpet: Roll out the carpet and cut it to the required size, leaving excess around the edges for adjustments. Use a sharp utility knife for clean, precise cuts.

3. Fitting the Carpet:

   • Positioning: Position the carpet in the room, ensuring it covers the entire floor and is centered. Start by fitting one corner and gradually work around the room, pressing the carpet into place.
   • Stretching and Securing: Use a carpet stretcher or knee kicker to stretch the carpet tightly across the floor, eliminating wrinkles or bubbles. Secure the edges using tack strips or a staple gun, tucking the excess carpet neatly against the skirting boards.

4. Trimming and Finishing:

   • Trim Excess: Carefully trim any excess carpet along the edges, ensuring a snug fit against the skirting boards. Be cautious not to cut too much, as you want the carpet to sit flush against the skirting.
   • Final Touches: Smooth out the carpet, paying attention to the edges and corners. Use a seam roller to blend any joins or seams for a flawless finish.

5. Post-Installation Care:

   • Vacuum the Carpet: After installation, vacuum the carpet thoroughly to remove loose fibers or debris. This also helps to settle the carpet and give it a fresh, finished look.
   • Maintenance Tips: Regular cleaning and maintenance will keep your carpet looking new for years. Consider investing in a quality carpet cleaner or scheduling professional cleanings periodically.

Recommended Practices by Experts

When it comes to whether skirting or carpet should be installed first, professional opinions strongly lean towards skirting first, and the reasoning is sound.

Carpet Fitters' View: Professional carpet fitters consistently advise fitting skirting boards before the carpet. This method allows them to install the gripper rods with a specific gap between the skirting and the gripper, essential for stretching the carpet properly. This gap is crucial—it enables the carpet to be stretched and tucked neatly under the skirting, ensuring a tight, professional fit.

Carpenters’ Perspective: Experienced carpenters also support fitting skirting boards first. It not only facilitates easier carpet fitting but also ensures that skirting boards are installed securely and aligned perfectly before any flooring is laid. This approach prevents potential damage to the carpet during skirting installation and allows for a cleaner, more polished finish.

Interior Decorators’ Advice: Seasoned interior decorators typically assess the room, the type of carpet, and the skirting style before making their recommendation. However, they often favor the skirting-first approach for its flexibility, ease of installation, and the superior finish it offers.

Cost Implications, Pitfalls, and Final Thoughts

Weighing up the associated costs and potential pitfalls is an important part of the decision-making process.

Cost Considerations: Installing skirting first might seem to save money initially by reducing the risk of carpet damage during skirting installation. However, it also offers long-term savings as it simplifies future carpet replacements, reducing the need for additional labor or repairs to skirting boards. On the other hand, while installing carpet first might have a higher upfront cost due to the more complex installation process, it can lead to increased maintenance expenses down the line if the skirting needs to be removed or replaced.

Common Pitfalls: As with any DIY project, pitfalls abound. Lack of proper tools, rushing the work, or neglecting to prime surfaces can lead to long-term headaches. Skirting installed without adequate preparation or measurement can result in gaps, misalignments, or uneven finishes, detracting from the room’s overall look.

Final Verdict: Skirting First is the Way to Go

After considering all the pros and cons, expert recommendations, and potential pitfalls, the conclusion is clear: skirting should be installed first. This approach not only provides a more professional finish but also offers greater flexibility for future carpet replacements and reduces the risk of damaging either the skirting boards or the carpet during installation.

So, if you’re tackling a home renovation project, remember—skirting first, carpet second. This sequence will give you the polished, professional look you’re after and make future updates to your space easier and more cost-effective. Happy renovating!