How To Paint Skirting Boards

Did you know that an aesthetically pleasing room isn't just about plush sofas or expensive art pieces? Lesser-noticed elements like the skirting boards play a significant role too! Yes, skirting boards! These humble boards running along the base of your walls protect them from damage and hide the unsightly joint between wall and floor. They are often overlooked but guess what? You can elevate your room look by merely painting your skirting boards—like a pro!

Why Should You Paint Skirting Boards?

Imagine your room is a beautifully decorated cake. The frosting and embellishments look fantastic, but what if the cake board is dull and worn? It lacks appeal, right? Skirting boards are similar—they provide a clean, finished look to your rooms. While they are mostly taken for granted, a well-painted skirting board can increase your room's aesthetic value remarkably!

Moreover, skirting boards are exposed to a lot of wear and tear, thanks to pets, furniture movements, and even the robust playful activities of kids. Painting provides an additional protective layer, increasing your skirting board's lifespan and making maintenance easier. 

Tools You'll Need to Paint Skirting Boards

Before you begin your DIY painting project, it's vital to gather all the essential tools. A quality paintbrush, paint, a dust sheet, sandpaper, a cloth, and some warm soapy water are some basics you’ll need. Among these, the importance of a quality paintbrush cannot be overstated. It can be the difference between a smooth, long-lasting paint job and a patchy, amateurish finish. 

A top tip to prevent those annoying paint spills onto your beautiful flooring is to use masking or painter's tape. Laying it down along the edge where your skirting board meets the floor before painting can save you a big cleaning job later!

Preparing Skirting Boards for Painting

The real trick to a long-lasting finish is in the preparation. Start by cleaning your skirting boards. Use a cloth and warm soapy water for this. Sanding skirting boards is another essential step to ensure a smoother finish and better paint adhesion.

Found any damaged or chipped areas? Repair these before you even think about painting. A ready mix filler can easily seal minor cracks and holes. Once dry, smoothen the area with sandpaper.

Don’t underestimate the power of a primer! It creates an excellent base for your paint, enhances its durability and can save you from applying unnecessary extra coats of paint. 

How to Paint Skirting Boards Step by Step

Ah, this is the exciting part! Try to paint with long, straight strokes for a smooth finish. Start at one end of the board and work your way to the other. Apply the paint sparingly for the first coat to avoid drips and let it dry. 

Most guides suggest two coats of paint for skirting boards. However, the number of coats needed probably depends on the type of paint you're using and the finish you desire. Once satisfied with the coverage, let your boards dry completely. 

How to Maintain Painted Skirting Boards

Your hard work has finally paid off! But don't sigh with relief too soon, painted skirting boards need maintenance too. Regular cleaning keeps them looking fresh. On the other hand, warm soapy water and a cloth could eliminate any stubborn grime or scuff marks.

Like all painted surfaces, it might be necessary to repaint skirting boards at some point, especially if the paint begins to chip. Don’t fret at the sight of a chip though! A light sanding and a lick of paint can usually fix it and ensure your skirting boards are always looking their best.

Final Thoughts: Skirting boards may seem like a small detail in room decoration, but they carry much weight in interior design. A touch of paint, meticulously done, can protect them, prolong their life, and immensely enhance your room's overall look. 

With the right tools and patience in preparation, you can ensure a smooth, attractive finish that resembles professional work. And lastly, remember, even the best paint jobs require some maintenance. So, keep them clean and address any chips or damage promptly. 

After this check out our guide on how to Paint Architraves!

Happy painting!