What Is Beading? A Complete Guide to Decorative Wood Trim

Beading might seem like a small detail, but in the world of interior joinery, it plays a big role. Whether you're finishing the edge of a skirting board, hiding an expansion gap, or adding a touch of traditional charm to panelling, beading is both functional and decorative.

Beading is a narrow strip of decorative trim used to cover gaps or add detail around skirting boards, doors, windows, and wall panels. It’s available in MDF, hardwood, or softwood and offers both functional and aesthetic benefits, creating a polished, professional finish in interior joinery projects.

At MR Mouldings, we’ve supplied thousands of metres of MDF and timber mouldings across the UK, and beading remains one of our most requested trim options. But what exactly is beading, and when should you use it? Here’s everything you need to know.

What Is Beading?

Beading is a narrow strip of trim or moulding used to create a decorative edge or to conceal small gaps between surfaces. It’s commonly made from MDF, hardwood or softwood and is typically installed at the base of walls, around doors and windows, or alongside skirting boards and floor coverings.

It’s a finishing detail that helps tie a room together, giving a clean, polished appearance and often solving practical problems in the process.

What Is Beading Made From?

At MR Mouldings, we offer beading in a choice of high-quality materials to suit any finish or budget:

MDF Beading

MDF (medium-density fibreboard) beading is:

• Smooth and knot-free
  
  

• Perfect for painting
  
  

• Moisture-resistant (ideal for kitchens and bathrooms)
  
  

• Cost-effective and easy to install
  
  

Hardwood Beading

Best for projects where a natural wood finish is preferred. Hardwood beading:

• Shows beautiful natural grain
  
  

• Can be stained, varnished or oiled
  
  

• It is strong and impact-resistant
  
  

• Complements traditional interiors or period homes
  
  

Softwood Beading

An affordable and versatile option. Softwood beading:

• Takes paint or stain well
  
  

• Is lightweight and easy to work with
  
  

• Has a classic timber look with more visible grain
  
  

Types of Beading Trim

We stock a wide range of profiles to match all styles and purposes. Some of the most common include:

Scotia Beading

Curved on one edge, it fits neatly between floors and skirting boards to hide gaps or expansion joints.

Quadrant Beading

A quarter-circle profile that’s simple, neat, and great for corners or transitions.

Ovolo Beading

A more traditional rounded profile, often used around wall panels or door frames for decorative effect.

Chamfered Beading

A clean, modern angled profile, great for minimalist interiors or contemporary moulding styles.

Each profile is available in various sizes and finishes, so you can match your beading seamlessly with existing trims.

Where Is Beading Used?

Beading is incredibly versatile. Here are some of the most common applications:

Skirting Board Beading

Used to hide expansion gaps between the flooring and the bottom edge of skirting boards, particularly with laminate or wood floors.

Door Beading

Finishes off the edges of door frames or adds decorative detail to panel doors.

Window Beading

Can be used to trim around window frames or to secure glazing in certain joinery applications.

Wall Panelling Beading

Adds structure and elegance to wall panels or wainscoting. Ideal for traditional interior schemes.

Flooring Beading

Essential for floating floors like laminate, where beading covers the expansion space around the perimeter without needing to remove skirting.

Why Use Beading?

Aside from its aesthetic appeal, beading offers several practical benefits:

• Conceals gaps and imperfections around joins and edges
  
  

• Adds character and period detail to otherwise plain interiors
  
  

• Smooths transitions between different materials or surfaces
  
  

• Protects vulnerable edges from wear and knocks
  
  

• Makes new installations look complete and polished
  
  

Even in minimalist spaces, beading can add definition and visual balance.

Tips for Choosing the Right Beading

Not sure what’s best for your space? Here are a few key considerations from our team at MR Mouldings:

• Match materials: If your skirting is MDF, consider using MDF beading for a seamless finish
  
  

• Consider the finish: Hardwood is ideal for staining; MDF is best for painting
  
  

• Size and proportion matter: Larger rooms can handle more pronounced profiles, while small spaces benefit from slimmer trims
  
  

• Test before committing: We offer sample options to help you compare profiles and materials at home
  
  

Our team is always happy to advise based on your existing interiors, project plans, and budget.

How to Install Beading

Installing beading is relatively straightforward, especially for DIYers with a few basic tools:

1. Measure and cut your beading to size, mitring corners for a neat finish
   
   

2. Fix into place using grab adhesive or small panel pins
   
   

3. Caulk any gaps, especially between the beading and the walls or floors
   
   

4. Finish with paint or stain, depending on your material choice
   
   

For more complex installations or high-end finishes, we recommend consulting a professional carpenter or joiner.

Why Choose Beading from MR Mouldings?

We don’t just supply timber trims, we craft them to exacting standards. At MR Mouldings, we offer:

• A huge range of profiles and sizes
  
  

• Moisture-resistant MDF beading as standard
  
  

• Beautiful hardwood and softwood alternatives for natural finishes
  
  

• UK-made quality, fast delivery and exceptional customer support
  
  

• Knowledgeable advice from a team with years of joinery experience
  
  

Whether you're updating a single room or fitting out an entire property, you can trust us to provide beading that looks good and performs brilliantly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is beading used for?
Beading is used to hide gaps between surfaces, protect edges, or add decorative detail around skirting boards, windows, doors, or wall panels.

What types of beading are there?
Common types include scotia, quadrant, ovolo, and chamfered beading, each offering different shapes and finishes for specific applications.

Can I paint MDF beading?
Yes. In fact, MDF beading is designed for painting. It has a smooth surface and no grain, which makes it ideal for a flawless painted finish.

Is beading easy to install yourself?
Yes. Most beading can be installed using adhesive or pins. Just ensure you measure carefully and use a mitre box for clean corners.

What’s the best beading for skirting boards?
Scotia and quadrant beading are most commonly used with skirting boards, especially when covering gaps caused by new flooring.

Final Thoughts

Beading might be small, but it has a big impact. Whether you're restoring a period property or just adding polish to a modern space, it’s a simple detail that finishes a room beautifully.

Ready to explore our range? Browse our MDF, hardwood and softwood beading online, or get in touch for help choosing the right profile.