How to Paint Skirting Boards

Guide to Painting Skirting Boards

Painting skirting boards is an effective way to give your home a fresher, cleaner look while protecting the base of your walls from damage – or covering any damage which has been done.

You’re not stuck on options. You can either stick to white for a fresh traditional look, or you can colour drench and paint both your walls and woodwork in the same colour. Or, you may want to pick a colour which goes well with your wallpaper or furniture.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, covering essential preparation steps, and how to ensure your skirting boards are perfect once the job is done.

 

How to Paint Skirting Boards

You will need:

• Dust sheets
• Painters tape/masking tape
• Cleaning products
• Sander (a small sander such as a palm sander will be ideal)
• Paint brush
• PPE (dust mask, goggles, and gloves)

Proper preparation is crucial for achieving a professional finish. So, before you begin, ensure you take the time to prepare both your room and the surface you will be painting.

Lay down dust sheets or protective covers to shield your flooring and furniture from paint splatters. Painter's tape can be applied along the base of the skirting boards to ensure clean edges.

Ensuring safety during any painting process is paramount. Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes from paints, sanding dust, and cleaning products. Wear gloves to protect your hands and a dust mask to prevent inhalation of dust particles during sanding. Gloves will also help save your hands from paint.

 

 

Method:

1. Clean the skirting boards

Remove dust, dirt, and grease buildup from the skirting using a mild detergent solution with a damp cloth, or dedicated wipes which will banish grease and grime. This ensures better paint adhesion.

A small brush, such as an old toothbrush, can help get into any crevices or corners. Wipe dry with a clean fibre-free towel.

2. Sand the skirting surface

Use your palm sander to lightly sand the skirting boards to create a smooth surface. This step helps the paint adhere better and results in a more even finish, removing old paint drips and evening out scuffs.

It can also remove some of the build-up of paint, which is especially important if you’re renovating and there’s years worth of paint on the skirting already. Sanding can remove old gloss in particular.

If there are any awkward small areas, a sanding block or sheet of sanding paper will do the trick.

3. Fill any imperfections

Use wood filler to repair any holes or cracks. This may be dents or scuffs from furniture, for example. Once dry, re-sand the filled areas to blend them seamlessly with the rest of the skirting board.

4. Apply a primer

Using a high-quality brush, apply a coat of primer to the skirting boards, following the wood grain. Allow it to dry completely. Follow the instructions on the tin and use a primer specifically for wooden surfaces and the paint type you will be using.

5. Apply the first coat of paint

Once the primer is dry, apply the first coat of your chosen paint, again following the wood grain. Allow it to dry thoroughly.

Don’t paint on too thickly. Otherwise, the paint will take too long to dry, and the second coat could go bumpy. You’re best painting two or three thin coats to get sufficient coverage.

6. Lightly sand the skirting

After the first coat dries, lightly sand the surface to remove any imperfections. Wipe away the dust with a damp cloth.

7. Apply the second coat of paint

Apply a second coat of paint for a uniform finish. Depending on the paint type and desired opacity, a third coat may be necessary.

 

FAQs

Which paint do I use for skirting boards?

Selecting the appropriate paint is vital for durability and finish.

For skirting boards, oil-based or gloss paints are commonly used due to their hard-wearing properties. However, water-based paints offer a durable finish with easier cleanup.

Gloss finishes provide a high-shine, durable surface, while satin finishes offer a softer sheen. The choice depends on your aesthetic preference and the level of wear the skirting boards will endure.

Applying a primer suitable for the skirting board material ensures better paint adhesion and longevity. For unpainted wood, a wood primer is recommended.

How do I keep my skirting boards maintained?

To keep your skirting boards looking pristine:

• Regular Cleaning: Dust skirting boards regularly to prevent buildup. Use a damp cloth for more thorough cleaning, ensuring the paint remains intact.
• Touch-Ups: Promptly address any chips or scratches by touching up with the same paint (and filler if needed) to maintain a consistent appearance.

By following these steps and considerations, you can achieve beautifully painted skirting boards that enhance your home's interior while ensuring safety and durability.

 

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