Did you know that 78% of homeowners want to update their interiors but worry about the cost and mess? Here’s some good news. Skirting board covers offer a simple solution that transforms tired walls without breaking the bank or creating chaos in your home.
But what exactly are these covers? And why are more people choosing them over traditional skirting replacement? Let’s explore everything you need to know about this clever home upgrade solution.
What Are Skirting Board Covers?
Skirting board covers are smart interior trim products that fit right over your existing skirting boards. Think of them as a protective shell that hides what’s underneath. They look like regular skirting boards from the front. But here’s the clever part – they have a large hollow space on the back that slides over your old skirting.
These covers work like a mask for your walls. They hide damaged, outdated, or ugly skirting boards without removing anything. Your original skirting stays put, protected underneath the new cover. And nobody can tell the difference once they’re installed.
The concept is simple but effective. Instead of ripping out old skirting (which creates dust, noise, and expense), you simply cover it up. It’s like putting a fresh coat over an old wall, but for your skirting boards.
Benefits of Using Skirting Board Covers
Why choose skirting board covers over full replacement? The benefits are clear and practical.
First, they save money. Removing old skirting boards costs time and labor. You might need to repair wall damage afterward. Covers skip all that expense. They also save time – installation takes hours, not days.
But there’s more. Skirting board covers hide cables, pipes, and wall imperfections. Got unsightly wires running along your walls? The hollow rebate space conceals them perfectly. Small dents or marks on your walls? The covers hide those, too.
They protect your original skirting boards from future damage. This matters if you live in a rental property or want to preserve original features. The covers act like armor, taking the hits while keeping the originals safe.
And here’s a bonus – no mess. Traditional skirting replacement creates dust, requires wall repairs, and disrupts your entire room. Covers install cleanly with minimal disruption to your daily life.
Common Materials Used for Skirting Board Covers
Skirting board covers come in three main materials. Each has different benefits depending on your needs and budget.
MDF covers are the most popular choice. They’re affordable and come in multiple styles. MDF stands for medium-density fibreboard – it’s engineered wood that’s stable and easy to work with. These covers paint beautifully and offer excellent value for money.
PVC covers resist water and rot. They’re perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, or damp areas. PVC costs less than wood but looks less natural. However, modern PVC covers have improved significantly. Many now mimic wood grain convincingly.
Wood covers offer the most authentic look. Oak and pine are common choices. They’re durable and beautiful but cost more than other options. Wood covers work best in traditional homes or where natural materials matter most.
Each material has strengths. Choose based on your room’s needs, your budget, and your style preferences.
Different Types and Styles of Skirting Board Covers
The market offers various skirting board cover styles to match different home designs. Traditional profiles include ogee, torus, and chamfered edges. Modern styles favor clean, straight lines with minimal decoration.
MDF covers provide the widest style selection. Manufacturers can create intricate profiles easily with MDF. You’ll find everything from simple square edges to elaborate Victorian-style covers. Most come pre-primed and ready to paint.
PVC covers typically offer simpler profiles. But they compensate with practical benefits like moisture resistance and easy cleaning. Some PVC covers include woodgrain textures that look surprisingly realistic.
Here’s an exciting development – clip-on skirting board covers. These innovative products attach without nails or adhesive. You can remove them easily to access cables or pipes behind. Then clip them back in place. It’s like having removable skirting boards.
Wood covers usually follow traditional profiles. Oak covers often feature classic ogee or torus shapes. Pine covers might have simpler, more contemporary lines. The wood type influences both appearance and cost.
How to Install Skirting Board Covers
Installing skirting board covers requires basic DIY skills and simple tools. You’ll need a saw, hammer, nails or screws, and possibly adhesive. Most covers come with installation instructions.
Start by measuring your existing skirting height and thickness. This ensures you buy covers with the right rebate size. The rebate must accommodate your original skirting completely. Too small, and the covers won’t fit. Too large, and they’ll look bulky.
Cut the covers to length using a fine-tooth saw. Miter the corners for a professional finish. Most covers install with small nails or screws through the top edge. Some use adhesive for a completely hidden fixing method.
The key advantage over full replacement is simplicity. You don’t remove anything, repair walls, or redecorate extensively. The covers attach directly over existing skirting. Installation typically takes a few hours rather than days.
Clip-on covers make the process even easier. They snap into place without any fixings. This method suits renters or anyone wanting completely reversible changes.
Customizing and Finishing Your Skirting Board Covers
Raw skirting board covers need finishing to match your décor. Most MDF and wood covers require painting or staining. This customization step transforms basic covers into perfect room accents.
Prime MDF covers before painting. Use a quality primer designed for MDF. This prevents the material from absorbing too much paint and ensures smooth coverage. Choose paint colors that complement your walls and floors.
Wood covers can be painted or stained. Staining preserves the natural wood grain while adding color. Clear varnish protects the wood and enhances its natural beauty. Oak covers look stunning with dark stains. Pine covers suit lighter finishes.
PVC covers often need no finishing. Many come pre-colored in white or wood-effect finishes. Some PVC covers accept paint if you want custom colors. Use paints designed for plastic surfaces for best results.
Consider your room’s style when choosing finishes. Traditional rooms suit wood stains or classic paint colors. Modern spaces work well with crisp white or bold accent colors.
Practical Applications and Use Cases
Skirting board covers work brilliantly in specific situations. Rental properties benefit hugely because covers don’t permanently alter the original features. Tenants can upgrade their space without losing deposits.
Period homes with original skirting boards use covers to preserve historical features while updating appearance. The original skirting stays protected underneath. Future owners can remove covers to reveal untouched period details.
Commercial buildings and high-traffic areas benefit from durable PVC covers. They resist scuffs, moisture, and cleaning chemicals better than traditional materials. Offices, shops, and public spaces stay looking fresh longer.
Bathrooms and kitchens need moisture-resistant solutions. PVC skirting board covers handle steam, splashes, and humidity without warping or rotting. They’re easy to wipe clean and maintain.
DIY enthusiasts love covers because installation doesn’t require professional skills. Weekend projects become achievable. The forgiving installation process suits beginners while still delivering professional-looking results.
Conclusion: Are Skirting Board Covers the Right Choice for Your Home?
Skirting board covers offer a practical, cost-effective way to refresh your home’s interior. They solve common problems like damaged skirting, hidden cables, and wall imperfections without major disruption.
The benefits are clear: lower cost, faster installation, less mess, and complete reversibility. Whether you choose MDF, PVC, or wood covers depends on your budget, style preferences, and room requirements.
Ready to transform your home’s appearance without the headache of full renovation? Skirting board covers might be exactly what you need. They’re proof that sometimes the smartest solutions are also the simplest ones.
Consider measuring your existing skirting boards today. Research local suppliers and compare materials. Your walls – and your wallet – will thank you for choosing this clever upgrade solution.
