Introduction
Are you tired of the same old skirting boards that have seen better days? Replacing your skirting can breathe new life into your home without breaking the bank. We’ll take you through a step-by-step guide to replacing skirting with high-quality products from Wickes Skirting Board. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a novice looking for a weekend project, you’ll find this guide easy to follow and immensely rewarding.
Why Replace Skirting Boards?
Enhance Home Aesthetics
Replacing skirting boards can significantly improve the look of your home. Old, damaged skirting can make even the most well-decorated room look shabby. New skirting boards from Wickes provide a fresh, clean line that enhances your interior design.
Increase Property Value
Upgrading your skirting can also increase the value of your property. Potential buyers notice details, and new skirting boards can be a selling point that sets your home apart. High-quality skirting from Wickes ensures durability and adds to the overall appeal of your home.
Protect Walls
Skirting boards protect your walls from scuffs, kicks, and vacuum cleaner knocks. By replacing old, worn-out skirting, you can keep your walls in pristine condition. Wickes offers a range of robust skirting options that provide excellent protection while looking great.
Choosing the Right Skirting from Wickes
Material Options
Wickes offers skirting boards in various materials, including MDF, hardwood, and softwood. MDF is cost-effective and easy to work with, while hardwood provides a premium look and added durability. Softwood is a versatile option that balances cost and appearance.
Styles and Designs
From traditional to modern, Wickes has a style for every home. You can choose from ogee, torus, and bullnose profiles to match your interior design. Each style offers a unique aesthetic, so take your time to select the perfect one for your space.
Measurement and Quantity
Before purchasing, measure the perimeter of the room where you’ll replace the skirting. Add extra length to account for cutting and mistakes. Wickes provides skirting in various lengths, making it easier to find the right fit for your project.
Tools and Materials Needed
Essential Tools
To replace skirting, you’ll need a few essential tools. These include a saw, hammer, nails, measuring tape, and a spirit level. Wickes offers a range of high-quality tools to ensure your project goes smoothly.
Additional Materials
In addition to skirting boards, you’ll need adhesive, caulk, and paint or varnish. Wickes provides all these materials, ensuring you have everything you need in one place. Don’t forget to wear safety gear like gloves and goggles while working.
Preparation Steps
Before starting, remove any furniture and cover your flooring to protect it from dust and debris. Gather all your tools and materials in one place to keep the workspace organized. A well-prepared workspace makes the job easier and more efficient.
Removing Old Skirting Boards
Scoring the Paint
Use a utility knife to score along the top edge of the old skirting. This step prevents the paint from peeling off the wall when you remove the skirting. Wickes offers a range of utility knives perfect for this task.
Loosening the Skirting
Insert a chisel or crowbar behind the skirting and gently pry it away from the wall. Start at one end and work your way along the length of the skirting. Be careful not to damage the wall. Wickes provides durable chisels and crowbars for this job.
Cleaning the Area
After removing the old skirting, clean the area thoroughly. Remove any leftover adhesive or nails from the wall. A clean surface ensures the new skirting adheres properly. Wickes offers cleaning supplies to help you prepare the area.
Cutting New Skirting Boards
Measuring and Marking
Measure the length of each wall and mark the corresponding measurement on the new skirting board. Accuracy is crucial, so double-check your measurements. Wickes offers reliable measuring tapes and pencils for precise marking.
Making Straight Cuts
Use a saw to cut the skirting to the required length. For straight cuts, use a miter box to guide the saw. Wickes provides high-quality saws and miter boxes to make this task easier and more accurate.
Creating Mitre Joints
For corners, you’ll need to create mitre joints. Set your saw to a 45-degree angle and carefully cut the skirting. Wickes’ saws are adjustable, allowing you to make precise angled cuts for perfect mitre joints.
Installing the New Skirting Boards
Applying Adhesive
Apply adhesive to the back of the skirting board. Spread it evenly to ensure a strong bond. Wickes offers a range of adhesives suitable for skirting installation. Use a caulking gun for easy application.
Positioning the Skirting
Carefully position the skirting board against the wall. Press firmly to ensure it adheres properly. Use a spirit level to check that it’s straight. Wickes provides durable spirit levels to help you achieve a professional finish.
Securing with Nails
In addition to adhesive, secure the skirting with nails. Drive nails at regular intervals along the length of the skirting. Wickes offers a variety of nails and hammers to complete this step efficiently.
Finishing Touches
Filling Gaps
Fill any gaps between the skirting and the wall with caulk. This step ensures a seamless finish. Wickes provides high-quality caulk and caulking guns for a smooth application.
Sanding Rough Edges
Once the caulk is dry, sand any rough edges for a smooth finish. Wickes offers sandpaper and sanding blocks to help you achieve a polished look. Be gentle to avoid damaging the skirting.
Painting or Varnishing
Finally, paint or varnish the skirting to match your interior. Wickes provides a range of paints and varnishes, allowing you to customize the finish to your liking. Use a brush or roller for an even application.
Conclusion
Replacing skirting boards can transform your home, giving it a fresh, updated look. With high-quality products from Wickes and this step-by-step guide, you can tackle this project with confidence. Ready to get started? Visit Wickes today to explore their extensive range of skirting boards and tools. Transform your home, one skirting board at a time!