Skirting boards (also known as baseboards) have been part of our interior home designs for a very long time. Not only do they serve as a protective layer for the area where the floor and the wall meet, they also add a gorgeous aesthetical value to a room.
Overlooked as a key ingredient in the overall beauty of a room, skirting boards are becoming increasingly popular in modern interiors. This is mainly because they are very flexible and adjustable pieces of interior; easy to install, clean, replace, and maintain.
Furthermore, baseboards can also be used to create a border around windows, doors, fireplaces, and floors for an added decorative flare to a home. Learn more about skirting and baseboards here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baseboard
With the amount of different styles and material types available on the market, it can be quite tricky deciding which ones to choose. Hardwood oak skirting boards are definitely on our top list of choices, but here are a few other things to consider.
STYLES AND SHAPES
To bring your design to the next level, homeowners and interior designers can choose between a variety of different styles, shapes, colors, and materials.
Skirting board shapes are available in the following designs:
- Pencil Round
- Torus
- Chamfered
- Ovolo
- Bullnose
- Ogee
- Regency
- Edge
- Rebate
- Royal and many more
Depending on what style you are going for, you can choose a skirting board cut and design that is befitting. Whether you want a simplistic and modern or classic and vintage appearance, there is a design style for all kinds of eras.
MATERIALS AND MANUFACTURING
One aspect that will definitely change the durability and overall appearance of a room is the material you decide to choose for your skirting. Typically, baseboards are made with wood or MDF.
MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard) is a man-made material that can be used to make all kinds of furniture. Fibreboard is made out of scrap material and wood dust that are compounded together and bonded with a resin. Resin used to bond this material contains formaldehyde.
Even though MDF is a cheaper option, the composition of the material is usually featureless and not as durable as wooden boards. Quality skirting boards are made from different types of wood. Usually Pine, Oak, Tulipwood, and Sapele.
Let’s take a closer look at the different wood options you can consider:
Pine
Pine is a softwood that can be used to make anything from chairs to doors. Because pine trees grow faster, this softwood is easily accessible and cheaper than other wooden options. A popular choice due to its adaptability and affordability.
Oak
Investing in a solid oak skirting is definitely worth it. Oak is a hardwood that is extremely strong and durable. Not only is it guaranteed to last for a very long time, it also provides home with an elegant and natural feel.
Because of Oak’s high durability, smooth finish, and prominent grain appeal, it is a great choice for skirting. It can be easily varnished and adds a natural wooden finish to rooms.
Tulipwood
Another hardwood that is popularly found in the United States. The Tulipwood, also known as the Tulip or Yellow Poplar is medium in density and has a natural shock resistance.
The great thing about Tulipwood is that it can bend quite easily, making it great to work with and mold around oddly shaped rooms.
Sapele
The Sapele tree can reach heights of 45 meters and is largely grown in West and East Africa. Sapele is a great alternative to Oak, since it is also very hard, durable, and strong. Sapele provides a gorgeous aesthetic once polished and varnished.
Add a decorative touch to your space by being a bit more adventurous in your skirting board choice. Opting for a dark oak can give your room a natural yet classic feel, whereas opting for a lighter oak can add a touch of fresh and calmness.
As long as you keep in mind the specific style and material used to create the skirting, you’ll be able to make the right choice when shopping around for your baseboards.
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