How to Choose Skirting Boards? The Complete Guide

Choosing skirting boards is a key step in the interior design process . They give the space character and emphasize its style. In this guide, you will find practical tips to help you choose the skirting boards that are ideally suited to your home. Regardless of whether you prefer classic elegance or functional solutions in minimalist interiors, you will find inspiration here that will make your decision easier.

Why are skirting boards important?

Skirting boards have a dual role – they are both decorative and protect the lower parts of the walls from damage. Additionally, they mask expansion gaps, which significantly improves the aesthetics of the interior. However, choosing the right skirting boards can be a challenge. There are many options available on the market, differing in material, color and style. Therefore, it is worth focusing on a few key criteria that will make it easier to make a decision.

How to choose skirting board material?

First, consider the material your moldings are made from. Each type has its own unique features that affect durability, appearance, and ease of installation. Here are some popular options:

• Wooden strips : distinguished by their natural elegance and solidity.

• PVC strips : resistant to moisture and mechanical damage, which makes them a practical choice.

• MDF moldings : they are affordable and easy to paint, which allows them to be personalized.

The choice of material should be adapted to the specifics of the room. For example, moisture-resistant strips will work better in the bathroom , while in the living room you can go for more decorative solutions.

Are white skirting boards a good solution for me?

Another important aspect is the color of the skirting boards . The color has a huge impact on the perception of the space. Here are some tips:

• White strips : universal and optically enlarge smaller rooms.

• Black strips : add elegance and expressiveness.

• Coloured or wood-effect strips : they can harmonise with the floor or provide a contrasting accent.

Consider whether you want the strips to blend into the background or to draw attention as a decorative element. Choosing any color can completely change the character of the interior.

Functionality of skirting boards

Don't forget about the functionality of skirting boards either. Modern models offer many practical solutions, such as:

• hiding cables,

• built-in LED lighting,

• easy assembly and disassembly.

These additional features not only enhance the aesthetics of the interior, but also increase its functionality. If you want a modern look, it is worth considering such options.

What type of skirting board should I choose?

Choosing skirting boards is not only a matter of aesthetics, but also functionality and durability. There are various types of skirting boards available on the market, which can be perfectly matched to individual needs and interior style. Learning about the most popular options will allow you to make an informed decision that will meet both practical and visual expectations.

Wooden skirting boards – a classic full of charm

Wooden skirting boards are synonymous with elegance and durability. Made of wood or veneered, they introduce natural beauty and timeless character to interiors. Their solidity makes them resistant to damage, making them an investment for many years. This is a choice for lovers of natural materials and refined design.

• Material: solid wood or veneer

• Advantages: durability, elegance, natural look

• Perfect for: Wooden floors

MDF skirting boards – style at an affordable price

For those looking for a compromise between aesthetics and price, MDF skirting boards are a great solution. Made of MDF board, they offer a wide range of finishes, making them easy to match to any interior. Although they are not as resistant to moisture, their resistance to mechanical damage makes them very popular. This is a great option for those who want to achieve an attractive visual effect without excessive costs.

• Material: MDF board

• Advantages: affordable price, wide range of finishes

• Disadvantages: lower resistance to moisture

Skirting board colors

Choosing the right colour for skirting boards is a key element of interior design, which can completely change their character. Skirting boards can subtly blend in with the surroundings or be a distinctive accent, giving the space a unique style. It is important that the colour of the skirting boards harmonizes with the floor, walls and the general atmosphere of the interior, which allows you to achieve a coherent and aesthetic effect.

When choosing a color, it is worth considering several important aspects:

• Impact on the perception of space: Light shades, such as white, optically enlarge the room, while darker ones, such as black, add elegance and expressiveness.

• Harmony or contrast: The decision of whether the mouldings should harmonise with the floor and walls or constitute a contrasting element affects both the aesthetics and functionality of the interior.

White skirting boards – versatility and optical enlargement of space

White skirting boards are a solution that works in almost every interior. Their light shade introduces elegance and optically enlarges the space, which is especially useful in smaller rooms. Thanks to their neutrality, minimalist skirting boards fit perfectly into both classic interiors and modern arrangements, creating a harmonious whole.

When choosing white strips, it is worth paying attention to their finish:

• Matte surfaces: Add subtlety and delicacy.

• Glossy finish: Adds a touch of luxury and elegance.

This is an ideal choice for those who want the floor to be the main visual point. When decorating an interior, it is worth carefully planning the choice of materials, because white strips do not distract from other elements of the decor, do not overwhelm the floor panels and provide an aesthetic appearance.

Black skirting boards – elegance and expressiveness

Black skirting boards are a suggestion for people who want to add elegance and expressiveness to their interiors. Dark skirting boards create a clear contrast with light walls and floors, which perfectly emphasizes the modern or industrial character of the room. By choosing skirting boards in an intense color, we make them perfectly emphasize the interior design, which is to attract attention and exude luxury.

Main advantages of black strips:

• Universal style: They fit both minimalist and eclectic arrangements.

• Drama and depth: They introduce a distinctive accent that gives the interior character.

Black skirting boards are the perfect choice for those who want their space to be not only functional, but also expressive and stylish. When choosing black skirting boards, you can opt for low skirting boards that will emphasize, for example, stucco on the wall. They will also look better in low rooms, because they will be more proportionate .

Skirting board height – how to choose the right proportions?

Choosing the right height of skirting boards is a key element in designing a harmonious interior. The height of the boards should be matched to the height of the walls and the size of the room, so that the whole thing looks coherent and proportionate. High skirting boards introduce a touch of elegance and luxury to the interior, while lower models fit perfectly into minimalist arrangements, where simplicity plays the main role.

Consider what effect you want to achieve:

• Expressive elegance – choose higher strips that attract attention and give the interior a luxurious character.

• Subtle finish – choose lower strips that will delicately complement the entire arrangement.

Functionality cannot be forgotten. Higher strips protect walls better from damage – this is especially important in places with high traffic, such as hallways or living rooms. On the other hand, lower strips are more discreet and work perfectly in smaller rooms, where every centimeter of space matters. So how do you find the perfect solution that combines aesthetics with practicality? It all depends on your individual needs and preferences!

Expansion joint width – what is worth knowing?

One of the most important technical aspects when choosing skirting boards is the width of the expansion gap . This is a small space between the floor and the wall, which the skirting boards are designed to cover. Properly selected skirting boards not only improve the aesthetics of the interior, but also affect the durability and functionality of the entire finish.

The ambient conditions cannot be ignored either. In rooms with increased humidity, such as bathrooms, skirting boards made of moisture-resistant materials will work better. In order for skirting boards to fulfill their task perfectly, it is worth considering:

• Slat material – choose moisture-resistant for bathrooms and kitchens.

• Interior style – match the strips to the character of the room.

• Functionality – take into account the intensity of use of the space.

• Aesthetics – ensure consistency with the rest of the arrangement.

The final choice depends on the specifics of your interior and your expectations. Remember that well-chosen skirting boards are not only aesthetics, but also durability and functionality for years!

Matching the moldings to the interior

Choosing skirting boards is not only a matter of functionality, but also an important decorative element that can completely change the atmosphere of a room. In this article, you will learn how to perfectly choose skirting boards so that they harmoniously match the style and colors of the interior, creating a coherent and aesthetic whole.

Interior style – how to choose moldings for your interior design?

The style of the interior plays a key role in choosing skirting boards. Each arrangement – ​​from classic to modern – requires an individual approach so that the skirting boards become an integral element of the decor. Below you will find tips on how to match skirting boards to different styles:

• Classic interiors: Choose elegant wooden strips or their faithful imitations. They will introduce warmth and timeless charm, emphasizing the traditional character of the space.

• Minimalist arrangements: Opt for delicate strips in neutral colors. They subtly blend into the background, emphasizing spaciousness and harmony of form.

• Modern interiors: Experiment with unusual shapes or intense colors. Metal or lacquered models in bold shades will add dynamics and emphasize the modern style of the room.

• Provencal style: Choose strips in pastel shades or with subtle decorations. They will emphasize the naturalness and coziness of the interior, introducing a romantic, decorative accent.

Floor and wall color – harmony or contrast?

The color of your floor and walls is another key aspect to consider when choosing skirting boards. Whether you want your skirting boards to blend in with the surroundings or to create a contrasting accent depends on the look you want to achieve. Here are a few tips:

• Harmony with the floor

• Contrasting strips

• Harmony with the walls

The final choice depends on whether the strips are to act as a subtle addition or a distinctive decorative element. Remember that well-chosen strips are not only a practical detail, but also a key element that emphasizes the unique character of each arrangement.

Functionality of skirting boards

Choosing skirting boards is not only a matter of aesthetics, but also practicality . Properly selected skirting boards can significantly affect the functionality of a room, so it is worth adapting them to its specifics. What roles can skirting boards play? Let's take a closer look at this to help you choose the perfect solution for your interior.

LED strips – a combination of style and practicality

Skirting boards with built-in LED lighting are an innovative solution that combines aesthetics with functionality. Delicate LED light not only emphasizes the character of the interior, but also acts as an additional source of lighting. This is especially useful in spaces such as:

• Hallways – subtle lighting makes it easier to navigate after dark.

• Lounges – creates a pleasant atmosphere for evening relaxation.

• Bedrooms – provides soft lighting without the need to use the main light.

When choosing LED strips, pay attention to the shade and intensity of light . They should harmonize with the interior design, while providing comfort of use.

Profile strips - an elegant way to hide cables

For lovers of order and minimalist solutions, profile strips are an excellent choice . Thanks to special channels in their construction, you can easily hide cables, which is especially important in modern interiors, where aesthetics play a key role. Such strips will work well in:

• Homes – they ensure a neat appearance of the rooms.

• Office spaces – combining functionality with elegance.

Their installation is quick and simple, and the end result is neat and professional .

Strips for tiles, panels and wooden floors – how to choose the right ones?

Matching your skirting boards to your floor type is essential if you want a consistent and lasting effect. Here are a few tips to help you make the right choice:

Floor type	Recommended strips	Key Features
Tiles	Metal strips	Moisture resistance, solidity, elegance
Laminate flooring	MDF strips	Wide range of colors and finishes
Wooden floors	Wooden strips or their imitations	Emphasizing the natural character of the interior

Which skirting boards will work best in your home? The choice is yours!