Skirting boards, also known as baseboards, are essential in pretty much every single home – regardless of its style and décor. They’re one of those pieces that serve a functional and aesthetic role – covering and protecting the space between the walls and floors while adding some visual interest and often elegance to any room.
But what to do when you notice unappealing yellowing? Or if you just feel it’s time to rejuvenate and restore them to their former glory? It’s not that hard - as long as you follow a good plan.
What You’ll Need
- Sandpaper
- Paintbrush and/or foam roller
- Masking tape
- Primer (undercoat)
- Enamel paint
Optional
- Gap sealant
- Wood filler
- Putty knife
How to repaint skirting boards?
Whether you’re painting them for the first time or painting over the current colour, the process is nearly the same. Of course, dealing with old skirting boards is a bit more complex due to the logistics and the simple fact that there could be plenty of objects between yourself and what you want to repaint.
Put things in order
Start by moving furniture well out of the way so that you have plenty of space to get in and paint the skirting.
Testing
Before you can paint your skirting its recommended you apply an adhesion test on the current surface to make sure the skirting boards are in a suitable condition to paint. If you notice any chipping, missing pieces, cracks, they first have to be repaired and filled to make sure the paint adhesion remains intact. These small details can cause a ton of problems like buildups, streaks and drips.
Sanding your skirting boards
If the boards are still in good condition the next step would be to give the boards a light sand to remove any surface imperfections with 120 grit sandpaper, sanding the skirting will also help to roughen the stain so that the new paint will adhere to it better. This can be a fiddly job, especially if your skirting is quite decorative, but it’s essential that you do it.
Clean Up
Once you’ve sanded all the skirting, vacuum the room to remove the dust, using a thin nozzle to get in close and make sure that area is clean. Clean the skirting to remove any remaining fine dust or grease, using a Selleys Sugar Soap Wipes. Allow to dry before moving on to the next step.
Time to paint skirting boards
Before you start painting, lay some paper or sheets on the floor to protect against spills. A strip of masking tape along the edge of the flooring, as close to the boards as possible, will further protect your floor or carpet.
Now you’re ready to paint.
You’ll need to start with a sealer/primer to stop any stain coming through and to properly prepare the surface, we recommend using Zinsser Odourless Primer which is an oil-based primer without the nasty oil-based odour, which means it’s perfect to use inside, it also has a bright white finish making it easier to paint over with the top-coat.
Once the undercoat is dry, you’re ready to apply the top-coat, this part can be tricky, start by cutting in along the top of the skirting, go slowly and use a small amount of paint at a time making sure to wipe excess paint off the brush along the edge of the tin. Brush from right to left (reverse if you are left-handed), so that you’re not leaning across awkwardly. When you’ve cut in a section along the top of the skirting, move to the bottom and do the same. Then you can fill in the middle with more confidence. Keep checking for drips as you go along, and use a brush or cloth to wipe them whenever you see them. Move along the skirting, taking your time and always being careful.
Don’t stop at the skirting boards, learn to paint trim like professionals do, too!
What’s the best paint for skirting boards?
For trims and skirting boards, we recommend using a water-based paint like Berger Premium Water Based Enamel or Dulux Aquanamel, both are non-yellowing and are available in a range of colours. When painting skirting boards go for a semi-gloss finish so that you have a nice modern look and an even finish. Make sure to wait the recommended drying time before applying the second coat, pay special attention to any drips or bumps, being sure to sand them right down, otherwise, they will get worse with the second coat. Wipe over the skirting with a damp cloth after sanding to remove the fine dust then you’re right to apply the second coat.
As always, we recommend you visit your nearest Inspirations Paint store for the best advice for your paint project.
FAQ
Here you can find some extra tips, useful tricks and information on how to paint skirting boards to perfection and more.
Should I sand my skirting boards?
Yes, light sanding is definitely recommended before you apply the topcoat. Remember also to wipe off any dust or dirt. This helps improve adhesion, which means you’ll need fewer coats and get a better finish.
Should you paint skirting boards with a roller or brush?
You can use both – a small foam roller for larger surfaces and a brush cutter whenever more precision is required.
Do you paint the skirting board or walls first?
The most common order is walls first, then skirting boards and trims to reduce the number of drips and unfortunate accidents. It’s important to bear in mind this is largely a matter of personal preference.
How many coats of paint on skirting boards?
Two coats should be enough in most cases. The second one should not be watered down or thinned since that can cause issues like flaking and cracking further down the road.
Is painting over stained wood even a good idea?
Absolutely – but there are some rules. Don’t paint over freshly stained wood. Don’t paint over stained wood without sanding and priming it first.