Skirting boards are an often over-looked feature in a home, sometimes dismissed as merely a decorative feature with little functional purpose. However, they play an important role both structurally and visually in a room, and we would certainly know if they weren’t there.
At Period Mouldings we sell all our skirting types in 3.6 metre lengths, and you have the option of styles from the Georgian period, Edwardian period, Victorian period or contemporary styles. These all have different heights and sizes as well as a variation in grooves and mouldings. They can also be bought lacquered, primed or untreated.
But the biggest factor is the material. And here we offer four types which provide different characteristics, and which are adaptable to different locations in the home where activities or functionality changes.
Pine
Pine is a softwood, which generally means it is more malleable than hardwoods, but not necessarily less durable. Pine is typically used for construction work and has a characteristic knot which adds to its appeal. For added protection pine is better varnished but has good strength and elasticity properties so it is practical for machining as a skirting. Pine is durable but can absorb moisture, which may be an issue in some homes, however, it can be screwed and nailed easily and takes paint well.
Sapele
This is generally known as a cheaper and more readily available alternative to mahogany. It originates from West Africa and has a colour that varies from golden to reddish brown and can go darker with age if not treated. Sapele has an interlocking grain pattern which gives it a dramatic appearance but does make it harder to woodwork. However, it does finish well and accepts nails, screws and glue very well, hence it is an extremely versatile material.
Tulipwood
Tulipwood is a medium density material that is strong for its weight but has a low shock resistance. It is used widely in construction but also for interior joinery. Tulipwood is easy to machine, plane, turn and glue and doesn’t split when nailed. It will also hold paint, enamel and stain very well.
Oak
This is a hardwood material and, as you would expect, is therefore very durable and used extensively for furniture and flooring as well as skirting boards. It is very popular for kitchen cabinets, and its popular use in the home makes it a good material for matching skirting to furniture.
Oak is hard, stiff, strong and shock resistant, so is ideal for skirting boards that take a lot of hammer from vacuum cleaners, kids, toys and pets etc. It responds well to machining processes and retains good shape even in rooms where the climate is variable. Oak is less expensive than some other woods as there is usually less waste, and it is used for durability rather than for decorative features where appearance is important.
All the materials we stock have properties that lend themselves well to skirting and interior mouldings elsewhere in the home, so it should be easy to match materials to ensure there is consistency and a proper flow to your interior décor. Take a look at our full range of skirting boards and you can always contact us for more advice on the right material for you.