Installing new skirting boards and architraves often forms part of a larger refurbishment project, but they can also be a stand-alone job that you’ve been putting off for a while. Either way, you will face the eternal dilemma of whether to fit them yourself or to hire a professional to do the job for you.
Many people like to tackle this kind of job themselves, for a number of reasons:
- They like a challenge
- They like to learn new skills
- They already have the skills and only rarely get chance to use them
- They have the tools and materials already
- They need to save money
This can make the decision relatively easy. But on the flipside, hiring a professional also has a number of benefits. So first let’s look at the pros and cons of each option.
The pros and cons of a DIY installation
Naturally, doing the job yourself will save you money, and this might be very important if the installation is a small part of a much bigger renovation in your home. Doing the job yourself hopefully means you can take your time over it and not be rushed, which may also be important if you are not too experienced in the techniques required. You may also be keen to utilise the tools you have already paid for. Fundamentally, doing the job yourself will provide you with a lot of satisfaction, and more ownership over your home renovation. And the good news is that doing the job yourself is relatively easy, and there are numerous YouTube videos available to help you with the process.
The obvious downside to the DIY approach is that you could make mistakes, which could result in a poor quality installation, wasted materials (and therefore extra cost), an injury and lots of stress. Even if you manage to fit the skirting boards or architrave, it may not last as long as a professional installation, and you may end up replacing them in half the time.
The pros and cons of a professional installation
Arranging for a professional to install your skirting boards or architrave is obviously much easier, as you can just sit back and watch them do it, knowing that it will be done well and the install will last a long time and will always look great.
And the obvious flipside is that there is a cost to that. This kind of install won’t be hugely expensive in the big scheme of things, but if you are adding it to the cost of other new features, and maybe even structural renovations, then maybe it is a cost you can save? Another consideration is that you need to find a professional you can trust. This is not always easy and hiring someone to do the job for you can be time-consuming and is not always a guarantee of quality, unless you already know someone from a previous job.
What to think about when considering a DIY install for your skirting boards and architrave
It is fair to say there are more benefits to a DIY install, while accepting that this is not for everyone. Nevertheless, some of these factors listed below may help you reach a decision. Here is what you need to think about:
- Finish – Paint and wood stain can cover up most blemishes
- Filler – You can use filler and caulk in gaps left along a wall or floor where minor measurement discrepancies have occurred
- Angles – Take your time and measure angles correctly, both internally and externally, in most cases these will be 45 degrees
- Walls and floors – Don’t assume all walls and floors will be square and flat, or consistent
- Accuracy – Make sure you measure everything accurately, and follow the old saying “measure twice and cut once”
- Tools – Make sure you have the right tools of a good quality, and if you need to hire them, is it worth the cost compared to paying someone to do it?
- Fixing – Think about how you are going to fix the skirting board or architrave. Traditionally people have used screws or nails, but adhesive also works well and means there are no visible fixings.
Should I fit skirting boards and architrave myself or hire a professional?
There is no simple answer to this, as it very much depends on your individual circumstances. If you are confident you have the skills and the tools, the project is straightforward and you can take your time over it, then a DIY install will bring you great satisfaction, and you can probably cover up any blemishes you create. However, if the install is complex, or involves bare wood that can’t be covered over, or if you possess limited skills and have limited time, then hiring a professional is probably the right thing to do.
If you need any further advice over installing skirting boards and architrave, then contact our team at Period Mouldings today.