Skirting boards
Skirting boards, also known as baseboards, are boards that run around the lowest part of an interior wall. Typically, they cover the joint between the floor and the wall surface.
They can be used for purely decorative purposes and can feature mouldings and intricate chip carpentry. However, they are more commonly to be a simple plank of timber that has been fixed (with nails, screws, glue, and so on), to the wall.
A more functional purpose of skirting boards is to act as protection for the wall from abrasion, accidental knocks from furniture, wear and tear, and so on. They can also be used to hide unsightly wall or floor edges which may be uneven and untidy.
The most common material that is used for skirting boards is timber, which can be left untreated or lacquered, painted, etc. Plastics such as uPVC can also be used and is often glued in place to the wall. Vinyl can also be used and can be a particularly durable option.
Skirting boards can often have wires running along the top of them with clips attaching them at spaced intervals.
For more information, see How to fit skirting boards, and Types of skirting board.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition) March 2025
Free download covering statutory dutyholder roles under the Building Safety Act and much more.
Minister quizzed, as responsibility transfers to MHCLG and BSR publishes new building control guidance.
UK environmental regulations reform 2025
Amid wider new approaches to ensure regulators and regulation support growth.
BSRIA Statutory Compliance Inspection Checklist
BG80/2025 now significantly updated to include requirements related to important changes in legislation.