Ordering skirting boards online can save you time and effort, but it requires careful consideration to ensure you get the right product for your home. Skirting boards are more than just decorative trims—they protect your walls from scuffs, add architectural charm, and can even complement other interior features such as a picture rail. Before making a purchase, there are several factors to weigh, from measurements to material choices and delivery logistics. In this guide, Period Mouldings helps you navigate what to look for before ordering skirting boards online.
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Understand the Different Types of Skirting Boards
Before browsing a Skirting Board Shop online, it’s crucial to know the types of skirting boards available. Skirting boards come in a variety of profiles, sizes, and materials. Common profiles include square, ogee, pencil round, and colonial. Each profile has its own aesthetic, so consider the style of your home before choosing.
Material choices also vary. MDF skirting boards are lightweight, easy to paint, and cost-effective. Hardwood boards, such as oak or pine, offer durability and natural beauty. Polyurethane and PVC options provide moisture resistance, making them ideal for bathrooms or kitchens. Knowing the type and style you want ensures that your online purchase matches both your interior design and practical needs.
Measure Your Space Accurately
Accurate measurements are essential when ordering skirting boards online. Measure the perimeter of each room, including alcoves, doorways, and any irregular walls. It’s a good idea to add a small extra percentage to account for cutting mistakes or miscalculations.
Don’t forget the height and thickness of the skirting board. Traditional rooms with high ceilings often benefit from taller skirting boards, while modern, minimalistic spaces may suit lower profiles. Keep in mind that skirting boards need to sit flush against the wall, so check whether your walls are perfectly straight. Uneven walls may require flexible skirting boards or additional trimming.
Check Compatibility with Other Features
Skirting boards are often part of a cohesive interior design scheme. When ordering online, consider other elements such as picture rails, architraves, and door casings. If your room has a picture rail, ensure that the skirting board design complements it rather than clashes with it. Picture rails and skirting boards can work together to create a balanced, layered look, but mismatched styles can feel disjointed.
Period Mouldings recommends visualizing the combination in your space before purchasing. Many online Skirting Board Shops provide sample images or even physical samples, which can help you make an informed decision.
Choose the Right Finish and Paint Options
One of the advantages of ordering skirting boards online is the ability to choose from various finishes. Pre-finished boards save time and provide a polished look immediately upon installation. Alternatively, unfinished boards allow you to customize the color and finish to match your décor.
If you plan to paint the boards yourself, make sure the material is paint-friendly. MDF and timber boards generally take paint well, while some plastics may require a primer or special type of paint. Think about the finish’s durability as well—high-traffic areas may benefit from semi-gloss or satin finishes, which are easier to clean and maintain.
Understand Shipping and Delivery Options
When purchasing from an online Skirting Board Shop, delivery options can significantly impact your experience. Check whether the supplier offers tracked shipping, delivery time estimates, and the cost of shipping. Skirting boards are long and can be fragile, so choose a retailer that provides protective packaging to prevent damage during transit.
Some online suppliers also offer in-store collection if you prefer to inspect the boards before taking them home. Consider your storage space as well—long boards need a safe place to lie flat to avoid warping until installation.
Compare Prices and Value
Price is often a deciding factor when buying skirting boards online, but it should not be the only consideration. Compare prices across different suppliers, but also consider quality, material, and included services such as delivery or pre-finishing.
A slightly higher price from a reputable Skirting Board Shop may be worth it if it guarantees durable materials, accurate sizing, and excellent customer service. Remember, skirting boards are a long-term investment—they should last for decades, not just a few years.
Read Reviews and Testimonials
Customer reviews provide insight into product quality, delivery efficiency, and customer service. Look for reviews specifically mentioning the type of skirting board you plan to purchase.
Online reviews often highlight potential issues such as warped boards, incomplete packaging, or color mismatches. By checking these details before ordering, you reduce the risk of receiving a product that doesn’t meet your expectations. Period Mouldings emphasizes the importance of choosing a supplier with consistently positive feedback to ensure a smooth buying experience.
Consider Installation Requirements
Installing skirting boards is generally straightforward, but it requires careful planning. Check whether the boards need adhesive, nails, or screws, and whether you require any special tools. Some profiles may be more challenging to install due to intricate designs, especially if your walls or floors are uneven.
If you’re not comfortable with DIY installation, consider whether the online supplier can recommend professional installers. Some Skirting Board Shops even offer installation services, which can save time and ensure a perfect fit.
Verify Return Policies and Guarantees
Even with careful planning, mistakes can happen. Ensure the online supplier has a clear return policy and warranty. This is particularly important for pre-cut or custom skirting boards, which may not be eligible for a standard return.
A strong guarantee reflects confidence in product quality and provides peace of mind in case of damage during delivery or manufacturing defects. Always read the terms and conditions before placing an order to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Visualize the Final Look
Before finalizing your order, visualize how the skirting boards will look in your space. Many online Skirting Board Shops provide digital tools or guides to help you imagine different profiles, heights, and finishes. Pair the skirting boards with a picture rail to see how the two elements work together, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic throughout the room.
Visualization can prevent costly mistakes and help you choose a design that enhances your home’s overall appearance.
Conclusion
Ordering skirting boards online can simplify your home improvement project, but careful consideration is essential. From understanding the types of boards and measuring your space accurately to checking compatibility with picture rails and other features, each step ensures you receive the perfect product.
Always factor in delivery options, material quality, price, reviews, and installation requirements. By taking the time to research and plan, you can confidently order skirting boards online that enhance both the function and style of your home.
For high-quality skirting boards and picture rails, Period Mouldings offers an extensive selection at a trusted Skirting Board Shop, providing both craftsmanship and design expertise. Whether you are updating a single room or outfitting an entire home, making informed choices guarantees beautiful results that last for years.
