Baseboard

Skirting Board (Baseboard)

A skirting board (commonly referred to as a baseboard in English) is found in most homes. These elements frame the lowest part of walls where they meet the floor. Skirting boards are usually designed with subtle profiles and are produced in a variety of finishes, including white, warm wood tones, stone-effect colors, and other decorative surfaces. A popular example is the Poly Frame Modern Series Skirting Boards.

Skirting boards have been used in buildings for centuries, serving both functional and decorative purposes.

History of Skirting Boards

Skirting boards originated in medieval Europe as a solution to cover gaps between walls and floors. These gaps were necessary due to the construction methods of stone or clay walls, which were rarely perfectly straight or even.

Skirting boards were used to conceal these uneven and unattractive gaps, prevent drafts, and improve the interior appearance of homes. During the 17th and 18th centuries, skirting boards evolved into wider and more decorative architectural elements in European aristocratic houses. Intricately carved wooden skirting boards became a symbol of social status and refined taste.

In the United States, simpler versions of European decorative skirting boards—known as baseboards—became common. In addition to concealing construction gaps, they also played a decorative role. Today, with advances in modern construction, structural gaps at the bottom of walls are often minimized; however, skirting boards remain a popular design element and are frequently used to conceal electrical wiring and central heating pipes.

Reasons for Using Skirting Boards

Skirting boards play an important role in both the functionality and aesthetics of interior spaces.

Functional Purposes

• Concealing gaps and cables: Skirting boards elegantly cover the joint between walls and floors.

• Thermal insulation: The covered gap helps reduce air infiltration and improves insulation.

• Wall protection: They protect walls from damage caused by furniture, foot traffic, and vacuum cleaners.

• Moisture barrier: Water-resistant polystyrene skirting boards protect walls from decay and mold growth.

Aesthetic Purposes

• Decorative value: With a wide range of designs and colors, skirting boards enhance interior appearance.

• Visual expansion: Using contrasting colors with walls can create the illusion of larger spaces and higher ceilings.

Types of Skirting Boards

Skirting boards are produced in many types to suit different needs and design preferences. These include adhesive skirting boards, rounded, flat, decorative, stone, plastic, wooden, thermal, ceramic, metal, illuminated, PVC, concrete, and polystyrene skirting boards. This diversity allows skirting boards to be used across various interior styles and environments.

Polystyrene Skirting Boards

Polystyrene skirting boards are manufactured using advanced materials and offer significant advantages over other types. One of their key features is high impact resistance, making them ideal for high-traffic areas such as living rooms, offices, and commercial spaces.

Their antibacterial properties make polystyrene skirting boards particularly suitable for hygienic environments such as hospitals, medical centers, and kitchens.

Another major advantage is their 100% water resistance and washability using common cleaning agents. This makes them highly suitable for humid areas such as bathrooms and restrooms. Unlike wood or MDF, which may deteriorate when exposed to moisture, polystyrene skirting boards offer long-term durability and easy maintenance—making them a cost-effective and practical choice for both residential and commercial applications.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Other Skirting Board Types

1. Adhesive (Self-Adhesive) Skirting Boards

Advantages: Easy installation without specialized tools; lightweight; suitable for temporary décor; wide design variety; low cost.
Disadvantages: Low durability; moisture sensitivity; unsuitable for high-traffic areas; limited impact resistance.

2. Rounded Skirting Boards

Advantages: Modern appearance; reduced dust accumulation; smooth surface; relatively impact-resistant.
Disadvantages: Higher cost; limited compatibility with classic interiors; requires professional installation.

3. Flat Skirting Boards

Advantages: Minimalist design; easy installation; suitable for small spaces; moderate cost.
Disadvantages: Limited design variety; lower impact resistance; less suitable for luxury interiors.

4. Decorative Skirting Boards

Advantages: High visual appeal; ideal for classic and luxury interiors; wide design variety.
Disadvantages: Higher price; more complex installation; requires regular maintenance.

5. Stone Skirting Boards

Advantages: Extremely durable; moisture resistant; long lifespan; suitable for luxury and high-traffic areas.
Disadvantages: Heavy weight; high cost; limited compatibility with modern/minimal interiors.

6. Plastic Skirting Boards

Advantages: Lightweight; moisture resistant; affordable; suitable for kitchens and bathrooms.
Disadvantages: Lower impact resistance; simpler appearance; heat sensitivity.

7. Wooden Skirting Boards

Advantages: Natural beauty; customizable; warm and elegant appearance.
Disadvantages: Moisture sensitivity; higher cost; requires maintenance; susceptible to insects.

8. Ceramic Skirting Boards

Advantages: High durability; water and heat resistant; easy to clean.
Disadvantages: Heavy; expensive; prone to breakage under impact.

9. Metal Skirting Boards

Advantages: Modern industrial look; fire resistant; highly durable.
Disadvantages: High cost; limited color options; unsuitable for classic interiors.

10. LED / Illuminated Skirting Boards

Advantages: Decorative lighting; ideal for modern luxury spaces; enhances ambient lighting.
Disadvantages: Higher cost; requires electrical installation; moisture sensitivity if not properly designed.

11. PVC Skirting Boards

Advantages: Moisture resistant; lightweight; easy installation; affordable.
Disadvantages: Less premium appearance; heat sensitivity; limited design variety.

12. Concrete Skirting Boards

Advantages: Extremely durable; suitable for industrial and outdoor environments.
Disadvantages: Heavy; limited design options; unsuitable for luxury interiors.

13. Cover Skirting Boards

Cover skirting boards are a modern solution for renovation projects. They are installed over existing skirting boards without removal, thanks to the hollow space behind them.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Skirting Boards

Advantages

• Creates a clean, finished look
• Seamlessly connects walls and floors
• Conceals cables, pipes, gaps, and uneven edges
• Protects walls from furniture and cleaning damage
• Improves thermal insulation
• Enhances architectural aesthetics
• Influences perceived room height and proportions
• Matches door frames and decorative trims
• Available in a wide range of materials
• Easy installation in renovations and new buildings

Disadvantages

• Initial installation cost
• Requires repainting if low-quality materials are used
• Poor installation may cause dust accumulation
• Susceptible to scratches without protective coatings
• Wooden skirting boards are moisture-sensitive
• Precise cutting and installation can be challenging
• Incorrect measurements affect visual consistency
• Flooring choices may be limited without proper planning

Are Skirting Boards Necessary?

Skirting boards are not legally mandatory in construction, but their installation is strongly recommended. Aesthetically, they create a harmonious visual transition between floors and walls. Functionally, they conceal minor flooring installation imperfections and expansion gaps. Without skirting boards, dirt accumulates in wall-floor gaps, making cleaning difficult.

How to Choose the Right Skirting Board Style

• White Skirting Boards: A timeless and safe choice, especially when walls are also white.
• Colored Skirting Boards: Choose a tone lighter than the flooring but darker than the walls for balance.
• Wood-Effect Skirting Boards: Add warmth and elegance; match carefully in small spaces to avoid visual shrinking.
• Flat vs. Rounded Edges: Flat edges suit modern interiors, while rounded profiles reduce dust and ease cleaning.

Skirting Board Specifications

Standard skirting board heights range from 7 to 20 cm, with 10–15 cm being most common. Heights of 20 cm are suitable for tall walls and lobby spaces. Thickness generally ranges between 16–25 mm.

Poly Frame skirting boards, due to their refined design, are produced with a thickness of 8 mm and in two heights: 9 cm and 12 cm.

Key Considerations When Choosing Skirting Boards

• Budget Planning: Calculate required length and select the best option within your budget.
• Interior Design Style: Choose skirting boards that complement modern, classic, or minimalist décor.
• Installation Method: Consider ease of installation and available resources before purchasing.

Quality of Polystyrene Skirting Boards

Polystyrene skirting boards are lightweight, moisture-resistant, heat-resistant, flexible, and highly durable. Their resistance to cracking and impact, combined with diverse designs and colors, makes them ideal for high-traffic and humid environments such as kitchens and bathrooms.

Buying Skirting Boards from Poly Frame

Poly Frame is a trusted manufacturer of high-quality polystyrene skirting boards. Using premium raw materials and modern standards, Poly Frame offers durable products in a wide range of designs, colors, and dimensions. Our professional consulting team assists customers in selecting the most suitable solution based on design needs and budget. By choosing Poly Frame, you benefit from superior product quality, reliable after-sales service, and long-lasting interior beauty