What Are the Different Types of Wood Skirting Boards Available?

When it comes to interior design, wood skirting boards are more than just functional elements that protect walls from scuffs and damage. They also add character, elegance, and a polished finish to your rooms. Whether you are renovating a heritage home or designing a modern apartment, choosing the right skirting board can significantly enhance the overall aesthetic of your space. But what exactly are the different types of wood skirting board available, and how can you choose the perfect style for your home? In this article, Period Mouldings explores the options for homeowners and designers alike.

Why Choose Wood Skirting Boards?

Before diving into the types, it’s essential to understand why wood skirting boards are a preferred choice. Unlike MDF or PVC alternatives, wood skirting boards offer durability, a timeless appearance, and versatility. They can be painted or stained to match any interior style, from classic to contemporary. Additionally, wood can be shaped and profiled in ways that synthetic materials cannot, making it ideal for achieving intricate designs and elegant detailing.

For homeowners aiming for sophistication and lasting appeal, wood skirting boards are often the go-to solution.

1. Classic or Traditional Skirting Boards

Classic skirting boards are characterized by their ornamental detailing and bold profiles. These boards often feature curves, grooves, and decorative elements reminiscent of historic architecture. They are perfect for homes with traditional interiors, Victorian designs, or period-style renovations.

Traditional skirting boards not only protect walls but also highlight architectural features like fireplaces and doorways. They tend to be taller than other types, often ranging from 120mm to 250mm in height, providing a sense of grandeur and elegance.

2. Modern Skirting Boards

For a sleek, minimalist aesthetic, modern skirting boards are an excellent choice. These boards usually have straight lines, sharp edges, and a simple profile without excessive detailing. Their understated design allows them to blend seamlessly with contemporary interiors while still offering the functional benefits of protecting walls from knocks and scrapes.

Modern skirting boards work well in apartments, office spaces, and new builds where a clean, streamlined look is desired. They can be painted in bold or neutral colors to complement walls, flooring, and furniture, providing a cohesive and stylish finish.

3. Beaded Skirting Boards

Beaded skirting boards feature a small, rounded groove or “bead” along the top edge. This subtle detailing adds texture and interest without overwhelming a room. Beaded boards are often used in both traditional and transitional interiors, making them versatile and visually appealing.

The bead can be deep or shallow, depending on your preference, and these skirting boards are often paired with hardwood or engineered wood flooring to create a cohesive, classic look.

4. Ogee Skirting Boards

Ogee skirting boards are named after their S-shaped profile, known as the “ogee.” This elegant design adds sophistication and depth to walls, making it suitable for high-end interiors or homes that want to emphasize architectural detailing. Ogee boards are typically taller than modern skirting boards, creating a dramatic statement along the perimeter of a room.

They are ideal for period homes, formal living areas, or spaces with high ceilings, where the visual impact of skirting boards can be fully appreciated.

5. Chamfered Skirting Boards

Chamfered skirting boards feature a simple angled cut along the top edge, creating a subtle shadow line. This design provides a modern and minimalist look, making it a popular choice for contemporary interiors. Chamfered boards are practical, easy to clean, and complement various wall and floor types.

They are particularly suitable for open-plan homes or spaces where simplicity and understated elegance are desired. Chamfered boards can be painted in a matching wall color for a seamless look or in a contrasting tone for added definition.

6. Block Skirting Boards

Block skirting boards, also known as square-edge skirting, offer a clean and robust appearance. These boards typically have a flat, rectangular profile and are commonly used in modern and industrial-style interiors. Their simplicity makes them versatile and easy to install, and they work well with both hardwood and laminate flooring.

Block skirting boards are also excellent for hiding wiring or cable runs, as the hollowed sections behind the boards can conceal unsightly cords without compromising aesthetics.

7. High Skirting Boards

High skirting boards are generally over 200mm in height and are often used in rooms with tall ceilings. They create a sense of grandeur and can make rooms feel more proportionate. High skirting boards can be plain or ornate, depending on whether you prefer modern or traditional styling.

Period Mouldings often recommends high skirting boards for heritage properties or luxury homes where the goal is to impress with subtle architectural detailing.

8. Specialty Skirting Boards

Some wood skirting boards are designed for specific functional or decorative purposes. Examples include:

• Curved Skirting Boards: Ideal for rooms with rounded walls or bay windows.
• Skirting Boards with Integrated Cable Management: Allows wires and cables to run discreetly behind the board.
• Paint-Ready Skirting Boards: Pre-primed boards that make painting faster and easier.

These specialty options combine practicality with style, ensuring that even unique architectural challenges are addressed.

How to Choose the Right Wood Skirting Board

Selecting the right wood skirting board depends on several factors:

1. Interior Style: Match the skirting board style with your home’s overall design. Traditional homes benefit from classic or ogee boards, while modern apartments pair well with sleek or chamfered boards.
2. Height of Ceilings: Higher ceilings often require taller boards to create visual balance.
3. Flooring Type: Consider your floor material and color when choosing wood and finish. Dark hardwood floors look stunning with contrasting painted skirting boards, while light floors pair well with natural wood finishes.
4. Functionality: If you need to hide cables or add durability in high-traffic areas, choose boards that accommodate these requirements.

Maintenance and Finishing

Wood skirting boards are durable but require proper maintenance to keep them looking their best. Regular dusting, occasional polishing, and repainting or staining when needed will ensure longevity. Modern skirting boards often feature smoother finishes, which make cleaning even easier, while traditional boards may require more attention to preserve intricate detailing.

Staining enhances the natural beauty of wood grain, while painting allows for seamless color matching with walls and décor. Period Mouldings provides a range of finishes suitable for all interior styles, ensuring your skirting boards remain both functional and beautiful for years to come.

Conclusion

Choosing the right wood skirting board is a balance between style, functionality, and personal preference. From ornate traditional boards to minimalist modern skirting boards, the options are vast, each offering its own unique charm and practical benefits. By understanding the different types available, you can select boards that complement your interior design while protecting your walls and enhancing your home’s overall aesthetic.

For homeowners seeking premium quality and stylish designs, Period Mouldings offers an extensive range of wood skirting boards tailored to both classic and contemporary tastes. Their commitment to quality ensures that every board delivers elegance, durability, and timeless appeal.