When it comes to home improvement projects, accuracy is key. This is especially true when installing skirting boards. Taking precise measurements is essential to ensure a seamless and professional finish. You don’t want to end up with unsightly gaps or uneven boards spoiling your hard work. To help you get it right the first time, we’ve put together a guide on mastering the measurement process for skirting board installation.
1. Choose your skirting board type and style:
Before you can measure for skirting installation, you need to choose the type and style of board you want to install. Skirting boards come in different sizes, shapes and finishes. The most common types are MDF, hardwood, softwood and PVC. It’s important to consider the style of your room, your personal taste and your budget when choosing the skirting board. Once you have chosen your skirting board, you can begin the measuring process.
2. Measure the perimeter of the room:
The first step in measuring for skirting board installation is to measure the perimeter of the room. Measure all the walls that require skirting board and add all the measurements together. This will give you the total length of skirting board that you will need for the room. Be sure to measure twice to ensure accuracy.
3. Measure the height of the walls:
Once you have the total perimeter, it’s time to measure the height of the walls. Measure from the floor to the bottom of the plaster or drywall. This will give you the height of the skirting board you require. It’s important to measure for each wall to ensure they are all the same height.
4. Calculate the number of boards required:
With the perimeter and height measured, you can now calculate the number of skirting boards required to complete your installation. To do this, divide the total perimeter by the length of the skirting boards you have chosen. This will give you the number of boards needed for each wall. Remember to add a few extra boards to allow for cuts and wastage.
5. Measure for corners and angles:
No room is perfectly linear, which means you’ll need to measure for corners and angles. The easiest way to measure for corner skirting boards is to use a mitre box or saw to cut the boards at a 45-degree angle. Be sure to add a few extra boards for corners to account for wastage. For angles, measure from the corner to the edge of the wall and then add this measurement to the total perimeter measurement.
Accurately measuring for skirting board installation may seem daunting but is easy with the right tools and knowledge. By following the steps listed above, you’ll be able to measure like a pro and achieve a seamless and professional finish. Remember to double-check your measurements before making any cuts or purchases. With a little patience and precision, your skirting board installation project will be a success.
