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Installing skirting boards is a great way to add a polished finish to any room. Follow these steps for a professional-looking result.
Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.
Start by measuring the length of each wall where the skirting boards installation will be done. Be sure to measure twice for accuracy. If the wall is longer than a single skirting board, you’ll need to create a headed mitre joint. This joint helps make the connection between boards seamless, especially when painted. Secure the boards using a nail gun.
Transfer your wall measurements to the skirting boards, marking where you need to cut. If you're working with square skirting, you can butt the ends together in internal corners, so no mitre cuts are needed. For other skirting profiles, consider mitring or scribing the corners for a better fit.
With square skirting, simply butt the ends together without an angled cut, ensuring the edges meet seamlessly for a neat finish.
Before attaching the skirting boards, check how they fit along the wall. Place each piece against the wall to ensure they line up correctly. Make any necessary adjustments to achieve a snug fit, especially in the corners or if the walls are uneven.
![A Bunnings Team Member is creating a cut in skirting board using Ryobi mitre saw. ]](https://media.bunnings.com.au/api/public/content/3bd9895d985e4b128971680111cb43ce?v=95ad50e1&t=w700h461SmartCropdpr2)
Apply a strong construction adhesive to the back of the skirting boards, ensuring even coverage along the length of the board. Pay extra attention to applying adhesive near the edges and along any mitred cuts to secure a tight bond at the joints. Use a suitable adhesive that is compatible with your wall surface, whether it’s plaster, brick, or concrete. If needed, apply additional adhesive to fill any slight gaps between the wall and the skirting board for a flush fit.
Once the adhesive is applied, press the skirting board firmly against the wall, holding it in place for a few moments to allow the adhesive to grip securely.
Position the boards against the wall and secure them using a nail gun.
Tip: Use a stud finder to locate the wall studs so you can attach the top of the skirting boards securely.
Start at one corner and work your way around the room. You don’t need to use a spirit level, as skirting boards typically follow the contour of the floor.
When you reach internal corners, keep in mind that the floor may not be perfectly level. Adjust your mitre cuts or other joins as needed to ensure a proper fit.
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
