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D.I.Y. Advice

How to install skirting boards

Jason

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Project Overview

Installing skirting boards is an easy job with the right tools and know-how. We’ll take you through the tools you need to measure, cut and install your skirting boards. You’ll also see how to cut a scribed joint to give your job a professional finish.

Continue to step-by-step instructions

Step by Step Instructions

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1 Measure the wall

2 Cut the skirting board

3 Cut the scribed joint

4 Cut and attach the skirting boards

Step 1. Measure the wall

Make sure you take down the measurements of your skirting boards accurately. Remember the rule of thumb, measure twice, cut once. Use the tape measure to work out the lengths you need your skirting boards to be. Transfer this distance onto the skirting boards. Use the handsaw to draw a straight line across the skirting board.

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Step 2. Cut the skirting board

After you have marked up the skirting board, use the miter box and handsaw to cut it at a 45 degree angle. This first piece of skirting that will be cut to match the profile of the board.

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Step 3. Cut the scribed joint

Cutting a scribed joint makes one end of the skirting board match the profile of the other, so that the boards join seamlessly in the corner. Use the coping saw to follow the 45 degree cut in the skirting board you just made. Cut from the bottom of the skirting board to the top, carefully following the line of the painted surface. Cut in and out with the coping saw as the line changes. As you get closer to the top of the skirting, cut away from the board so that you have a lip that will fit over the top of the other skirting board.

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Step 4. Cut and attach the skirting boards

Measure the length of the wall for the first skirting board. Then cut the board to length with a 90 degree cut at both ends. Use a stud finder to locate the wooden frames behind the wall. Attach the skirting board to the wall with the nail gun to, so that it is flush to the corner. Cut the skirting board with the scribed joint to size, then push it against the first skirting board so that it’s flush. The secure it using the nail gun. Repeat the process until all the skirting boards are installed.

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Tools and Materials

Tools

Coping saw
Ear muffs
Hammer
Handsaw
Mitre box
Nail gun
Pencil
Safety glasses
Stud finder
Tape measure
Work horse

Materials

Skirting boards

9
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