How to install skirting boards

How to install skirting boards

Jason
View the video

How to install skirting boards

View the video
×

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

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.

    Previous Step Next Step
    Person measuring the wall to fit skirting boards

  • 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.

    Previous Step Next Step
    Person cutting off the skirting boards

  • 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.
    Previous Step Next Step
    Person cutting the scribed joint

  • 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.

    Previous Step Next Step
    Man attaching the skirting board

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

New D.I.Y. Advice

tiled bathroom

Flooring Ideas How to choose the right type of flooring With so many different types of flooring available, choosing the right type for your home is not easy. Whether your priority is function or style, there's a flooring option to suit every room in your home.

How to lay laminate flooring 05:32

Laminate & Vinyl How to lay laminate flooring Laying a laminate floor can be a relatively cheap, quick and easy way to update a room in your home. It’s relatively easy to do yourself and we’ll show you how.

Floor covering material 01:13

Flooring Ideas How to choose floor coverings for a beach house Choosing the right floor covering for a beach house is important. Find out the best floor coverings and how to clean them.

Rug 01:08

Flooring Ideas How to make the most of your rug Rugs are a great way to add colour and warmth to a space. There are a few simple things you can do to look after them and make them last for years.

Person fixing the carpet to the smooth edge 07:22

Carpet How to lay carpet Anyone can learn how to lay new carpet. We show everything from preparing the space to attaching your under felt and carpet securely.

Flawless flooring with Intergrain.jpg

Timber Floorboards How to achieve flawless flooring Nice flooring can make or break the overall feel of your home. The team at Intergrain share how to achieve flawless timber flooring—and maintain it.

Clean hardwood floor 00:51

Timber Floorboards How to clean wooden floors We’ll show you an easy way to protect your floors from scuff marks, damage and stains when you’re having work done in or around your home.

Person securing protector with tape 01:55

Timber Floorboards How to protect your floors We’ll show you an easy way to protect your floors from scuff marks, damage and stains when you’re having work done in or around your home.

Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. 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. You can also use a simple test kit from Bunnings to indicate the presence of lead-based paint.
Top of the content