Choosing the right skirting board can transform the look of a room. But with options in wood, MDF, plastic, and a range of profiles, knowing where to start is not always straightforward. This guide breaks down the key materials, the best UK retailers, and what to consider before buying.
Skirting boards serve both a practical and an aesthetic purpose. They protect the bottom of walls from damage and cover the gap between the wall and the floor. For homeowners planning a renovation, the choice of material and profile can significantly affect both the budget and the final finish.
Understanding the differences between wood, MDF, and plastic is the first step. Each material has its own strengths, and the best option depends on the room, the desired look, and the skill of the person fitting it.
Skirting Board Wood vs MDF vs Plastic: Which Material is Best?
Wood, MDF, plastic – each with different durability, cost and appearance.
Wickes, B&Q, Screwfix, plus specialist online stores.
Cable covers, corner pieces, and decorative profiles.
Standard heights (50–300mm) and thickness, DIY fitting basics.
The material a skirting board is made from determines how it looks, how it lasts, and how much work is needed to install it. Here are the key points to consider.
- MDF is the most popular material due to cost and easy painting; solid wood offers luxury; plastic suits high-moisture areas.
- Wickes and B&Q offer in-store pickup and broader stock, while Screwfix focuses on trade pricing and quick delivery.
- Skirting board covers are often used to hide cables or to refurbish existing boards without replacement.
- The most common profiles in the UK are Ogee (traditional) and Torus (modern).
- MDF can only be painted, while wood can be stained or varnished.
- Plastic skirting is water-resistant and insect-proof but lacks a natural wood look.
- Hardwood is the most durable but also the most expensive and difficult to install.
| Material | Cost (per m) | Durability | Finish Options | Key Pros | Key Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MDF | ~£3.32 | Prone to denting & moisture swelling | Painted only | Straight, knot-free, pre-primed | No natural look, edges split when cut |
| Softwood (Pine) | ~£8.34 | Can warp, less dense | Paint, stain, varnish | Natural grain, cheaper than hardwood | Warps easier than hardwood |
| Hardwood (Oak) | ~£11.00 | Highly durable, resistant to knocks | Paint, stain, varnish | Natural texture, hardest | Most expensive, difficult install |
| PVC (Plastic) | Lower (implied) | Water-resistant, weak hardness | Painted only, synthetic look | Insect-proof, water-resistant | No authentic wood look |
MDF Skirting Boards
Medium-density fibreboard is made from wood fibres compacted with waxes and resins, as described by Timber2UDirect. It is often sold pre-primed or pre-finished, which reduces preparation time significantly. The material offers a straight, knot-free surface that is ideal for a painted finish. However, MDF is not moisture-resistant. In damp conditions, it can swell and become damaged, so it is less suitable for bathrooms without careful sealing.
Wood Skirting Boards
Natural wood boards come in softwood varieties like pine and cedar, which are more affordable, or hardwood species such as oak and mahogany. Hardwood is denser and resists knocks better than softwood or MDF. The key advantage of real wood is the ability to stain or varnish it, which allows the natural grain to show through. This makes it a popular choice for period properties and traditional interiors.
Plastic Skirting Boards
PVC boards are manufactured by extrusion and are designed to be water-resistant and insect-proof. According to sources from Weebly and Scribd, these properties make plastic skirting an excellent choice for bathrooms and kitchens where moisture is a concern. The trade-off is a synthetic appearance and lower hardness compared to timber.
For humid areas like bathrooms, moisture-resistant (MR) MDF or PVC skirting is recommended. Standard MDF can swell permanently if exposed to standing water or high humidity over a long period.
Skirting Board Wickes, B&Q, and Screwfix: Where to Buy
Major retailers in the UK each offer distinct advantages. Wickes is well-regarded for its range of fully finished MDF skirting boards. These boards come factory-sprayed with a satin finish and require minimal effort, making them a strong option for DIYers who want a quick, professional result. B&Q provides a wider selection that includes MDF, hardwood, and plastic options in various profiles. Screwfix, aimed at the trade market, often offers competitive pricing and quick delivery for standard profiles.
Wickes
The retailer’s “fully finished” range is a standout feature. These boards arrive ready to fit, without the need for priming or painting beforehand. This convenience is a major time-saver for anyone tackling a room renovation.
B&Q
B&Q stocks a broad inventory of both primed and unfinished boards. This gives shoppers the flexibility to choose a material that suits their specific project, whether that is a budget-friendly MDF board or a premium hardwood profile.
Screwfix
Screwfix focuses on practicality and price. Their selection is often more limited in style but is geared toward professionals who need reliable materials quickly. For straightforward profiles like Torus or Ogee in MDF, Screwfix can be a cost-effective choice.
For standard profiles in mid-range MDF, compare prices between Wickes and Screwfix. For custom projects or restoration work, specialist suppliers like Period Mouldings offer higher-grade hardwoods and a wider choice of traditional designs.
Skirting Board Covers: A Practical Alternative
Skirting board covers offer a solution for homes where the existing boards are damaged or where cables need to be hidden. These covers are designed to clip or screw over the existing board, providing a fresh surface without the mess and cost of full removal and replacement. They are particularly useful in rental properties or for quick cosmetic updates. While covers can hide scratches and minor wear, they may not be suitable for boards that are rotting or severely damaged; in those cases, full replacement is often the better approach.
Evolution of Skirting Board Styles in the UK
The design of skirting boards has changed significantly over the centuries, reflecting architectural trends. Understanding these styles can help when choosing a profile that matches the period of a home.
- Georgian (1714–1830): Plain, painted boards with simple ovolo or lambs tongue profiles.
- Victorian (1837–1901): Ornate ogee profiles, deep skirting (up to 300mm) often with two-piece designs.
- Edwardian (1901–1910): Torus profile becomes dominant; slightly simpler than Victorian.
- Mid-20th Century: Minimalist; bullnose and square-edged profiles.
- 1970s–1990s: Rise of MDF and plastic; profiles become simpler and cheaper.
- 2000s–Present: Return to traditional profiles for period homes; modern slimline (50–100mm) for contemporary interiors.
What We Know for Sure vs. What Remains Unclear
| Established Information | Information That Remains Unclear |
|---|---|
| MDF is the most common material for modern skirting board due to its cost and paintability. | Which specific profile is best for a particular room style depends on personal taste and property era. |
| Standard lengths and heights are widely available at major retailers. | Exact pricing at Screwfix, Wickes, and B&Q can change frequently – check live prices. |
| Skirting board covers are a practical solution for covering cables or damaged boards. | Long-term durability of plastic vs MDF in high-moisture areas is debated among installers. |
Analysis: Choosing the Right Skirting Board
The decision ultimately comes down to three factors: budget, room function, and desired aesthetic. For a standard living room or bedroom, MDF provides a cost-effective and clean finish that is easy to paint. In a period property where authenticity matters, solid wood boards that can be stained are often preferred. For bathrooms or kitchens, a water-resistant plastic or MR MDF board is the most practical choice.
When it comes to buying, Wickes and B&Q offer convenience and broad stock, while Screwfix suits trade buyers. Specialist online retailers provide greater variety for those seeking specific profiles or higher-grade materials. The choice between covers and full replacement depends on the condition of the existing skirting and the scope of the renovation.
Expert Sources & Quotations
“We offer high quality MDF and solid oak skirting boards in a wide range of profiles.”
— Skirting 4 U
“Find the perfect finish for your walls and flooring with brand new skirting boards.”
— Wickes product pages
“All products are made from premium-quality materials, including moisture-resistant MDF.”
— Metres Direct
Next Steps After Choosing Your Skirting Board
Once the material and profile have been selected, preparation is key. Measure the room perimeter accurately, adding around 10% for cutting waste. Ensure the walls are clean and level, and gather the necessary tools: a mitre saw, adhesive, filler, and paint or stain. For those looking for a deeper comparison of material performance, reading about MDF vs Wood for Skirting Boards can provide additional detail. For homes with specific design requirements, a guide on What is the Best Material for Skirting Boards offers further insight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy skirting board at Screwfix?
Screwfix stocks a range of skirting boards in MDF and plastic profiles (e.g., ogee and torus) available for click & collect or delivery. Prices typically start from around £2 per metre.
What skirting boards are available at B&Q?
B&Q offers a wide selection including MDF, hardwood, and plastic skirting boards in various profiles and sizes. Their range includes both primed and pre-finished options.
How do I measure for skirting board?
Measure the total length of each wall at floor level, add 10% for cutting waste. Skirting boards are sold in lengths of 2.4m, 3.0m, or 3.6m. For corners, add external or internal mitre cuts.
Can I paint plastic skirting boards?
Yes, but you must use a primer specifically formulated for plastic (e.g., Zinsser B-I-N). Standard emulsion may peel. Some plastic boards come pre-coloured and do not require painting.
Are skirting board covers easy to install?
Yes, covers are designed to clip or screw onto existing boards. They are ideal for hiding cables or covering minor damage without full replacement.
What is the standard height of a skirting board?
Standard heights range from 50mm to 300mm, with 100mm to 150mm being most common in modern homes. Taller boards are typically used in period properties.
How do I cut skirting board corners?
For internal corners, use a mitre saw to cut both boards at 45 degrees. For external corners, cut each board at 45 degrees so they meet neatly. Pre-made corner blocks are also available.
Which is better for a bathroom: MDF or PVC skirting?
PVC is generally better for bathrooms as it is fully water-resistant. Moisture-resistant (MR) MDF can be used if sealed properly, but PVC offers more reliable protection against damp.
How much does skirting board cost per metre?
MDF costs approximately £3–£12 per metre. Solid wood ranges from £10 to £30 per metre. Plastic boards are typically £2 to £8 per metre.
Can I install skirting board myself?
Yes, with basic tools and careful measurements, DIY installation is possible. Adhesive is the most common fixing method for MDF and plastic, while wood may require nails or screws.
Sophie Larkin is Music News Editor at PlaylisterUK.co.uk, covering artist announcements, releases, charts, labels, streaming platforms and the UK music industry.