When Is the Best Time to Skirt Boards on Stairs?

The best time to skirt boards on stairs is typically during the construction or renovation phase of your home. Skirting boards, also known as baseboards, play an important role in providing a finished look to your staircase while protecting the walls from damage. Timing the installation of skirting boards on stairs requires careful planning and coordination. Let’s explore the ideal time to skirt boards on stairs and why it is important.

  1. During Construction: If you are building a new home or undertaking a major staircase renovation, it is generally recommended to install skirting boards on stairs during the construction process. This allows for a seamless installation and ensures a consistent design throughout your home. By incorporating skirting boards from the beginning, you can ensure that they are properly integrated with the staircase structure and that all necessary adjustments can be made.
  2. Before Carpet or Flooring Installation: If you are planning to install carpet, hardwood, or any other type of flooring on your stairs, it is advisable to skirt the boards before the flooring installation. Skirting boards act as a transition between the stairs and the walls, and installing them first allows for a neater and more professional finish. It also prevents any potential damage to the flooring during the skirting board installation process.
  3. Prior to Painting or Wallpapering: If you intend to paint the walls or apply wallpaper on your staircase, it is best to install the skirting boards beforehand. Skirting boards create a clean and defined edge where the walls meet the stairs, making it easier to paint or wallpaper up to the edge. By installing the skirting boards first, you avoid the hassle of having to cut in or trim around them, ensuring a smoother and more efficient painting or wallpapering process.
  4. In conjunction with Railing Installation: If your staircase includes a railing or handrail, coordinating the installation of skirting boards with the railing can be advantageous. Installing the skirting boards before the railing is in place allows for a seamless integration between the two elements. It ensures that the skirting boards fit snugly against the railing posts and provides a unified and cohesive appearance 18mm skirting board.

skirting boardWhile the ideal time to install skirting boards on stairs is during the construction or renovation phase, it is worth noting that skirting boards can be added or replaced at any time. If you have an existing staircase without skirting boards, you can still add them later as a standalone project. However, keep in mind that retrofitting skirting boards may require more preparation and adjustments to ensure a proper fit. In conclusion, the best time to skirt boards on stairs is during the construction or renovation phase, before flooring, painting, or wallpapering. Coordinating the installation with other staircase elements such as railings ensures a seamless and professional finish