Types of Skirting: How to Choose the Right Skirting Board

green panelled hallway with wood floor and dark skirting board in traditional style
(Image credit: Earthborn Paints)

The types of skirting boards you choose for your home make a difference in each and every room, so looking at the difference shapes, sizes and styles is worth the effort. 

Luckily, installing and painting skirting boards can be done on a DIY basis or by a joiner, and the styles can be different in each room, should you choose. It's a design consideration which can be left towards the end of a renovation, extension or self build project, before second fix work begins. However, choosing a style from the outset will ensure the type of skirting you choose harmonises with the rest of your interior scheme. 

You can trust Homebuilding & Renovating. Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and materials in order to help you choose the best for your home and garden. Find out more about how we test.

Neil Turner

Architect Neil Turner is director at Howarth Litchfield Partnership and specialises in residential design.