The variety of skirting boards that you find on the internet might often add to your confusion unless you know how to weigh the pros and cons of each type.
Again knowing about the pros and cons of each material is also not easy. Moreover, it is just not enough to select the material because you must also pick the design and style too that goes well with the home interior. Overall, choosing skirt boards can be hard work because if you believe in the concept of ‘one size fits all’ it just does not work when selecting skirting boards.
Usually, skirting boards are of three types according to the material used for making it. This is the most important factor in selection because it determines the quality and longevity of skirt boards. Earlier, timber was the chosen material for making skirt boards, but today MDF skirt boards are most popular. Keep reading to know more about it.
MDF skirt boards
MDF skirt boards are the most preferred choice because of the superior quality of MDF boards that are highly durable and last for years without warping or bending. Once you install MDF skirting board, there is no fear of swelling which means that you can leave it like that without the need for any maintenance. MDF boards are made from wood fibres converted into small particles and obtained from both hardwoods and softwoods. Resin and wax help in bonding the wooden particles and fibres under high temperature and pressure to produce the skirting boards. There are many MDF skirting board styles to choose from, and it is a pocket-friendly option for people who have a tight budget. Long life, moisture resistance, stylish choices and affordability are the reasons for the popularity of MDF skirt boards that are also available online.
Softwood skirting
Softwood skirting is also an option, but it poses problems for users as compared to MDF skirting because softwood is susceptible to a movement that is detrimental for skirting. However, it is easy to create designs with softwood skirting and give it any shape which is not possible with MDF or hardwood. Softwood skirting is good because you can do anything on it from varnishing to sanding and decorating it. This is also a reason for its popularity because the finish can last long and does not need a quick replacement.
Hardwood skirting
If you are looking for more durable skirting that is also very resilient, then hardwood skirting will be good for you. Solid Oak skirting boards made from North American Solid White Oak are a staple choice and available in many styles and designs. However, hard wood skirting is usually a made to order item, and you can choose from the range of natural hardwood to primed, lacquered or painted skirting depending on your requirement. Those in need of bespoke skirting would prefer hard wood, but the price would be higher than MDF and soft wood skirting.
If you choose MDF skirting boards do look for FSC certification that is a mark of superior quality.
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