1. Choosing the Wrong Skirting Height
One of the most frequent mistakes when selecting MDF mouldings is opting for the wrong height. The size of your skirting board has a significant impact on your room’s overall look and proportions. Taller skirting boards tend to suit rooms with high ceilings, adding grandeur and a traditional feel. However, in rooms with lower ceilings, excessively tall skirting can overwhelm the space and make it appear smaller.
Solution: Measure the height of your ceilings before purchasing skirting boards. For rooms with lower ceilings, stick to shorter profiles (e.g., 70mm to 120mm), while taller profiles (e.g., 170mm to 220mm) work best in rooms with high ceilings. Matching the proportions of your room will create a balanced and cohesive look.
2. Ignoring the Style of Your Home
A common oversight when choosing skirting boards is failing to consider the style of your property. Different skirting moulding designs suit specific interior styles, and a mismatch can disrupt the flow of your design. For example, ornate, decorative mouldings are ideal for traditional or period homes, whereas sleek, simple designs work best in modern, minimalist interiors.
Solution: Consider your home’s overall design theme before purchasing. If you have a modern property, choose square-edge or pencil-round profiles that create clean lines. For more traditional homes, classic styles like Torus or Ogee add character and elegance. MR Mouldings offers a wide range of styles to complement any home design.
3. Not Opting for Moisture-Resistant MDF
Standard MDF is not inherently moisture-resistant, which makes it prone to swelling and damage in damp environments, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and utility rooms. Choosing the wrong type of MDF for these areas can lead to expensive repairs or replacements down the line.
Solution: Invest in moisture-resistant MDF skirting boards for rooms with high humidity or potential water exposure. Moisture-resistant options ensure durability and longevity, preventing the boards from warping or swelling over time.
4. Overlooking Pre-Primed Options
Unprimed skirting boards may seem like a budget-friendly option, but they require more time and effort to prepare for painting. Skipping pre-primed MDF can delay your project and result in a less polished finish, particularly if you’re not confident with DIY.
Solution: Opt for pre-primed MDF skirting boards. These come with a smooth primer coating, saving you time and providing a professional base for painting. Pre-primed boards are particularly useful if you want a high-quality finish without the added labour.
5. Not Considering Cable Management
Unsightly wires and cables can ruin the appearance of an otherwise well-designed room. Many homeowners forget to factor in cable management when choosing skirting mouldings, only to find they have no practical solution for hiding wires.
Solution: Look for MDF skirting boards that offer built-in cable management grooves. These designs allow you to conceal cables neatly behind the skirting, keeping your interiors tidy and clutter-free.
6. Failing to Plan for Maintenance
While MDF skirting mouldings are low-maintenance compared to natural wood, they still require some care. Overly intricate designs can accumulate dust and dirt, making them harder to clean. Homeowners often overlook the practicality of their skirting design when choosing a profile.
Solution: Choose skirting boards that match your lifestyle. If ease of maintenance is important to you, go for simple designs like square edge or bullnose, which are easier to wipe clean. For decorative profiles, ensure you have the tools and time to keep them looking pristine.
7. Choosing Low-Quality MDF
While budget constraints may tempt you to opt for cheaper MDF skirting boards, low-quality MDF can lead to problems in the long run. Cheaper boards are often more susceptible to chipping, damage, or warping, reducing their lifespan and overall quality.
Solution: Always purchase high-quality MDF skirting mouldings from reputable suppliers, such as MR Mouldings. Investing in quality products ensures durability and provides better value for money over time.
8. Misjudging the Finish
The finish of your MDF skirting boards has a big impact on the final look of your interiors. Many people make the mistake of choosing the wrong paint type or finish for their skirting, leading to scuffs, marks, or a finish that doesn’t match the rest of the room.
Solution: Use durable, high-quality paint in satin, gloss, or semi-gloss finishes, as these are easy to clean and resistant to wear. Always test a small area first to ensure the finish complements your walls and flooring.
9. Rushing Installation
Improper installation is one of the biggest mistakes homeowners make. Skipping steps such as measuring accurately, prepping surfaces, or using the correct tools can lead to gaps, misaligned boards, and an unprofessional finish.
Solution: Take your time with the installation process or hire a professional for the best results. Ensure you measure accurately, use the correct adhesive, and sand any rough edges for a seamless finish.
10. Forgetting to Factor in Wall Irregularities
Walls are rarely perfectly straight, especially in older properties. Many people overlook these irregularities when choosing and installing skirting boards, which can result in noticeable gaps or uneven finishes.
Solution: Before installing your MDF skirting, check your walls for irregularities and plan accordingly. Flexible adhesives can help fill small gaps, while scribing techniques ensure a flush fit against uneven surfaces.
Conclusion
Choosing the right MDF skirting mouldings is an essential part of any home improvement or renovation project. By avoiding these common mistakes — such as selecting the wrong height, ignoring moisture resistance, or opting for low-quality materials — you can ensure that your skirting boards enhance your interiors both aesthetically and practically.
Take the time to consider your room dimensions, design style, and long-term maintenance needs to make an informed decision. For high-quality, durable, and stylish MDF skirting mouldings, explore the extensive range available at MR Mouldings. With the right choices and proper installation, you’ll enjoy beautiful, long-lasting skirting that transforms your home.