How to touch up skirting board

How to Touch Up Skirting Board: A Step-by-Step Guide

Skirting boards, also known as baseboards, are the strips of wood or decorative molding that run along the bottom of walls to hide the gap between the wall and the floor. Over time, they can accumulate scratches, dents, and scuffs, giving your room a worn-out appearance. Touching up skirting boards is a simple and effective way to restore their original condition. In this article, we’ll guide you through a step-by-step process to touch up skirting boards, ensuring a professional-looking result.

Gather Required Materials

Before you begin, make sure you have the following materials:

• Wood filler (matching the skirting board’s color and wood type)
• Sandpaper (medium-grit)
• Paint or varnish (matching the original color and finish)
• Brush or roller (depending on the surface area)
• Drop cloths or tarps
• Paint scraper or putty knife (optional)

Preparation

1. Protect the surrounding area: Place drop cloths or tarps around the area where you’ll be working to prevent any damage from spilling paint or debris.
2. Clean the skirting board: Lightly dust the skirting board with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Identify the damage: Inspect the skirting board to identify the area that needs touch-ups, taking note of any scuffs, scratches, or dents.

Removing Old Paint or Varnish (If Necessary)

If the skirting board has an old finish that’s chipped, flaking, or outdated, you may need to remove it before touching it up. Use a paint scraper or putty knife to gently scrape off loose paint or varnish.

Filling Holes and Gaps

Using a wood filler, apply a small amount to holes or gaps on the skirting board. Fill holes completely, but don’t overfill, as it may be difficult to blend with the surrounding area.

Sanding

With medium-grit sandpaper, sand the entire skirting board to:

1. Smooth out the filler
2. Remove any remaining old paint or varnish
3. Provide a surface for the new finish

Wipe the skirting board clean with a damp cloth after sanding.

Painting or Varnishing

1. Choose a matching finish: Select paint or varnish that closely matches the original color and finish of the skirting board.
2. Apply the finish according to the manufacturer’s instructions:
   • For painting, apply a thin layer, allowing each layer to dry before applying additional coats.
   • For varnishing, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for application and drying times.

Touch-ups and Inspections

After applying the finish, inspect the skirting board for any missed spots or unevenness. Use a brush or roller to touch up any mistakes.

Finishing Touches

Once the finishing process is complete, carefully inspect the skirting board to ensure a smooth, even finish. Make any necessary adjustments.

Benefits of Touching Up Skirting Boards

Touching up skirting boards:

• Enhances the room’s overall appearance
• Conceals minor imperfections
• Extends the life of the skirting board
• Is an affordable and easy DIY solution

By following these step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to professionally touch up your skirting boards, restoring their original condition and giving your room a fresh, revitalized look.