The perfect baseboards depend on several factors. In an interior design project, it is an essential choice. The variety of styles and materials can make the selection quite difficult.
To facilitate your decision, we propose to choose according to your floors, wall color, moldings and woodwork.
They add aesthetics to your interior while having a very functional role.
From wood species, to colors, to different styles, we are here to guide you in your selection.
What is a skirting board?
Moldings, frames, crown moldings, picture rails and baseboards, it is easy to get lost among all these types of woodwork. First of all, a skirting board is the same thing as a baseboard.
“Skirting board or skirting is a narrow length of wood which goes along the bottom of a wall in a room and makes a border between the walls and the floor.”
Source: Collins Dictionary
They are used to fill the gap between the wall and the floor.
Are baseboards mandatory?
Baseboards are not mandatory, in the sense that there is no legal obligation governing their installation. On the other hand, it is strongly recommended to install one. They have an important role to play, both for aesthetics and functionality.
Aesthetically, they allow a harmonious visual transition between the floor and the wall. Several models of baseboards are available on the market, making them a fully decorative element.
Functionally, they hide the small defects related to the installation of the floor covering. The thickness of the edge of the plinth makes it possible to hide the expansion joint at the bottom of the wall. If the space between the wall and the floor is not filled by a skirting board, dirt can accumulate there and cleaning becomes more complicated.
Which material should I choose for my Baseboards?
Baseboards are available in several varieties of material, such as MDF, jointed pine, oak and maple.
MDF baseboards are made of medium density fiberboard. They have a smooth finish that can be painted if you want to match your decor. They often cost less than solid wood baseboards in addition to having good stability.
Jointed pine baseboards are made of a light wood with an even grain. They can be nailed or screwed without causing cracks. They have superior stability and very good resistance to humidity. The risks of twisting or bending are very minimal.
Solid wood baseboards such as oak and maple are known for their quality, sturdiness and durability. As they can match the essence of your floor, they give a sophisticated look. It's a way to put your floor to its advantage.
Which style of baseboard to choose?
Should we choose white, colored or wooden baseboards? Straight or rounded edge? It all depends on the effect you want!
White baseboards create a nice continuity with a wall that is also white. White baseboards are always a safe bet! If they are the same color as your walls, the space will be enlarged. Also remember to match their color to that of your other woodwork (door frames, moldings, etc.).
If you want colored skirting boards, we recommend a color that is lighter than the floor, but darker than the walls. You will get a balanced result.
Wooden baseboards (jointed pine, oak or maple) bring sophistication to your interior design. The use of wooden skirting really refines the finish of your interior. By matching them to your floor, you get a uniform and aesthetic result.
Be careful in small spaces. If you match them to a dark floor, you risk shrinking the space.
The trend in recent years is straight lines. Baseboards with a straight edge are therefore a safe bet for a modern and up-to-date finish.
On the other hand, you can add architectural complexity to your interior by choosing baseboards with rounded edges. They also have the advantage of not retaining dust. Cleaning them is therefore easier.
Where to buy baseboards?
Intermat is your go-to destination for baseboards. Whether for MDF, jointed pine or solid wood baseboards, you will find everything you need at Intermat.
Come see us in one of our showrooms or contact us for pro advice and to place an order.