Can You Bend Skirting Boards

Skirting boards play an essential role in interior design, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits. These humble strips of wood or other materials run along the bottom of walls, covering the joint between the wall and the floor. They add a clean finish to a room, protect walls from scuffs, and contribute to the overall decor.

However, there are occasions when skirting boards need to be adapted to non-standard surfaces, such as curved walls or unique designs. This brings us to an important question that many people ask: Can you bend skirting boards?

Yes, you can bend skirting boards, but it depends on the material. MDF and flexible skirting boards are ideal for bending, while wood may crack without proper technique. Steam-bending is a common method. For complex curves, consider pre-shaped mouldings or hiring a professional for the best results.

In this blog, we will explore whether it’s possible to bend skirting boards, the materials that make bending easier, and step-by-step guidance on how to achieve the perfect curve. We'll also discuss alternatives if bending isn't the best option for your project. Let’s dive in!

Why Would You Need to Bend Skirting Boards?

Bending skirting boards might seem like a challenge, but there are several instances where it’s necessary or beneficial. The most common reason is to fit skirting along curved walls. In older homes or rooms with an unconventional shape, the walls may not be perfectly straight, requiring skirting boards to be bent to follow the curvature.

In such cases, bending the skirting boards can help:

• Create a Seamless Finish: Curved walls or non-standard surfaces often create gaps that can ruin the aesthetic. Bending the skirting boards ensures that they sit snugly, creating a professional finish.

• Enhance the Room’s Appearance: Skirting boards that perfectly align with a curved wall can add a sophisticated touch, making the room look more cohesive and refined.

• Provide Better Protection: A good-fitting skirting board can protect both the wall and the floor from dirt, debris, and damage. Bending skirting boards helps ensure that the protection extends all the way along the curve.

If you are working with a room that features such design challenges, bending skirting boards could be the key to achieving a polished, modern look.

Can Skirting Boards Be Bent?

So, can you actually bend skirting boards? The short answer is yes, but with some caveats.

While it is possible to bend skirting boards, it depends on the material of the skirting and the method used. Some materials bend more easily than others, while certain methods may risk damaging the board if not done correctly.

Here’s an overview of what you need to know before you begin bending your skirting boards:

1. Not All Materials Are Suitable for Bending: While certain materials are flexible enough to bend, others will crack or break under pressure. You can bend skirting boards with the right approach, but choosing the wrong material could lead to issues.
   
   

2. The Risk of Damaging the Material: When you attempt to bend skirting boards, there’s always a risk of damaging the board. You need to use the right techniques to ensure a smooth bend without causing any cracks or warping.
   
   

3. Tools and Techniques Matter: The method you choose to bend skirting boards will also play a significant role. Using steam, for example, softens the material and allows it to bend more easily.

Types of Materials that Bend Easily

There are several types of skirting boards commonly used in interior design, each made from different materials. Not all skirting boards are created equal when it comes to bending. Here’s a breakdown of the materials that work well for bending, and those that might pose challenges:

Flexible MDF Skirting Boards

Flexible MDF skirting boards are an excellent choice when it comes to bending. Flexible MDF is a versatile material, and with the right preparation, it can be bent without breaking. Due to its fine, smooth texture and uniform density, MDF bends consistently and is much more forgiving than other materials. It's a popular choice for both simple and intricate designs.

Flexible PVC Skirting Boards

Flexible skirting boards are specially designed to curve around walls without the need for any additional techniques. They are made from a flexible material, often a type of PVC or other plastic, which allows them to bend effortlessly. Flexible skirting boards are ideal for projects where complex or tight curves are required, as they save time and effort compared to traditional materials.

Wood Skirting Boards

Bending solid wood skirting boards can be tricky. While some types of wood can bend slightly, they are more likely to crack or break under pressure. Wood skirting boards are better suited for straight lines and corners. If you need to bend a wooden skirting board, you may need to resort to steam-bending or other techniques to avoid damaging the material.

How to Bend Skirting Boards: Step-by-Step Guide

If you've decided to go ahead with bending your skirting boards, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve the best results. While this process requires patience and the right tools, it’s definitely manageable with the right approach.

Tools You’ll Need

• Steam Box: A steam box helps soften the material, making it easier to bend.

• Clamps: Used to hold the board in place while it cools and sets into its new shape.

• Protective Gloves: Always wear gloves when handling hot, steamed materials.

• Saw: To cut the skirting to the desired length.

• Measuring Tape: To ensure accurate measurements when bending the skirting.

Step 1: Prepare the Skirting Board

Before you begin the bending process, measure and cut your skirting board to the appropriate length. You'll want to make sure that the skirting board is slightly longer than the space you are working with to allow for any adjustments.

Step 2: Steam the Skirting Board

Next, place the skirting board in the steam box. If you don’t have a steam box, you can create a DIY version with a large plastic container and a kettle. The idea is to expose the skirting to steam for several minutes to soften it. This step is crucial, as it makes the material pliable enough to bend.

Step 3: Bend the Skirting Board

Once the skirting board has been steamed, carefully bend it to fit the curve. Use clamps to secure the board in place as it cools and takes on the new shape. Be gentle but firm to avoid damaging the board. It’s a good idea to check the bend regularly as it cools.

Step 4: Set and Finish

Allow the board to cool completely in place, and once it’s set, you can trim off any excess material. You can also sand the edges to smooth out the surface for a seamless finish.

Alternatives to Bending Skirting Boards

Bending skirting boards isn’t the only way to achieve a perfect fit around curves. There are a few alternatives to skirting that may be more suitable depending on the scope of your project.

Flexible Skirting Boards

As mentioned earlier, flexible skirting boards are a great alternative for curved surfaces. These boards don’t require any bending techniques and are ideal for complex curves. You can find flexible skirting in a variety of styles and finishes, making it easy to match your desired look.

Pre-Shaped Mouldings

If you are working with a particularly difficult curve or an unusual design, pre-shaped mouldings may be an option. These mouldings are already shaped to fit specific curves and are available in a variety of materials.

Professional Help – When to Hire a Specialist

While bending skirting boards is entirely possible, there are instances when it’s better to call in a professional. If you’re working with expensive materials or need intricate, complex curves, a specialist may be able to deliver a higher-quality finish. Professionals will also have access to more advanced tools, ensuring that the final result is flawless.

Hiring an expert may be the best option if:

• The project involves high-end materials like solid wood.

• The curves are particularly challenging or intricate.

• You’re aiming for a flawless finish in a time-sensitive project.

Get the Perfect Fit for Your Skirting Boards

So, can you bend skirting boards? Yes, you can – but it depends on the material and the method used. Skirting boards made from MDF or flexible materials are the easiest to bend, while solid wood requires more care and the right techniques to avoid damage.

If you're looking to achieve a perfect fit for curved walls, bending your skirting boards can elevate the aesthetic of the room and offer long-lasting protection for your walls. However, always consider your material and whether bending is the best option for your project.

If you need advice or high-quality skirting boards for your home or business, don’t hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you find the right solution for your next project.