Why Do British Houses Have Skirting Boards

“Little things often make a big difference.” This adage holds true when it comes to British homes and one underappreciated feature that adds subtle yet impactful elegance to many interiors is the skirting board. Whether you’ve observed it or not, skirting boards are playing a silent yet significant role in your home, and their role is not merely decorative!

1. Historical Significance of Skirting Boards

Skirting boards, predominantly used in the UK, date back to the Victorian era. Imbued with fantastic wooden craftsmanship, skirting boards were installed in Victorian homes to cover the joint where the wall meets the floor, thereby adding opulence while keeping dust and dampness off the walls. As architectural styles evolved, so did these often-overlooked strips, navigating from elaborate patterns to simpler designs during the Edwardian era, and receiving a modern makeover by the 20th century.

The British colonial era further amplified their popularity. The colonisation broadened the reach and fame of skirting boards, making them a globally embraced feature. Their functionality and grace found a place in the interiors around the world, impacting countries from Australia to India.

In 2024, skirting boards continue to be an indispensable part of modern architecture. Whether you're renovating a period home or designing a contemporary setup, incorporating skirting boards significantly enhances the space!

2. Understanding the Purpose of Skirting Boards

As well as imparting aesthetic perfection, skirting boards are all about function. They protect your wall from scrapes and scuffs that floor cleaning can bring. If you've ever moved furniture and accidentally scuffed the base of your walls – you’ll understand the importance of skirting boards!

Need a clever way to hide those unruly cables? Skirting boards are your answer! Plus, they can totally amplify your room’s luxe quotient while also impacting your room's perception by drawing the gaze upwards, thus creating a sense of height.

3. Types of Skirting Boards

While traditional wooden skirting boards add an undeniable charm, MDF (medium-density fibreboard) and even plastic skirting boards are becoming popular for their durability and cost-effectiveness. Each type comes with its pros and cons and it's essential to factor in your home's interior, the board’s environmental impact and, of course, budget before making a decision.

4. British Home Design and Skirting Boards 

Just like each home has its unique personality, so do skirting boards. From an imposing Victorian townhouse to a minimalist contemporary flat, skirting boards play a pivotal role in defining a home's character. The aesthetics of your home can indeed influence your choice of skirting board designs. 

Period homes usually showcase high, intricately designed skirting boards that speak of opulence, whereas modern homes lean more towards simpler, sleek design. The choice of colour for skirting boards is also indicative of the home's overall aesthetic.

5. How to Choose the Right Skirting Board 

The height, size, composition, and even colour of your skirting board should reflect the larger aesthetic of your house. Will your skirting boards be working with carpeted floors or wooden ones? Are you looking for durability, ease of maintenance, or the anything that can stand the demands of a home with playful pets or kids? 

Selecting the right skirting board depends on several factors but be rest assured, there’s a perfect skirting board for every home and trend out there!

6. Installation and Maintenance of Skirting Boards

If you’ve decided to DIY, don't underestimate the joy of a successful skirting board installation and the difference that accurate measurements can make. Always remember to prepare and paint your skirting boards properly. Regular cleaning goes a long way in maintaining their best shape, and if they get damaged, repair or replacement can breathe new life into your room.

7. Skirting Boards and Value Addition

The value that a skirting board can add to your home should not be underestimated. Potential buyers regard skirting boards not merely as decorative elements but as a testament to the homeowner’s attention to detail. They are indeed a small investment that can bring sizeable returns.

As we turn our houses into homes, recognising the worth of each component is vital. Skirting boards may be a minor detail in comparison to large renovation projects, but their functional benefits, coupled with their contributions to your home's aesthetic, make them a feature worth considering.

Whether it's a slick flat in London, a quaint cottage in Norfolk, or a beach shack in Newquay, skirting boards serve to elevate the mundane walls and tell a tale of elegance. They walk the fine line between utility and art.

As we wrap up here, remember – it's the little things that make a big difference, and skirting boards are just one example of this universal truth. Tailor your own according to your style and see how they add to your home's charm.