Help Center

Depth Help Guide

Selecting the Right DepthWhat Does the Depth Option Refer To?
When choosing one of our MDF boards, whether for shelves, panels, or other custom projects, the depth option is an essential consideration. This option determines how far the board will extend from the wall or supporting structure, influencing both the functionality and appearance of your installation. Selecting the appropriate depth ensures that the board fits seamlessly into your space and meets your specific requirements.

How to Determine the Correct Depth How Do I Measure the Right Depth?
To select the correct depth for your MDF board, start by measuring the distance from the point where the board will be installed to the edge of the supporting surface. This measurement forms the basis of your depth selection. However, for many applications, it's wise to add a few extra centimetres to this measurement to account for any desired overhang. An overhang refers to the portion of the board that extends beyond the edge of the supporting surface. This is often used in shelving, countertops, and other installations where a slight projection adds both functionality and a polished look. The overhang can protect underlying surfaces and contribute to the overall aesthetic of your project.

What If My Required Size Isn't Listed?
We offer a range of standard depths for our MDF boards, designed to meet the most common needs in various projects.
Our available sizes include:

- 150mm
- 200mm
- 250mm
- 300mm
- 350mm
- 400mm

These sizes are based on typical requirements for a variety of applications, ensuring that most customers will find a suitable option. However, we understand that every project is unique, and a standard size may not always fit your needs. That’s why we offer the flexibility to create MDF boards in nearly any depth you require.

Case 1: Let’s say you need a depth of 225mm. This isn’t one of our standard options but don’t worry! Simply place an order of the closest size that is larger (250mm) and just before you pay leave a note in the order specifying your exact measurements. So in this case you would order a 250mm depth and ask in your notes for 225mm. We will make sure that we send you the exact depth you need for no extra cost.

Case 2: If you require really specific depths, or a larger depth then we have on our site, please reach out to us directly. Simply contact us via email, phone or online form and we can discuss exactly what you need. Our expert team will then provide a custom quote and once it has been paid we can begin crafting your order to your exact specifications.

With our capability to create custom sizes, the depth you can achieve with our MDF boards is virtually limitless. We encourage you to reach out with any special requests or inquiries—we’re here to help you realise your project exactly as you envision it.

Custom Sizing and Bespoke Services
For those interested in custom sizing and tailored solutions, our bespoke service offers the flexibility and precision you need. Whether it’s a unique depth, specific shape, or special finish, we have the expertise to deliver exactly what you’re looking for. Explore our bespoke service options to learn more about how we can bring your custom project to life.

Converting Depth Measurements
Converting Millimetres to Centimetres
To assist you in selecting the right size, we’ve converted our standard depths from millimetres to centimetres. This conversion is useful if you’re more accustomed to working in centimetres:

- 150mm is equivalent to 15cm
- 200mm is equivalent to 20cm
- 250mm is equivalent to 25cm
- 300mm is equivalent to 30cm
- 350mm is equivalent to 35cm
- 400mm is equivalent to 40cm

Converting Millimetres to Inches (Approximate)
For customers who prefer to use inches, we’ve also provided approximate conversions from millimetres to inches, rounded to the nearest whole number:

- 150mm is approximately 6 inches
- 200mm is approximately 8 inches
- 250mm is approximately 10 inches
- 300mm is approximately 12 inches
- 350mm is approximately 14 inches
- 400mm is approximately 16 inches

If you have any further questions about selecting the right depth or need assistance with a custom order, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to ensure you get the perfect MDF board for your project, whatever your specific needs may be.

The Finish Option

What Does the Priming Option Mean?
When purchasing any of our products, you have the option to select a priming process that suits your project needs. The priming option allows you to choose between having your materials undercoated, primed, or left unprimed.

- Undercoated: This involves spraying the material with a white base, sanding it, applying a coat of water-based primer, sanding it again, and finishing with a final coat of undercoat.
- Primed: The material is sprayed white, sanded, and receives a single coat of water-based primer.
- Unprimed: The material is left in its natural, bare state without any primer or undercoat applied.

Do You Need to Choose Undercoating or Priming?
It’s not mandatory to have your materials undercoated or primed by us, but there are some important considerations. If you're purchasing MDF (now upgraded to HDF) and opt for the unprimed finish, you’ll need to prime and undercoat the material yourself before applying the final paint layer.

Choosing the primed option means you’ll still need to add an undercoat before finishing with your chosen top coat. Without at least one coat of primer, any paint you apply might soak into the surface, particularly in profiled areas, leading to an uneven finish.

Sanding between and after each coat of primer is crucial to achieving a smooth, professional look. This process can be time-consuming and may increase labor costs if done on-site. That’s why we recommend allowing us to handle the priming and undercoating. Although it adds a small cost, it significantly reduces the time and effort required for final installation. Our state-of-the-art spray equipment ensures a quick, even application, resulting in a high-quality finish.

Ordering Undercoated or Primed Products: What to Expect
If you decide to have your order undercoated or primed, it may take a little longer to process. This is because the materials need to be carefully sprayed and then allowed to dry fully before packaging and shipping.

For unprimed orders, the materials are machined and can be packed and shipped almost immediately. However, if you’re in a hurry, we offer a fast turnaround for undercoated or primed orders, with delivery possible within 2 working days. Check our delivery page for details on our Super Fast Delivery service.

Does the Undercoat or Primer Cover the Entire Board?
Typically, we undercoat and prime only the visible parts of the board (like the front face and top edge of skirting boards). There might be some overspray on other areas, but it’s minimal.

For window boards, however, we undercoat and prime all sides as a standard practice.

If you're ordering a board with a detailed profile, such as a Victorian design, you might benefit more from choosing the undercoated option. Simpler profiles, like a Bullnose design, may not require as much finishing.

We also offer the option to undercoat or prime the entire board, though this incurs an additional cost. This option isn’t available online, but you can place such orders by contacting us via phone or email.

Selecting the right priming option for your MDF or HDF products can save you significant time and effort during installation, while also ensuring a high-quality result. Whether you choose to have your materials undercoated, primed, or left unprimed, we’re here to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your project.

The Height Option

What Does the Height Option Mean?
When purchasing skirting boards, the height option is a key choice. This option allows you to determine how tall you want your skirting boards to be, which can influence both the visual impact and functionality of the room.

How to Choose the Right Skirting Board Height

How Do I Decide on the Appropriate Height?
The height of your skirting boards is largely a matter of personal preference, but there are some common standards to consider. In the UK, the average skirting board height is around 145mm (approximately 6 inches). That said, the most popular heights tend to range between 120mm (about 5 inches) and 220mm (roughly 9 inches).

When selecting the height, think about the proportions of your room, the height of your ceilings, and the overall style you wish to achieve. Taller skirting boards can make a bold statement and are often used in rooms with high ceilings, while shorter boards provide a more subtle finish suitable for modern, minimalist spaces.

Will Changing the Height Affect the Design?
No, adjusting the height of the skirting board does not alter the size of the design itself. For example:

If you select the Ovolo design, which is approximately 50mm tall, this dimension remains constant regardless of the skirting board height. So, if you opt for a 70mm board, the design will occupy 50mm, leaving 20mm of plain material beneath it. Similarly, if you choose a 195mm board, the design will still be 50mm, with 145mm of plain material below.

All product images on our website typically display skirting boards at around 150mm (6 inches) tall. Keep this in mind as you visualise your skirting board's height in your space.

Skirting Board Height Conversion Guide
To assist with your selection, here’s a conversion table of our standard skirting board heights from millimetres to centimetres and inches:

This guide should help you better visualise the different height options available for your skirting boards, ensuring you select the perfect size for your project.

The Thickness Option

What Does the Thickness Option Mean?
The thickness option allows you to select how thick you want your product to be, whether it's skirting boards, architraves, window boards, or other items. We offer a variety of thicknesses, including 15mm, 18mm, 25mm, and 30mm, to suit different preferences and project requirements.

Choosing the Right Thickness

Which Thickness Should I Choose?
The thickness you select often depends on the style and functionality you’re aiming for in your project.

Modern Look: If you're leaning toward a contemporary or minimalist design, thinner options like 15mm or 18mm are ideal. These slimmer profiles offer a sleek and subtle appearance that complements modern interiors.

Traditional Look: For a more classic or traditional aesthetic, thicker options such as 25mm or even 30mm are better suited. Historically, older skirting boards and architraves are often at least 25mm thick, so choosing a thicker option can help you achieve that timeless look.

However, your choice might not be solely based on style. Sometimes, the thickness is determined by practical considerations. For instance, if you’re replacing skirting boards and your existing architraves are 15mm thick, it’s advisable to select skirting of the same thickness. Using a thicker skirting board could cause it to protrude beyond the architrave, creating an uneven and potentially unsightly appearance. While there are ways to work around this, such as using plinth blocks, matching thicknesses can ensure a more seamless integration.

Impact of Thickness on Design

Does the Design Change with Thickness?
No, the overall design of the product does not change with different thicknesses. What does change, however, is the distance between the top edge of the board and where the design begins.

For example:

- On an 18mm thick skirting board with an Ogee 1 design, the top edge before the design starts is approximately 5mm.

- On a 15mm thick board, this top edge would be around 2mm.

- On a 25mm thick board, the top edge increases to about 12mm.

This means that while the thickness can influence how much of the design is visible, the design itself remains consistent regardless of the thickness selected.

Flexibility and Thickness

Are Thinner Boards More Flexible?
Yes, thinner boards, such as those at 15mm, naturally have more flexibility compared to thicker boards. This flexibility can be beneficial in certain applications, such as fitting skirting around slight curves or uneven surfaces. However, we strongly recommend that our materials be installed on flat surfaces for the best results.

While some experienced carpenters have successfully used our skirting on curved walls, such as around bay windows, this requires specialized techniques. Attempting to bend our products without the proper skills and tools can lead to snapping or breaking, which not only renders the product unusable but also poses a safety risk.

Converting Thickness Measurements

Millimetres to Centimetres

To make it easier to visualize the thickness options, here’s a quick conversion from millimetres to centimetres:

-15mm = 1.5cm
- 18mm = 1.8cm
- 25mm = 2.5cm
- 30mm = 3.0cm

Millimetres to Inches (Approximate)

For those more familiar with inches, we’ve also provided approximate conversions:

- 15mm ≈ 0.6 inches
- 18mm ≈ 0.7 inches
- 25mm ≈ 1.0 inch
- 30mm ≈ 1.2 inches

Selecting the right thickness for your skirting, architrave, or window board is a key decision that affects both the aesthetics and functionality of your project. Whether you're aiming for a modern, streamlined look or a more traditional, substantial appearance, our range of thickness options ensures that you can find the perfect fit. Remember to consider both your design preferences and practical needs when making your choice, and don't hesitate to reach out if you need further guidance.