Skirting boards are an essential part of any room and often get overlooked. However, they can make a massive difference to the overall look of your home.
Skirting boards are lines that run along the bottom of a wall and cover the bottom quarter. They can be made from a variety of materials, such as MDF or plywood, and they are sometimes painted in different colors to match the rest of your home. If you want to paint your skirting boards, then there are certain things you will need to consider before deciding on which paint to use on them. Professionals recommend these paints:
Gloss
The gloss paint finish is the most popular type of paint finish. It is best used in high-traffic areas, where the surface needs to be clean and shiny. Gloss paints are easy to clean, as well as waterproof. They are ideal for your kitchen or bathroom walls and floors, as they can withstand moisture.
The semi-gloss paint is also great for kitchen or bathroom walls and floors. This paint has less shine than gloss, but it still looks good. Semi-gloss paints are easy to clean but not as water-resistant as their glossy counterparts.
The flat paint finish is not very popular in kitchens or bathrooms because it doesn’t resist moisture. However, if you want a more modern look for your living space, you should consider using flat paints on your walls and floors instead of skirting board gloss or semi-gloss paints.
Water-Based Paint vs. Oil-Based Paint
Water-based paints are made from water, solvents, and pigments. They are thinned with water before application and have very little odor compared to oil-based paints. Water-based paints are ideal for indoor use because they do not emit as strong fumes as oil-based paints. However, you should not use them outside because they absorb moisture from the air, leading to cracking and peeling off the surface.
Oil-based paints are made from linseed or other vegetable oils mixed with pigments and thinners such as turpentine or mineral spirits. They do not dry out quickly, but they may require several coats before they can achieve full coverage on your walls or floors depending on their thickness. Oil-based paints offer excellent durability while retaining their original color over time, unlike latex.
Eggshell
Eggshell paint is an excellent choice for skirting boards, especially if you want a matt finish. When applied correctly, it can provide a beautiful finish that is durable and easy to clean.
The benefits of using eggshell paint on skirting boards include the following:
- It’s easy to apply – Eggshell isn’t the most accessible paint type, but it’s not particularly difficult. If you’re careful when using the first coat and follow the instructions on the tin carefully, you should have no problems.
- It is easy to clean – Eggshells will leave a light sheen once dry, but it is still easy to clean with products like washing up liquid or vinegar and water. This makes it perfect for kitchens where grease and dirt can be an issue.
- It’s low maintenance – Once dry, the eggshell doesn’t need much care – just wipe down with warm soapy water once a week (or more often if there’s lots of dust in your home). If any marks are left behind after cleaning, then gently rub them away with a little bit of fine sandpaper or steel wool.
There are several options available on the market. The best paint to use on skirting boards is mainly dependent upon the surface you are painting and, of course, your individual preference. Whether you choose skirting board gloss or eggshell, you should choose a durable product of good quality.
