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How to Install Skirting Boards Like a Professional (Step-by-Step Guide + UK Costs 2026)

Achieve a Clean, High-End Finish in Any Room

Skirting boards (also known as baseboards) are one of the most underrated upgrades in a property. Done properly, they:

  • Finish a room neatly

  • Protect walls from damage

  • Add a premium, polished look

But badly installed skirting boards can ruin the finish of a room.

👉 So how do you install skirting boards properly — and is it worth doing yourself?

At AA Facilities Group, we install skirting boards across full refurbishments, and in this guide we’ll show you:

  • Step-by-step installation

  • Tools and materials needed

  • Common mistakes to avoid

  • Real UK costs

🔧 What You’ll Need

Tools:

  • Mitre saw or hand saw

  • Tape measure

  • Spirit level

  • Caulking gun

  • Hammer or nail gun

Materials:

  • Skirting boards

  • Adhesive (No More Nails or similar)

  • Screws or nails

  • Decorators caulk or filler

🏠 Step-by-Step: How to Install Skirting Boards

Step 1: Measure the Room

  • Measure each wall carefully

  • Add extra for cutting errors

👉 Accurate measurements reduce waste.

Step 2: Cut the Skirting Boards

  • Use a mitre saw for clean angles

  • Internal corners: 45° cuts

  • External corners: opposite 45° cuts

👉 Precision is key for tight joints.

Step 3: Prepare the Wall

  • Remove old skirting

  • Clean and smooth surface

  • Fill large gaps if needed

Step 4: Apply Adhesive

  • Apply strong adhesive along back of skirting

  • Press firmly against wall

Step 5: Secure the Skirting

  • Use nails or screws for extra strength

  • Fix into studs or solid wall where possible

Step 6: Fill & Finish

  • Fill nail holes

  • Apply caulk along top edge

  • Sand and paint for smooth finish

👉 This is what gives the “professional look”.

💰 Cost to Install Skirting Boards in the UK

DIY Costs

  • Skirting boards: £5 – £20 per metre

  • Adhesive & materials: £20 – £50

👉 Total DIY cost (room):£50 – £200

Professional Costs

  • Labour: £150 – £300 per room

  • Full property: £500 – £1,500+

⚖️ DIY vs Professional Installation

Factor

DIY

Professional

Cost

£50–£200

£150–£1,500+

Difficulty

Medium

Easy

Finish

Variable

High-quality

Time

Longer

Faster

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Poor corner cuts (gaps visible)

  • Uneven boards

  • Not fixing securely

  • Skipping caulking

  • Rushing measurements

👉 These are what make DIY jobs look unprofessional.

🔥 Pro Tips for a Perfect Finish

  • Always use a mitre saw for clean cuts

  • Test fit before fixing

  • Use caulk to hide small gaps

  • Paint after installation for best result

🏠 Landlord Tip

Skirting boards are a low-cost, high-impact upgrade:

  • Makes rooms look clean and modern

  • Covers wall damage

  • Improves tenant appeal

👉 Ideal during refurbishments or between tenancies.

⏱️ How Long Does It Take?

  • DIY (single room): 4–8 hours

  • Professional: 2–4 hours per room

🚫 When to Hire a Professional

You should hire a professional if:

  • You want a perfect finish

  • Rooms have awkward angles

  • You don’t have proper tools

  • It’s part of a full refurbishment

Why Choose AA Facilities Group?

At AA Facilities Group, we provide:

  • Skirting board installation

  • Full decorating and finishing

  • Property refurbishments

  • General maintenance services

✅ Fast turnaround✅ Competitive pricing✅ Landlord & residential specialists✅ High-quality professional finish

📞 Get a Free Quote Today

Need skirting boards installed?

👉 Contact AA Facilities Group today for a free, no-obligation quote.

We’ll deliver a clean, professional finish that transforms your space.

 
 
 

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