Skirting boards, while essential for protecting walls from knocks and scrapes, often leave unsightly gaps between themselves and the wall. These gaps can detract from the overall aesthetic of a room, allowing dust and debris to accumulate. Gap fillers serve as the perfect solution, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits. Here’s everything you need to know about skirting board gap fillers, including recommended products, application tips, and best practices.
Types of Gap Fillers:
Flexible Caulk: Silicone or acrylic-based caulks are versatile and can be painted over once dried. They are suitable for smaller gaps and are easy to apply with a caulking gun.
Expanding Foam: Ideal for larger gaps, expanding foam fills spaces effectively and can be trimmed and painted once cured. Careful application is necessary to avoid over-expansion.
Decorators Caulk: Specifically designed for filling gaps between skirting boards and walls, decorators caulk is easy to apply and dries quickly. It can be smoothed with a damp cloth for a professional finish.
Gap Filling Strips: Pre-cut strips made from flexible materials like PVC or foam is convenient for covering gaps quickly without the need for cutting or trimming.
Choosing the Right Product:
Selecting the appropriate gap filler depends on the size of the gap and the desired finish. For small to medium gaps, flexible caulks or decorators caulk are ideal due to their ease of application and ability to blend seamlessly with the surroundings. Expanding foam, skirting board gap filler on the other hand, is more suited for larger voids but requires careful handling to prevent mess and ensure a neat appearance post-application.
Application Tips:
Prepare the Surface: Clean the area thoroughly to ensure the filler adheres well. Remove any dust, dirt, or old filler using a vacuum cleaner or brush.
Cutting and Trimming: For gap filling strips or foam, measure and cut them slightly longer than the gap to ensure a snug fit. Use a sharp utility knife for precise cutting.
Apply Filler Smoothly: Whether using caulk or foam, apply it evenly along the gap. Smooth the surface with a caulking tool or a wet finger for a professional finish.
Painting: Once the filler is completely dry and cured, typically within 24 hours, sand it lightly if necessary and paint over it to match the skirting board and wall color.
Best Practices:
Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation when working with expanding foam or caulk to avoid inhaling fumes.
Precision: Take your time to apply the filler carefully, especially around corners and intricate molding, to achieve a seamless look.
Quality Products: Invest in high-quality gap fillers to ensure durability and a long-lasting finish that remains stable over time.