How to Paint Skirting Boards with a Clean Finish
Painting skirting boards is one of the most visible finishing touches in any room—how to paint skirting boards Whitehouse style delivers razor-sharp lines and long-lasting protection. At Whitehouse Painting & Decorating, we specialise in crisp, professional results across Northamptonshire homes, whether refreshing timber in period properties or modern new-builds.
Skirting boards take knocks from vacuuming, furniture and feet, so the paint must be tough, wipeable and perfectly straight-edged. Whitehouse shares the step-by-step method we use for flawless, durable finishes every time.
Why Skirting Boards Need Special Painting Care
Skirting gets constant contact and scuffs—ordinary wall paint chips quickly. Whitehouse uses trim-specific, hard-wearing paints (eggshell or satin) and precise cutting-in techniques to create sharp contrast lines against walls and floors.
Whitehouse Step-by-Step: How to Paint Skirting Boards
- Prepare the area — Move furniture away; cover floors with dust sheets; lightly sand existing finish to key the surface.
- Clean thoroughly — Wipe with sugar soap to remove dust, grease and marks—essential for adhesion.
- Mask for perfect edges — Apply low-tack painter’s tape along the top edge (wall side) and bottom (floor side) if needed; press firmly for crisp lines.
- Prime if required — Use a high-adhesion primer on bare wood or previously glossed surfaces; let dry fully.
- Apply topcoats — Use quality trim paint (e.g. Dulux Trade Diamond Satinwood or Sadolin Superdec); cut in with a 1–2 inch angled brush; work in sections; apply 2 thin coats.
- Remove tape & final check — Peel tape while second coat is still wet (45° angle) for sharpest lines; inspect in good light; touch up any bleed; allow full cure (up to 7 days for heavy use).
Best Paint Types & Colours for Skirting Boards
Whitehouse recommends water-based eggshell or satin trim paints for toughness and low odour—brilliant white is classic, but soft greys or off-whites add modern contrast. Avoid high-gloss (shows every imperfection) or matt (marks easily).
Common Mistakes When Painting Skirting Boards
Poor taping causes bleed; overloading brush creates drips; painting over dirty surfaces leads to peeling. Whitehouse prevents these with careful prep, quality tools and thin coats.
See skirting and trim examples in our Projects gallery or explore Services and Interior Decorating.
Ready for perfect how to paint skirting boards Whitehouse results? Contact us today for a free quote.