▷ How to put skirting boards on the wall: Practical tips for an impeccable finish!

If you are looking for a simple and effective way to improve the decor of your home, installing skirting boards is a great solution. Skirting boards not only beautify the room, but also play a functional role, protecting your walls from knocks and dirt, as well as hiding imperfections between floor and wall. In this guide we’ll show you step-by-step how to add skirting boards to walls, allowing you to transform any space with ease.

Installing skirting boards may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and some practical tips you can achieve a professional result in your home. From choosing the ideal type of skirting board for your style, to its correct application, every step is essential to ensure that your skirting board is perfect and durable.

Find out how to put skirting boards on the wall

If you want to give a special touch to your home and enhance the space, don’t miss the opportunity to learn how to install skirting boards in a practical way. Let’s explore the materials needed, installation steps, and precautions to take during the process. Get ready to transform your home with a detail that makes the difference!

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Measure the perimeter

Before starting the installation, measure the total length of the walls on which you want to install the baseboard. Use the measuring tape and write down the measurements. If the wall is not flat, take measurements in different places to make sure you get the exact length. This step is essential to avoid waste and ensure you purchase the correct amount of skirting.

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Cut the footer

With measurements in hand, cut the baseboard pieces using a miter saw or handsaw. For inside corners, make cuts at a 45-degree angle so the ends fit snugly. For outside corners, use the same angle or make a straight cut, depending on the baseboard design. Be sure to measure twice and cut once to avoid errors.

Prepare the surfaces

If the baseboards are not pre-finished, sand the edges and surface with fine sandpaper. This will not only help with the adhesion of the paint or varnish, but will also smooth out any imperfections that may be in the baseboard. Remove any sanding residue before proceeding with installation.

Place the footer

Before fixing, position the skirting board against the wall and check with the level that it is straight. Use a pencil to lightly mark where the baseboard will be installed. This will help guide glue application or nail placement. If you use more than one piece of skirting, make sure the seams fit together correctly.

Lock the footer

Apply glue to the back of the baseboard and press it firmly against the wall. If you use nails, place them an even distance apart (usually every 12 inches) and tap gently with your hammer or use a stapler to secure them in place. If glue isn’t enough, use a combination of glue and nails for added stability.

Check the level

As you attach the baseboard, use the level again to make sure it is perfectly aligned. If necessary, adjust immediately, as the glue may begin to dry quickly. A well-aligned baseboard not only improves appearance, but also prevents future installation problems. Finish the trim If there are gaps between the baseboard and the wall, use caulk to fill these gaps. Apply with a trowel, then sand gently to a smooth finish. Next, if you wish, paint or varnish the skirting board to give it the finishing touch. Make sure the paint or varnish is dry before touching or moving anything nearby.

Let dry

After installation and any painting or finishing, allow the glue and filler to dry completely. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying time. This ensures that everything is securely fastened before using the room.

Cleaning

After installation, remove any glue residue or dust that may have accumulated during the process. You can use a damp cloth to remove dirt and leave the area clean and organized.

The importance of a wall skirting board

If you are looking for ideas to improve the decor of your home or simply want to better understand how skirting can influence your spaces, this is the right place. Follow us and find out why the footer is a detail not to be overlooked!

Discover Santa Luzia skirting boards.

Wall protection

The skirting board acts as a barrier that protects the lower part of the walls from impacts, scratches and humidity. This is especially useful in high-traffic areas such as hallways and living rooms where furniture may touch the walls.

Aesthetic finish

The skirting board offers a touch of elegance and refinement to the environment. It can complement the decor, creating a smooth transition between the floor and the wall and enhancing the style of your home.

Easy cleaning

With a skirting board, cleaning the lower part of the wall becomes easier, as it helps prevent dirt and dust from accumulating on the edges, making it easier to maintain the space.

Hide imperfections

Well-placed baseboards can hide imperfections in paint or wall finishes, resulting in a cleaner, sleeker look.

Variety of styles and materials

There is a wide range of skirting boards available on the market today, in different styles, colors and materials. This allows you to choose what best suits your decor and needs.

Advanced tips for a perfect installation

Very uneven walls: use thin shims (such as pieces of cardboard) to level the skirting board or apply more Glue Santa Luzia 420 g to fill the gaps. A level is essential to maintain alignment.
Non-standard angles: For angles greater than 90 degrees, measure with a protractor and make test cuts on the baseboard scraps before cutting the main piece.
Excess glue: remove immediately with a damp cloth. For dried residues, use a diluted vinegar solution, taking care not to damage the finish.
Humid surfaces: In bathrooms or kitchens, make sure the wall is completely dry before installation and choose polystyrene skirting boards, such as those from Rodapé Shop, for their resistance to humidity.

Professional techniques

Pre-painting: Paint the baseboards with acrylic paint before installation to avoid touching the wall. Use a primer for better adhesion.
Dry Test: Place all the pieces along the wall without glue to check cuts and alignment, avoiding errors.
Masking tape as a backing: Use masking tape to hold the baseboard in place while the glue dries, especially on long sections or uneven walls.
Precise cuts: Invest in a miter saw or use a box for 45-degree cuts, ensuring perfect seams.

Creative inspirations to style your footer

Bold contrast: Paint Santa Luzia 10cm skirting white in a vibrant shade, such as twilight blue or terracotta, to contrast with white walls, following the 2025 trend for high-impact details.
Elegant monochrome: match the 7cm polystyrene skirting board in the same color as the wall (e.g. warm grey) for a seamless, minimalist look.
Texture and layering: Pair the skirting with a 25mm Madeiran Santa Luzia Ripado on an accent wall or a 3cm classic Rodameio to create a sophisticated frame effect.
Classic touch: use the Santa Luzia 15 cm White Skirting Board with walls in pastel tones, such as lavender, for a serene and elegant room.

Alignment with 2025 trends

Modern minimalism: White or gray baseboards with neutral walls and vinyl flooring for a clean look.
Organic Aesthetics: Skirting boards in wood or in shades of gray with terracotta walls and plants for a welcoming environment.
Dramatic contrasts: White baseboards with forest green or navy walls, complemented by metallic details.
Sustainability: Rodapé Shop’s polystyrene skirting boards are recyclable, satisfying the demand for ecological materials.

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Frequently asked questions

Is it necessary to sand baseboards before installation?

Yes, it is good practice to sand the skirting boards before installation, especially if they are not pre-finished. This helps smooth the edges and surface, ensuring better paint or varnish adhesion if necessary.

How to calculate the amount of skirting needed?

To calculate the amount of skirting, measure the perimeter of the space where you want to install it. Add the width of each footer to get the total measurement. We recommend purchasing a little more material (around 10%) to cover any errors or waste.

Can I install skirting boards on uneven walls?

Yes, it is possible to install baseboards on uneven walls, but it may require more attention. Use a level to ensure the baseboard is aligned. You may need to cut baseboards at an angle or make adjustments to the ends to fit the shape of the wall. If necessary, a shim can be used to level the skirting board with respect to the floor.