What is a footer and why does it make a difference?

Have you ever noticed the skirting boards in your home? It may go unnoticed in everyday life, but believe me: this detail plays an essential role in decorating and protecting walls! Skirting isn’t just a beautiful finish, it prevents wear and tear over time, protects against impacts and also helps hide wires and cables.

Furthermore, it can be an excellent ally for adding that touch of refinement to the environment. But after all, what is a skirting board, what types are available and how to choose the ideal one for your spaces? If you want to make your home even more beautiful and functional, come with me and I’ll tell you everything!

After all, what is a footer?

The skirting board is nothing more than that strip installed at the base of the wall, right where it meets the floor. As well as giving a nicer finish, it protects against furniture knocks, knocks and also prevents dirt from building up directly on the wall. Have you ever noticed how the walls close to the floor tend to get stained over time? Well, the footer helps avoid this problem!

Why does the footer make such a difference?

It may seem like a small detail, but baseboards have a huge impact on the aesthetics and functionality of the room. Not only does it give a sophisticated finish to the space, but it also protects the walls and can even affect the feeling of spaciousness of the room. Do we understand better why the footer makes such a difference?

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Photo: reproduction

Protection for your walls

Skirting is essential to avoid damage to the lower part of the walls. Without it, it is very easy for scratches or bumps to damage the wall. Furthermore, it prevents moisture from the floor from rising up the wall, helping to preserve the environment for longer.

Impeccable finishes for the environment

Imagine an incredible floor and a well-made painting, but with an unfinished meeting point between them? The skirting board gives a harmonious appearance, creating an elegant transition between floor and wall. It can also hide small irregularities or imperfections where these elements meet, making everything more beautiful and sophisticated.

Feeling of a larger or cozier space

Choosing the right skirting board can influence the perception of space in the environment. Taller models, especially in light colors, help to visually lengthen the walls, giving the feeling of higher ceilings. The dark-toned lower skirting boards give a more welcoming effect, ideal for those looking for a sophisticated and welcoming environment.

Personalization and style in decoration

Nowadays there are skirting boards of different materials, heights and colours, which allow you to personalize the environment according to your taste. White skirting is a classic and matches any decor. Wooden skirting boards give a rustic and elegant look, while models in the color of the floor make the space more uniform and modern.

How to choose the ideal footer?

Choosing the right skirting board makes the difference in the decoration and functionality of the room. It protects walls, hides imperfections and gives a sophisticated touch to the space. But how to choose the ideal model? We will help you with some essential tips.

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Choose the right material

The first step is to define the material of the skirting board, since this influences the durability and aesthetics of the environment:

• Madeira: Classic and elegant, but requires maintenance as it can absorb moisture.
• MDF: Inexpensive and widely used, but not suitable for wet areas.
• Polystyrene: Moisture resistant, durable and easy to clean, ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
• PVC: Economical and practical option, but with a simpler finish.
• Ceramic or porcelain: Super durable and perfect for those who want a uniform floor finish.

If you have children or pets, Styrofoam is one of the best choices, as it does not scratch easily and is very durable.

Set the ideal height

The height of the footer directly affects the style of the room:

• Low (5 to 7 cm): Discreet and ideal for small spaces.
• Medium (10 to 15 cm): Balance between functionality and aesthetics.
• Tall (15cm or more): Sophisticated and suitable for large rooms with high ceilings.

If you want a more elegant environment, opt for models at least 10 cm high.

Choose the right color

The color of the skirting board can transform the environment. Some popular options are:

• Same tone as the wall: Creates a clean effect and expands the space.
• Same tone as the floor: For a uniform and discreet look.
• Contrast with the floor: Sophisticated and modern, like white skirting on a dark floor.

White is always a good choice, as it goes with practically any decor.

Where to find quality skirting boards?

If you want a beautiful, resistant skirting board with impeccable finishes, Rodapé Shop is the best choice! The store offers a wide variety of models, there is no shortage of amazing options for you, guarantee it now too. Discover some of our products:

Baseboard design trends in 2025

Skirting boards are the center of attention, following decorating trends that enhance customization, sustainability and textures. Find out what’s trending:

• Dynamic layers: Combine slatted or skirting boards to create walls with depth, such as the Ripado Santa Luzia 25 mm Madeirado with the Skirting Santa Luzia 10 cm White.
• Bold colors: Baseboards painted in bright tones, such as terra cotta or forest green, contrast with neutral walls.
• Sustainable materials: Ecological options, such as the Arquitech Polystyrene Skirting Board, recyclable and resistant, for conscious design.
• Natural Textures: Wooden or wood-finished plinths for an organic aesthetic, perfect for bedrooms and living rooms.

Innovative footer styling techniques

How about turning your skirting boards into real works of art? Try these ideas:

• Skirting with Ombré Effect: Paint the skirting with a shade that goes from the color of the floor to that of the wall (e.g. from white to warm grey). Use 12cm polystyrene skirting to make painting easier.
• Creative camouflage: paint the skirting board the same color as the wall for a monochromatic, minimalist look, ideal with the Santa Luzia 10cm white skirting board.
• Artistic Texture: Apply textured finishes, such as burnt concrete or marble effect, to the baseboard, using Arquitech polystyrene baseboard as the base.
• Panel integration: Combine skirting with a 25mm Ripado Santa Luzia or 3cm Rodameio Clássico to create an accent wall with visual layers.

Stellar combinations with Rodapé Shop products

Create memorable environments by combining skirting boards with other Rodapé Shop finishes:

• Minimalist living room: Use Santa Luzia 10cm white skirting board with white walls and a 25mm white Ripado for a clean look. Add colorful pillows to create contrast.
• Boho bedroom: Combine 10cm wooden skirting board with terracotta walls and a wooden slat for maximum comfort. Plants and natural fabrics complete the look.
• Modern Kitchen: Install the 10cm White Polystyrene Skirting Board with Mint Green walls and White Santa Luzia Profile for a functional and elegant touch.
• Sophisticated office: use the Santa Luzia 15 cm Gray skirting board with warm gray walls and a 3 cm Rodameio Classico for a contemporary design.

So, did you like it?

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On Rodapé Shop we have a selection of high quality products that will add charm and functionality to your environments.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the ideal height for a skirting board?

The height depends on the style of the room. Skirting boards from 7 to 10 cm are classic and discreet, while models above 15 cm bring a modern and sophisticated touch. Rooms with high ceilings are combined with larger baseboards.

How to clean and maintain skirting boards?

Cleaning is simple! For polystyrene and PVC skirting boards, a damp cloth with neutral detergent is sufficient. Those in MDF should be cleaned with a dry or slightly damp cloth to avoid damage. Avoid abrasive products to prolong life.

Where to buy quality skirting boards?

Gonna Shop offers a wide variety of high quality skirting boards, with different heights, materials and finishes. There you will find modern and resistant solutions for every environment!