What is skirting?
In simple language, skirting is the process of covering the improper edge or border mostly for aesthetic purposes. Various materials of different quality and properties can be used for the purpose of skirting as per the need and requirements.
Earlier, timber was the material used for making skirt boards. But as the technology advanced, various skirt board materials were introduced.
Skirting is not only performed for aesthetic purposes. Another use of skirting is to prevent the exposure of the portion of anything to the external environment so as to preserve the materials from deterioration.
Also, Skirting can be done to hide the various unwanted features, components, and materials from specific parts like water pipes, electric wirings, etc. Now let us discuss some types of skirting.
Types of skirtings
There are several types of skirting available based on materials used and designs.
1) Metal skirting:
As the name suggests, metals like stainless steel are used for making metal skirting as it gives modern looks and a great finish as it has shiny looks. This skirting has greater advantages over wooden skirting as it doesn’t swell because it is unaffected by water and other external components.
2) Wooden skirting:
various hardwood and softwood boards can be used for wooden skirting as this skirting gives beautiful auspicious aesthetic looks. Wooden skirting is more preferable in the sense that it can be designed in any shape and any styles and decorating and varnishing can be done to any extent.
3) Pencil skirting:
Pencil skirting is done where there is an expansion gap or after the plastering of the wall has been completed. Pencil skirting has a round edge at its upper edge.
4) Flush skirting:
In other types of skirting, the skirting board is projected above the surface but in flush skirting, the skirting board and the surface both are on the same level which gives an auspicious view.
5) Double layered skirting:
In this skirting, two or more skirt board parts are joined together and made. This type of skirting requires a skilled person to get properly installed and gives a beautiful and unique aesthetic appearance.
Likewise, various other types of skirting are used as per the requirements and budget.
Purposes of Skirting
- It is provided for an attractive view beside the wall of the rooms.
- It prevents seepage. ie skirting resists water to keep the wall dry while cleaning the floor of the rooms.
- It prevents the wall from destroying paints and distemper below at the floor lever.
Size/height of skirting
Generally the height of skirting ranges from 4 inches to 6 inches. In public buildings like a hospital, factories, hotels, etc skirting height are kept about 6 inches. While for residential buildings it is kept about 4 inches or 5 inches.
How to install a skirting board?
I hope this article on “Types and purposes of skirting” remains helpful for you.
Happy Learning – Civil Concept
Read Also,
how to find no of bricks in a wall,Example with Numerical
What is Non load bearing wall | Features, Types
Partition Wall Types | Requirement and Advantages of the partition wall
Methods of plastering on wall or Civil Engineering Structure
