Learn how to prepare, repair and paint skirting boards from the experts at Haymes Paint. We have over 80 years of experience in perfecting premium quality paints for Australia. And we're committed to act sustainably and look for innovative ways to lessen our impact on the environment.

Preparing Skirting Boards For Painting

You will need to clean your skirting boards before you can start painting them. You can do this by using a damp cloth to wipe them down.

Once you have cleaned your skirting boards, you will need to sand them. This will help to create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to.

Once you have sanded your skirting boards, you will need to prime them. This will help the paint to adhere better and also prevent the paint from chipping or flaking off in the future.

Knowing the tips and tricks on how best to paint skirting boards will make the job much easier and will ensure a long-lasting finish that looks great. Find out how to paint skirting boards with Haymes Interior Paints. 

Repainting Skirting Boards

If your skirting boards already have paint on them, often you don’t have to remove all of the paint before repainting. The first step in how to repaint skirting boards is to sand them to remove any imperfections and flaking/peeling paint then clean them thoroughly with a mild solution of soap and water. However, if the paint is in poor condition (flaking, peeling or cracking) you may need to strip it completely before re-painting.

How To Paint Skirting Boards With A Wooden Floor Or Carpet

Below are step-by-step instructions on how to paint skirting boards with a wooden floor and how to paint skirting boards with carpet: 

1. Choose a paint colour that compliments the wall colour. White is the most popular choice for skirting boards.
2. Sand down the skirting boards. Use a soft dry brush to remove loose paint and dust.
3. To ensure a tidy paint job, how to paint skirting boards without getting paint on the wall is to tape along the skirting board. When there is existing flooring that you want to protect, we recommend using low tack masking or painter's tape with a thicker width.
4. When applying the tape hold it tight against the skirting board. With carpet, ensure the tape is slightly overlapping onto the skirting board then push the masking tape down the back edge of the carpet. Make sure it is tight up against the skirting board with no carpet showing.
5. Once all skirting has been masked you can apply the first coat. Cut in to the top of the skirting first and ensure you apply the paint evenly, working in manageable sections.
6. Once the first coat is completely dry, apply the second coat.
7. When the paint is fully dry, carefully remove the tape.

How to Paint Skirting Boards Without Getting Paint on the Wall

Use tape as mentioned above. However, you can also use a cutting in technique but this can be hard to master. Ensure you use the right brush when cutting in (angled ones are best for cutting in). Chat to your local Haymes Paint Shop about what the best brushes are to use.

Often we get asked how to paint skirting boards without tape, however, we do recommend using tape as it will be much easier. If you are painting the walls and/or laying down a flooring surface after painting your skirting boards then tape may not be required but we do recommend painting the skirting boards after painting walls. 

You can also use a painting shield - these can be used in conjunction with tape and are particularly useful where there is a thick carpet.

Find Your Local Haymes Paint Shop

Visit your local Haymes Paint Shop to get expert advice on how to paint skirting boards. Or buy online everything you need for your project with click and collect or delivery available from your local store.