Specialization: Capital construction works(laying a foundation, erecting walls, constructing a roof, etc.). Internal construction work (laying internal communications, rough and fine finishing). Hobby: mobile connection, high tech, computer technology, programming.
Let me share with you, my friends, my experience and knowledge regarding apartment renovation, more precisely, the part that goes along the ceiling and floor. Did you guess it? Did you guess it right?
Right! Regarding floor and ceiling skirting boards. How am I so knowledgeable? Quite recently I was faced with such a problem. We did the repairs, but I decided to try my hand at the baseboards myself. It’s not for nothing that I have the top, ugh, that is higher education there is (though it’s humanitarian, that’s why I decided to compose this opus).
So, let's start in order.
Is a plinth needed at all?
Although I am a philologist by training, I am a builder by vocation. Therefore, I have completed a lot of apartment renovations and I know which skirting boards are best for the floor. And I don’t look like a fool in a hardware store; no unscrupulous consultant will sell me garbage.
At first, I honestly admit, I had the sin of not attaching these things at all. Well, it’s so good, pretty and cute.
However, I know firsthand that this seemingly invisible detail against the background of the rest of the splendor of my renovation has many purposes:
- gives the floor and ceiling a finished look;
- covers the joints between the floor and walls;
- it will help to hide the wallpaper and flooring (I cut them a little unevenly there);
- Well, of course, he’ll disguise the wires if necessary (otherwise I’m going to hang the plasma in the toilet, I’ll have to run the Internet and cable there over time).
What are they made of?
Based own experience, I want to tell you that there are a great many options for floor and ceiling skirting boards. So that you don’t bother your bright head with trifles and waste time, I decided to tell you about all the varieties and tell you about the pros and cons.
The most commonly used types of products are:
- wooden;
- plastic;
- from MDF;
Wooden plinth, despite the fact that it was already known to our great-grandfathers, has not lost its attractiveness. Although now there are more and more new materials and wood is gradually fading into the background.
A wooden plinth will look great on an expensive floor covering made of natural materials. The greatest effect can be achieved if you make the floor and baseboard from the same wood.
As for other advantages and disadvantages, as a true philologist and a noble builder, I have compiled them into an interesting table, which I present to your attention.
MFD skirting boards are made from wood fibers using the hot pressing method. Paper pre-impregnated with dyes and protective compounds is applied to the front side. Therefore, in appearance they resemble wood, but differ in a variety of colors and shapes.
The pros and cons, as you probably guessed, I suggest you read the sign. No wonder I spent three hours teaching how to draw it in a text editor. It was easier to draw with a pencil, which is more familiar to me as a builder.
The most popular today is plastic skirting boards. Now you will understand why:
In addition, plastic skirting boards come in several varieties.
- Under the carpet. This plinth is a strip (L-shaped). You can insert a tape into it, which is cut from the carpet and it turns out that the baseboard is made of the same material as the carpet.
- Flexible plinth. It went on sale not so long ago and is used for curved floors and walls. He has a super ability to bend around and decorative elements decor.
It is made of plastic, the structure of which is changed at the molecular level. This is how far technology has come! It is stored in special packaging in order to preserve the properties of the material.
The advantages of such a plinth are:
- resistance to moisture;
- takes any necessary form.
The disadvantages again:
- the price is not low;
- requires certain skills during installation.
This skirting board is ideal for homes and rooms round shape(well, you know, some people build them so that there is no corner for the mother-in-law).
What are they like?
Width
My monumental treatise It didn't end there. Knowledge just keeps pouring out. Therefore, I will tell you that plinths can be of different widths, from one centimeter, or even less, to twenty. So you will also have to decide how to choose the width.
Here knowledgeable people advise paying attention to the following points:
- A wide baseboard can easily smooth out corners. The room will look more rounded, calming, peaceful.
Popular wisdom says that if a person is in an apartment with sharp corners, then he becomes aggressive and nervous. And rounded corners calm and relax. This was invented by manufacturers of wide skirting boards. - The width of the plinth can hide unevenness and defects in the joints of the ceiling and walls, both regular and suspended. This is for the incompetent, who cannot cut wallpaper evenly along the floors and ceilings.
- Again, human vision determines the size of a room by two horizontal surfaces - the ceiling and the floor. Therefore, the wider the baseboard, the smaller the room appears. If you are the happy owner of a Khrushchev apartment, it is better to leave the wide baseboards in the store.
- The choice of the width of the plinth is also influenced by the height of the room. If the ceiling is high, you can use a wide plinth; if on the contrary, then it’s better not to, it will look bulky and awkward.
Color
Do you think that's it? No matter how it is. They forgot to decide on the color. Here, too, you can’t just buy the first squiggle you come across.
The following factors need to be taken into account:
- White makes the room visually appear slightly higher than it actually is - tested.
- The baseboard is the color of the walls, plus, if it is also wide, on the contrary, it will make the room smaller.
- If there are more than three colors in one room, it will look variegated.
- If you choose a plinth for a room with light walls bright color, for example, dark oak, it can look impressive, but it must be complemented by appropriate accessories and decorative elements.
Form
And finally, all that remains is to choose a form. And then I began to think about whether to give preference to pretentiousness and a complex pattern or not to show off and stick to the form of simple lines.
I decided to choose the second option. Pretentious, complex shapes will suit a pompous antique-style interior in combination with natural, expensive materials. In addition, the more complex the shape, the more difficult these elements are to fit the corners.
Well, simple forms are just right for me, to the common man, just right. They are more versatile. They will match almost any decoration without attracting attention. special attention. Let the geometry teachers create complex forms for themselves.
But how to choose it correctly?
Phew, well, we finally figured out the variety of products. Now I dare to give you, my grateful readers, some advice on how to choose the right baseboard.
It’s clear that if you’ve already chosen a good-quality wooden or parquet floor covering, then you need to select the appropriate baseboards. The plastic ones, I’m telling you for sure, will look as if a neighbor was asked to use them. But with laminate or linoleum - that’s it. By the way, MDF skirting boards will also look good.
Well, when choosing a color, I advise you not to bother at all, but to go straight to the color of the floor. Discrepancies, of course, are allowed, but this way you definitely won’t overdo it.
Now many fashionistas use this solution - the baseboard is made to match the wall.
It looks unusual and fresh, I tell you.
In general, my friends, it’s up to you to judge which floor plinth is better, but I’ll tell you one thing: even a specialist philologist can choose a plinth to match the interior of your “nest.”
Oh, I also remembered this one cool idea: if there is a ceiling plinth, the floor plinth can be matched to its tone. Oh, now I’ll also have to tell you about the ceiling skirting boards.
Do you also need it for the ceiling?
Nobody wants the floor in our apartment to be beautifully and aesthetically decorated, and the ceiling to look haphazard. Therefore, you will have to buy it also upstairs. First find out which one is better ceiling plinth.
As in the previous case, we will choose the shape, material and color of the plinth.
There are several common options:
- Styrofoam. If you want to get an excellent plinth for the ceiling at minimal cost, then pay attention to the foam plinth. It is very easy to process with regular kitchen knife, but it costs mere pennies.
The disadvantages of the material include:
- flammability
- low mechanical strength.
If you are planning to use this plinth for other purposes, for example, as a border, then I tell you right away, it is better to abandon this idea and give preference to more durable materials. Well, if a foam plinth is used under the ceiling, it is unlikely that anyone will be able to ruin it there. If only on purpose.
- Expanded polystyrene. The brother of foam plastic, which was ahead of its closest relative in development.
Skirting boards made of polystyrene foam, unlike polystyrene foam, have several advantages:
- It is much stronger than polystyrene foam, although it can also be cut with a knife. But you won’t be able to crush or accidentally break the part. Therefore, it can also be used as a border.
- Expanded polystyrene does not support combustion, and during a fire it does not emit chemicals harmful to humans.
- Expanded polystyrene is more expensive than polystyrene foam. However, the purchase of such a plinth will not ruin even the most zealous owner.
- Tree. In no case should we forget about wooden baguettes. Do you want pomp and aristocracy in the interior? Then this material is just right for you. Skirting boards made from expensive wood species look especially beautiful: red, oak, ash.
The price, of course, immediately makes it clear that it is not cheap. In addition, such skirting boards are much more difficult to process than, for example, products made from polystyrene foam. You will have to use a hacksaw with frequent small teeth when adjusting the corners, and finish the joints with a file.
And if it’s not difficult to putty the cracks on other skirting boards, then with wood, especially expensive wood, you’ll have to work hard, since any error will immediately be evident.
Among the disadvantages of such beautiful, expensive skirting boards, it is worth noting the following:
- susceptibility to rotting;
- danger of deformation when wet.
Wooden baseboards require extensive post-treatment after installation. Therefore, it is better not to perform this operation yourself, but to entrust it to professionals like me. They have instructions for work, thanks to which all technological process will be maintained exactly.
How to attach it?
Installing a floor plinth is quite simple, so I will pay more attention to what kind of glue is best for gluing the ceiling plinth. There is nothing complicated in choosing the material to secure this part. Any universal glue or putty will do. And since the products themselves are light as a feather, additional fixation is not required for foam and polystyrene foam skirting boards.
You'll have to work hard with wooden skirting boards: they require working with a hammer drill and pre-installed fasteners to which the wooden molding is attached.
Conclusion
I briefly told you about all the nuances of choosing skirting boards. If I continue to write, then, firstly, my fingers will fall off, and secondly, the work will amount to a dissertation, and thirdly, I already have an order for apartment renovation, I’ll go earn money.
For those who dislike reading, I offer a video in this article, where the nuances of choosing skirting boards are covered in no less detail. There you will also find out what is better to glue the ceiling plinth to if you forgot to buy “liquid nails”.
May 17, 2016If you want to express gratitude, add a clarification or objection, or ask the author something - add a comment or say thank you!
During the selection finishing materials For the future interior, the question often arises - how to choose the right baseboard? After all, this, at first glance, invisible interior element can not only disguise the joint between the floor and the wall, but also give the room a neater and more finished look.
Why right choice the required baseboard is it so important for the floor? Firstly, an incorrectly selected baguette can affect performance characteristics floor covering. Secondly, incorrect choice material will lead to the fact that the profile will look heterogeneous and alien. Thirdly, the error in color choice element will negatively affect the overall picture of the interior solution.
So, the interior style has been chosen, sketches of the future interior have been made. There is only a small thing left to accept, but important decision– select the baseboard for the floor.
Features of the choice of dimensions and colors
Today there is a huge selection various colors s solutions for floor moldings. In addition, a wide variety of moldings in width and decor will also have a beneficial effect on the choice of element. In order to understand how to choose a plinth, you need to follow some general rules by choice of color and size.
How to choose the color of the baseboard?
In order to understand how to choose the right skirting board color, first of all it should be noted that related or monochrome shades of the floor covering are the most successful option for solving the problem, since in this case the harmony of the floor covering and baguette is ensured. It is worth noting that monochrome are those shades that are located within the same color, and related shades are adjacent colors and shades within the color wheel. What color should you avoid?
The only disadvantage of this solution may be that, in the case of dark shades and a wide baguette, this will visually reduce the height of the room.
In addition, it is also necessary to mention that a light floor and a light molding can combine well with each other even if they have a different color shade. However, you should also approach this decision carefully and try to ensure that the shades are complementary to each other.
Many people think about how to choose a baseboard for the floor so that it does not deviate from the overall style. Another good option is to combine a baguette with existing interior details, for example, wallpaper, furniture or the color of doors. There is no need to lay plinth under the door. A good solution would be to select moldings for individual parts of furniture or fittings.
In order to select the width of the baguette for a specific interior, you need to do the following:
- First of all, you need to evaluate the potential height of the room - if the ceiling is quite low, you should not select dark colors floor covering and use wide molding, as this will visually make the height even smaller. In this case, an option with a light, dim floor and an inconspicuous baguette that matches the color will be a winning solution;
- Next, you should analyze the color palette of the room. In order to understand how to find and choose a baseboard for the floor, the color of the wall coverings, as well as the furniture that will be present in the room, is analyzed. At this stage, it is important to highlight all available color accents and understand whether you need to select the molding taking them into account, or make it background and as inconspicuous as possible.
How to choose a baseboard for your home – what are the rules?
Any molding can become both a unifying link of the entire interior as a whole, and a complementary detail that can give the interior a special charm. Absolutely any shade of baguette can be combined with white flooring. As a rule, in the case of a white floor, you should focus on the color of the doors or trims, window frames and cladding, furniture or other interior items. Skirting in the color of the walls – universal solution for a successful interior.
Here are some tips for selecting floor moldings depending on the color of the floor:
- Gray floor. This color practically never goes out of fashion and is classic. Gray will go well with any color scheme, but the most suitable are gray, white, red, turquoise, black, purple and blue shades;
- Beige or brown floor. Floor coverings of these shades are most often found in modern interiors, since they fit almost any style direction. These shades replicate the colors of natural wood, so the molding for them should also be in the same wood color scheme and match, for example, the color of the doors;
- Orange or red tint. For this color scheme, it is advisable to select the shades of the molding using a color wheel - here either adjacent or opposite colors are suitable, depending on whether contrast is expected;
- Black color. Another option for a classic flooring that will suit most interior styles. By the way, the option with a black floor can visually expand the space if the walls are left snow-white.
Types of skirting boards for floors
In order to understand which baguette to choose for the room, it is important to consider not only color scheme interior, but also many other factors, such as humidity, temperature level and flooring material.
Wood profile
One of classic options floor moldings - elements made of solid wood, which can be made of a variety of species and different colors. However, some types of wood can crack due to frequent temperature changes. To prevent this from happening, it is worth selecting valuable types of wood for baguettes and processing them antiseptic compounds. In some cases, molding made from valuable wood species is too expensive, so the profile itself is made of pine, and the top is covered with veneer from valuable varieties.
MDF molding
This material can often be found in the production of interior elements and furniture. These are wood fibers, compressed and glued together in a special way. The profile of this material is universal in the interior and can be perfectly combined with a variety of floor coverings, including carpet and linoleum.
PVC varieties
The most affordable material in terms of price. In addition, it is very versatile as it comes in many different colors and textures. The plastic floor profile is very convenient to attach to the wall; in addition, it often has cable channels that facilitate convenient masking of various wires.
Ceramic profile
An ideal solution for rooms with high humidity. In addition, ceramics are easy to clean and do not lose their decorative properties over time. Ceramic molding is easy to match floor tiles, since the market offers great amount all kinds of patterns, colors and textures.
Polyurethane baguette
A modern, versatile, easy-to-install material that suits most floor coverings and interior styles. This profile can be washed and painted to match the color of the floor. In addition, there are flexible models that allow it to be mounted on uneven surfaces.
A universal answer to the question “How to choose a stylish baseboard for the floor?” does not exist, however, by adhering to a number of basic rules, you can choose a model that meets your expectations. Choosing the right baseboard is not difficult.
In order not to miscalculate the number of profiles, it is necessary to make the necessary measurements of the room.
For convenient docking in the corners, it is advisable to purchase special corner elements. In order not to get into trouble when purchasing, it is advisable to make it in large construction stores, and when ordering online, it is advisable to see the product with your own eyes before purchasing.
Video: choosing skirting boards for the floor
Of course, you change gender too. And then the question arises: which skirting board to choose? Indeed, for each specific coating there is its own, more suitable look. In order not to make mistakes, you need certain knowledge. Without a doubt, you can call a specialist who will not only advise, but also install. But this pleasure is not cheap. And why spend extra money if this information can be found on the Internet. We will be happy to help you make the right choice. The plinth mainly serves a decorative function, although now there are those that perfectly hide all communications. It perfectly covers joints, edges of the floor and wallpaper and, in general, creates a look of completeness. Today, there are so many different skirting boards produced that, in fact, it can be difficult to decide not only on the color, but also on the texture. That is why we provide you with complete information so that when you come to the store, you know exactly what you need. Moreover, it is now difficult to find responsible sellers; they basically push the buyer with the product that is most profitable for them to sell. So, how to choose a plinth according to its texture.
Wooden plinth
Wooden plinth differs from all others in its environmental friendliness and naturalness. It is quite durable, strong and beautiful. Models with and without varnish are available for sale. If you run a damp sponge over an unpolished base, you will immediately see what color the wood will acquire when painted. In principle, this is convenient.
Since wooden plinths are used for parquet and plank floor, when ordering a floor surface, you can also order a plinth - it will be perfectly matched in color. If you use it with another textured floor, then you have the opportunity to decorate it yourself: cover in the right color varnish, paint or stain. By the way, this is almost the only species that can be restored.
The wooden plinth is installed exclusively on flat surfaces using self-tapping screws, fasteners, nails without heads or liquid nails. To be honest, the installation is difficult.
In addition to all the advantages, this type has a lot of disadvantages. Firstly, they are expensive, secondly, they require sanding and painting, and thirdly, due to their rigidity, it is problematic to attach them tightly. Also the tree does not tolerate high temperature, humid air and other influences.
Plastic skirting board
How to choose a floor plinth so that it turns out both cheaply and more or less high quality? If you are asking this question, then plastic material is perfect for you. Because it has good characteristics: it does not allow water to pass through, is not afraid of temperature changes, and is not subject to rotting and deformation. It is plastic and has the widest range of colors, does not fade or lose color, is very easy to care for and. Its hollow interior allows you to hide a huge number of communication wires, as well as collapsible design makes it possible, if necessary, to reinstall it.
Plastic products consist of a panel that performs decorative functions and an element with a channel for cables. In principle, plastic is the most popular type, which can be with a flexible edge, embossed or straight. The length of such a plinth can reach two and a half meters, the design is varied, and the structures are collapsible, solid, with plugs, with connecting corners, and so on.
The plastic is attached simply, quickly and easily. Self-tapping screws, glue and liquid nails are used. Naturally, like any other type, it has its disadvantages:
- Cracks easily.
- Afraid of frost.
- Can not be repaired.
- Artificial material.
- Can be melted on contact with fire.
MDF
Do you know how to choose a plinth so that it is made from natural raw materials and is inexpensive? There is only one answer - it's MDF. It is made, unlike wood, from wood fibers, which are pressed at elevated temperatures, the front side is covered with dyed paper and a melamine coating. But nevertheless, it is environmentally friendly, moisture-resistant and, like plastic, has cavities for communications.
The range of colors is very wide and the designs are varied. This product can be tightly installed to any uneven surface. Installation work They pass easily: clamps are attached to the wall, and the finishing is hung on them. Disadvantages: easily breaks and cannot be restored.
Laminated and veneered
Laminated skirting boards are only suitable for one type of floor – laminate. It is a little more natural than plastic, and does not require plugs. Has limitless relief, flexible system and emptiness inside. Therefore, you can install wires. In everyday care it is simple and unpretentious. The huge disadvantage of this type is that it has a very poor assortment and a rather high price, as well as being too small in height.
A veneered product is made from wood veneer, which has a wide range. Resistance to moisture is moderate, the fastening system is liquid nails or clips, and the coating is varnish. No corners or plugs are needed during installation. Its price, in principle, is not cheap, but less than an expensive tree. It’s very bad that over time the main color changes and finished form you can find sapwood or knots.
Aluminum and steel products
In order to know how to choose the right plinth for porcelain stoneware, linoleum, carpet and other commercial coverings, you need to carefully study and metal types. For example, aluminum is perfect for all this and looks great, is resistant to mechanical damage and is durable.
Steel has durability, frost resistance and high quality. There is a hollow space inside, it is easy to install and does not lose external characteristics. Fits perfectly into any interior.
Skirting polyurethane, flexible and ceramic
Polyurethane products are used in absolutely any room, as they can withstand the most humid places and hot rooms. They are considered versatile and durable.
Flexible ones are used in a wide variety of complex designs. Due to their flexibility they are widely used. Produced from certain types of wood with subsequent processing. The flexible plinth is easy to install, after which it takes solid state, which leads to strength.
Ceramics can only be combined with tiles or in the bathroom. It has a solid and chic appearance. Installed using tile adhesive. The main disadvantage is the impossibility of replacement, since it is very difficult to find a suitable option (it is better to make a supply in advance).
We are replacing the flooring - which skirting board to choose for it?
Flooring – laminate
Probably everyone is wondering which plinth to choose for laminate, because this material is very sophisticated and capricious. But it can be different. For one that is cheaper in price, a plastic skirting board is perfect, in its arsenal big choice colors. It will make it possible to avoid uneven surfaces.
If you choose laminated skirting boards, you won't go wrong. They are in harmony with any type of laminate. Of course, MDF and any other type of wood would be an excellent solution.
It is worth considering that under no circumstances should a plinth be attached to this type of flooring. This must be done against the wall.
Linoleum and parquet
For linoleum coverings, you can use finishes made of MDF, plastic, aluminum and veneer. Other types are not very compatible with such material.
Parquet floors always look good, so the finishing slats should match this. Most of all, parquet is impressed by all kinds of wood. Many people prefer to lay plastic trim, but experts do not recommend doing this, because the connection between the interior is lost. It can only be used if there is a sufficient amount of plastic material in the overall design of the room.
Carpet, organite, cork and self-leveling
The carpet is carpet covering, which requires the use of a certain type of baseboard. It is necessary that its structure be disassembled, because the carpet needs to be cleaned periodically. You should also give preference to finishing with adhesive tape. MDF, plastic and veneer will go well with carpet.
To the organite and self-leveling floor The best choice is a laminated lath, plastic, flexible and polyurethane. Cork covering goes well with wood.
Marble, porcelain tiles and ceramic tiles
In principle, these types of coverings can do without a plinth, but sometimes it is necessary to create a certain interior and hide communications. There are few options here: ceramic, aluminum and from the same material from which the floor is made.
You can also apply a laminated finish to ceramics. Wood, metal and plastic are absolutely not suitable.
Finishing touches
If you already have one, take the appropriate measurements. Since you can choose a skirting board in any store, make sure that the seller gives you a complete set.
Video on how to choose a plinth:
When choosing a color, focus not on the general color palette, but solely on the tone of the floor. The wall, doors, etc. don’t matter in the slightest. The finish can be a tone darker or lighter than the floor covering. And remember, the interior of your apartment depends on your decision.
The modern range of skirting boards is quite large and very often the buyer chooses this important detail interior at random. Installing an unsuccessful plinth can ruin all efforts to create original interior to zero, which is why it is so important to study the problem thoroughly in advance.
When deciding how to choose a floor plinth so that it is aesthetically pleasing, practical and not trivial, first you need to evaluate and take into account several significant factors that will help you decide what exactly suits you best.
Characteristics of the plinth itself:
- what material is it made of?
- what width does it have?
- shape – standard straight or curved, enveloping interior elements, to order;
- color spectrum.
Features of the room in which the floor plinth is supposed to be laid:
- wall color;
- floor color;
- door trim color;
- floor material;
- presence of wires that need to be hidden.
Based on this data, you can easily select the baseboard option that will most satisfy you and decorate the room.
What material to choose a plinth from?
All the variety of skirting boards on store shelves are made from artificial or natural materials:
- natural solid wood;
- veneer;
- laminate;
- plastic (PVC);
- ceramics;
- metal;
- cork.
In order to decide what material to choose a plinth from, remember what the floors in the room are made of:
- with floor covering natural wood– laminate, solid wood boards, parquet boards– a wooden plinth made of the same species is combined with veneered models of a similar shade and texture;
- together with roll, tile or liquid linoleum, carpet, laminate, PVC floor skirting boards look great, in addition, plastic strips are used for edging complex structures, since special production technology allows them to be made flexible and bendable;
- For walls made of MDF, skirting boards made of the same material are also perfect;
- metal skirting boards are original and unusual, choose them boldly if the room has linoleum, self-leveling, polyurethane, porcelain tile floors or carpeting;
- for cork floors - cork skirting boards;
- when laying ceramic tiles today they use ceramic skirting boards that match the color and design;
- For laminated floors you can choose not only wooden or PVC skirting boards, but also planks covered with laminate.
Today, you can choose a model with a cable channel made of any material, even for baseboards made of natural wood.
Pros and cons of the most common skirting boards
1) The wooden plinth is made from solid coniferous trees, deciduous trees or more exotic species. Its positive properties:
- long service time;
- the ability to restore the original appearance if necessary;
- naturalness;
- easy adjustment to the desired size.
The disadvantages include:
- spoils quickly in conditions high humidity;
- installation only on perfectly flat surfaces;
- attachment using self-tapping screws, which can be problematic for non-specialists.
Despite the apparent difficulties and disadvantages of wooden floor skirting boards, the purchase of these environmentally friendly panels fully justifies their high cost.
2) Not inferior in environmental friendliness and appearance wood panels veneered plinth, but the price is much lower and it is easier to attach. In the production of such skirting boards, inexpensive wood is used for the base, most often it is pine, which is opened on top with a thin layer of more valuable timber. The main disadvantage, as with solid baseboards, is their susceptibility to moisture and sudden changes in temperature, which limits the use of veneer panels when there are heated floors in the room.
3) Made from fibreboards medium density manufacture MDF and laminated skirting boards with the following advantages:
- cheapness;
- the ability to preserve color and pattern even when exposed to sunlight;
- ease of attachment with liquid nails, glue or using specially installed staples;
- ease of care;
- resistance to damage to the surface layer (scratches, light impacts, etc.) thanks to special impregnations;
- a large number of various shades, suitable for any interior style.
Disadvantages include fear of moisture and low strength compared to previous models.
4) Plastic floor panels have a lot of advantages, the main one of which is their cost-effectiveness. Others include:
- ease of installation;
- ability to hide wires;
- installation on imperfect walls;
- a wide variety of colors, shapes, sizes;
- resistance to dirt, high humidity, rot, rust.
The appearance of such a plinth will be quite simple, which must be taken into account if there are elite coatings on the floor in the room.
5) Floor ceramic skirting boards usually come complete with tiles and are characterized by properties inherent in any ceramics:
- strength;
- vapor permeability – provides ventilation in rooms;
- water absorption;
- moisture resistance;
- ease of cleaning;
- non-toxic;
- durability;
- fire safety;
- color fastness.
The color can match the main background and tile pattern, or contrast with it, which is typical for rooms with bold, modern styles.
6) Metals used for the production of skirting boards are usually aluminum, stainless steel, and brass. Products made from these materials:
- very durable;
- durable;
- wear-resistant;
- fireproof;
- moisture resistant;
- impregnated with antimicrobial compounds.
Metal panels look quite unique and are often used in high-tech rooms.
7) Natural cork wood is used both for the manufacture of floors and accompanying baseboards. The color is usually natural, more or less dark. The appearance of such floor panels, like cork flooring, is very rich and luxurious. The price is quite consistent with the appearance.
How to successfully choose the color and size of the plinth
Options for choosing the color of the baseboard:
- the same tone as the floor is a standard rule, trust it if the style of the room is close to classic;
- matching the color of uniformly painted walls - will not only give the room sophistication, but also visually increase the height of the ceilings;
- same color and size with door trim;
- bright, unusual shades, combined with color spots in the interior - an idea for the most daring;
- snow-white – chic and elegance of the room.
The standard width of the plinth is 4–7 cm. The height of the plinth should not be too high in small rooms, and vice versa. To visually extend the wall and raise the ceiling by eye, thin skirting boards of the same color as the wall coverings can be used.
IN spacious rooms This option will look ridiculous; it is better to choose a wide or medium-sized plinth that stands out in color. If you want a little severity in the room, add a ceiling plinth in the same color as the floor.
Some practical tips
- The required length of the plinth is determined by measuring the perimeter of the entire room minus the width of the doorway. This value is divided by 2.5 (the size of a standard plank) to obtain the number of planks that need to be purchased.
- The number of corners, connecting elements and plugs depends on the number of corners, strips and doors in the room. One left and one right end cap are required per door.
- the smell of the baseboard should not be sharp and unpleasant;
- the color of the plinth strip must match the color of all additional parts;
- it is desirable that the batch numbers on the packages with the skirting boards match;
- plugs, connecting elements, corners must fit tightly to the planks, without cracks or gaps.
It's better if the baseboard is all necessary elements You will purchase in a large store, so the colors and sizes of the products are more likely to match.
When choosing a plinth, it’s better to measure seven times and spare no expense, but then you can enjoy the result every day.
The final chords of the renovation can already be heard: the walls are finished, the flooring. It's time to draw a conclusion. Everything is fine at first glance, but the feeling of incompleteness definitely lingers. Perhaps it's the annoying gaps left near the walls. Well, of course, these beautiful floors need an appropriate frame, which will not only hide small defects, but also bring completeness and comfort to the environment.
You already guessed that you need to install a floor plinth. But which variety should you choose for a particular gender, since there are several of them? We will help you make the right choice.
It is difficult to underestimate the importance of skirting boards for the floor, so skillfully does it separate the floor and walls. This, one might say, is a simple but expressive interior detail. But the practical side of the floor plinth should also be noted - thanks to it, you can, in particular, conveniently hide various cables running around the room.
Wide floor skirting boards: photo wooden plinth for interior flooring
Today, the finishing materials market offers a variety of floor fillet models. The dull-shaped floor plinths, which in cross-section represent an ordinary right-angled triangle, have long disappeared from view. Today everything has changed - materials, sizes, and shapes. Let's look at the most common types of floor skirting boards, their characteristics, advantages and disadvantages.
Plastic floor plinth
PVC skirting boards are the most popular today. Plastic floor plinth has exceptionally high consumer qualities and, first of all, amazing ease of installation and versatility.
Wide plastic floor skirting boards: a combination of aesthetics and functionality
The plastic used in the production of these products, thanks to the latest technologies durable enough. It is resistant to mechanical stress, but at the same time elastic. Plastic skirting board for the floor is in no way inferior to its wooden counterpart, and in some characteristics even surpasses it. Plastic panels are moisture resistant, extremely unpretentious in maintenance, and do not require any significant financial investments, no time costs. One cannot fail to mention its biological stability - it does not rot, does not corrode, and does not create an environment favorable for the life of bacteria.
Original version of the heating system: heated baseboard
Plastic floor skirting boards are easy to cut and shape, so they are simply irreplaceable when framing round or multi-profile walls.
Advice: if you want to give a PVC product some shape, just heat it with a hairdryer or hot water up to approximately 70°C.
Plastic moldings for floor plinths
All kinds of plastic elements for edging corners, external and internal, help to avoid inaccuracies when filing corners when joining. On their reverse side there are special clip-on grips: the corners are placed on the edge of the bar and snapped into place.
The use of corners when connecting plastic fillets significantly improves the aesthetics of the finish
Plastic floor plinth: dimensions, shape and color scheme
The height of the plastic floor profile varies between 5 cm and 8–10 cm. The most popular products are 60 mm high; they cover approximately 22 mm along the floor, providing a large gap. The standard profile length is 2.5 m, although there are samples up to 5.05 m.
Soft PVC roll profile
Plastic floor skirting boards are also supplied in the form of rolls 25–50 m long. They are a flexible tape that is laid using almost seamless technology along the entire perimeter. True, it is almost devoid of decorative properties, so its main purpose is to finish the joints of floors and walls in offices and administrative premises.
How to use flexible plinth floor
PVC profiles have a wide range of colors, both plain and textured - “wood”, “metal” and more. For example, you can choose the color and texture of the panel to match any natural wood: oak, mahogany, wenge, etc. This provides enormous design opportunities for decorating a room.
Spectacular white high plinth for the floor adds special elegance to the interior
The shape of the edging has also become more elegant: it can be flat or convex, with a “leg” or protrusion.
Increasingly, in the design of modern large rooms you can find wide floor plinths made of plastic. Combined with high ceilings, it gives majesty to the structure.
Plastic panels are used with almost any coating: laminate, porcelain stoneware, ceramic tiles, carpet, linoleum, self-leveling and wood floors.
Advice: however, when finishing floors from artistic parquet or solid board, you should first think about whether the simpler look of PVC skirting boards will be dissonant with their luxurious look.Plastic panels, despite their flexibility, are still inferior to wooden ones. The reason is the hollow structure of polyvinyl chloride, so it is better to handle the installed plastic floor profile more carefully.
Floor plinth with cable channel
Today, wide skirting boards for floors with cable ducts are in great demand. What are their advantages?
Floor plinth with cable channel
- Inside the product you can hide up to ten cables laid along the walls;
- they allow electrical wiring to be carried out without undesirable complications, while maintaining unchanged appearance premises;
- The presence of a removable panel on the outside of the profile allows you to complete the existing cable system
The undoubted advantage of these products is the soft rubber edge, which allows you to effectively hide uneven walls and floors.
When choosing the dimensions of products with a cable channel, proceed from the number of wires that are supposed to be routed through it. On the one hand, I would like to have a compact model, but on the other hand, wouldn’t it be better to install a floor plinth of greater thickness in order to be able to lay another cable if necessary.
Skirting board with cable duct made of plastic: sizes are selected depending on the number of wires
Polyurethane floor plinth
Wide profiles made of foamed plastic - polyurethane are no less in demand. This material has a lot positive characteristics. For example, we can note its strength and environmental friendliness, lightness and moisture resistance.
A high polyurethane plinth divides the wall horizontally, visually expanding the space
Polyurethane floor plinths are available in two versions:
- already painted and ready for installation;
- white, ready for painting.
Veneered floor plinth
This type of floor plinth is made from inexpensive glued raw materials - pine or spruce. A thin layer of veneer from valuable wood species, including the most exotic, is attached on top of the base.
Veneered floor profile consists of several layers glued together
During the production process, a special UV-curing and bioprotection varnish is applied to the panels in several layers to protect the product from fungus and microorganisms. The veneered profile is tinted in the required color. This type of plinth is actually made from natural raw materials, is environmentally friendly and is much more affordable than a wooden one.
Important: but we must take into account that conifers are quite sensitive to fluctuations in temperature and humidity conditions, and this cannot be ignored. For example, veneered profiles cannot be installed on a “warm floor”.MDF floor plinth
One of best combinations baseboards with floorboards, laminate and linoleum are made from MDF - natural cellulose, which is pressed into a certain form profile and covered with a fixing film with water-repellent properties. MDF skirting boards very successfully imitate wooden crafts, their technical characteristics are significantly lower.
MDF planks are afraid of constant excess humidity, and, having absorbed moisture, they can become deformed. Under the influence of brute mechanical force, say a sharp blow, the product may crack or break. However, the material is UV resistant and does not fade and is easy to clean.
MDF skirting boards are more often used for laminate floors
These skirting boards are also supported by their beautiful appearance, reminiscent of wood and very low price. But they are not particularly durable. So, having saved on repairs once, after some time the baseboards will have to be replaced.
MDF cable channel looks more attractive, but is more difficult to install
But the sizes of MDF floor skirting boards are very different, and this makes the choice much easier.
Metal baseboard for floor
These skirting boards are usually made from of stainless steel, brass or aluminum. These materials have increased strength and are highly resistant to moisture, so rooms such as the bathroom, kitchen or hallway are often chosen for their installation.
Wide aluminum floor plinth
Metal floor skirting boards are also in demand in commercial buildings with heavy traffic. They are mounted on a base of commercial linoleum, tiles, porcelain stoneware and self-leveling floors.
Metal profiles differ:
- great strength;
- long service life;
- high resistance to mechanical loads, including impacts;
- are not afraid of moisture and extremely high and low temperatures;
- easy to install;
- There are models with a cable channel with the ability to build in sockets.
Metal floor frame
The main disadvantage of this type of skirting boards is the high price and limited choice of textures and colors.
Traditional wooden baseboard for flooring
The classic version, a wooden floor plinth, has not lost its relevance today, with the only difference being that it has turned from a household floor frame into an elite one. To characterize a modern, high-quality wood product, you will have to use epithets such as luxurious or sophisticated.
Oak plinth: dovetail profile
The following models of wooden skirting boards are especially popular:
- profile with a “sole” - has a height of up to 60 mm, a distinctive feature is a relatively narrow lower part, up to 25 mm. The smoothed topography of the front side of the product makes it easier to remove dust;
- europlinth - its dimensions are 10-16 mm, allowing you to install furniture quite tightly to the wall. There are other, non-standard models of products, for example, up to 80 mm high with a figured recess on the front part or up to 30 cm, made of beech or oak.
The perfection of a wooden plinth: wide fillets in a dark color