Posted by Wall Panels World on 9th Dec 2024
Tiled Floors And Tiled Walls | Skirting Boards Or Not? | Best Solution
Using Skirting Boards in Fully Tiled Rooms
Are you renovating your bathroom, kitchen, or wetroom and puzzled about whether to install skirting boards at the transition between your tiled floors and walls? This decision can significantly impact the functionality, aesthetics, and longevity of your interior space. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the pros and cons of using skirting boards in fully tiled rooms, explore alternatives, and provide professional tips—including specific material recommendations—to help you make an informed choice.
Understanding Skirting Boards
Skirting boards are interior trims installed at the junction of the floor and wall. They serve multiple purposes: protecting walls from damage, concealing imperfections, and adding a decorative touch. Materials commonly used include MDF (medium-density fibreboard), wood, PVC, and tiles.
Factors to Consider
Moisture and Wet Areas
In bathrooms and kitchens, moisture is a significant concern. Traditional skirting boards made from standard MDF or untreated wood may absorb water, leading to warping, swelling, and paint deterioration. If you're working on a bathroom, condensation during showers will most likely form on tiled walls and then drip onto skirting boards, exacerbating these issues.
Recommendation: If you prefer wood, opt for marine-grade plywood or hardwood species like teak or cedar, which have natural moisture resistance. For MDF, use moisture-resistant MDF (MR MDF), which is specially treated to withstand higher humidity levels, but keep in mind it's not waterproof and can't withstand direct water exposure.
Aesthetics
Your design preference plays a crucial role. Skirting boards can add a traditional or classic touch, while omitting them offers a sleek, modern look. Consider how skirting boards will align with your overall design theme. We personally prefer a seamless, no-skirting look in modern bathrooms and medium-sized skirting boards in traditional bathrooms.
Protection and Durability
Skirting boards protect the base of your walls from impacts, especially in high-traffic areas or busy family households. They prevent tiles from chipping due to collisions, knocks, and bumps at the bottom of the wall. However, professionally installed tiles should be able to withstand knocks and bumps easily.
Enhancing Tile Strength: To increase the durability of wall tiles at the base, consider using porcelain tiles, which are denser and more impact-resistant than ceramic tiles. Additionally, ensure proper installation using a high-quality, flexible tile adhesive that can absorb slight movements and prevent tiles from cracking.
Installation Challenges
The thickness of wall tiles can cause alignment issues with skirting boards and architraves (door frame mouldings). Installing skirting over tiles may make it protrude more than the architrave, affecting the room's aesthetics.
Solution: Use thinner skirting boards or adjust the thickness of architraves to match. Alternatively, install the skirting board before tiling and tile down to the top edge of the skirting, although this can complicate the tiling process. If you're faced with this challenge, opting for no skirting boards might be the best solution.
Maintenance
Materials like MDF and wood may require regular maintenance, such as repainting or sealing, especially in moist environments. PVC and tile options offer lower maintenance demands.
Tip: If using wood or MDF skirting in wet areas, apply a high-quality, waterproof paint or sealant. Products like epoxy paint or marine varnish provide superior moisture protection.
Advantages and Disadvantages
| Advantages of Skirting | Disadvantages of Skirting |
|---|---|
| Protect walls from damage in high-traffic areas | Risk of moisture damage in wet areas (for MDF and wood) |
| Conceal gaps and uneven edges between floor and wall | Installation challenges due to tile thickness affecting alignment with architraves |
| Enhance aesthetics with decorative elements | Additional costs for materials and maintenance |
Alternatives to Traditional Skirting Boards
1. Skirting Tiles
Skirting tiles are purpose-made tiles designed to cover the junction between the floor and wall. They often feature a chamfered or rounded edge for a seamless look. Using skirting tiles that match your floor tiles provides aesthetic consistency and optimal protection against moisture.
Installation Tip: Use a flexible, waterproof tile adhesive and grout designed for wet areas. Apply a silicone sealant at the base to accommodate any movement and prevent water ingress.
2. PVC Skirting Boards
PVC skirting boards are waterproof and ideal for wet areas. They mimic the appearance of traditional skirting but resist moisture damage. PVC is low-maintenance and durable, making it a practical choice for bathrooms and kitchens.
Installation Tip: Secure PVC skirting using waterproof adhesive suitable for PVC materials. Ensure all joints are sealed with silicone to prevent moisture from getting behind the skirting.
3. Vinyl Trims
An upturn of vinyl flooring can act as a trim, creating a seamless transition between the floor and wall. This method is hygienic, water-resistant, and offers a minimalist aesthetic—although it may give off a commercial or institutional feel.
Note: Vinyl trims are particularly useful in commercial or healthcare settings where cleanliness is paramount.
4. PVC Wall Panels
PVC wall panels extend from floor to ceiling, eliminating the need for separate skirting. They are waterproof with minimal joints, reducing the risk of moisture penetration and offering a sleek, modern look.
Installation Tip: Use a high-tack adhesive specifically designed for PVC panels. Ensure edges and joints are sealed with a suitable waterproof silicone.
5. No Skirting Boards
For a clean, contemporary appearance, you can omit skirting boards altogether. Tile the wall down to within 5mm of the floor, grout the joints, and fill the gap with a high-quality silicone sealant to prevent moisture ingress.
Silicone Selection: Use a mould-resistant, flexible sanitary-grade silicone to seal the gap. Brands like C-Tec or Demsun are excellent choices.
Professional Tips for DIY Enthusiasts
Optimal Tiling Sequence
Begin by tiling most of the wall, leaving the bottom row unfinished. This approach prevents debris, grout, and residue from falling onto your floor tiles, which can create a difficult cleanup job. Once the floor is tiled, you can complete the bottom row of wall tiles for a seamless junction.
Consider Tile and Skirting Thickness
Be mindful of the combined thickness of your wall tiles and skirting boards. To avoid protrusion issues with architraves, you may need to select thinner skirting boards or adjust your architraves accordingly. Tiles can add 6mm or more of depth onto your skirting, creating an incoherent disparity in thickness between architraves and skirting boards.
Sealing the Floor-Wall Junction
In the absence of skirting boards, ensure the gap between floor and wall tiles is properly sealed. Grout the joints and apply silicone sealant to prevent water ingress and potential damage.
Product Recommendation: Use a flexible grout for the joints, and a high-quality silicone sealant like CT1 for the gap.
Adhesive Selection
Choosing the right adhesive is crucial for durability, especially at the base of the wall where impacts are more likely. Use a flexible, waterproof tile adhesive that can absorb slight movements and prevent tiles from cracking.
Preventing Tile Damage
To minimise the risk of tiles breaking due to knocks and bumps at the bottom of the wall, consider installing a tile trim or edge protector. This provides an extra layer of protection and can enhance the visual appeal.
Tip: Metal trims like aluminium or stainless steel are durable and offer a sleek finish.
Verdict
When it comes to tiled floors meeting tiled walls, especially in wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens, traditional MDF or untreated wood skirting boards are not the ideal choice due to moisture risks and installation challenges. For the best combination of aesthetics, durability, and protection, opt for:
- Skirting Tiles: Provide seamless integration with your floor tiles and excellent moisture resistance. Use flexible adhesives and grouts to ensure longevity.
- PVC Wall Panels: Offer a modern, minimalist look with full waterproofing and minimal maintenance. Check out options like bathroom wall panels or shower wall panels.
- PVC Skirting Boards: Mimic the traditional skirting appearance while being fully waterproof and durable.
- Moisture-Resistant Materials: If you prefer the look of traditional skirting boards, use MR MDF or moisture-resistant wood species, properly sealed with waterproof finishes.
If you prefer skirting boards in dry areas, standard MDF can be suitable but requires proper sealing and maintenance. In wet zones, PVC skirting or properly treated wood options are the recommended choices to prevent moisture damage. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preferences, the room's function, and practical considerations. By weighing the advantages and disadvantages and considering the professional tips and specific product recommendations provided, you can make an informed decision that enhances both the beauty and functionality of your space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular floor tiles as skirting tiles?
While it's possible, using purpose-made skirting tiles is recommended. They have design features like chamfered edges that provide a more professional and aesthetically pleasing finish. If using regular tiles, ensure they are cut precisely and consider adding a trim to enhance the appearance.
Is it necessary to seal the gap between floor and wall tiles?
Yes, sealing the gap with silicone prevents moisture from seeping in, which can cause damage over time. It's an essential step if you're not using skirting boards. Use a high-quality, mould-resistant silicone sealant for best results.
How do I prevent alignment issues with skirting boards and architraves?
Consider the thickness of your wall tiles and choose skirting boards and architraves accordingly. You may need to select thinner skirting or thicker architraves to achieve a flush finish. Consulting with a professional carpenter or interior designer can help in selecting the right dimensions.
What type of adhesive should I use for skirting boards in wet areas?
For skirting boards in wet areas, use a waterproof construction adhesive. These adhesives provide strong bonds and are formulated to withstand moisture.
Are there any eco-friendly options for skirting boards in wet areas?
Yes, consider using bamboo skirting boards, which are naturally moisture-resistant and sustainable. Ensure they are properly sealed with a waterproof finish to enhance their durability in wet areas.