How to fix gaps between skirting boards and floor?

Question

Hi, I've recently had new hybrid floors installed and I've now uncovered some issue with my skirting boards.

With the previous laminate floors that the previous owners had installed, they had the floor sitting even with the skirts and then used quads to cover the gaps around the edges, however our new floors have been installed under the skirts to avoid needing quads and the skirts are now raised higher, which is showing a number of issues.

Some of the skirts have been cut to shorten them and with others it looks like they started cutting and then changed their minds, leaving gouges in the wood. Where they have made a cut the gaps are about 10mm (see photos).

Any ideas for resolving this, or do you think it best to replace the damaged skirts? I was considering trying builders bog or gap filler rods but want to make sure the finish matches and installing it doesn't damage my new floors.

Thanks in advance!

R4addZ · Answer

Hi @WilliamDeBanjo

First find something that the filler won't stick to, for example (but I have never tried it) something like the plastic they use for office folders, Push the plastic under the damaged skirting and then fill above it with a standard filler, you may want to use a pre filler like the foam noodles that are available but if they don't allow much filler above them , then don't risk it as the filler could crack and be insecure. Sand it flat and paint before removing the plastic to avoid impacting the flooring!

MitchellMc · Answer

Hi @WilliamDeBanjo,

I thought I'd also mention that it may be worth removing those sections of skirting from the wall and carrying out the repairs off-site before reinstalling them. In most cases, this is much easier than attempting the repairs in situ and typically results in a neater finish.

That said, if the skirting has been fixed with a strong construction adhesive, removal may not be practical without risking damage to the wall or the skirting itself.

Mitchell

WilliamDeBanjo · Answer

Thanks Eric, I'm going to give the repair a go. I'll let you know how I get on.