How to repair gap underneath skirting board?

[Innov8tive]

There is a gap stretching along the base of the skirting board that isn't there with the other skirting boards. 

Just wondering why there is a gap and what I would need to fill and seal it?  

 

[JacobZ]

Hi @Innov8tive,

Thank you for your question about a gap beneath your skirting boards.

Gaps underneath skirting boards are relatively common, and they are caused by humps and unevenness in the floor. A professional installer will account for them by scribing the bottom edge of the skirting board so that it sits tight against the floor regardless of unevenness. This is the best method of dealing with this issue because skirting boards are not supposed to be connected to the flooring in any way, as this will allow for slight movement.

In saying this, it is not uncommon for fillers to be used in this situation, although it is not the best method of handling it. If you'd like to try scribing in the skirting board, I'd be happy to assist, although it is a fairly advanced technique that would require you to remove and reinstall the skirting board.

In your situation, I would recommend removing the expanding foam that has been put there using a utility knife. Make sure you wear gloves and long protective clothing to reduce the risk of lacerations.

Once the expanding foam has been removed, mask off the floor with some painter's tape, then apply a bead of No More Gaps to the gap, smooth it off, then pull the tape.

Once dry, you can paint the No More Gaps to blend it in with the skirting board.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[Innov8tive]

@JacobZ I see I have two options here. The first I would not attempt myself. The second I would. However with a view to selling in the future which option would look better.  Getting a professional in or DIY? The other added issue is time. This is my workspace and I needy workspace back. Melbourne tradies can be hard to deal with. 

[JacobZ]

Hi @Innov8tive,

Without a doubt, scribing the skirting boards to the floor will look better, but it would also be more expensive to have a professional come out to do it.

It could also require more work than just this individual skirting board, as it will shift the top edge of the skirting board down. If the top edge is currently in line with adjacent skirting boards, they would also need to be removed and cut down so that they all line up.

Ultimately, you will have to weigh up whether the benefit is worth the cost. Scribed skirting boards will absolutely look better, but whether it is worth the cost to have it done is really up to you.

Jacob

[Innov8tive]

@JacobZ thanks for the advice. I think I will stick with the filler for now and look at the scribing later. 

Cheers 

[AlanM52]

Hi @Innov8tive,

Same as you do when laying down laminate flooring, Timber quad moulding.

Cheers

[Innov8tive]

@AlanM52 thanks