Matt
The difference between skirting boards and architraves
With a lot of technical terms, names and meanings, it can be difficult to know ‘what is what,’ and our industry is no exception.
In this guide we provide a simple explanation and look at what each of these terms are.
Skirting boards and architraves are different, we have established that, yet the purpose of both of these features is generally the same. They are designed to hide uneven and untidy areas around the floor / wall and door or window space area. Both skirting boards and architrives started out as a fairly uniform and standard design, yet over the years they have developed. Today, very elegant and fancy designs are on offer and thus the prices of the materials can range accordingly. Infact it could be said that today, skirting boards and architraves are more about the artwork and the look than the original purpose!?
Architrave (sometimes called mouldings) generally fit around outer edges of the structures. The most common type of architrave is bullnose and chamfered, although of course others do exist.
Generally architraves are fixed so they are cut at 45o angles and this is achieved using a mitre block. Whilst the process is not difficult, it is refined and it is well worth doing your research before undertaking should you be attempting to fit yourself.
Above: An example of architrave at work over the doors.
From: https://www.flickr.com/photos/digitwized/2655374148/
Skirting boards in comparison run along the very bottom of the walls and generally come in an MDF, PVC or wood style. Like architraves there are many different styles which exist, and shapes also – these can be from sitting totally flat to the wall, to round or curved. The shape is often dependent on the profile of your wall, which often you will not have a choice about! Skirting boards need to be durable (perhaps more so than architrave) as in the average household they tend to be subject to accidents and damage far more easily.
Above: A typical skirting board profile.
From: https://www.flickr.com/photos/21171442@N05/2104651138/
We have a whole page dedicated to our products with helpful pictures so you can see these two features for yourself. Once you have finished this post, have a look!
