What is it?
Skirting and coving are internal trim elements used to finish the junctions between building surfaces. Skirting is fixed at the base of walls where they meet the floor, while coving is installed at the junction between walls and ceilings.
They are typically made from materials such as timber, MDF, plaster, or polymer-based products. Both are supplied in linear lengths and fixed to the wall or ceiling using adhesives, nails, or screws depending on the material and substrate.
These elements are primarily used to create a neat visual transition between surfaces and to conceal small gaps or imperfections at junctions.
- 1Plasterboard
- 2Timber Skirting
- 3Timber Floor Finish
What does it do?
Finish and appearance
Skirting and coving can hide small gaps, uneven edges, or movement between materials at junctions. They provide a clean and defined edge where surfaces meet, improving the overall appearance of internal spaces.
Protection
Skirting helps protect the base of walls from damage caused by foot traffic, furniture, and cleaning activities.
Detailing
They can be used as architectural features, with different profiles and sizes contributing to the character of a space.
Where is it used?
- At the junction between internal walls and floor finishes (skirting)
- At the junction between walls and ceilings (coving)
Typical sizes
Skirting and coving sizes vary depending on design intent and building type.
| Element | Typical Height / Projection |
|---|---|
| Skirting | 70 mm – 150 mm (common) |
| Coving | 50 mm – 120 mm (projection) |
Lengths are typically supplied in:
- 2.4 m
- 3.0 m
Larger or more decorative profiles may be used in higher-end or traditional interiors.
How to specify
Define design intent
The profile, size, and material should align with the overall interior design, whether that is minimal, contemporary, or more traditional.Select material
Choose a material appropriate to the space, considering durability, moisture exposure, and finish requirements. They may need to be of non-combustible materials if they are used in fire escapes.Coordinate with wall and floor finishes
The height and profile of skirting should work with floor finishes and wall linings, while coving should align with ceiling finishes and room proportions.
Other considerations
Gaps between lengths or at junctions are typically filled and finished prior to painting to create a continuous appearance.
In areas exposed to moisture, such as bathrooms, appropriate materials should be selected to prevent swelling or deterioration.
Interacting elements
Skirting and coving form part of the internal finishing layer and interact with several adjacent elements.
- Plasterboard or wall finish: Provides the surface to which skirting and coving are fixed
- Floor finishes: Skirting sits directly above floor finishes and must align with their thickness and edges
- Ceiling finish: Coving is installed at the junction between the wall and ceiling
- Adhesives and fixings: Used to secure the elements in place
- Paint and finishes: Applied to achieve the final appearance and protect the material
Popular manufacturers
Richard Burbidge
Established in 1867, the UK's leading manufacturer of decorative timber mouldings. Wide range of skirting profiles from traditional to contemporary, widely available through merchants and DIY retailers.
Metsä Wood
Finnish manufacturer with a strong UK presence. Produces high-quality softwood skirtings and architraves, widely used in residential construction and available through timber merchants.
Skirting World
UK-based online manufacturer making MDF and HDF skirting boards to order. Everything manufactured in-house with UK-wide delivery. Popular with contractors and self-builders for competitive pricing and huge profile range.