What Do Over Skirting Boards Do, and Why Do They Exist?

over skirting boards

Skirting boards, commonly referred to as baseboards or mopboards, are an essential architectural detail that is frequently overlooked. They add a final touch to the overall design of a room and are typically fixed at the base of a wall where it meets the floor. However, over skirting boards are a distinctive design decision that provides any interior space an additional sense of class and sophistication.

Over Skirting Boards Concerning

As the name implies, over skirting boards are skirting boards that are positioned above the typical height of a traditional skirting board. While standard skirting boards usually extend around 4 to 6 inches from the floor, over skirting boards are much taller and can extend up to 12 inches or even more. This additional height can drastically transform the look and feel of a room.

Purpose

The purpose of over skirting boards goes beyond just aesthetics. Here are a few reasons why these taller boards are favoured by many interior designers and homeowners:

1. Enhanced visual appeal

Over skirting boards instantly draw attention and create a focal point in a room. The added height creates a sense of grandeur and visual interest, making the space look more elegant and sophisticated. They can also be used to create a sense of balance and proportion, especially in large rooms with high ceilings.

2. Concealing imperfections

Over skirting boards can be particularly useful in older buildings where the walls may have settled or become uneven over time. By extending the skirting board further up the wall, any imperfections or cracks in the plaster can be effectively disguised, giving the room a more polished and finished look.

3. Protection from impact

One of the primary functions of skirting boards is to protect the walls from accidental bumps, knocks, and scrapes. Over skirting boards provide even more coverage and protection, safeguarding the lower part of the wall from damage caused by furniture, vacuum cleaners, or sweeping brooms.

4. Hiding wiring and cables

In modern homes where the use of technology is widespread, it can be a challenge to conceal unsightly wires and cables. Over skirting boards offer a practical solution by providing a space behind the taller board to hide these electrical components, creating a neat and tidy appearance.

5. Design flexibility

The increase in height afforded by over skirting boards opens up a world of design possibilities. They can be used to create a sense of architectural drama, elevate the style of a room, or even serve as a canvas for decorative molding or wallpaper inserts. The options are endless, allowing homeowners to customize their interior spaces to reflect their personal taste and style.

Conclusion

Over skirting boards offer a unique design element that goes beyond the traditional purpose of standard skirting boards. With their increased height, they enhance the visual appeal of a room, provide added protection, help conceal imperfections and wiring, and even offer sound insulation. Whether you are renovating an old property or looking to add a touch of elegance to a new one, over skirting boards can be a fantastic choice to elevate the overall look and feel of your interior space.

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