The Secret to Smooth Skirting Boards

March 28, 2025

The One Thing Stopping Your Skirting Boards from Looking Amazing

Let’s face it—skirting boards don’t always get the love they deserve. They quietly frame your walls, catching dust and sneaker scuffs, rarely getting a second glance. But when they’re clean, smooth and freshly painted, they make a space feel pristine. A flawless finish on skirting might be subtle, but it speaks volumes about the care and pride you put in your home.

Now, I know what you’re thinking—"why do mine always end up looking a bit, well... meh?" Trust me, I’ve been there, brush-in-hand, inspecting every missed speck, streak or blob. The secret? It’s not just about choosing the right shade—although a genius colour match helps—it's all about preparation and knowing the products that make the difference you'll notice when you're done. Let’s break it down together.

Step 1: It’s All in the Prep Work

Okay, this isn’t the sexiest part, but it’s the foundation that sets your paintwork up for success. If your skirting boards are bumpy, flaking or sticky with old gloss, it doesn’t matter how fancy your paint is—it won’t sit right. You need to sand them back gently (don't skip this 🍃), clean off dust with a damp cloth and check for any cracks or gaps.

For those tiny splits or dings, a flexible filler is your best mate. This means the surface is smooth, strong, and won't crack the second the paint dries. Short on time or just want to play it safe? I always recommend applying a good primer before your top coat. It locks everything in and gives your colour a flawless base to stick to.

Step 2: Use the Right Paint—Not Just Any Gloss Off the Shelf

This is where the magic happens. The finish on your skirting boards should be not only hard-wearing but smudge-proof, long-lasting and buttery smooth to the touch. That's why a quality enamel is key. One look I absolutely love (and clients rave about it too) is the Haymes Ultra Premium Semi Gloss Enamel.

It strikes this ideal middle ground—you get a lovely soft sheen without it looking like plastic. This enamel flows beautifully, self-levels to avoid brush marks, and cures to a durable finish that can handle furniture knocks and the occasional vacuum bump. Honestly, I’ve brushed, rolled and sprayed this paint and every method has turned out smooth-time after time.

Step 3: Avoid the Common Painting Pitfalls

You’ve got your great paint, your boards are prepped and it’s go-time! But now comes the bit where experience (or a good honest chat with your local expert—like me 😉) saves you from mistakes. Don’t overload your brush. That’s the fast track to drips and a gloopy build-up on the edges. Go for long, even strokes. Cut in with care at each corner and don’t rush. I've seen too many DIY'ers slap on a second coat before the first one’s fully ready, only to smudge or lift it back up entirely.

Want pro results? Let each coat dry completely and give it a swift rub-down with a super-fine sanding pad between layers to keep that glassy finish going. Trust me, smooth sailing from here on out.

One Final Trick—Match It with the Walls

Now here’s something I tell everyone. Colour consistency is what takes home interiors from “nice" to “woah, that looks pulled-together.” If your walls are a warm neutral or a soft off-white, coordinate or contrast just a tad with your trims. We can mix that for you at Strathalbyn H Hardware (say hello when you pop in!). Better yet, we can even provide a few advice-led sample tiles so you can test it before committing to a full tin.

Need Help Choosing? We're Always Up for a Chat

If you’re unsure where to start or staring at hundreds of paint cards wondering if 'Antique White USA' is actually that different to 'Natural White’—good news! You don’t have to sort this alone. I’ve walked soooo many fellow DIY-ers through this process, and I’m just a phone call or visit away. We've got all the best Haymes Paint options and prepping supplies right here in our local shop. Come in, bring that mood board or a photo of your hallway. We'll get it sorted together.

So next time you look down and sigh at those tired little boards that frame your lovely walls, remember—it doesn’t take much to make them shine. All it takes is the right prep, the right paint, and a little bit of reassurance from someone who's been in your shoes…well, sandals (darn paint splashes!).

Happy painting!

—Candeece