Skirting boards can be a significant part of the overall appearance and usability of any property. They are fitted along the edge of the wall at the floor level, giving the walls a neat and tidy look. They protect walls from everyday knocks, furniture scuffs, vacuum cleaners, and foot traffic. Skirting boards also help to camouflage expansion gaps forming between flooring materials, providing a seamless transition between surfaces.
When renovating an older home, constructing a new property or updating an office, the right skirting boards can significantly enhance the final result. Perth homeowners can choose from a wide range of skirting board materials, profiles, heights, and finishes to suit every interior style and budget. This guide covers the various types, popular styles, price factors, installation considerations, and some tips on selecting the perfect skirting boards in Perth.
What Are Skirting Boards and Why Are They Important?
A deep skirting board is used for both function and aesthetics. They protect walls, increase durability and contribute to the overall sophisticated appeal of a home. Once you grasp their advantages, you will be able to see why they are deemed as an essential element of interior decoration. The sections below explore the key functions and advantages of installing quality skirting boards.
Functions of Skirting Boards
In a home or office, the different Perth skirting types serve a number of important functions:
- Protect walls from damage caused by furniture, vacuum cleaners, and daily activities.
- Cover expansion gaps between the flooring and the walls.
- Create a neat transition between wall and floor surfaces.
- Improve the overall appearance of a room by providing a finished edge.
Benefits of Installing Quality Skirting Boards
The top skirting materials provide multiple long-term benefits:
- Increased durability and wall protection.
- Enhanced visual appeal and interior aesthetics.
- A professional finishing touch for renovations and new builds.
- Potential improvement in property value and buyer appeal.
- Reduced maintenance requirements over time.
Popular Types of Skirting Boards Available in Perth
Perth homeowners can choose from a variety of materials when it comes to skirting boards. Each type comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, in terms of visual appeal, durability, and costs. The best skirting types for Perth homes will depend on your budget, interior style and how much maintenance effort you can put in. These are the most common ones that are seen in Perth homes or commercial properties.
MDF Skirting Boards

MDF skirting board is among the most common options, as it is inexpensive and has a smooth surface.
Advantages:
- Cost-effective option.
- Easy to paint.
- Consistent appearance with no knots or grain patterns.
- Available in many profiles and sizes.
Best applications:
- Modern homes.
- Interior renovations.
- Painted finishes.
Timber Skirting Boards

Timber skirting boards are one of the best materials for skirting in Perth to add warmth and character to a room. Pine is one of the most popular timber species in Perth.
Advantages:
- Natural appearance.
- Can be stained or painted.
- Suitable for various interior styles.
Considerations:
- May require ongoing maintenance.
- Can expand or contract with moisture changes.
Hardwood Skirting Boards

Hardwood skirting boards Perth provide a high-quality finish and have a great level of durability.
Benefits:
- Long lifespan.
- Resistant to dents and wear.
- Attractive natural grain patterns.
- Suitable for bedroom skirting.
Ideal locations:
- Premium homes.
- Commercial properties.
- Heritage renovations.
Plastic Skirting Boards

Plastic skirting boards are ideal for places with moisture, like bathrooms, as well as for low-maintenance uses.
Benefits:
- Water resistant.
- Easy to clean.
- Resistant to warping and rot.
- Suitable for Perth’s changing temperatures.
Best applications:
- Bathrooms.
- Laundries.
- Utility areas.
- Commercial environments.
Most Popular Skirting Board Styles for Modern Perth Homes
The choice of skirting board can really make a difference to the character of a room. Some designs will make a perfect fit in modern homes, and some will make a perfect fit in traditional architecture. Some of the popular styles in Perth are:
Square Edge Skirting Boards
Square edge skirting styles in Perth offer a clear, unobtrusive silhouette for more modern interiors.
Why homeowners choose it:
- Minimalist appearance.
- Easy to maintain.
- Works well with modern architecture.
Bullnose Skirting Boards
One of the most versatile and widely used profiles.
Key features:
- Rounded top edge.
- Suitable for both modern and traditional homes.
- Timeless design.
Colonial Skirting Boards
Colonial profiles feature decorative detailing and a more traditional appearance.
Best suited for:
- Character homes.
- Federation-style properties.
- Traditional interiors.
Hamptons-Style Skirting Boards
Hamptons-inspired interiors continue to grow in popularity across Australia.
Characteristics:
- Taller profile heights.
- Elegant detailing.
- Bright painted finishes.
Shadow Line Skirting Boards
Many carpenters in Perth recommend these for luxury homes.
Benefits:
- Creates a recessed visual effect.
- Produces a sleek and seamless finish.
- Complements contemporary interiors.
How to Choose the Right Skirting Board for Your Home
Choosing the appropriate skirting board is not just a matter of appearance. The interior design, ceiling height, type of flooring and maintenance are all a part of it. These are some of the factors that can help you make your choice.
Consider Your Interior Design Style
Perth interior carpenters can recommend which type of skirting board will work best with what design style.
- Modern homes: Square edge or shadow line.
- Classic homes: Colonial profiles.
- Hamptons homes: Taller decorative boards.
- Coastal homes: Clean painted finishes.
- Heritage homes: Traditional decorative profiles.
Match the Height of Your Ceilings
Skirting boards can be a bit higher or lower than the room and need to match the proportions of the room.
| Ceiling Height |
Recommended Skirting Height |
| Up to 2.4m |
67mm – 92mm |
| 2.4m – 2.7m |
92mm – 140mm |
| Above 2.7m |
140mm – 185mm+ |
Coordinate with Flooring Materials
Each type of flooring can be paired with a certain type of skirting.
- Timber flooring: Timber or hardwood skirting.
- Hybrid flooring: MDF or timber.
- Vinyl flooring: MDF or plastic.
- Tiles: Moisture-resistant MDF or plastic options.
Think About Maintenance Requirements
Before making a decision, consider long-term upkeep:
- Painted finishes can be replaced more easily.
- Natural timber needs some care from time to time.
- Hardwood is highly durable.
- Plastic boards will need little upkeep.
Skirting Board Costs in Perth: What to Expect
The cost of skirting boards varies based on the type of material used, the complexity of the profile, the size and installation needs. Knowing these factors can help you set a realistic budget prior to beginning your project. The sections below describe typical costs and any other expenses you may incur.
Factors That Influence Pricing
Several factors affect overall costs:
- Material selection.
- Profile complexity.
- Board height and thickness.
- Custom designs.
- Installation difficulty.
- Finishing requirements.
Average Cost Breakdown
| Skirting Board Type |
Estimated Cost Range (Per Linear Metre) |
| MDF |
$18-$32 |
| Pine |
$28-$48 |
| Hardwood |
$45-$85 |
| Plastic |
$15 – $45+ |
Additional Expenses to Consider
Additional project costs may include:
- Removal of existing skirting boards: $8-$15 per metre.
- Charges demanded by Perth skirting installers: $75-$140 per hour.
- Full-house refit (single-storey 3 bed): $2,800-$6,500
Latest Skirting Board Trends in Perth
Contemporary skirting board styles show how Perth homeowners are opting for simple options when it comes to residential carpentry services Perth. The modern designs are simple, functional and made from quality materials. New construction and renovations are seeing the following trends increase in popularity.
- Taller skirting boards that create a more premium appearance.
- Clean square-edge profiles for modern interiors.
- Hamptons-inspired decorative profiles.
- Seamless integration with hybrid, timber, and engineered flooring.
- Minimalist white skirting board in luxury homes.
Conclusion
Skirting boards are a crucial finishing detail that is functional and aesthetically pleasing. The right selection can help protect walls, add durability and add to the beauty of your home. Whether you’re looking for an affordable MDF or a top-of-the-line hardwood profile, Perth homeowners can find solutions to suit virtually any style and budget. When selecting materials and designs, considering installation needs, and budgeting for the project, you can achieve a finished look that not only enhances the property’s overall aesthetics but also provides long-lasting value.
Disclaimer: All costs mentioned in this article are estimates only and may vary depending on supplier pricing, product specifications, location, project size, and installation requirements.