To "open" or, more accurately, remove skirting boards from a wall, you typically need a few basic tools and a careful approach to avoid damaging the wall or the board itself. The process involves using a tool to pry the board away from its fixings (nails or adhesive).
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Skirting Boards
Removing a skirting board requires carefully prying it away from the wall. Here's a breakdown of the process, incorporating the method described in the reference:
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Gather Your Tools: You will need a few key items for this task.
- Crowbar (preferably a flat bar or a dedicated trim puller)
- Hammer
- Utility knife or sharp craft knife
- Wood shims or small blocks of wood
- Safety glasses (recommended)
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Prepare the Area:
- Clear any furniture or obstacles from the work area.
- Lay down a dust sheet or old towels to protect the floor.
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Score the Edges: Before prying, it's crucial to cut any paint or sealant joint between the top of the skirting board and the wall, and also at internal or external corners. Use a sharp utility knife or craft knife for this. This prevents paint or plaster from tearing off the wall when the board is removed.
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Locate a Starting Point:
- Find the weakest spot. As per the reference, this is usually a corner where the board might already be slightly loose or where the end grain is visible.
- Alternatively, if the board is long, you might look for visible nail heads or a section that looks less securely fastened.
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Insert the Crowbar:
- Place the flat part of the crowbar against the wall by the weak point or chosen starting spot. This helps protect the wall surface.
- Hold the crowbar so the curved, claw end is pointing towards the skirting board.
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Tap the Crowbar Underneath:
- Grab a hammer to knock the crowbar underneath the skirting board edge. Start gently, trying to get the tip of the crowbar into the small gap between the back of the skirting board and the wall.
- Tap the crowbar further until it starts to lift off the wall, allowing space for the tool to fit more securely between the gap.
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Pry the Board Away:
- Once the crowbar is inserted, use leverage to gently pry the board away from the wall.
- Work your way along the board, moving the crowbar every 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) or near fixing points (where you see or expect nails).
- Important: Avoid forcing it too much in one spot. Use small, controlled movements.
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Use Shims: As you create a gap, insert wood shims or small blocks of wood between the wall and the back of the skirting board, especially near where you are prying. This maintains the gap and prevents the board from sticking back to the wall, reducing the risk of splitting the board or damaging the wall.
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Release Fixings: As you pry, you will encounter nails or adhesive points. Continue prying gently past these points. Nails should pull out of the wall or the board. If the board is glued, you may need to apply slightly more pressure, but be cautious of wall damage.
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Complete Removal: Work your way along the entire length of the board until it is completely detached from the wall.
Essential Tools Table
| Tool Name | Primary Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Crowbar | Prying the skirting board from the wall | Flat bar or trim puller recommended |
| Hammer | Tapping the crowbar into the gap | Standard claw hammer is suitable |
| Utility Knife | Scoring paint/sealant lines | Ensure blade is sharp |
| Wood Shims | Maintaining gap between wall and board | Helps prevent damage |
| Safety Glasses | Protecting eyes from debris | Always recommended for DIY |
By following these steps carefully, you can effectively remove skirting boards, whether you plan to re-install them or replace them. Remember that patience and gentle force are key to minimizing damage.
