Why Important
The Skirting boards used in Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian properties are much taller (often 150mm tall) than 20th Century skirting boards (usually 30mm tall) and thus make a significant impression in a period home.
What to look for
Where there is any existing sample of original skirting in the room, then use that as a model for any restoration. Treat the wood in the same way as restoration of doors, as the skirting has to cope with damage from use of vacuum cleaners, etc.
When to look
How to fix
Where there is any existing sample of original skirting in the room, then use that as a model for any restoration. They are nearly always wood, and have ornate finishes that would have suited the importance of the room.
Treat the wood in the same way as restoration of doors, as the skirting has to cope with damage from use of vacuum cleaners, etc.
Avoiding creating problems
Do not replace original taller skirting with the lower, modern, skirting boards. Use the appropriate style chamfer for the room or space being restored.