Clean, fill, sand and paint skirting boards in stages so each coat dries properly and edges stay sharp.
PSB-01Clear and protect the roomMove furniture away from the skirting or into the middle of the room. Lay a dust sheet along the whole run of skirting, tucking it right up to the wall. Open a window for ventilation, especially if using solvent-based paint.
PSB-02Wash the skirting downWipe the skirting with sugar soap solution and a cloth to remove dust, grease and old wax. Rinse with a damp cloth and leave to dry fully before moving on. This step matters most in kitchens and hallways where grease and scuffs build up.
PSB-03Fill any holes, dents or gapsPush decorator's filler into nail holes, dents and any gap where the skirting meets the wall. Smooth it flush with a filling knife and let it dry fully — check the tin for drying time, usually 1-2 hours. Do a second thin coat if it shrinks back.
PSB-04Sand the whole lengthSand the skirting with fine sandpaper (around 180-240 grit) to knock back gloss, smooth filled patches and key the surface for new paint. Wipe away all dust with a slightly damp cloth afterwards — paint will not stick well over dust.
PSB-05Mask the floor and wall edgesRun masking tape along the top edge of the skirting against the wall, and along the bottom edge against the floor or carpet. Press it down firmly so paint cannot creep underneath. On carpet, tuck the tape into the gap with a filling knife for a cleaner line.
PSB-06Apply primer or undercoat if neededIf the skirting is bare wood, bare MDF, or a very different colour underneath, apply one coat of primer/undercoat first. Skip this step if the skirting is already painted in good condition and you're just refreshing the colour. Let it dry fully before the topcoat — check the tin, usually 2-4 hours.
PSB-07Apply the first topcoatCut in along the top and bottom edges with an angled brush, then fill in the middle with smooth, even strokes following the grain of the wood. Use a satin or gloss finish, which wipes clean and holds up to scuffs better than matt. Leave to dry fully before the second coat.
PSB-08Apply the second topcoatOnce the first coat is completely dry, apply a second coat the same way. This gives an even, durable finish and covers any thin patches. Check corners and skirting ends carefully, as these get missed easily.
PSB-09Remove tape and tidy upPeel off the masking tape carefully while the paint is still slightly soft, pulling it away at a low angle for a crisp line. Wait until the paint has fully cured (check the tin, often 24-48 hours) before putting furniture back against it. Clean brushes, fold up dust sheets and bin any offcuts of tape and filler packaging.