Skirting boards, also known as baseboards, are a crucial finishing touch in any room, covering the joint between the wall and the floor. While nail guns can be a convenient tool for attaching skirting boards, not everyone has access to one. Fortunately, you can achieve a professional and secure fit without a nail gun. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to fit skirting boards using common hand tools.

Tools and Materials

Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials:

1. Skirting Boards: Measure and cut them to the required lengths.
2. Miter Saw: To cut skirting boards at the correct angles for corners.
3. Measuring Tape: For accurate measurements.
4. Pencil: Marking positions for cutting and attaching skirting boards.
5. Hammer: To drive in the nails.
6. Nails: Choose finish nails, which have a smaller head and are easier to conceal.
7. Wood Putty: For filling nail holes.
8. Coping Saw: For coping the skirting board ends to fit against the wall.
9. Spirit Level: To ensure a straight and level installation.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Measure and Cut Skirting Boards:

   Measure the length required for each skirting board and use a miter saw to make precise angle cuts for the corners. If your room has inside and outside corners, use a coping saw to cope the skirting board ends, ensuring they fit snugly against the wall.

2. Mark the Wall for Skirting Board Position:

   Use a pencil to mark the wall where the top edge of the skirting board will sit. Make these marks at regular intervals along the length of the wall, ensuring they are level.

3. Position the Skirting Boards:

   Place the skirting boards against the wall, aligning the top edge with the marks you made. Ensure they fit snugly in the corners and along the wall.

4. Nail the Skirting Boards:

   Using a hammer and finish nails, secure the skirting boards to the wall. Nail through the skirting board and into the wall studs or wooden battens behind the plaster. Space the nails approximately every 12-16 inches.

5. Fill Nail Holes:

   Once the skirting boards are in place, use wood putty to fill the nail holes. Allow the putty to dry, then sand it to a smooth finish.

6. Finish and Paint:

   Sand any rough edges or imperfections in the skirting boards and then paint or finish them to your desired color.

7. Final Check:

   Use a spirit level to ensure the skirting boards are straight and level. Make any necessary adjustments.

That’s it! By following these steps, you can fit skirting boards without a nail gun, achieving a professional and secure finish. This method allows you to use readily available hand tools and is suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals.

Remember, patience and attention to detail are key when fitting skirting boards. Take your time to measure, cut, and position the boards accurately for the best results.