Skirting for the damp room: how to make skirting waterproof?

Waterproof skirting boards are the right choice for damp rooms. They not only visually enhance the room, but even prevent damage to the masonry. If the skirting is waterproof, it can protect the floor and walls from moisture such as splash and plaster water, as well as water vapor. This prevents the formation and spread of mold, which can cause health problems and high costs. But what actually is a waterproof baseboard? And how can baseboards be made waterproof? You can read helpful tips and advice here!

Waterproof baseboard: The optimal solutions for skirting boards in damp areas

Not just any skirting boards are suitable for damp rooms. It is important that the skirting board is waterproof. After all, if it comes into direct contact with water, it will not take damage. In the case of baseboards for regular living rooms, this may be different. These, on the contrary, have a strong swelling capacity and allow the formation of mold.

As a waterproof baseboard are particularly suitable:

• MDF skirting boards
• Plastic skirting boards
• Aluminum skirting boards
• Stainless steel skirting boards
  
  

Skirting boards for damp rooms: what are advantages of waterproof skirting boards?

MDF skirting boards

For their production, medium-density fiberboard is used, which has a moisture-resistant substrate. In addition, they have a waterproof sheathing. Thanks to the wide variety of models, it is easy to find the right color - matching the wall and floor.

Plastic

This is a very resistant and durable material, which is composed of water-repellent molecules. In addition, these moldings inspire with their different designs and high flexibility.

Aluminum and stainless steel

These types of moldings look particularly elegant and modern. Their material is very durable and water resistant.

Where are waterproof skirting boards used?

If the skirting is waterproof, it is perfect for all premises. Regular, lacquered skirting boards can tolerate a small amount of moisture, such as occurs during mopping, but not water vapor and splashing water. They are also unsuitable for rooms with high humidity.
For this reason, waterproof skirting boards are used mainly in wet rooms such as bathrooms. Due to showering with warm water, the humidity often quickly rises there. In addition, the wall is constantly exposed to splashing water. Another area of application for waterproof skirting boards is the kitchen, as the humidity is also often elevated there due to cooking. In addition, this room in particular requires the highest level of hygiene, which is why the use of waterproof skirting boards is ideal for carefree cleaning. Other areas of use can be washrooms and boiler rooms.

Making baseboard waterproof: Is it possible?

Yes, skilled hands and the right tools can make a baseboard waterproof. This so-called sealing is even important so that the wall is reliably protected from moisture damage. If this is not done, the expansion joint is clearly visible. This not only detracts from the visual impression, but it also allows dirt and water vapor as well as splash water to settle into the crack. The lack of a seal will then sooner or later lead to mold growth.
To ensure that the baseboard is waterproof, a permanently elastic sealant should be used for damp rooms. Silicone, acrylic or latex are available as sealing materials. Silicone proves its worth in damp rooms due to its specific product properties.

Waterproof skirting: What to look for when buying?

If the skirting is to be waterproof, make sure it is of impeccable quality. Many manufacturers label these products "waterproof". For the baseboard to be waterproof, it must have a waterproof, non-swelling backing material. Plastic sheathing is also a possibility.
If the walls and floors are straight, the choice of waterproof baseboard is very straightforward. As soon as the floor or wall has minor unevenness, it is important to choose an easily bendable baseboard made of waterproof material. It can be used to replicate curves. Gaps in the floor and wall connection will not occur in this way. To increase the flexibility of the material, it is advisable to use thin and higher waterproof skirting.