Should we remove the skirting boards when renovating the timber floors?

[wattosark]

We have purchased a 1973 built home that has timber floorboards under very old carpet.

We know removing the carpet will leave a gap between the skirting and floorboards. Is it a good idea to remove the skirting for ease of sanding and applying the clear coats and then replace with probably new skirting?

[EricL]

Hello @wattosark 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about removing your skirting boards.

Because your house was built in the early 70's I suggest having your walls tested for asbestos before you attempt to remove the skirting board. If the results are positive, you'll need to engage the services of an asbestos removal specialist. If the results are negative, then there will be no issue with you removing the skirting board. 

From a repair point of view, it would be best to remove the skirting board so that you can sand the floor up to the very edge of the wall. You can then install the skirting board after the floor has been fully painted.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[wattosark]

Hi Eric and thankyou for your reply.

We are not in the house yet but believe the internal walls to be gyprock. Could gyprock have contained asbestos in the 70s?

Also Eric, my husband just asked if there is a right and wrong direction on the floor boards to use the sander. We intend to hire the equipment we need from a Bunnings store.

[EricL]

Hello @wattosark 

In the interest of health and safety, I recommend having it tested before you proceed with any form of renovation. Unfortunately, there is no definitive way of telling without a doing a proper test.

Regarding the sander, just like regular sanding remember to sand in the direction of the grain and not against it.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[wattosark]

Thanks very much Eric.