Step by Step Guide - How to Remove Skirting Board and Architrave

Removing skirting board and architrave is one of the most difficult tasks you’ll face when redecorating or redesigning a room. The real difficulty lies in trying to keep plaster damage to a minimum during the process. 

So how do you remove skirting board and architrave? Luckily for you, we’ve put together a handy guide that includes all the key points you’ll need to know to get the job done properly.

Tools required to remove skirting

Before removing any skirting or architrave, you’ll need the following tools:

• Block of wood
• Stanley knife
• Pliers
• Claw hammer
• Crowbar

How to Remove Skirting Board and Architrave

Step 1 - Remove any cables or obstructions

Check for any cables or attachments to the skirting board. As you’ll be using sharp tools and force, it would be wise to remove cables first to make sure you don’t damage them or electrocute yourself.

Step 2 - Break sealant or caulking

Using a Stanley knife, you need to run this down the edges to break the sealant or caulking. This helps prevent breakages to the plaster and makes removing the skirting or architrave much easier.

When doing architrave it’s also a good idea to run down the inside of the sealant.

Unless you’re really tall, you’ll probably require a step ladder to get to the top part of the architrave.

Step 3 - Remove skirting board or Architrave

This step requires the hammer, crowbar and a spare block of wood.

Look for the weakest point (usually a corner or ending) and put the flat part of the crowbar flush against the wall. Using the hammer knock the crowbar underneath the skirting board so it starts to rise and the crowbar fits underneath.

Once you’ve got underneath the skirting or architrave, use a block of wood to put behind the crowbar. This helps you to spread the pressure to prevent damage to the plaster when using force to lift it.

Repeat the process around the skirting board or architrave. If you try to lift it off in one spot it is likely to snap or damage the plaster.

Step 4 - Remove nails or screws

Once the skirting board or architrave has been removed, you will need to remove any nails or screws. If possible, screw them out or pull them out using pliers or using the claw of the crowbar.

Tip: If the nails are too difficult to remove, it might be worthwhile knocking them into the wall. Just make sure they don’t stick out and affect the fitting of the new skirting board.

Repeat the process around the room, taking care not to damage the plaster.

That’s how to remove skirting board and architrave; once done, you’re ready to fit your brand new style! Take a look at our article on fitting skirting boards to find out how to do this.

If you need any help or advice, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can call us on 01922 451 689 or email us at enquiries@skirting4u.co.uk.

Frequently asked questions

Should you remove the skirting boards before plastering?

While it's generally recommended to remove skirting boards before plastering for the best finish, it's not always essential. If you're satisfied with your existing skirting and only need to plaster the walls, you can plaster up to the skirting. However, keep in mind that the thickness of the top edge of the skirting board can make this process easier.

Should you remove skirting before fitting laminate flooring?

You typically don’t need to remove skirting boards when installing laminate flooring, but this can depend on your home's construction and the type of flooring you currently have. For example, instead of removing the skirting, you could simply lay the laminate flooring and then seal any gaps with beading.

How do you remove skirting boards behind radiators?

To remove skirting boards behind radiators, you'll need some extra tools and techniques, especially if the boards are nailed to the wall. One simple method is to use a nail punch to drive the nails through the skirting, which will loosen it for easier removal. If you can find the nails, you can also use a hole saw to cut around them and then pull them out with a screwdriver and pliers.

Another option is to use a multi-tool with a small saw blade to cut through the skirting on both sides of the radiator pipes. After cutting, you can gently pry the skirting away with a crowbar.

About the Author

Kieron Miller is the Managing Director of Skirting 4 U and has been working in the skirting board and online retail industry since 2012. Kieron has been using his extensive product knowledge and problem-solving experience to help both trade and private consumers all over the country find the perfect skirting board products for their projects. He continues to innovate new solutions and product ideas as the market continues to grow.