COST GUIDES
How much does it cost to replace skirting boards in 2026?
Updated 06/26
If your skirting boards are damaged, warped or cracked, they can spoil the decorative finish of your home.
Fast Facts
It costs between £225 and £300 to replace skirting boards in the average room.
This includes supply, fit and labour costs.
If you're measuring by the metre, it costs an average of £20 to £60 per metre.
The same goes for skirting boards that were badly installed in the first place. For example, if there’s a huge gap between the wall and skirting board. Or, if too many shorter pieces have been installed together (rather than one long board).
In this guide, we’ll look at the average cost of replacing skirting boards in your home with brand new ones.
How much does it cost to replace skirting boards?
| Job | Low cost | High cost | Average cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Replacing skirting boards (one room) | £225 | £300 | £275 |
| Replacing skirting boards (per metre) | £20 | £60 | £40 |
| Last updated: June 2026 Our costs are ballpark averages - get a local tradesperson to quote now | |||
For a room of around 4.3m x 3m, the cost of replacing skirting boards is between £225 and £300. This includes supply, fit and labour costs.
The cost of replacing skirting boards depends firstly on the size of the room, and how much skirting board is needed. A few other factors can also affect the cost - read more on this below.
You’ll need to factor in disposal costs for the old skirting boards. If you’d like your new skirting boards painted with gloss, this will also add to the cost.
Cost of replacing skirting boards per metre
On average, the cost of new skirting boards is £20 to £60 per metre.
It can be helpful to calculate skirting board replacement by the metre to get a closer idea of how much it will cost you.
The cost will depend on whether you choose MDF, softwood or hardwood skirting boards. You’ll also need to factor in labour costs.
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What's included in a skirting board replacement quote?
When a tradesperson gives you a quote to replace your skirting boards, you can usually expect it to include the costs of:
Removing the old boards
Supply of materials, including the new boards and nails, glue, etc.
Fitting the new boards
Basic cleanup and disposal
When getting your quotes, make sure you're clear that you need your old skirting boards removed and replaced, as well as getting new ones fitted.
Always get a written quote that covers the scope of the job, so you know exactly what you're paying for.
What affects the cost of a skirting board replacement?
There are a few factors that can affect how much you'll pay to have your skirting boards replaced. They include:
Size and shape of room: Rooms that are larger or complex shapes will require more skirting boards and more skilled labour, which will cost more.
Type of skirting boards: The quality and material you choose for your new skirting boards will affect the cost - for instance, hardwood costs more than MDF.
Difficulty of removal: If your old skirting boards are particularly difficult to remove, getting them taken out properly with minimal damage to your walls can drive up the price.
Additional costs to budget for
You may need to pay a little extra for skirting board replacement for things like:
Wall and floor preparation, if needed
Extra materials
Painting costs
Additional equipment, if the room is awkwardly-shaped or the skirting boards are difficult to reach
Fixing any damage caused by removing the old boards
Disposal of the old skirting boards
VAT
Try the job estimator tool
Get an approximate quote for your skirting board replacement with the Checkatrade job estimate calculator. All you need to do is type out a few details, such as the size of your room and what kind of boards you want, and the tool will use Checkatrade data to give you an estimated quote.
Job Estimate Calculator
How to replace skirting boards
Removing the old skirting boards
The first step to replacing your skirting boards is removing the old ones. Here's a quick run-down on how it's done - don't forget to read our full guide for more details.
How to remove skirting boards - step-by-step guide with images
If your rotten, termite-infested or plain old-fashioned skirting boards are calling out to be replaced, this step-by-step guide is for you.
Clear your work area, and cover the floor to avoid damage.
Detach any cables, radiator pipes, or other attachments from the skirting boards.
Remove any nails, and run a knife along the top to loosen the sealant or caulking.
Using a crowbar, remove the skirting board. Start with the weakest point, usually a corner.
Clean up any debris and prepare the wall surface.
Fitting the new skirting boards
Once the old skirting boards are removed, it's time to fit new boards. See our guide for the full details on how it's done.
How to fit skirting boards
Want to expand your DIY skills and learn how to fit skirting boards? Our guide covers everything you need to know, with cutting, attaching and joining tips.
Line up your skirtings along the walls of the room, and measure them, marking the lengths you need on the back of the board with a pencil.
Cut the skirting boards to size using a mitre box. Clean up the rough edge with sandpaper.
Drill holes in the wall where the skirting will go and add plugs.
Attach the skirting boards to the wall using screws. (You can also use wood glue or a nail gun, depending on your wall and skirting type.)
Seal the top of the skirting using caulk or sealant.
Check out our carpentry hub, for expert advice on everything from carpenter rates and prices, to understanding the difference between a carpenter and a joiner once and for all.
Can I fit new skirting boards myself?
It's possible to replace your own skirting boards yourself, if you're handy and know what you're doing - but most people opt to use an experienced tradesperson for this kind of project.
While this can add to the cost of replacing skirting boards, it really is essential. The job requires a great deal of skill, accuracy and specialist tools. Get it wrong and you could end up with gaps, ill-fitting corner joints and doors that won’t close.
Find a carpenter to replace your skirting boards
You're in the right place to start searching for a carpenter to tackle your skirting board replacement. Just enter your postcode to start comparing your options, post your job to hear back from available carpenters working in your area, or download the Checkatrade app to get started.
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