One of the most common questions we get asked here at Univers Skirting & Architrave is: how much skirting board do I need? It's a straightforward calculation once you know what to measure — and getting it right saves you time, money, and unnecessary offcuts.
Step 1: Measure the Perimeter of the Room
Measure the length of each wall in the room where you're fitting skirting boards. Add all the measurements together to get the total perimeter in metres.
Example: A room that is 4m x 5m has a perimeter of 18m.
Step 2: Subtract Door Widths
You won't need skirting board across doorways. Measure the width of each door opening and subtract this from your total. A standard UK door opening is approximately 900mm (0.9m).
Example: 18m − 0.9m (one door) = 17.1m of skirting board needed.
Step 3: Add 10% for Waste
Always add at least 10% to your total to account for cutting waste, mitred corners, and any mistakes. For more complex rooms with lots of corners, add 15%.
Example: 17.1m × 1.10 = 18.81m — round up to 19m.
Step 4: Choose Your Lengths
Our MDF skirting boards are available in standard lengths. Divide your total by the length of board you're ordering to work out how many lengths you need.
Tips for Accurate Measuring
- Always measure at floor level, not at the top of the wall
- Measure each wall individually — rooms are rarely perfectly square
- Account for chimney breasts, alcoves, and bay windows separately
- If in doubt, order a little extra — it's cheaper than a second delivery
What About Architraves?
If you're also fitting architraves around your doors, measure the height of each door opening twice (for both sides) and once for the top. Add 10% for waste.
Example for one door: (2 × 2.1m) + 0.9m = 5.1m + 10% = 5.61m per door opening.
Ready to Order?
At Univers Skirting & Architrave, all our MDF skirting boards are moisture-resistant and manufactured in Gosport, Hampshire. Browse our full range of MDF skirting boards — available in a wide range of profiles, primed and unprimed, with fast UK delivery. Not sure which profile to choose? Read our Architrave Styles Explained guide.