If you're planning a renovation or new build and trying to budget for interior joinery, one of the most common questions is: how much do architraves cost? The answer depends on the profile, finish and quantity you need — but this guide will give you a clear picture of what to expect.
What Affects the Cost of MDF Architraves?
Several factors influence the price per metre of MDF architraves:
- Profile style — all profiles at Univers are priced the same, so your choice is purely about aesthetics
- Finish — primed architraves cost a little more than unprimed due to the factory priming process
- Quantity — architraves are sold per 3050mm length; the more you buy, the better value per metre
- Supplier — buying direct from a UK manufacturer like Univers offers significantly better value than DIY sheds or builders merchants
How Much Do MDF Architraves Cost Per Metre?
At Univers Skirting & Architrave, our MDF architraves are available in two finishes at the following prices:
| Width | Finish | Price per 3050mm length | Price per metre |
|---|---|---|---|
| 69mm | Unprimed | £8.20 | £2.69/m |
| 69mm | Primed | £11.20 | £3.67/m |
All architraves are 18mm thick and 3050mm long — the standard UK length for interior joinery.
How Much Architrave Do I Need?
To calculate how much architrave you need for a door, measure the following:
- Two vertical legs — measure the height of the door opening and multiply by 2
- One horizontal head — measure the width of the door opening
- Add 10–15% for waste from mitre cuts
Example for a standard UK door (1981mm x 762mm):
- 2 x 1981mm legs = 3962mm
- 1 x 762mm head = 762mm
- Total = 4724mm + 10% waste = approx. 5200mm
- You'll need 2 lengths of architrave per door (one for each side, plus the head)
Remember — architrave is fitted to both sides of a door, so multiply your calculation by 2 for a complete door.
Is MDF Architrave Worth It?
Compared to timber or softwood architrave, MDF offers several advantages that make it excellent value:
- Consistent quality — no knots, warping or grain variation
- Moisture resistant — Univers MDF is manufactured to resist moisture, ideal for hallways, kitchens and bathrooms
- Smooth paint finish — takes paint evenly without grain showing through
- Pre-primed options — saves time and money on site
- Lower cost — from just £2.69/m, MDF architrave is typically cheaper than equivalent timber profiles
Which Architrave Profile Should I Choose?
All our profiles are available at the same price — so your choice comes down to style, not budget:
- Torus — classic and versatile, suits most homes
- Ogee — elegant, ideal for period properties
- Bullnose — clean and simple, great for modern interiors
- Square Edge — minimal, perfect for contemporary new builds
- Ovolo — bold and decorative, makes a statement
- Chamfer Round — subtle and transitional
- Lambs Tongue — delicate, suits period renovations
- Pencil Round — understated and widely used
Shop MDF Architraves at Univers
All our architraves are manufactured in the UK from moisture-resistant MDF, available primed or unprimed, in 11 profiles. Order online with fast UK delivery.