How to Calculate Skirting Board: A Builder’s Calculator Guide

Graham howmuchdoineed · 14 July 2026 · 5 min read

Choosing and fitting skirting board can make a huge difference to the finish of any room. But working out how much you actually need, and how much it will cost, can be tricky—especially if you want to avoid over-ordering or coming up short. This guide explains exactly how to calculate the right amount of skirting board, how to work in both metric and imperial units, and how to estimate costs for your project. We’ll also introduce a helpful skirting board calculator to make the process even easier.

Why Calculate Skirting Board Accurately?

Getting your measurements right means:

Saving money by only buying what you need
Avoiding wastage and leftover materials
Ensuring a professional, seamless finish
Making ordering and fitting far simpler

The Simple Way to Measure for Skirting Board

Before you buy, you need to know the total length of skirting required. Here’s how:

Measure each wall: Use a tape measure to get the length of each wall where skirting will be installed. Don’t forget alcoves, bay windows, or any nooks.
Add them up: Write down all the measurements, then add them together for the total perimeter.
Subtract for doors: Measure the width of any doors (and built-in cupboards, if they reach the floor) and subtract these from your total, as these won’t need skirting.
Add a little extra: Allow an extra 5–10% for cuts, corners, and any mistakes.

Worked Example: Metric & Imperial

Let’s measure a typical room:

Wall 1: 4.2m (13ft 9in)
Wall 2: 3.6m (11ft 10in)
Wall 3: 4.2m (13ft 9in)
Wall 4: 3.6m (11ft 10in)

Total perimeter = 4.2 + 3.6 + 4.2 + 3.6 = 15.6m (51ft 5in)

Subtract a standard door (0.76m / 2ft 6in):

15.6m - 0.76m = 14.84m (51ft 5in - 2ft 6in = 48ft 11in)

Add 10% for cuts: 14.84m × 1.10 = 16.32m (rounded: 16.5m or about 54ft)

So, you’d need to order around 16.5m (54ft) of skirting board.

How Many Lengths Will You Need?

Skirting boards are usually sold in set lengths (commonly 2.4m, 3m, 3.6m, or 4.2m in the UK). Divide your total by the length available and round up.

Skirting Board Length	Number Needed (16.5m total)
2.4m	7
3.0m	6
3.6m	5
4.2m	4

To make this even easier, try our skirting board calculator tool which works out exactly how many lengths you’ll need for your specific measurements.

Estimating Cost for Skirting Board

Prices vary based on material (MDF, softwood, hardwood), profile, and finish. Generally, skirting is priced per metre or per length.

MDF (primed): Usually the most affordable
Softwood: Mid-range, easy to paint or stain
Hardwood (oak, walnut): Premium option, higher cost

Example calculation: If MDF skirting costs £4 per metre and you need 16.5m:

16.5m × £4 = £66

Don’t forget to factor in delivery, paint, and any fitting costs.

Painting & Finishing

If your skirting comes unfinished, you’ll need to estimate paint coverage. Most paints cover 10–12m² per litre. For skirting, measure the total surface area:

Height: 120mm (0.12m)
Length: 16.5m
Area: 0.12 × 16.5 = 1.98m²

One litre will easily cover this with two coats.

Fitting Costs

Labour costs vary by region and complexity. In the UK, professional fitting might range from £6–£12 per metre (or equivalent in your local currency). Always get a few quotes for the best deal.

Using a Skirting Board Calculator

Instead of doing all the maths yourself, you can use a skirting board calculator to quickly work out the exact amount you need. Just input your wall measurements, and the calculator does the rest—helping you avoid costly mistakes and simplifying your shopping list.

Questions People Are Actually Asking

How much skirting board do I need?

Measure the length of every wall that will have skirting, subtract openings like doors, and add 5–10% for waste. Use a skirting board calculator for quick results.

How much does skirting board cost?

This depends on material and style. In the UK, MDF skirting typically costs £3–£5 per metre, softwoods are £5–£10, and hardwoods can be £10–£25 per metre. Remember to include fitting and finishing costs.

How much is skirting board per metre?

Prices range from £3 per metre for basic MDF up to £25 per metre for premium hardwoods. Check local suppliers for exact prices in your area.

How much for skirting board fitting?

Professional installation usually costs £6–£12 per metre. Complex rooms or detailed profiles may increase the price. Always ask for a written quote.

How much skirting board paint do I need?

One litre of paint covers around 10–12m². For a standard room (about 16m of skirting at 120mm high), you’ll need less than a litre for two coats.

How many skirting boards do I need?

Divide your total required length by the board length sold (e.g., 3m or 4.2m per board) and round up. A calculator can work this out for you automatically.

How much to skirting board a room?

Add together the cost of the skirting board, paint, and fitting. For a 16m room with MDF skirting and basic fitting, expect a total in the range of £120–£250 depending on finishes and labour.

Conclusion

Getting your skirting board measurements right saves time, money, and stress. With a clear understanding of what you need—and the help of a reliable skirting board calculator—you can order with confidence, ensure a professional finish, and keep your project on budget. Ready to get started? Try the calculator now and make your next room transformation a breeze.

Free tools to put this into practice

Reading is one thing — working out your own numbers is what saves time and money. Here are the free HowMuchDoINeed calculators that pair best with this guide:

Deck Board Calculator — work out exactly how much you need and what it will cost.
Baseboard Trim Calculator — get an instant materials estimate for your project.
Plasterboard Calculator — size up quantities and costs before you head to the merchant.
Plasterboard Screw Quantity Calculator — plan your order so you avoid over- or under-buying.

Explore every free calculator on HowMuchDoINeed — no sign-up required.