PVC skirting is a lightweight, durable floor covering material. It provides functional protection and an aesthetically pleasing finish to wall and floor edges. In the PVC material category, if we simply distinguish them by "flexibility", they can be divided into rigid and flexible PVC skirting boards.
While both types share similar materials, they differ significantly in their product properties and applications.
This article will explore the key differences between the two to help homeowners, designers, and contractors make informed decisions when choosing a material.
Rigid PVC skirting boards are the most common type. They are smooth, hard, and have a crisp sound when tapped with fingers. Their main advantages are lightness, resistance to wear and warping, and low maintenance. Therefore, they are often used in straight, wide spaces such as living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways.
Flexible PVC skirting is a new product developed specifically for curved walls or column bases. It adapts flexibly to various curved installation environments, eliminates the need for back heating during bending, and maintains exceptional flexibility even with large bends. Furthermore, its performance has been upgraded and expanded without compromising wear and impact resistance.
Compared with hard skirting boards, flexible PVC skirtings have been improved in terms of formula, material structure, and production process. This makes soft skirting boards have significant differences in flexibility and indoor applications. The following table provides a detailed comparison:
| Comparison Item | Rigid PVC Skirting | Flexible PVC Skirting |
| Material | Increase the proportion of filler (calcium carbonate) and reduce plasticizer | The filler content is appropriately reduced, and plasticizers are added to provide flexibility. |
| Structure | Solid or hollow structure | The multi-cavity hollow structure provides convenience for bending. |
| Flexibility | The material is hard and cannot be bent | Flexible bending to adapt to curved surfaces or irregular cylinders. |
| Durability | Waterproof, moisture-proof, wear-resistant, and free from mold and insect pests. | Waterproof, moisture-proof, insect-proof, mildew-proof, and highly durable. |
| Strength | Able to withstand daily minor impacts. | Minor impacts can be quickly recovered from and are less likely to leave dents. |
| Design & Appearance | Various appearance designs, including curved, sheep tongue, square, etc., with a strong sense of lines. | Softer appearance, suitable for creative or irregular designs |
| Installation | Install using structural adhesive or fasteners | Use a structural adhesive to install |
| Cost | Slightly higher | More budget-friendly |
| Applications | Straight walls, long-term durability requirements | Curved walls, columns, DIY projects, irregular spaces |
Due to their unique material structure, PVC rigid skirtings offer better strength and durability, which makes them very popular in some high-use areas, such as living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, bathrooms, and kitchens.
On the contrary, if your project has some curved walls or column base decorations, then rigid PVC skirting is not an ideal choice. Its poor flexibility and difficulty in bending are its insurmountable shortcomings.
Flexible PVC skirting is a highly versatile flooring accessory. It can be installed in almost any position, including straight walls, curved walls, cylindrical base moldings, and even irregular, multi-curved walls.
It is often more suitable for DIY installation and is more cost-effective than rigid PVC skirting.
PVC soft skirtings offer an unparalleled advantage, sacrificing strength for flexibility. However, this also means they offer relatively weaker protection against external impacts. Furthermore, their softer appearance makes it more difficult to create a strong, clear sense of lines and boundaries in minimalist spaces.
How to choose between rigid and soft PVC skirting? This decision requires careful consideration of all factors, including the nature of your project, application, performance requirements, budget, and style.
Rigid skirting should be chosen in the following scenarios:
Open spaces with straight walls.
Considering a long-term investment, you want the durability and low-maintenance benefits of these materials.
Creating a minimalist space with a strong sense of lines.
Soft skirting should be chosen in the following scenarios:
Multiple, irregularly curved walls.
Column base trim.
Spiral staircases.
Large, curved corners.
Artistic spaces.
As you can see, rigid and flexible PVC skirting differ in material composition, manufacturing process, construction, and application scenarios. You might even simply think that rigid PVC skirting boards are like a "serious and upright adult", while flexible skirting boards are more like a "flexible and creative child".However, there's no doubt that both offer excellent resistance to water, moisture, mildew, and insects, as well as low maintenance.
Understanding their similarities and differences, and considering factors such as your project needs, style, location, budget, and personal preferences, will help you make an informed choice and integrate them into your space, maximizing their value.
CREATEKING is a professional skirting supplier in China. If you have any questions about skirting, please feel free to contact our expert team.
Q1: Can flexible PVC skirting be painted?
A1: No need, flexible PVC skirting boards come with a complete finish and do not require repainting.
Q2: Is rigid PVC skirting waterproof?
A2: Yes, rigid PVC skirting boards are completely waterproof and suitable for wet spaces such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
Q3: Which type of PVC skirting is easier to install?
A3: Flexible PVC skirting is easier to install, especially on curved or irregular walls.
Q4: How long does PVC skirting last?
A4: By following the installation guidelines provided by the supplier and maintaining them properly, PVC skirting can last 10 to 15 years, or even longer.
Q5: Is PVC skirting better than wooden skirting?
A5: Compared to solid wood, PVC skirting boards are more resistant to water, termites, and wear, making them a practical alternative.
