Skirting Removal and Refitting

[Peter James]

Hi,

I am wanting to replace the laminate flooring in a room, however, it looks like the flooring was laid before the skirtings and the radiator pipes are right against the skirting. There is a radiator on the other side of the room with a similar problem so can't really just slide the flooring under one side and remove the opposite skirting. Same problem at both sides.


Any thoughts on how I might go about removing these skirtings and refitting them. Or is it too much hassle and I should just go with beading - not my preference at all. I don't mind fitting new skirting if this helps. I just want to be sure not to damage the pipes.

Thanks
PJ

 

[bsr]

Multi tool to cut the skirting either side of the rad pipes and then a flat crowbar to remove.

Erbauer EMT300-QC 300W Electric Multi-Tool 220-240V - Screwfix

Order online at Screwfix.com. Powerful multi-tool with 3.2° oscillation angle and variable speed control for sawing, sanding and cutting. Suitable for metal or wood applications. Features include overcurrent protection and dust seal protection. Supplied with 13 accessories and carry case. FREE...

www.screwfix.com

Roughneck Utility Bar 15" - Screwfix

Order online at Screwfix.com. Suitable for light prying or lifting tacks and nails. Ideal for use in tight areas. FREE next day delivery available, free collection in 1 minute.

www.screwfix.com

 

[Peter James]

Thank you.
So I assume that I would then need new skirting, and slide this behind the pipes?
I need to check, but I hope the skirting is not glued on or it might be a nightmare to remove any of it.

 

[bsr]

Yes, or cut the length in two pieces so that one of the joins us behind a radiator pipe so not visible.

 

[Diver Fred]

If it's a recent house you can expect it to be glued on.

Is the existing flooring under or butted to the skirting? If it's under it may be easier to remove the existing laminate and carefully replace under the skirting.

 

[Peter James]

Thank you.
The laminate is (as far as I can tell) is laid on top of a concrete floor and definitely goes under the skirting. Not removing the skirtings would be my preferred option, but how would I get the final line of flooring laid as I am not sure how I would get this under the skirting on the wall opposite to where I started.
It looks like the laminate was laid before the skirting was fixed when new (20 years ago).
This is an apartment that I am purchasing so access is not easy currently so don't know if the skirting is glued on or nailed. If it is glued, I assume it will be very difficult to remove? Is there a technique for doing this?