Uneven Skirting

[skirterman]

My skirting the Hall way built from cement is very uneven, I would like to completely remove it and fit in the skirting boards out of B & Q. Is that a good or bad idea.
It was sort of plastered onto the wall and they never done a great job of it looks a mess,
What is the best way to deal it?

 

[JerryM]

if i understand it as "that the skirting is made from mortar (have seen this in a few oldish houses)".

there is no problem knocking it off with a lump hammer and chisel but it will make a mess initially. it's also bound to damage the plaster though and some new plaster in a few areas will be needed.

skirtings can be bought in a few depths (typ 4", 5" & 6"). i think the 6" might help in your case to cover over the area where the existing mortar has been removed. would not buy from B and Q (expensive for timber) - go to a builders or timber merchants.

stick the new skirting on with no nails adhesive and put caulk into any gaps along the top edge (smooth with your finger using 1/3 fairy to water mix in an old spray bottle).

you will need a coping saw to cut the profile of the skirting on internal corners and a mitre saw at the external corners.

 

[Symptoms]

skirt - the other advantage, apart from price & quality, of getting the skirting from a timber merchant is that it'll be available in longer lengths than that offered in the DIY sheds. Longer lengths = fewer joins. If it's going to be painted consider primed MDF.