How do I remove skirting boards around pipework/radiators?

Hi all,
We have moved into a new property and are in the process of renovation currently – which includes removing the old skirting boards to replace with newer style skirting boards instead.
Our main concern with removing the skirting boards is the radiator pipes that intersect with them and some micro pipes running along the boards. How can we remove the skirting boards safely without causing any damage to the piping work?
Any suggestions would be great to hear about!

Asked by carole on 23rd Sep 2019
Expert Trade Answers
"Hi,

The most viable way without removing radiators is to cut the skirting from top to bottom using a multi tool. We do skirting on a regular basis and this is how we do it. The only thing to be concerned about is that you don’t pull too hard on the skirting when removing it. As for replacing the skirting, depending on the length of the wall and skirting you are fitting and where the radiator sits on said wall, you may need to cut the skirting down to slide it behind the radiator and mitre join the two pieces of skirting together."
Answered on 6th Jan 2020 - Member since Dec 2017 - report
"Ideally you would use a multi tool to cut around the pipes however, if you don't have a multi tool you could try cutting the skirting from top to bottom to get the smallest length of it as possible then splitting it along the grain (length ways) using a hammer and wood chisel.

Regards,
Fraser Handyman Services"
Answered on 31st Jan 2020 - Member since Oct 2019 - report
"Carefully is the correct answer, some pipes will have a degree of play before fracturing, the safest way is to remove the radiators, especially if using 5-10 inch skirting."
Answered on 5th Nov 2019 - Member since Mar 2019 - report
"You can use a small dremil cutting tool. But beforehand put a cutting plate in between so you do not damage the pipes and then cut boards out in sections."
Answered on 30th Mar 2020 - Member since Jul 2019 - report
"Hi you can cut them off with a saw and the micro pipes then you just need to use a hammer to remove holding clips. You will be safe doing this"
Answered on 5th Oct 2020 - Member since Sep 2020 - report
"Hi,

I would suggest that to remove the skirting board safely you could use a multitool and cut the skirting board close to the pipes and then pull it out safely. This is one possibility for you."
Answered on 17th Nov 2019 - Member since Oct 2019 - report
"Try getting a pinch bar and easing them off without damaging the pipe"
Answered on 19th Apr 2021 - Member since Mar 2021 - report
"Just tap lightly from the top of the skirting with a hammer and chisel, and when there's a gap at the just prize away from the wall gently."
Answered on 11th May 2020 - Member since Jan 2019 - report
"You may have to split the timber away small piece at a time if there is various pipes causing problems. Some photos and more details would help with the diagnosis.

Kind Regards,

Mark."
Answered on 6th Jan 2020 - Member since Dec 2019 - report
"Support the small pipes and remove skirting boards this is a easy job to do and when replacing skirting take care when nailing them back on tie string round pipes and pull up slowly away from the area you should be good with that"
Answered on 5th Aug 2020 - Member since Jul 2020 - report
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