Scotia beading, silicone?

Question

Hi. I have purchase Evocore LVT flooring for living room and hallway. The boards are 8mm thick. Underlay is already on each board. Im not sure if i must use Scotia beading. I prefer the look without. Can i use a dark oak coloured silicone? Do i need a specialist just to do the silicone? or can most laminate fitters do this?

Other option is under skirting boards. The skirting boards do have gaps underneath. but it is a bit inconsistent though. Would all the skirting boards need to be removed and refitted ?  can this be done with out damaging them? Is tis a big job? and again do i need a specialist just for this or can the regular laminate fitter do this?

Many thanks

Marin · Answer

Hello, I'm Marin from ProDrylinerLtd and I've often encountered the problem you have, the best and correct solution is to remove the skirting board, put the laminate and then put the skirting board back in place!!! I hope it's useful if you have additional questions you can you ask me

Dan · Answer

Hi being a laminate fitter myself the best option is to take the skirting boards off some timed they can come off easy and other times it can be a pain but the outcome does in my option look better or failing that you can multi tool the skirting boards and slide the laminate under its alot more work involved but it is doable I've done it a few times and it's somewhat easier than taking the skirts off

Colin · Answer

Use an offcut of the 8mm Flooring, put it around the perimeter, mark with a pencil and use a Multitool to saw it off.

Tony · Answer

Hi Balraj,

1. Scotia beading: Not always necessary, especially if you prefer the look without it. It's mainly used to cover expansion gaps between flooring and wall.

2. Silicone alternative: Dark oak colored silicone can fill expansion gaps, providing a clean look while allowing for floor movement. Use silicone designed for flooring.

3. Installation: Most experienced LVT fitters can apply silicone, but consider a specialist for the best finish.

4. DIY: Possible, but requires practice for a clean, even application.

5. Underskirting: Another option for a clean look without scotia or silicone.

6. Removing/refitting skirting:
   - Best if gaps are inconsistent
   - Can be done carefully to minimize damage
   - Process: Remove boards, install flooring, cut boards if needed, reattach

7. Job scope: More involved than using scotia/silicone. Time depends on room size and board condition.

8. Who can do it: Experienced LVT fitters can usually handle this, but consider a carpenter for old/valuable boards or delicate walls.

Considerations:
- Maintain recommended expansion gap (typically 8-10mm for LVT)
- Check manufacturer's instructions for specific recommendations
- Ensure clean, dry surfaces before applying silicone

Recommendations:
1. Consult your flooring supplier/installer for specific advice
2. Consider your desired look - underskirting is cleaner but more work
3. Assess skirting condition before deciding to remove/refit

Remember:
- Ensure proper expansion gaps
- Follow manufacturer's guidelines
- Clean surfaces before applying silicone

Choose based on your preference, budget, and the condition of your current skirting boards. Each option has pros and cons, so weigh them against your specific needs and the look you want to achieve.

Louis · Answer

Hi,
You have people that just do Mustic.
A good Mustic man will do the job .

Jaroslav · Answer

You don’t need a replacement for skirtings just fill it with calc silicon to fill the gaps, depending how big is them gabs but it should work easy with calc silicon it save you time and money.

Alex Ben · Answer

Here's how you can approach finishing your Evocore LVT flooring installation:
1. Using Scotia Beading

Scotia beading is designed to cover the expansion gap between the flooring and skirting boards.

Pros: Quick and simple, with no need to remove skirting boards.
    Cons: Some people dislike the extra line it creates between the skirting and floor.

2. Using Silicone (Without Beading)

Feasibility: You can use dark oak-colored silicone to fill the gap for a seamless finish.
    Advantages: Silicone provides a cleaner aesthetic and is flexible enough to handle floor movement.
    Who Can Do It? Most laminate fitters can apply silicone neatly. A specialist isn’t typically needed, though precision is important.
    Consideration: Silicone is for aesthetics, not structural support. Ensure proper expansion gaps are maintained under the skirting.

3. Fitting Under Skirting Boards

Removing and refitting skirting boards allows the flooring to sit underneath for a seamless finish.

Process: Skirting boards are carefully removed, flooring is installed, and the boards are refitted to cover the expansion gap.
    Can It Be Done Without Damage?
        If skirting is nailed or glued, careful removal is key to avoiding damage. Use tools like crowbars or multi-tools.
    Time and Effort: Removing and reinstalling skirting is more time-consuming than applying silicone or beading.

Which Option Is Best for You?

Quick and Simple: Use Scotia beading for minimal hassle.
    Seamless Look Without Beading: Go for silicone as a middle-ground solution.
    Best Aesthetic Finish: Removing and refitting skirting boards is ideal if you prioritize a high-end finish.

Do You Need a Specialist?

Silicone or Beading: A regular laminate fitter can handle these tasks.
    Skirting Removal: Most laminate fitters can do this, but extra care is needed if the skirting is fragile or detailed.

Final Recommendation

If aesthetics are your priority, removing and refitting skirting boards offers the best result. However, silicone is a simpler solution for a clean look without the bulk of beading. Let your fitter know your preferences and confirm they have experience with the method you choose.

Paul · Answer

This all depends on the ability level of the fitter, most fitters should be able to remove skirting and replace. If the old skirting is in good condition then I would say it’s best to run under the skirting boards as it gives a more appealing finish, alternatively if your fitter can leave the expansion gap around the room consistently then a flexible sealant would also finish off the room nicely.

Luke · Answer

For best results it’s always better to have skirting done after the new laminate flooring.

But in most cases the existing skirting is already on  and if customer are not willing to renew the skirting then yes the scotia beading is required.

Steve · Answer

All the best and tidiest finishes are either removing the skirting and replacing  or undercutting the skirting. 
 The latter can be time consuming but for your size of area just requires patience and some care.

Scotia beading, silicone?

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