Should I gloss or leave wooden finish skirtings / staircase

In the progess of getting the house done, full refurb. Do you think it is best to have treated wood skirtings and stair case or have them painted and a different colour on the wall to offset? House it rather modern but I do want it to age well!

Asked by Carol on 31st Mar 2020
Expert Trade Answers
"If you are spending a small fortune on proper timber not the dreaded MDF then I implore you to live with the natural finish for as long as you can.
Make sure to let the joiner/carpenter know that you will be leaving the timber looking natural/waxing/varnishing, that way they can use dwells and caps to hide screws and nails rather than wood filler.
Rule of thumb-
You can cover timber at anytime to make it white but you can't uncover it and make it look natural.

Hope this helps
Scott
FD-Decor"
Answered on 3rd Apr 2020 - Member since Jan 2020 - report
"It depends on what you like, and how would like it to look a good quality gloss will hold its colour compared to cheaper versions. That being said a pre finished stained or varnished wood also lasts and looks nice all depends on your taste and how you're painting the walls"
Answered on 3rd Apr 2020 - Member since Apr 2017 - report
"Hi carol. It depends on you. Is it painted already? If yes I would prep and undercoat and use satin wood paint rather than gloss. kind regards Dennis"
Answered on 31st Mar 2020 - Member since Jan 2019 - report
"It's up to your own personal taste but gloss cleans easier."
Answered on 31st Mar 2020 - Member since Jan 2020 - report
"Yes it is best to treat the wood and undercoat it first and then the colour u want on top"
Answered on 3rd Apr 2020 - Member since Dec 2019 - report
"It's all down to preference, personally I prefer the wood, but keep it in a light stain finish."
Answered on 31st Mar 2020 - Member since Feb 2020 - report
"White gloss or satin paint on all the woodwork throughout is usually the most timeless and elegant solution."
Answered on 31st Mar 2020 - Member since Mar 2020 - report
"Normally skirting is painted white to contrast with walls.
If the are wood coloured you would need to give several coats of primer undercoat before a top gloss coat,
Brian"
Answered on 10th Apr 2020 - Member since Aug 2019 - report
"Depends on a few things.
Do you have young children or pets--messy feet/hands
What is your floor- laminate, carpet or tile.
Best to gloss in most cases unless you want wood effect"
Answered on 31st Mar 2020 - Member since Mar 2020 - report
"Hi. Unfortunately there is no right or wrong answer to this question. It all comes down to personal preference and what look you are trying to achieve. However, bear in mind that once natural wood is painted it is hard to get it back to its original form and takes a lot of hardwork & preparation to do so."
Answered on 31st Mar 2020 - Member since Feb 2018 - report
"It's a matter of personal choice, white throughout with a pastel colour on the walls for modern, or stained or treated woodwork and white on walls for an aged look, use pvc skirting so low maintenance."
Answered on 31st Mar 2020 - Member since Apr 2019 - report
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