Pivot doors and skirting boards: what do you need to consider?
A steel pivot door does not have a frame and sits directly against the wall. This means the skirting board needs to be taken into account. There are two options: cutting the skirting board at a mitre or having a recess made in the door. Below, we explain both options and outline their advantages and disadvantages.
Option 1: cutting the skirting board at a mitre
We usually recommend having the existing skirting board cut at a mitre. The end of the skirting board is cut at an angle, allowing it to taper gradually back towards the wall as it approaches the door.
The advantage of this option is that the side of the pivot door remains sleek and uninterrupted. When the cut edge is painted in the same colour as the skirting board, it creates a clean and understated finish.
The disadvantage is that the existing skirting board needs to be modified. This must be done accurately to achieve a neat, professional result.
Option 2: a recess in the pivot door
Would you prefer not to modify the existing skirting board? We can create a recess in the steel door. This allows the door to partially overlap the skirting board while still leaving enough room for it to pivot. This solution is particularly suitable for skirting boards that are difficult to alter or need to remain completely intact.
One disadvantage is that the recess may be visible when the door is open. Some customers find this less attractive. The exact height and thickness of the skirting board must also be known in advance. If you replace the skirting board at a later date, the existing recess may no longer fit properly.
Good to know: a wall without a skirting board
Is there no skirting board along the wall? In that case, no modifications are required, and the pivot door can move freely past the wall. This creates a sleek, minimalist finish.
Which option is right for you?
We usually recommend having the skirting board cut at a mitre, as this generally creates the sleekest and most timeless result. A recess in the pivot door is a good alternative when the skirting board cannot or must not be altered. This may apply to natural stone skirting boards, decorative skirting boards or existing skirting boards that you wish to retain.
Are you unsure whether to choose a mitre-cut skirting board or a recess in the pivot door? We would be happy to assess which solution is best suited to your situation and the look you want to achieve.
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