How to fill skirting board gaps

Should skirting board gaps be filled with caulk or filler? Some gaps are tiny and others are a bit wider, and I’m confused about what works best without cracking or looking messy once it’s painted. Also, is this normal?

Asked by Christian on 12th Feb 2026
Expert Trade Answers
"Depending on gaps I’d use filler then sand it down"
Answered on 12th Feb 2026 - Member since Feb 2025 - report
"Gaps around skirting boards are completely normal, especially in UK homes where natural movement and seasonal changes cause slight expansion and contraction. For small gaps between the skirting and the wall, we use decorators caulk as it stays flexible and won’t crack once painted. For joints, corners or small dents, we use fine filler because it can be sanded smooth for a sharper finish. Using the correct product in the right place ensures the finish looks clean and lasts without cracking or looking messy over time."
Answered on 12th Feb 2026 - Member since Jul 2025 - report
"Should always fill nail marks on skirting with filler as caulk doesnt leave a smooth nor long lasting durability, unlike filler smooth finished and will last longer, plus when sanding down it will give a better finish"
Answered on 18th Feb 2026 - Member since Oct 2025 - report
"It all depends on instalation method, some skirtings are glued to wall some are fitted using drill/wall plugs and screws, some are nailed using gun, also the walls are not 100% straight so using caulk is quick and easy just allow time to dry before painting, you might need to aply caulk more then once to achieve clean line"
Answered on 13th Feb 2026 - Member since Jan 2014 - report
"Hi caulk is best as it’s flexi and leaves a tidy finish when wiped we damp sponge"
Answered on 22nd Feb 2026 - Member since Aug 2023 - report
"The gaps are normal where the skirting meets the wall etc. decorators caulk should be used as this is plantable."
Answered on 17th Feb 2026 - Member since Dec 2023 - report
"I think caulk would be fine and then you can paint it with the paint on the top"
Answered on 14th Feb 2026 - Member since Jan 2026 - report
"Yes use decorative caulk fill hole wipe it smooth let dry then paint"
Answered on 12th Feb 2026 - Member since Feb 2026 - report
"Hi,i would recommend,using a good calk to use on the skirting board.
Cheers lee"
Answered on 12th Feb 2026 - Member since Mar 2025 - report
"Decorators caulk will do this job from any diy shop/builders merchant"
Answered on 12th Feb 2026 - Member since Aug 2015 - report
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