Skirting - Pine or MDF

[Harbo]

Having had our fireplace removed and to fill a missing gap, I'm under pressure to replace it all with a more substantial type/profile.

But what to choose - pine which can warp or MDF which is more expensive?

Rod

 

[MMUK]

Pine, screw & plugged into the brick. Wood filler over the screws and you're good to go

 

[owen]

Pine. I normally fix to the wall with small t30 torx screws

 

[Graham Orm]

Pine, well fixed. Get yourself a plug cutter and cut some plugs for the holes. If you're blocking the fire place up make sure you allow some ventilation up the chimley or you risk damp.

 

[Harbo]

Well Pine it is then - no problem re blocking up the chimney - we've got rid of the fire surround etc and gone for an inset one.

Rod

 

[Bremner]

I always undercoat/prime pine skirting on BOTH sides before installation as I believe it helps to prevent cupping, also I normally counter sink the screws with a 8mm countersink bit and plug with 8mm wooden dowel (like these http://www.toolstation.com/shop/Power+T ... 410/p53368 ) and cut flush.

 

[blackrodd]

The mdf skirting is moisture resistant. less wasteful and comes ready primed.
with labour costs factored in, not so expensive and less surprises as with natural wood regarding warping and defects.
Priming prior to fixing will always be a good idea, drill, screw and plug into position
I use Spax screws mostly as they seem to suit my hammer/driver
I also use a set of Disston screw sinks and plug cutters
The screw sink's pre drill, counter sink and form the plug hole for the screw.
By matching the grain on an offcut of similar wood cut a plug ad glue into place.
sometimes, by choosing the grain the plug is hardly noticable ( and free)!
Regards Rodders