[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”70782″ img_size=”800×300″ alignment=”center” parallax_scroll=”no”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]At first, you might be confused at the statement that architraves are everywhere and that you probably see one every day within your own home. Not many people know exactly what architraves are, but they are a vital part of the housing industry, and part of what keeps your home looking neat and tidy.

In short, an architrave is a form of interior moulding. They are found in most homes, offices, public buildings, and indeed any form of architecture. An interior moulding is an element applied at the end of a building process, in order to hide or disguise the joins between areas like windows, doors, and walls, concealing areas of transition and adding decorative embellishment to a room. MDF architrave can be used as a strip, and are very flexible to cover a number of areas.

Places to Use Architraves

As you see a construction or renovation through to its conclusion, there are plenty of areas where you will want to use an architrave as a finishing touch. There is no set way to use an architrave, and it can become a very flexible way to create visually appealing edges around your home, however, there are a few places where it often comes in useful. The first of these is between walls and doors, where architraves for doors can provide a smooth transition into a room.

The second is between walls and windows. As framed windows become more popular, architraves are a fantastic way to conceal the transition into the wall and create an aesthetically pleasing look. Finally, an architrave can be well-used in-ceiling and loft-arches, adding beautiful borders to complement the architectural style already in play – just as your skirting board adds an extra element to the floor below.

Why Use Architraves

The first, and most obvious, reason for an architrave, is for aesthetic purposes. An architrave can be used to disguise the seams between parts of your home. Architraves can be made of different types of material, so it can be tailored to suit the look and style of the building it is being applied to. However, an architrave is not purely a visual feature. By sitting astride a join between two materials, it can prevent shrinkage and movement as they experience the wear and tear of life, helping to keep your building structurally sound. An architrave is also a great way to protect weaker plaster, as it strengthens edges and prevents the plaster from flaking away.

Types and Materials of Architrave

The housing industry uses several different materials for architraves. MDF, hardwood, and softwood are the three most common materials because they are sturdy and easy to apply to different surfaces. Each has its own pros and cons, however, primed MDF architrave is one of the most versatile. As a man-made material, MDF is durable and easy to handle. As an added bonus, MDF is resistant to warping and swelling from moisture, meaning it will provide extra protection for the seams of your building, wherever you use it.

What To Take Away

At Cutting Edge Skirting, we manufacture and provide a wide range of architraves to suit each style of home; from modern to traditional, we have an architrave to suit the style of your home. Interested in finding out more about the architraves we offer or looking for adivce on what architrave would suit your home best? Get in touch and speak to a member of the Cutting Edge Skirting team today on 0333 366 0249 or send us an email on info@skirting.co.uk. You can also contact a member of our team by using the contact form below. We look forward to hearing from you.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column]

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