Wood Skirting Boards Construction in Nairobi
Wood skirting boards are a staple in Nairobi’s construction industry, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes in residential and commercial buildings. These boards, installed at the base of interior walls, conceal the joint between the wall and floor, protect walls from damage, and enhance the visual appeal of spaces. In Nairobi, where rapid urbanization drives construction, wood skirting boards are favored for their versatility, durability, and ability to complement diverse architectural styles.
The most commonly used woods for skirting boards in Nairobi include mahogany, pine, cypress, and teak. Mahogany, prized for its rich grain and reddish-brown hue, is a premium choice for high-end projects in areas like Westlands and Karen. Its durability and resistance to termites make it ideal for long-term installations. Pine and cypress, more affordable options, are widely used in middle-income housing developments in areas like Embakasi and Kasarani. These softwoods are lighter, easier to work with, and readily available from local timber yards. Teak, though less common due to its higher cost, is valued for its water resistance and is often used in luxury apartments or hotels in Nairobi’s central business district.
The construction process begins with selecting the appropriate wood, which depends on the project’s budget and aesthetic requirements. Timber is sourced from local suppliers or imported, with Kenya’s Rift Valley and coastal regions providing much of the local supply. Once selected, the wood is cut into planks, typically 10-15 cm in height and 1-2 cm in thickness, though custom sizes are common for bespoke projects. The planks are then planed and sanded to achieve a smooth surface, ensuring a professional finish.
Skirting board profiles in Nairobi vary widely, reflecting the city’s blend of modern and traditional design influences. Common profiles include bullnose, chamfered, and ogee, each offering a distinct look. Bullnose skirting, with its rounded edge, is popular in minimalist designs, while ogee, with its elegant S-shaped curve, suits colonial-style homes in Muthaiga or Lavington. Artisans use routers or CNC machines to carve these profiles, with larger construction firms in Nairobi investing in automated machinery for precision and efficiency.
Installation begins with measuring and cutting the boards to fit the room’s dimensions. In Nairobi’s construction scene, skilled carpenters use mitre saws to create precise 45-degree angles for corner joints, ensuring a seamless appearance. The boards are then fixed to the wall using adhesives, nails, or screws, depending on the wall material. In concrete-heavy constructions, common in Nairobi’s high-rise apartments, adhesive bonding is preferred to avoid drilling into hard surfaces. For wooden or drywall interiors, nails or screws provide a secure fit.
Finishing is a critical step in the process. In Nairobi, carpenters apply stains, varnishes, or paints to enhance the wood’s appearance and protect it from moisture and wear. Varnishing is particularly popular in humid areas like Kilimani, where it helps prevent warping. Oil-based stains are used to highlight the natural grain of mahogany or teak, while white or pastel paints are trending in modern apartments for a clean, contemporary look. Eco-friendly finishes, such as water-based varnishes, are gaining traction among environmentally conscious developers in Nairobi’s green building projects.
The demand for wood skirting boards in Nairobi is driven by the city’s booming real estate market. From luxury villas in Runda to affordable housing in Pipeline, skirting boards are a standard feature in most new constructions. However, challenges exist, including the rising cost of quality timber due to deforestation concerns and competition from cheaper alternatives like PVC or MDF skirting. Despite this, wood remains the material of choice for its warmth and timeless appeal.
Skilled labor is another consideration. Nairobi’s carpenters, often trained through apprenticeships or vocational schools, are adept at customizing skirting boards to meet client specifications. However, the industry faces a shortage of highly skilled artisans, leading some developers to import pre-finished skirting boards from China or Europe. Local manufacturers are responding by investing in training and modern equipment to remain competitive.
Maintenance of wood skirting boards is straightforward but essential in Nairobi’s variable climate. Regular dusting and occasional polishing keep the boards looking pristine, while periodic inspections for termite activity or water damage are recommended, especially in older buildings.