In this video tutorial, you will learn how to fit scotia beading the easiest way possible and without the need for special tools or skills.

Why do I need to install scotia beading?

When laying laminate or wood flooring, it is necessary to leave an expansion gap around the perimeter of the room, usually between 8 and 15 mm depending on the size of the room and type of floor.

Why? Because if there isn't any extension gap, the whole floor will lift and get damaged during changing weather conditions. In other words, leaving a gap will allow your flooring to expand as the temperature changes.

In some occasions, the gap can be hidden by the skirting boards but that's definitely not the best option as you'll have to remove it and place it on top of the laminate/wood flooring. As it is obvious, this is a very difficult procedure that can damage the skirting.

The most popular method to conceal the extension gap that is left between your laminate or wood flooring and the wall or existing skirting boards, is to fit scotia beading.

What is Scotia beading?

Scotia beading is a decorative moulding, which is used to cover the gap without removing the skirting board.

It is fitted to the skirting board and over the floor, around the perimeter of the room and it can be found in a wide range of colours, to match with every wood floor.

Are there different types of scotia?

There are three different types of scotia:

  • Solid scotia is made usually from oak.
  • Veneered scotia is made from a softwood and then topped with a very thin layer of veneer.
  • MDF Scotia, as the name indicates, is made from MDF with a paper or foil adhered to the surface.

Click here if you want to find more about Scotia and its different types.

Installation methods for scotia beading.

There are two installation methods for scotia beading. These are:

  • Pin or stapled fixing
  • Adhesive fixing

Although you can use an adhesive to fix your scotia beading to the skirting board, we would recommend you to go for the pin or stapled fixing installation method as it will be more stable.

To find out more about the installation methods for scotia beading, click here.

Tools I will need to install scotia beading:

  • Pencil
  • Glue
  • Panel pins