Repair Trim Rot (Skirt Board and Corner Board)

Moments in this video

1. 2:23–3:43 Remove Damaged Trim From Stair Skirt Boards and Trim Refresher, Step 1: Remove Old Skirt Boards

   After the cuts are made, carefully begin prying out the damaged trim pieces. Use a 5-in-1 painter's tool (or similar prying tool) to gently separate the boards from the wall. Listen for any stress in the surrounding lumber or siding to avoid accidental damage. Once partially pulled out, switch to a claw hammer to fully remove the skirt board. If nails remain partially pried, carefully pull them out using the hammer's claw or bend them down to prevent injury before discarding the old trim. For the corner board, if it's very deteriorated, you might be able to get behind it and pry it out in one large chunk. Remove any nails remaining in the wall using a nail puller to ensure the new pieces sit flush.

2. 2:23–3:43 Remove Damaged Trim From Stair Skirt Boards and Trim Refresher, Step 2: Remove Old Trim

   After the cuts are made, carefully begin prying out the damaged trim pieces. Use a 5-in-1 painter's tool (or similar prying tool) to gently separate the boards from the wall. Listen for any stress in the surrounding lumber or siding to avoid accidental damage. Once partially pulled out, switch to a claw hammer to fully remove the skirt board. If nails remain partially pried, carefully pull them out using the hammer's claw or bend them down to prevent injury before discarding the old trim. For the corner board, if it's very deteriorated, you might be able to get behind it and pry it out in one large chunk. Remove any nails remaining in the wall using a nail puller to ensure the new pieces sit flush.

3. 4:18–4:44 Measure and Cut New Skirt Board From Stair Skirt Boards and Trim Refresher, Step 4: Measure and Cut New Skirt Boards

   Measure the required length for the new skirt board replacement piece. Hook the tape measure onto the existing drip cap and extend it to the previously cut line on the skirt board. Note the measurement (e.g., 53 and 7/8 inches). Transfer this measurement to the new pine trim board. Mark the cut point with a 'crow's foot' V, which allows for a more precise cut, indicating the exact point to cut through. Cut the new skirt board to this precise length.

4. 5:33–6:05 Install New Skirt Board From Stair Skirt Boards and Trim Refresher, Step 6: Install New Skirt Boards

   After allowing the back primer to dry for a minute, test fit the new skirt board in its intended position to ensure it sits flush with the existing trim. Once satisfied with the fit, use a brad nailer loaded with 2-inch galvanized brad nails to initially fasten the board. Start by placing a couple of nails to hold it in place. Continue to feel the board to ensure it remains tight against the wall and flush with adjacent pieces. Once properly positioned, secure it fully by shooting more galvanized brad nails in a continuous 'W pattern,' aiming for about 12 to 15 nails along the length to prevent movement.

The guide that use this video

• Stair Skirt Boards and Trim Refresher