Two-Tone Wall Effects
Dado rails let you paint or wallpaper above and below in different colours, breaking up large wall areas. Picture rails add a horizontal line near the ceiling that changes room proportions.
Getting the Height Right
How To Use Dado/Picture Rails In 2025
Colour Breaks
Paint or wallpaper above and below the dado rail in different colours. Breaks up large wall areas and can make rooms feel more proportioned.
Picture Hanging
Picture rails let you hang artwork with wire and hooks instead of putting holes in walls. Useful for renters or if you change artwork frequently.
Period Properties
Many Victorian and Edwardian homes originally had rails. Adding them back restores the intended proportions and helps rooms feel more finished.
Available Sizes
| Specification | Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Thickness | 18mm, 25mm | 25mm for high ceilings |
| Width | 50mm - 80mm | Varies by profile |
| Length | 2440mm, 3050mm, 4200mm | Longer reduces joints |
| Finish | Unprimed, primed, undercoated, matte grey | Factory applied |
Fitting Around Corners and Stairs
Staircase Angles
Getting continuous lines up stairs requires precise angle calculations. Our calculator works out the exact cuts needed.
Calculate dado rail stair angles →Uneven Walls
Older properties often have irregular surfaces. Pack out low spots with timber shims and use flexible caulk to fill remaining gaps.
View dado rail fitting guide →Corner Joints
Perfect mitres require accurate cutting and good wall preparation. Use a proper mitre box and trial fit before final fixing.
Use Mitre Angle Calculator →Made to Order Quality
As soon as you place your order, our system sends your exact specifications to our woodworking factory, where one of our machinists will carefully machine your lengths to size. Each rail is cut fresh in our Birmingham factory from moisture-resistant MDF. No warehouse stock means consistent quality and precise dimensions.