FAQ
What is a plinth block? +
A plinth block is a decorative moulding that sits at the base of a door frame, positioned where the architrave meets the skirting board. Sometimes called architrave blocks or skirting blocks, they create a clean transition between these two elements. Plinth blocks should be taller than your skirting and thicker than both your skirting and architrave to create the proper stepped appearance.
What is a rosette block? +
A rosette block sits at the top corners of a door frame where the vertical architrave legs meet the horizontal head piece. Instead of cutting 45° mitres to join these pieces, the architrave simply butts against the rosette block with straight cuts. This makes installation easier whilst adding a decorative corner detail to your doorways.
What's the difference between plinth blocks and rosette blocks? +
Plinth blocks go at the bottom of your door frame where architrave meets skirting. Rosette blocks go at the top corners where architrave pieces would otherwise need mitring together. Both eliminate difficult angle cuts, but they serve different positions around the door frame. Many period properties use both together for a complete traditional look.
Are plinth blocks necessary? +
Plinth blocks aren't strictly required, but they solve several practical problems. If your skirting is thicker than your architrave, plinth blocks bridge that gap cleanly. They're particularly useful when fitting skirting board covers over existing boards, where the increased thickness would otherwise look awkward against standard architrave. They also hide floor gaps and wall imperfections at the door junction.
What size plinth block do I need? +
Your plinth block should be taller than your skirting board height and thicker than both your skirting and architrave. For rosettes, choose a width greater than your architrave width. For example, with 70mm architrave at 18mm thick, a 90mm x 25mm rosette works well. With 95mm architrave at 25mm thick, move to 120mm x 30mm rosettes.
How do I fit plinth blocks? +
Fix plinth blocks to the wall using strong construction adhesive, positioning them where your architrave will meet the skirting. Both your skirting and architrave then butt against the block with simple straight cuts, no mitres needed. For a detailed walkthrough, see our plinth and rosette blocks guide.
Can plinth blocks be used on corners? +
Yes, some designers use plinth blocks at external wall corners as decorative features. This creates an ornate, period-appropriate look and eliminates the need for mitre cuts where skirting boards meet at corners. It's a technique seen in many Victorian and Edwardian properties.
Do plinth blocks need to match my skirting profile? +
Not necessarily. Plinth blocks are designed to work with any skirting and architrave profile since the trim simply butts against the block face. The P1 bevelled edge suits both traditional and modern profiles, while the P2 chamfered design works particularly well with contemporary square-edge or chamfered styles.
Make Every Doorway Count
Plinth and rosette blocks solve the tricky junction where skirting meets architrave, adding that carved stately look that turns ordinary doorways into statement pieces. Particularly useful when fitting skirting board covers where the increased thickness needs bridging cleanly.
When You Need Plinth & Rosette Blocks
Thickness Differences
When your skirting thickness doesn't quite match your architrave, plinth blocks bridge the gap cleanly without cutting or adjustment. A popular solution when installing skirting over skirting.
Architrave Mitres
Making 45° mitres to join architrave legs to the head often results in misaligned joints with gaps. Rosette blocks let you butt architrave lengths against the block for clean, flat angles.
Restoring Period Properties
Many Victorian and Edwardian homes originally featured these elements. Adding them back restores authentic proportions and original character, as your home may have been built with plinth and rosette blocks in mind.
Three Simple Profiles
Getting The Size Right
Plinth Blocks
Should be taller than skirting height and thicker than both skirting and architrave
Rosette Blocks
Should be wider than architrave width and thicker than the architrave
Common Size Combinations
Installing Plinth & Rosette Blocks
No Difficult Cuts
Both skirting and architrave simply butt against the block with straight cuts. No measuring angles or wrestling with mitre saws.
Adhesive Fixing
Strong construction adhesive holds blocks securely in position. No visible fixings or complex mounting systems required.
Forgiving Fit
Minor imperfections in wall surfaces or small gaps disappear behind the block. Floor gaps and thickness disparities are hidden for a professional finish.
Material & Finish Options
| Specification | Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Moisture-resistant MDF | High-density construction |
| Thickness | 25mm, 30mm | Thicker than standard trim |
| Heights | Multiple options available | Select based on skirting |
| Finish | Primed, unprimed, undercoated, matt grey | Factory applied |
Made To Order
Your plinth and rosette blocks are custom made from moisture-resistant MDF just for you. Our woodworkers machine every piece from scratch in Birmingham, ensuring perfect integration with your chosen skirting and architrave profiles.