When building or renovating a home, much attention is often paid to facing bricks, windows and doors. Yet there is one element that plays an important role both technically and aesthetically but is sometimes overlooked: the facade plinth.
A gable skirting protects the lower part of the facade from moisture, dirt and mechanical damage. Therefore, this area is often finished with a strong and durable material such as Belgian bluestone.
What is a gable skirting?
A gable plinth is the lower strip of a facade, usually between 10 and 40 cm high, which protects the masonry from external influences.
This baseboard is located at the transition between the façade and the ground level (garden, driveway or terrace). Because this area is the most exposed to water and dirt, this is often where the choice is made for a durable natural stone material.
Why install gable skirting?
A gable skirting has several functions:
- protection against splashing rainwater
- protection against dirt and mud
- Protection against mechanical damage (e.g., garden equipment)
- a visual finish of the facade
Installing a baseboard will keep the masonry of the façade beautiful and protected longer.
Why choose bluestone?
Very often chosen for facade skirting is Belgian bluestone. This material has several important advantages.
Sustainability
Bluestone is a very strong limestone that resists wear, moisture and temperature fluctuations.
Frost-resistant
Because baseboards are placed close to the ground, they often come into contact with water. Bluestone is highly resistant to frost.
Timeless look
The natural blue-gray color blends beautifully with both modern and classic facades.
Low maintenance
Natural stone requires little maintenance and retains its appearance for years.
What height do you choose for a gable skirting?
The height of a wall plinth depends on the architecture of the house and the desired appearance.
Common heights are:
- 10 to 15 cm at modern homes
- 20 to 30 cm at classic houses
- up to 40 cm For facades that need extra protection
A higher baseboard offers more protection from splashing water and dirt.
What finishes exist?
Gable skirting can be produced in a variety of finishes but the most common is blue sanded

What does a blue stone gable skirting cost?
The price of gable skirting depends on several factors, including:
- height of plinth
- thickness of the stone
- finishing
- length and customization
As a guide price for a gable skirting in Belgian bluestone, you can usually count on approximately €40 to €120 per running meter, depending on the implementation.
➡ View our range of facade skirting boards here
Frequently asked questions about gable skirting
Why is bluestone often used for gable skirting?
Bluestone is very hard-wearing and resistant to moisture and frost. This makes it an ideal natural stone for applications close to the ground, such as gable skirting.
How high should a gable skirting be?
Most gable skirting has a height between 10 and 30 cm. For facades that need additional protection, this can add up to about 40 cm.
Can a gable skirting also be decorative?
Yes. Besides protection, a facade plinth also plays an aesthetic role. A natural stone plinth provides a clear and stylish transition between facade and ground level.
A durable finish to your facade
A gable skirting in natural stone not only provides a beautiful finish to your home, but also protects the lower part of the facade from moisture and dirt.
Thanks to its strength, durability and timeless appearance, it remains Belgian bluestone one of the most frequently chosen materials for gable skirting.
➡ View our assortment gable skirting in Belgian bluestone at renier.be.