Scotia, trims & ramps explained (plus underlay)
4 min read · Written by the WFA flooring team · Updated June 2026
Quick answer
Floating floors need a 10 mm or so expansion gap at every wall. Scotia covers that gap along skirting boards. C trim finishes an edge where scotia won't fit (glass doors, kitchen kickboards). H trim joins two floors of similar height at doorways. L trim finishes edges at steps and raised surfaces. A ramp cover bridges a step down to a lower floor like tiles or carpet. Most hybrids already have underlay attached.
Scotia
What it does: Covers the expansion gap at the skirting
Typical spot: Every wall with skirting boards
C trim
What it does: Caps an exposed floor edge
Typical spot: Sliding doors, kickboards, fixed cabinetry
H trim
What it does: Joins two floors of similar height
Typical spot: Doorways between rooms
L trim
What it does: Finishes edges at a step or raised surface
Typical spot: Step-downs, hearths, raised platforms
Ramp cover
What it does: Slopes down to a lower floor
Typical spot: Floor meets tiles, concrete or carpet
| Trim | What it does | Typical spot |
|---|---|---|
| Scotia | Covers the expansion gap at the skirting | Every wall with skirting boards |
| C trim | Caps an exposed floor edge | Sliding doors, kickboards, fixed cabinetry |
| H trim | Joins two floors of similar height | Doorways between rooms |
| L trim | Finishes edges at a step or raised surface | Step-downs, hearths, raised platforms |
| Ramp cover | Slopes down to a lower floor | Floor meets tiles, concrete or carpet |
How much scotia do I need?
Measure the perimeter of each room (all walls added together), subtract doorways, add 10% and divide by the length (2.4 m). Example: a 4 × 5 m room = 18 m perimeter → about 9 lengths.
Do I need underlay?
Most of our hybrids come with acoustic underlay pre-attached. Laminate and some engineered floors need a separate underlay. Over concrete, a moisture barrier film is usually required — check the product's install guide.