Understated Under Deck Skirting Ideas

Transforming the space below your deck opens up new possibilities for relaxation and entertainment. However, traditional deck skirting materials like lattice can look tired. If you want to upgrade your under deck area with subtle sophistication, it's time to reimagine what skirting can be.

What is Under Deck Skirting?

Under deck skirting refers to vertical boards, panels, or other materials installed around the perimeter and underside of an elevated deck. Skirting serves both practical and aesthetic functions:

• Covers up deck support beams and concrete piers for a cleaner look
• Provides privacy from neighbors or passersby looking under the deck
• Protects stored items from weather and pests
• Prevents plant overgrowth and animal access underneath
• Adds visual interest and complements landscaping

Typical skirting materials include wood, composite, vinyl, metal, plastic lattice, stone veneer, and fabric panels. These options vary in style, durability, and cost. But for a refined under deck space, the design potential goes far beyond basic lattice.

Benefits of Under Deck Skirting

Installing quality skirting under your deck unlocks surprising benefits:

• Added Storage Space: Skirting encloses the area below the deck, allowing storage of patio furniture, gardening tools, seasonal items, and more when not in use.
• Pest Protection: Closing off deck undersides with skirting prevents animals like stray cats, rodents, opossums, and snakes from crawling underneath.
• Temperature Control: Skirting blocks wind and maintains warmer air temperatures underneath for expanded outdoor living seasons.
• Noise Reduction: Fabric skirting offers sound dampening, creating a peaceful environment below.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Skirting introduces design elements like materials, textures, and colors for beautifying bare undersides.

For deck owners wanting to upgrade their under deck space, skirting unlocks form and function.

Common Under Deck Skirting Materials

From traditional to upscale, some typical skirting materials include:

• Vinyl: Durable, affordable vinyl panels or lattice resist moisture, require minimal maintenance, and install with composite screws.
• Composite: Made from recycled wood fibers and resins, composite skirting is rot- and insect-resistant for low maintenance.
• PVC: Lightweight yet strong polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic skirting withstands weathering and easily fits under decks.
• Wood: Classic tongue-and-groove boards, shiplap, beadboard, or lattice infuse natural character using cedar, redwood, or treated pine.
• Metal: Wrought iron, aluminum, galvanized steel, and copper offer dimensional designs from contemporary to antique.
• Fabric: Water-resistant canvas panels stencil customized patterns beneath decks for artistic flair.

While vinyl, PVC, composite, and metal skirting prioritize functionality, natural wood and fabric enable more aesthetic options from traditional to modern.

Planning Your Under Deck Skirting Project

Installing skirting requires planning and preparation for optimal execution. Follow this process for DIY success:

1. Measure Underside Area

First, measure the full dimensions around the perimeter of your deck underside using a tape measure. Note the length and width, marking any irregularities like stairs, posts, or changes in elevation. These measurements determine how much skirting material is needed.

2. Select Materials and Dimensions

Next, decide which skirting material suits your budget, climate, and design style. Consider requisite maintenance and durability for longevity. Then determine the optimal height, thickness, and shape of boards, panels, or lattice pieces.

For example, 1x8 cedar boards, 4x8 composite sheets, 2x2 redwood lattice, or 48x84-inch canvas panels. Material dimensions impact total cost.

3. Choose Color Palette and Patterns

Selecting cohesive colors and complementary patterns enhances the beauty of your under deck space while allowing materials like wood, metal, or fabric to shine.

neutrals like white and black make small spaces appear larger and brighter. Earth tones connect with natural surroundings. Bold hues introduce vibrant contrast for dramatic flair. If using premade lattice or fabric, study available print designs to inspire ideas.

4. Consider Lighting Needs

Strategic lighting transforms dead areas below decks into functional spaces for extended outdoor living. Consider installing:

• LED rope lights along top edges or posts for ambient glow
• Downward carriage lights on beams for task lighting
• Landscape spotlights to showcase architectural elements
• Smart color-changing bulbs for atmosphere

Factor electrical costs, outlets required, and light placement during the planning phase.

DIY Under Deck Skirting Installation Tips

Skillful DIYers can tackle most under deck skirting projects if following essential techniques:

Allow for Airflow and Drainage

When enclosing deck undersides, permit adequate airflow to prevent moisture buildup. Use lattice or materials with ventilation gaps rather than solid boards or blankets.

Additionally, slope the ground underneath away from the home's foundation. Install a French drain along the inside to divert rain. Take measurements from the ground up, keeping skirting edges 1-2 inches above soil.

Secure Boards with Durable Fasteners

Use exterior-grade screws, such as composite deck screws, to affix natural wood or plastic tongue-and-groove boards to deck joists and rim boards. Pre-drill holes to prevent splitting. For metal framing or concrete, use concrete anchoring screws.

Incorporate Lights and Fans

Install water-resistant LED rope lighting, carriage lights, and fans during framing for optimal placement. Consider smart options to control ambiance and airflow remotely. Outdoor-rated wires and GFCI outlets are essential for safety and compliance.

Add Finishing Touches

After securing the primary skirting structure, infill around posts or irregular spots using trim boards, molded composites, or decorative metal flashing for clean results. Paint boards to match your color scheme before installing.

Finally, top edges often feature crown molding, cap rails, or post caps depending on the design style. Build planter boxes around perimeter beams to cascade flowers, ferns, or vines around columns for natural allure.

Creative Under Deck Skirting Ideas

Rather than defaulting to boring lattice hardly noticed, infuse personality and purpose into your deck skirting. Here are artistic ideas to inspire:

Rustic Wood Paneling

Interlocking 1x6 cedar boards stained in deep espresso emulate the richness of wood found in cozy mountain lodges and Pacific Northwest style homes. Mix variegated planks for multi-toned dimension.

Picket Fencing

Crisp white pickets framed by classic black painted posts complement cottages or farmhouse exteriors. Plant purple and pink impatiens between boards for playful charm straight from a storybook.