Title: Deck Skirting Options: Enhance Your Deck with Expert Inspiration
Are you looking to enhance your deck's appearance and functionality? Plus keep critters out from under your favorite outdoor space? After all, nothing puts a damper on a pool party like a skunk crashing the festivities…
It might be time to consider installing deck skirting, offering a whole host of practical (and aesthetic) benefits.
What exactly are we talking about? Well, deck skirting is a decorative feature that covers the area between the bottom of the deck and the ground. It’s often made of a wood lattice, but it doesn’t have to be. Not only does it enhance the appearance of your deck, creating a clean and finished look, but it also provides a helpful barrier to keep debris and animals out. It can also serve as a safety feature by preventing children and pets from crawling underneath the deck (hey, it happens!).
Today, let’s explore various deck skirting options and shed light on how to choose the right material, design, and installation method for your needs.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Deck Skirting
Before you make your final selection, you need to consider several factors to ensure you make the best choice for your outdoor living space:
Material durability: The material you choose should be able to withstand wear and tear from the elements and foot traffic.
Climate considerations: Different materials react differently to varying temperatures and humidity levels, so it's important to choose a material that can withstand your local climate.
Maintenance requirements: Some materials require more upkeep than others, so be sure to consider your maintenance preferences and abilities. Do you want to paint or stain every other spring, or set it and forget it?
Popular Deck Skirting Materials
There are several popular deck skirting materials available, each with its unique advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most common options:
Wood lattice: A classic and affordable option that provides good ventilation and a traditional look.
Vinyl lattice: Similar to wood lattice but with the added benefit of being low maintenance and weather-resistant.
Solid wood or composite boards: Provide durability and versatility in design, and can be painted or stained to match the deck's color scheme.
Instead of traditional materials like wood or vinyl, you can also create a living barrier around your deck by using plants and greenery. Pretty cool, and pretty green, too. Some popular options include bushes, shrubs, or ornamental grasses planted strategically around the perimeter of your deck, creating a natural and beautiful skirting effect. Just keep in mind that it's essential to choose the right type of plants for your climate and ensure proper maintenance to prevent overgrowth and potential damage.
Creative Deck Skirting Ideas
If you're looking for something unique and eye-catching for your deck skirting, there are several creative options to consider:
Custom lattice designs: Create a one-of-a-kind look by designing your lattice pattern or having it custom made.
Faux stone panels: Add a touch of elegance and sophistication with faux stone panels that mimic the look of natural stone.
Corrugated metal panels: A modern and industrial option that adds texture and dimension to your deck's appearance.
Tips for Installing Deck Skirting
Proper installation of your deck skirting is essential to make sure it looks good and performs as you need it to. Here’s what you need to know:
Proper ventilation: Make sure to leave enough space for adequate airflow to prevent moisture buildup.
Handling uneven ground: Use adjustable post anchors or build up the ground level with gravel or soil to accommodate uneven terrain.
Securing skirting materials: Use screws or other fasteners to secure your skirting materials in place and prevent them from coming loose.
Maintenance Tips for Deck Skirting
Maintaining your deck skirting is essential to ensure it stays in good condition and continues to look great for years to come.
Routine cleaning: Clean your deck skirting regularly to prevent buildup of dirt, debris, or mold.
Repairing or replacing damaged sections: Address any damage to your deck skirting promptly to prevent further damage or deterioration.
What’s the Takeaway?
Deck skirting is a GREAT idea. Just don’t rush out and make a snap decision, but rather take your time, weigh your options, and think through how you really want this feature to look and perform.