Deck skirting adds both function and style to any outdoor living space. It covers the open area beneath your deck, offering a clean and polished look while keeping pests out and providing extra storage.
Wymore Deck & Fence specializes in deck skirting that not only protects but also enhances the value of your deck. In this post, we’ll break down everything homeowners need to know about deck skirting, from material options to installation tips.
What Is Deck Skirting?
Deck skirting is the material used to cover the open space between the ground and the bottom of your custom deck. It creates a cohesive look by hiding unsightly gaps, supports, and the underside of the deck. Installed along the perimeter, it can be customized to match your deck’s design and your home’s exterior.
While the main function of deck skirting is to improve the appearance of your outdoor space, it also serves practical purposes like enhancing privacy, deterring pests, and protecting the structure from debris and weather.
Benefits of Deck Skirting
Deck skirting offers a range of practical and aesthetic benefits that go beyond just covering the underside of your deck. Here are some key reasons why homeowners choose skirting for elevated decks:
- Enhanced Appeal: Deck skirting gives your deck a finished, polished look by hiding the supports and empty space below. Whether you prefer a traditional lattice design or a modern, sleek panel, skirting improves curb appeal and ties your outdoor space together.
- Increased Storage Space: The area under your deck often goes unused. With proper skirting, this space can be turned into a secure and concealed storage area for outdoor tools, furniture, or seasonal items, helping you maximize your property’s functionality.
- Pest Control: The skirting acts as a barrier to keep animals like raccoons, squirrels, and other pests from nesting beneath your deck. It helps prevent unwanted guests while maintaining a clean and safe space around your home.
- Protection for the Deck Structure: By blocking debris and shielding the underdeck area from the elements, skirting helps prolong the life of your deck by reducing moisture buildup and preventing weather damage.
Deck Skirting Material Options
Choosing the right material for your deck skirting is essential for balancing aesthetics, durability, and maintenance. Here are the most popular options:
- Lattice Panels: One of the most traditional and cost-effective choices, lattice deck skirting offers an open, airy design that complements many deck styles. The appeal of lattice panels is due to several reasons, including they come in both wood and vinyl options, and their grid pattern allows for proper ventilation while maintaining a clean look.
- Composite Deck Skirting: Composite decking materials are known for their durability and low-maintenance qualities. Made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic, composite boards used for skirting mimic the look of wood without the constant upkeep. They resist moisture, rot, and insects, making them a great choice for long-lasting performance.
- Wood Panels: For homeowners who want a natural, classic look, wooden deck skirting is popular. The type of wood used includes materials like cedar or treated lumber, which provide a warm appeal. However, traditional wood requires regular maintenance, including staining or painting, to protect it from the elements.
- PVC & Vinyl Skirting: PVC and vinyl skirting are highly resistant to moisture and require very little maintenance. These materials are often available in a variety of colors and finishes, offering versatility without sacrificing durability. They are ideal for areas exposed to heavy moisture or where long-term durability is a priority.
Choosing the Right Skirting for Your Deck
When selecting the perfect skirting for your deck design, consider factors like climate, maintenance, budget, and style. For homeowners in Nebraska and Iowa, the region’s climate presents unique challenges that should be factored into your decision:
- Climate and Durability: Nebraska and Iowa experience a wide range of weather conditions, from hot, humid summers to freezing winters with heavy snow. This fluctuation can take a toll on deck materials. Composite materials and PVC skirting are excellent choices because they resist moisture, won’t warp or rot, and can withstand harsh weather.
- Maintenance: Composite or vinyl skirting is ideal if you prefer a low-maintenance solution. These materials require minimal upkeep compared to wood, which needs regular sealing or staining to stay protected.
- Budget: While composite and PVC skirting requires a higher initial investment, they offer long-term savings on maintenance. Lattice panels and wood can be more budget-friendly upfront, but they might not hold up as well.
- Style Preferences: Depending on your home’s look, wood skirting may offer a warm, rustic feel that complements rural or traditional homes. For a sleek, modern deck look that requires less maintenance, vinyl or composite skirting can deliver a durable, stylish solution.
Should You Add Deck Skirting with Your New Deck Project? Wymore Deck & Fence Will Help You Decide
Deck skirting is a valuable addition to any outdoor space, providing both style and function. Whether you’re looking to enhance the appearance of your deck, create storage, or protect against pests, the right skirting material can make all the difference—especially in the challenging climate of Nebraska and Iowa. Wymore Deck & Fence offers expert guidance and professional installation to ensure your deck skirting is both durable and beautiful. Schedule a free estimate today.
