Deck skirting is the material installed around the perimeter of a raised deck to conceal the understructure, block wind, deter pests, and improve curb appeal. Whether your deck is 12 inches or 6 feet off the ground, the right skirting transforms an eyesore of joists, posts, and stored clutter into a polished, finished look. This 2026 guide covers every material option, design idea, and installation technique you need.
What Is Deck Skirting?
Deck skirting, also called deck underpinning or deck apron, is a covering that wraps around the base of an elevated deck to hide the space between the deck surface and the ground. Beyond aesthetics, skirting serves several practical purposes:
- Curb appeal: Creates a clean, finished appearance that increases home value
- Pest control: Prevents animals like raccoons, skunks, and stray cats from nesting underneath
- Storage concealment: Hides any items stored under the deck
- Wind protection: Reduces wind drafts on the deck surface and underneath
- Safety: Prevents children and pets from crawling under the deck
While deck skirting is not typically required by building codes, some HOAs mandate it for elevated decks. Always check your local regulations before choosing a design.
Deck Skirting Material Options
Lattice Panels
The most traditional and affordable option. Lattice comes in vinyl, wood, and composite varieties. The crisscross pattern allows excellent ventilation while concealing the understructure. Available in diagonal (diamond) and square patterns.
Horizontal or Vertical Boards
Using the same decking material as your deck surface creates a seamless, high-end look. Horizontal boards pair well with modern designs, while vertical boards offer a more traditional or farmhouse aesthetic. Use pressure-treated 2 by 4 wood for the framing behind board skirting.
Composite Panels
Composite skirting panels match popular composite decking brands, creating a unified look. They resist rot, insects, and fading, making them virtually maintenance-free. The higher upfront cost pays off in longevity.
Stone or Faux Stone Veneer
Stone veneer skirting creates an elegant, architectural look that pairs well with stone foundations and retaining walls. Faux stone panels are lighter, easier to install, and cost 50-70% less than real stone.
Metal Panels
Corrugated metal, aluminum, or steel panels offer an industrial or modern farmhouse aesthetic. They are highly durable, pest-proof, and weather-resistant. Perforate or leave gaps for ventilation.
Brick or Block
Actual brick or concrete block skirting is the most permanent and durable option. It requires a proper footing and masonry skills but creates a finished look indistinguishable from a home’s foundation.
Cost Comparison by Material (2026)
| Material | Cost per Linear Foot | Durability | Maintenance | DIY Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl lattice | $3 – $8 | 10-20 years | Low | Easy |
| Wood lattice | $4 – $10 | 5-10 years | Medium | Easy |
| Pressure-treated boards | $6 – $14 | 15-20 years | Medium | Moderate |
| Composite boards | $10 – $22 | 25+ years | Low | Moderate |
| Faux stone veneer | $12 – $25 | 20-30 years | Low | Moderate |
| Real stone veneer | $25 – $50 | 30+ years | Very Low | Difficult |
| Corrugated metal | $5 – $12 | 20-30 years | Low | Easy |
| Brick or block | $20 – $45 | 50+ years | Very Low | Difficult |
For a typical 16×20 foot deck with 3 exposed sides and an average height of 3 feet, plan for approximately 52 linear feet of skirting. At the most popular price point (composite boards), that comes to $520-$1,144 in materials.
Top Deck Skirting Design Ideas
Modern Horizontal Slat
Evenly spaced horizontal boards with 1/2-inch gaps create a contemporary look that allows ventilation and light into the under-deck space. Use composite or hardwood boards stained to match your deck for a cohesive design.
Farmhouse Board and Batten
Vertical boards with narrower battens covering the seams deliver classic farmhouse charm. Paint white or leave natural for a rustic feel. This style works especially well on country homes and craftsman-style properties.
Lattice with Trim Frame
Elevate basic lattice by adding a 1×4 or 1×6 trim frame around each panel. The frame creates a picture-frame effect that looks intentional and polished rather than like an afterthought.
Mixed Materials
Combine stone veneer on the bottom half with board skirting on the top for a layered, architectural look. This works particularly well on decks with varying heights.
Living Wall / Planted Skirting
Install a wire trellis or lattice framework and train climbing plants to create a living wall. Clematis, jasmine, and climbing hydrangea are excellent choices. This approach requires patience but delivers stunning results.
Ventilation & Moisture Considerations
Proper ventilation under your deck is critical. Enclosed spaces without airflow trap moisture, promote mold growth, and can damage your deck’s substructure over time. Follow these guidelines:
- Provide at least 1 square foot of ventilation per 150 square feet of under-deck area
- Use materials with built-in gaps (lattice, spaced boards) or add screened vents to solid panels
- Ensure the ground under the deck slopes away from the house for drainage
- Consider laying landscape fabric and gravel under the deck to reduce moisture and weed growth
- In humid climates, prioritize open or semi-open skirting styles over solid panels
If your under-deck area is particularly damp, you may benefit from a basement-grade dehumidifier or improved drainage solutions before installing skirting.
DIY Installation Guide
Here is a general installation process that applies to most skirting materials:
Step 1: Measure and Plan
Measure each side of the deck that needs skirting. Note any changes in ground level, obstacles, or areas where you want access panels. Sketch a plan and calculate material quantities.
Step 2: Build the Frame
Create a frame using pressure-treated 2x4s. Attach a top rail to the underside of the deck rim joist using structural screws. Secure a bottom rail at ground level using stakes driven into the ground or by attaching to landscape timbers. Add vertical supports every 4-6 feet.
Step 3: Prepare the Ground
Clear vegetation, level the ground line, and lay landscape fabric with gravel if desired. This prevents weeds from growing through and against your skirting.
Step 4: Install the Skirting Material
Attach your chosen material to the frame using appropriate fasteners. For lattice, use staples or screws with washers. For boards, use deck screws. For stone veneer, use construction adhesive and mechanical fasteners on a backer board.
Step 5: Add Trim and Finishing Touches
Install trim pieces to cover raw edges and create a polished look. Add any access panels or doors. Caulk gaps between the skirting and the deck frame where pests could enter.
Adding Access Panels & Doors
Always include at least one access panel in your deck skirting. You will need it for:
- Inspecting and repairing the deck substructure
- Accessing plumbing or electrical lines that run under the deck
- Retrieving stored items
- Pest inspection and control
The simplest approach is a removable panel secured with turn buttons or magnetic catches. For more finished access, install a hinged door with a latch. Size the opening at least 24×24 inches so you can crawl through comfortably.
Pest Prevention Tips
Deck skirting is your first line of defense against animals nesting under your deck. Reinforce your skirting with these measures:
- Bury hardware cloth (1/2-inch galvanized wire mesh) 6-12 inches into the ground behind the skirting to prevent burrowing animals from digging under
- Seal all gaps larger than 1/4 inch, especially at corners and where the skirting meets the house
- Attach the bottom of the skirting tightly to a ground-level rail rather than leaving it loose
- If animals are already nesting, install a one-way exclusion door and wait until they leave before sealing permanently
Maintenance by Material Type
| Material | Annual Maintenance | Expected Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl lattice | Rinse with hose, check for cracks | 10-20 years |
| Wood lattice/boards | Stain or seal every 2-3 years, check for rot | 5-15 years |
| Composite | Wash with soap and water annually | 25+ years |
| Stone/faux stone | Inspect mortar joints, clean with brush | 20-50 years |
| Metal | Check for rust, touch up paint if needed | 20-30 years |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest deck skirting option?
Vinyl lattice is the most affordable option at $3-$8 per linear foot. For a standard deck, you can complete the entire skirting project for under $500 in materials. Wood lattice is the next cheapest option, though it requires more maintenance.
Does deck skirting need ventilation?
Yes. Adequate ventilation prevents moisture buildup, mold, and wood rot under your deck. Use lattice, spaced boards, or add screened vents to solid panels. Aim for at least 1 square foot of ventilation opening per 150 square feet of under-deck area.
Can I install deck skirting myself?
Absolutely. Lattice and board skirting are straightforward DIY projects that require basic carpentry tools and skills. Stone veneer and brick skirting are more challenging and may benefit from professional installation. Most DIY skirting projects can be completed in a weekend.
How do I attach skirting to my deck?
Build a pressure-treated frame by attaching a top rail to the deck rim joist and securing a bottom rail near the ground. Then fasten your skirting material to this frame. Never attach skirting directly to the deck posts, as this can interfere with structural connections.
Does deck skirting increase home value?
Yes. Deck skirting improves curb appeal and creates a more finished appearance, which positively influences buyer perception. While the ROI is difficult to quantify precisely, a well-skirted deck is consistently rated higher in real estate appraisals than an exposed one.
How do I keep animals from going under my deck?
Install skirting with buried hardware cloth extending 6-12 inches below ground level. Seal all gaps and ensure the bottom of the skirting sits tight to the ground or is buried slightly. Use galvanized wire mesh with 1/2-inch openings to prevent even small rodents from entering.
Last updated: March 2026
