20 Innovative Horizontal Deck Skirting Ideas for Every Homeowner

Last updated on November 15, 2023

Harness the untapped potential of your deck with horizontal skirting because it can simultaneously mimic modern aesthetic trends while providing a functional storage solution.

I’m proud to present my original article and unique designs on 20 Innovative Horizontal Deck Skirting Ideas, hoping they inspire you and bring as much joy as I had creating them.

Deck skirting is an attractive way to conceal the area underneath your deck while adding a touch of sophistication to your outdoor space. If you’ve been considering horizontal deck skirting, you’re on the right track! Horizontal lines can create an illusion of extended space, making your deck appear larger.

This article will delve into a variety of horizontal deck skirting ideas that are not just pleasing to the eye but also friendly on the wallet. Whether it’s using cost-effective materials, such as vinyl or lattice, or implementing DIY techniques, we’ve got every detail covered.

So, let’s explore these ideas together and give your deck a fabulous makeover.

Slatted Wood Skirting

This skirting style is a classic that never goes out of fashion. Using precisely cut and aligned slats of wood, it offers flawless symmetry to the underside of your deck. The nature of wood allows customization in terms of color and finish, meaning this option can be tailored to match any outdoor aesthetic.

Here are some key advantages of this sub-topic:

Customizable Look: This technique allows for staining or painting, meaning you can match or contrast your house exterior.
Ventilation: Spaces between the slats allow air circulation, reducing the risk of moisture build-up.
Easy Installation: With common woodworking tools and some handyman skills, this can be a DIY project.
Maintains Privacy: While it allows airflow, the spacing isn’t wide enough to compromise your privacy.

Just remember, regular maintenance is necessary to keep your slatted wood skirting looking as stunning as the day it was installed.

Lattice Design Skirting

Lattice designs offer an undeniably classic look for deck skirting. They promise both style and practicality due to their unique structure built with crisscross wood or sturdy plastic pieces.

1. Aesthetic Appeal: By using either diamond or square lattice patterns, you can add a dimension of sophistication to your outdoor space.

2. Ventilation: With its patterned gaps, lattice design ensures sufficient airflow, preventing unwanted dampness under the deck.

3. Variety: Available in a range of materials like wood, vinyl, or even aluminum, they cater to different looks and budgets.

4. Durability: Whether you choose a treated wood lattice or a heavy-duty plastic one, these materials stand up well to the elements.

5. Easy Installation: It is lightweight and easy to cut, attaching seamlessly to your deck frame.

6. Customizable: Paint or stain your lattice for a more personalized touch or to match your existing outdoor decor.

Horizontal Cedar Plank Skirting

With its stunning aesthetics, cedar plank skirting makes for a timeless option. The horizontal layout provides a visually pleasing pattern that’s both unique and functional. To achieve this look, select planks of varying size, typically 1×4, 1×6, or 1×8, and arrange them in a seamless horizontal flow.

For longevity, consider pressure-treated cedar. Its natural oils repel insects and resist rot. For a more personalized touch, you can stain or paint cedar planks in your desired hue. However, left in its natural state, cedar weathers gracefully to a silvery grey shade.

Maintenance is fairly easy. Regular cleaning with a soft bristle brush helps prevent buildup of dirt. Infrequently, there may be a need to re-stain or seal the cedar, but overall, it makes for a solid, low-maintenance choice.

Remember, proper ventilation is key when dealing with wood skirting. This prevents humidity from getting trapped and leading to potential mildew problems. Establish sufficient gaps in the design and consider adding a ventilation screen at appropriate spots.

The sleek, contemporary look of cedar plank skirting can enhance the overall design of any deck, making it a favorite among homeowners and decorators alike.

Painted Bricks Skirting

Adding a splash of color breathes new life into an otherwise ordinary deck. For this, painted bricks make an ideal choice. They’re not just practical but also flexible, allowing you to match any color scheme.

1. Cost-Effective: If you’re on a budget, painted bricks are an affordable material. You can often find them at salvage yards or leftover from construction projects.

2. Easy Maintenance: These don’t require much upkeep. A simple wash now and again keeps them looking fresh.

3. Customizable: You can practically choose any color. Whether it’s a bold black or a subtle beige, the option is yours.

4. Durable: Bricks are hardy and weather-resistant, offering long-lasting style to your outdoor space.

5. Simple Installation: Usually, the installation process is fairly straightforward. Provided you’re comfortable with a bit of DIY, you can install them yourself.

6. Architectural Appeal: Besides being functional, painted bricks add an architectural element, giving your deck a more refined look.

Remember, with painted bricks, you’re not only providing an aesthetic appeal but also protecting the underside of your deck from elements.

Horizontal Vinyl Panels Skirting

For a clean, modern, and maintenance-free option, you can’t go wrong with horizontal vinyl panels. Here are a few key points to consider:

Durability: Vinyl’s hard-wearing nature withstands the elements without losing its shine.
Variety: Available in a multitude of colors and textures, you’ll surely find a match for your home’s aesthetic.
Easy Installation: The lightweight panels make this a DIY-friendly task.
Cost-Effective: While upfront costs may be higher, longevity and low upkeep costs make it a budget-friendly choice in the long run.
Eco-Friendly: Vinyl panels are recyclable, reducing environmental impact when you decide for a deck makeover.

Bear in mind, proper installation is key to avoid warping or buckling, ensuring your deck skirts look polished and stay sturdy over time.

Metal Panel Skirting

Durable and modern, metal panels are an efficient solution for your deck skirting needs. They effectively offer protection from small animals and weather elements while maintaining a sleek appearance.

One of the key advantages of metal is its versatility, available in different colors and finishes. This feature allows it to blend with a broad range of exteriors palette.

Although installation can be a bit challenging due to its rigid structure, the end result is long-lasting and requires minimal maintenance. It’s ideal for those looking for a heavy-duty but stylish deck skirting option.

Remember, the usage of corrosion-resistant metal will lengthen the lifespan of your under deck. The metallic glint can also add a unique touch to your outdoor space, setting it apart from traditional wooden decks. With its modern appeal and functionality, metal panel skirting strives to be a worthy investment for your deck decor needs.

Horizontal Trellis Skirting

A great choice for adding visual interest to your deck, this skirting option lets you get creative with design patterns. With diagonal lines crisscrossing to form diamond or square patterns, it has the ability to make your deck stand out.

Its main advantage lies in its ventilation capability, letting the air circulate freely to keep the area underneath the deck dry, preventing mold growth. Being highly customizable, from its size to its pattern, it allows room for creativity. Plus, depending on your choice of material, it may offer high durability with minimal maintenance.

Consider trellis skirting for a ventilated, aesthetically pleasing solution. Its intricate design does not just serve aesthetic purposes but also increases the privacy level of your deck. However, watch out for climbing plants; while they can enhance the beauty, they may also damage the structure if not properly managed.

Stone Veneer Skirting

Utilizing stone veneer as deck skirting presents a robust and visually appealing option for those seeking a touch of luxury. This design choice offers an unbeatable natural appeal, contributing a balanced element between the man-made structure of the deck and the surrounding natural environment.

A few sliding tips about Stone Veneer:

1. Stone veneer, while mimicking the look of natural stone, is lighter and easier to handle. This makes the installation process simpler and less strenuous.
2. Generally, it’s fire-resistant and durable. This means it can withstand various weather conditions, making it a good long-term choice.
3. Available in multiple colors and designs, stone veneer allows for personal customization. You can successfully match it to your deck aesthetics and surrounding landscape.
4. Keep in mind, it’s more expensive than other materials like vinyl or wood. However, it requires less maintenance which might offset the initial cost over time.

Remember, although Stone Veneer might seem an advanced DIY project, with the appropriate tools and instructions, it’s possible to install it yourself. But, if you’re not comfortable, you can always hire a professional to ensure a flawless finish.

Horizontal PVC Panel Skirting

Combining both the durability and versatility, PVC panels are an ideal choice for deck skirting. These panels are resistant to rot and insects, ensuring your skirting lasts for years without needing frequent replacements. Their maintenance is a breeze – a simple clean with soapy water is all it takes to keep them looking fresh and neat.

Aesthetically, horizontal PVC panels present a modern look, with clean lines adding an element of sophistication to your deck. You can choose from a range of colors to match or contrast with your deck. From soft pastels to vibrant hues, the choice is endless.

Installation is straightforward. You can opt to secure the panels directly onto your deck frame or install a support structure. Resist the urge to make holes in the PVC panels, as it can lead to water damage. Instead, use U-channels to keep them firmly in place, for a professional finish without the need for costly tools or resources.

With its blend of practicality and style, horizontal PVC panels are a worthy consideration for your deck skirting.

Bamboo Screen Skirting

Bamboo screen skirting provides an environmentally friendly and inexpensive option. Owing to its natural beauty, it effortlessly enhances the visual appeal of your deck while providing the practicality of covering unsightly under-deck areas.

Certainly, it’s rather straightforward to install and requires minimal maintenance, making it an excellent choice for DIY enthusiasts. Additionally, this material exhibits good resistance to various weather conditions, giving it high durability. Do remember, regular application of sealant is necessary. This ensures that the bamboo retains its appealing look and prevents decay.

Lastly, bamboo skirting offers distinctive style versatility. Whether you have a tropical, contemporary, or oriental deck design, a bamboo screen skirting can seamlessly blend in, amplifying your outdoor décor. It truly is a fantastic blend of aesthetic charm, utility, and cost-effectiveness.

Corrugated Steel Skirting

Corrugated steel offers a modern and industrial look, quickly gaining popularity in contemporary deck design. It’s budget-friendly, durable, and virtually maintenance-free; resisting rot, insects, and weathering. Its strength also fortifies the deck base from critters.

The ripple pattern aids ventilation, ensuring a dry under-deck. Customizable in various colors and sizes, it can be either a contrasting aesthetic touch or a complementary feature to your deck. The installation is straightforward, an added advantage for DIY enthusiasts. Do keep in mind, cutting this material requires some tools and safety measures.

Adjustable Louver Skirting

Stepping away from traditional methods, adjustable louver skirting presents a modern, functional option for deck skirting. It enables regulation of airflow and sunlight, providing weather resistance while efficiently preventing unwanted critters’ access.

Here are some important points about this style:

Installation: It’s commendable for its easy installation process, ideal for DIY enthusiasts looking to beautify their decks.
Airflow Control: The strategic aerofoil-shaped movable slats offer control over the condensation unit, maintaining the under-deck area’s moisture level.
Light Controls: The sunlight intensity can also be tweaked to one’s preference by shifting the conveniently changeable louver blades.
Maintenance: It’s usually built with durable materials like aluminum or wooden slats, lowering the overall long-term maintenance cost.
Customizability: The versatility of this skirting style promotes customization – choose between a vibrant color palette or stick to sophisticated natural hues.

Remember, while adjustable louver skirting screams functionality, it does not compromise on aesthetics, promising an eye-catching design that will elevate the overall deck ambiance.

Horizontal Plank Board Skirting

Opting for a natural aesthetic, plank board skirting can transform your deck into a rustic haven. Here’s a brief look at some of the key aspects:

1. Material Choice: Typically, pressure-treated wood or cedar is mostly used. These not only provide longevity but also a rich texture.

2. Design Patterns: The boards can be arranged in an over-and-under pattern to add a visual twist. The horizontal alignment of the boards creates an eye-catching symmetry.

3. Utilization: Besides their decorative purpose, the boards also serve a functional role in warding off critters and protecting the under-deck area from extreme weather conditions.

4. Pricing: Reflecting affordability, plank boards are a budget-friendly option when compared to high-end materials like vinyl or stone veneer.

5. Maintenance: With minimal upkeep required, a yearly coat of sealant is enough to keep the boards in prime condition.

6. Installation: The process is relatively easy, making it a suitable choice for DIY enthusiasts. Additionally, professional help is readily available to ensure accuracy and durability.

By leveraging these points, you can elevate your deck’s appearance while also providing sturdy protection from environmental elements. A relatively easy and cost-effective solution, plank board skirting is a choice worth considering for your deck.

Faux Rock Skirting

Known for being lightweight yet sturdy, faux rock acts as a great option for those wanting a natural look without the expensive costs of real stone.

Installation is relatively straightforward, with pieces that are easy to lock together.

Faux rock is also created to resist fading and withstand harsh weather conditions.

Available in various shades and textures, it permits flexibility in design.

The main perk: it covers unsightly foundational elements while offering an appealing aesthetic.

Optional LED lights further enhance the rugged appeal at night, creating an appealing backyard ambiance.

Synthetic Stone Skirting

With Synthetic Stone Skirting, your deck transforms into a miniature fort! It adds an unparalleled elegant appeal to the deck, mimicking traditional stonework without the associated cost. Made from polyurethane, these panels are lightweight and easy to install, a simple DIY asset for any home decorator.

1. Aesthetic Appeal: Adds a high-end, classic look to the deck, exuding elegance and charm.

2. Cost-Effective: Mimics stonework’s aesthetic without the expensive price tag or the need for professional installation.

3. Durability: Weather-resistant and long-lasting, these panels hold up against elements.

4. Easy Installation: Lightweight and simple design make for an easy DIY project. You’ll have a fantastic looking deck in no time!

5. Versatility: Comes in various colours and designs, ensuring a perfect match for every home aesthetic.

While you explore this option, keep the practicality and style in mind. The rugged look might not align with all deck décor but the durability and affordabilty of synthetic stone could be right up your alley!

Custom Mural Skirting

Adding a custom mural to your deck skirting can add a personal touch that makes your outdoor space uniquely yours. This design option lets you show off your artistic side – anything from a vibrant botanical scene to an abstract pattern can work.

The mural can be hand-painted or done through stenciling. Waterproof paints are a must to ensure long-lasting vibrance in different weather conditions. Work with a local artist for complex designs if you’re less artistically inclined or even use a projected image for accuracy.

This is a DIY-friendly project, but it may take time depending on the complexity of the mural. The end result? A stunning visual treat that adds character to your home. Make sure your mural complements your existing deck and home style for a harmonious feel.

Marine-Grade Plywood Skirting

Durable and weather-resistant, Marine-Grade plywood is an excellent choice when it comes to deck skirting. It provides a very clean, streamlined appearance without the need for additional finishes or treatments. As it is made to withstand harsh marine environments, it won’t easily warp, rot, or succumb to pest infestation.

When we consider its functionality, Marine-Grade plywood is thicker and sturdier than most materials. This quality makes it an excellent barrier against wild animals and can also provide a solid base for other decor enhancements. For a unique look, some homeowners opt for painting or staining the plywood to match their deck, home exterior, or accent elements.

Marine-Grade plywood offers longer lifespan than traditional plywood thanks to its unique construction and treatment process. Although it may cost more upfront, the long-term savings from its minimal maintenance and extended durability justify the expenditure.

Installing Marine-Grade plywood as skirting is a relatively simple process making it an appealing option for DIY enthusiasts. With basic tools like a saw, level, and some screws, one can easily erect this rugged, unyielding fortress around their deck.

Horizontal Privacy Screen Skirting

When choosing this option, keep in mind that it serves dual functions, providing both aesthetic appeal and ensuring privacy. Its design incorporates thin, horizontal slats placed with small, uniform gaps between them. These gaps allow for air circulation and light exposure, while still obscuring the view dramatically. It’s particularly beneficial for decks closer to neighbors, or those seeking a modern, minimalist aesthetic.

Benefits include:

1. Ideal for creating a private outdoor space
2. Complements modern exterior styles
3. Available in a variety of materials including wood, vinyl, or composite
4. Allows airflow while preventing animals from burrowing beneath the deck
5. Easy to install and customize to your deck’s specific dimensions

Remember, color choice and material can greatly impact the overall appeal. Darker shades can add depth and contrast, while lighter tones may blend in with the surrounding landscape. Likewise, the durability, cost, and maintenance requirements will differ based on the chosen material.

Deck To Ground Skirting

Opting for a deck-to-ground approach gives your deck a cohesive and streamlined look. This design connects the bottom of your deck directly to the ground with panels, creating an unbroken visual line and hiding any unfavorable gaps, unsightly clutter, or construction elements underneath.

1. Seamless Appearance: Deck-to-ground skirting creates a uniform look, integrating the deck gracefully with your yard.

2. Variety of Materials: Depending on the style of your home, this skirting can be achieved using a myriad of materials, including wood, vinyl, or composite boards.

3. Easy Maintenance: With no gaps or openings, this style is less likely to accumulate debris, making it easier and quicker to clean.

4. Enhanced Weather Protection: By connecting the deck to the ground, it provides added protection against wind and other weather elements to the area beneath.

5. Increased Privacy: This design provides maximum privacy, allowing the area underneath your deck to be used as storage or even an additional outdoor living space.

Horizontal Reclaimed Wood Skirting

Salvaging old, weathered wood and repurposing it as deck skirting brings an element of rustic appeal and environmental responsibility to your outdoor space. The horizontal arrangement accentuates the breadth of the deck while the character-filled grains and textures serve as a charismatic backdrop.

Three primary reasons make reclaimed wood a fantastic choice:

Character: It brings depth and story with each scratch, color variation, and weathered mark.
Durability: Often, reclaimed wood is sourced from old structures that have weathered harsh elements, providing you with naturally seasoned, robust material.
Eco-friendly: Repurposing prevents valuable wood from landing in the landfill, contributing to the green initiative.

Installation is fairly straightforward. Ensure you’ve treated and sealed the wood properly to safeguard against pests and weather elements. With good care, reclaimed wood skirting can stand the test of time, gracing your deck with unique charm and historical whispers. Remember, as each piece varies in its features, creating a harmonious palette may require time and patience.

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