35+ Best Deck Skirting Ideas And Designs
Elevating your deck’s design is not just about aesthetics, it’s also about functionality. Deck skirting plays a crucial role in this process by filling the gap between the ground and the deck trim, creating a cohesive structure. Beyond its primary purpose, deck skirting can also serve as additional storage space or provide protection against unwanted animals. The good news is that there are numerous creative ways to skirt a deck, catering to diverse tastes and preferences.
This article will delve into various deck skirting ideas, helping you decide on the perfect design for your outdoor space.
Deck skirting materials
Before embarking on the process of selecting materials and designing your deck skirting, it’s essential to have a solid understanding of the various options available. You should be familiar with the different materials used in deck skirting, as this will enable you to seamlessly combine the best ones to harmonize with your decks. While matching the material to that of the deck is a popular choice, there’s also value in exploring alternative deck skirting materials.
The most common deck skirting materials include solid wood, wood lattice, faux stone, composite materials, bricks, metal, and plants and shrubs. However, the decision on what materials to use is just one aspect of the process. To create a functional and visually appealing design, you must also consider the primary purpose of your deck skirting – is it for storage, animal exclusion, or aesthetic purposes?
Furthermore, prepare yourself for the necessary maintenance that comes with installing and enjoying your deck skirt.
Inexpensive deck skirting ideas
When it comes to finding affordable deck skirting options, you may find yourself weighing the pros and cons of using wooden slats, vinyl materials or repurposed wood. Here are some budget-friendly ideas for giving your home’s exterior a stylish finish.
Opting for narrower boards instead of wide planks can add a touch of modernity to your deck. What’s more, thinner wood slats can be created by splitting one thick plank into multiple narrower boards – a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution.
If you’re working with a smaller deck and want to keep costs in check, consider creating standard skirt boards using composite materials for the decking. This approach allows you to replicate the look of wood without breaking the bank, while still achieving a sleek, contemporary aesthetic through the use of muted gray tones.
Under deck skirting ideas
The purpose of an underdeck is often overlooked, but it’s a valuable space that can be used to conceal items like pool pumps and water lines. When designed thoughtfully, an underdeck can provide ample storage for outdoor essentials. Here, we’ll explore some creative underdeck skirting ideas that make the most of this hidden area.
One such design is a high deck skirt that serves as an additional access point around the perimeter.
The combination of wood lattice and white color gives it a charming ranch vibe, perfect for suburban settings.
Another example is a side deck skirt that was originally designed for storage but was repurposed to complement the new back patio. The addition of wooden doors and metal accents creates a seamless transition between the two spaces.
By incorporating thoughtful design elements, an underdeck can go from being a mere afterthought to a functional and stylish feature that enhances the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space.
Lattice deck skirting ideas
The allure of lattice patterns is undeniable, and their versatility is a significant factor in their enduring popularity. Whether you’re aiming for a rustic, English cottage-inspired, or traditional/colonial-style home design, lattice’s crisscross or grid patterns can seamlessly integrate with your aesthetic. While wood lattice remains the top choice for many homeowners, vinyl has emerged as a more practical option due to its low-maintenance requirements.
This balance is exemplified by hardwood lattice deck skirting, which not only adds a touch of classic beauty but also creates visual interest by contrasting the upper deck’s design with the surrounding space. Minimal landscaping further enhances this contrast, creating a visually appealing whole. Additionally, lattice deck skirts can be used to transform empty spaces into functional storage areas, such as for outdoor items like grills and portable seating.
The wood finish adds texture and depth to the overall deck design.
Modern deck skirting ideas
Modern deck skirting often incorporates horizontal lines, clean symmetries, and edgy color palettes to create a cohesive look. When it comes to choosing materials, wood, concrete, and composite materials are popular options. A well-designed deck skirt can tie together various construction elements, such as brick stones, wood, and metal, like the stunning back patio with pergola example. For added visual interest, consider decorative skirting, like ornate engraving in the panel skirts.
This design features metal railings, industrial wire accents, and LED step lights on wooden stairs.
Stone deck skirting ideas
When seeking a strong visual identity for your outdoor space, incorporating stone or stone and brick deck skirting can be a game-changer. This design choice not only adds depth and character to your deck but also lends it a sense of rugged sophistication through the color palette. The combination creates a cohesive look that’s both inviting and refined. The patio deck in question achieves its upscale appeal through the strategic use of stone for its base, railing, and hardwood stairs.
The harmonious balance of elements ensures a seamless visual flow, while the stone deck provides a natural charm. In contrast, the second design takes a clean-lined approach with angled symmetry, yet it’s the brick stone base that elevates its sophistication. Paired with composite and metal railings, the overall aesthetic is polished and refined.
Metal deck skirting ideas
Metal’s durability, low maintenance, and dependability make it an ideal material for railings and deck skirts. Its weatherproof properties also make it a great choice for storage skirting that can withstand the elements. For instance, a home in New Haven opted for metal deck skirting to protect the empty space from scavenging animals, relying on its sturdiness to deter intrusions. The aesthetic appeal of black and cream contrasts adds an extra layer of sophistication.
If you’re looking for a contemporary, industrial feel without breaking the bank, corrugated metal deck skirting is a prime choice. Its good ventilation design ensures airflow, while its low maintenance requirements mean less upkeep for you. Overall, this material checks all the right boxes for a practical and stylish deck skirt.
Wood deck skirting ideas
Transform scrap wood planks into stunning wood deck skirts that exude classic charm and effortless elegance. With their versatility and natural beauty, it’s no wonder why wood remains a top choice for home improvement projects. Here are some standout wood deck skirting ideas to inspire your next project.
For a timeless look, opt for traditional wood stair deck skirting with an angled and elevated design. Add metal railing for a touch of sophistication and you’re ready to go.
Alternatively, choose the classic box type wood deck skirting with 2-3-step stairs and matching wood and metal rails for a cohesive look.
Or, elevate your space by transforming a portion into a storage area with a rustic twist. Use scrap wood planks to create a unique and functional design that adds character to your outdoor space.
PVC deck skirting ideas
When considering alternatives to wood materials for deck skirting, PVC or vinyl are excellent options – particularly in areas where moisture is a concern. They offer weatherproof durability, come in a range of colors, and provide ease of workability. If you’re thinking of using PVC for your deck’s perimeter, here are some ideas worth exploring.
One such design involves narrow, horizontal slats that create a visually appealing aesthetic while also providing necessary ventilation.
The style’s similarity to wood tones ensures seamless integration with the surrounding deck and metal railings, creating a striking contrast that’s easy to overlook – it’s almost indistinguishable from genuine wood.
Another option is to opt for a classic lattice design that incorporates thick borders, featuring a crisscross pattern that doubles as an added ventilation source.
The combination of wood floors, traditional porch railings, and PVC lattice skirt creates a harmonious balance that adds delicate touches to the overall design.
Composite deck skirting ideas
When it comes to creating durable structures, composite materials often excel by combining two or more construction materials. In deck skirting, this concept takes on a new form as concrete and various finishes come together to mimic the appearance of wood or vinyl. Here are some innovative ideas that showcase the potential of composite deck skirting: One approach involves using a continuous visual theme by crafting both the deck and skirt from the same composite material.
This box-type design is reminiscent of traditional styles, while the thick railing provides a striking contrast. The seamless integration creates an unbroken visual appeal that enhances the overall aesthetic. Another concept leverages composite materials to create added storage space. By adopting a crisscross lattice pattern akin to wood, this deck skirting solution combines a deck and skirt made from identical composite materials.
The resulting color contrast not only complements the home’s façade but also blends seamlessly with its surroundings.
Pallet deck skirting ideas
Pallet deck skirting embodies the essence of rustic charm, reminiscent of cozy cabin retreats or classic farmhouse designs. One of its greatest advantages is that it can be easily achieved through DIY endeavors and comes with an affordable price tag. The natural contrast between the warm glow of the pallet wood and the concrete tones of the home creates a visually appealing combination.
Furthermore, the open stairs connecting to the wide slatted skirt provide a sense of ventilation, making the deck skirting feel airy and inviting.
For those seeking a more modern aesthetic, consider pairing the pallet deck skirt with warm accent lights on a backdrop of rich brown tones. The result is a contemporary look that’s both stylish and sophisticated.
The expanded perimeter created by the wide horizontal pallets adds depth to the space, while the fiberglass enclosure brings an edgy touch. Metal railings along the sides and stairs provide a striking contrast, blending seamlessly with the traditional charm of the pallet deck skirt.
Tall deck skirting ideas
In some cases, homeowners opt for tall deck skirts as a means to safeguard their outdoor living spaces from encroaching wildlife, particularly in areas with dense woodlands or forests. Additionally, these raised decking solutions can provide an extra layer of security against theft or burglary, making them a valuable asset in regions prone to flooding.
In other instances, tall deck skirts are employed to create the illusion of evenness on elevated properties with sloping grounds.
This design choice not only enhances the visual appeal but also fosters a sense of harmony and cohesion.
On the other hand, certain decking designs, such as this one featuring wood pallets, concrete, metal railing, wooden stairs, and a fiberglass enclosure, can lend an air of modern Asian flair to elevated homes, evoking the style often found in townhouses.
Craftsman style deck skirting ideas
To achieve a cohesive look with Craftsman deck skirting, it’s essential to stay true to the style’s core elements. This means embracing natural materials like stone or brick, as well as stained wood and earthy tones. A signature feature of Craftsman homes is the covered porch, often extended to include a back porch. To maintain visual harmony, ensure that the deck skirting design in front is mirrored at the back.
In terms of aesthetics, a horizontal design featuring stained wood pallets is a hallmark of true Craftsman style. Note how this porch’s deck skirting combines pillars, stairs, and railings using a single color tone, creating a striking contrast between beige and mahogany brown.
Concrete deck skirting ideas
Natural stones, pavers, and concrete slabs form the foundation of durable and weatherproof home improvement projects. When it comes to creating a timeless and harmonious design, these materials seamlessly blend with any architectural style. A striking example is the use of gray-white cobble stone for skirting a free-standing deck, complete with small animal traps and an Asian-inspired flair.
Conversely, cement can be artfully crafted to mimic wood grain from a distance, adopting traditional box designs and matching the house’s hue for a cohesive aesthetic.
Underground pool deck skirting ideas
The trend of deck skirting in-ground pools has gained popularity due to its ability to integrate storage and shade seamlessly. This design element not only adds a unique aesthetic but also creates a sense of enclosure, transforming the pool area into an inviting oasis.
The integration of wooden lattice and separate pool skirts can create a visually striking contrast, as seen in the example where the deck skirting extends from the backdoor to the patio, featuring a low-ground wood lattice design that transitions seamlessly to the pool skirt. This multi-functional design element not only serves as a base for the pool but also provides a platform for attaching pergola poles.
In another example, an above-ground pool is enclosed in an all-wood mahogany brown deck and deck skirt, elevated with an extension deck serving as stairs. The industrial wire and metal railings complemented by the wooden lattice deck skirt create a harmonious blend of textures, while the rope lights surrounding the pool and step lights by the stairs add warmth to this inviting poolside atmosphere.
Faux stone deck skirting idea
While not genuine stone products, faux stones offer a cost-effective and versatile solution for outdoor design. Comprising veneers or polyurethane foam panels, they can be easily integrated into various applications, including deck board skirts. The vibrant colors and textured appearance of faux stones can add a pop of personality to an otherwise simple design, creating a cohesive look that ties the entire space together.
Floating deck skirting ideas
Imagine a deck without the confines of traditional railings or structural support – a floating deck that seamlessly blends into its surroundings. This unique design feature allows for an open and airy feel, perfect for hosting gatherings or enjoying the outdoors. To achieve this look, all you need is a solid deck skirting board like those found here.
One excellent example of a floating deck skirting can be seen in this stunning design.
The flat platform offers ample space for mingling and socializing, while the lack of enclosure provides ample ventilation, ensuring a comfortable outdoor experience. The wooden construction adds to the warmth and coziness of the area.
Another notable example is this two-step stair floating deck with skirts that serve as a functional staircase. Instead of traditional railings, the deck is illuminated by bright LED lights, creating a striking contrast against the grey monochrome color scheme.
This innovative design feature adds visual interest to the overall aesthetic.
Cedar deck skirting ideas
When it comes to cabins and farmhouse-style homes, cedar deck skirting is the go-to choice for achieving that quintessential rustic look. Its impressive wood finish, combined with its durability and workability, make it an ideal material for home improvement projects like deck skirting. The result is a seamless blend of natural beauty and modern functionality. In particular, cedar’s high-end wood finish shines when used as a deck skirt base.
Not only does it boast a newly installed appearance, but the added vents – often made from industrial equipment – ensure that unwanted animals can’t enter the home. This thoughtful touch also adds visual interest to the overall design. On a larger scale, modern rustic homes in luxurious estates feature standout cedar decks with slatted designs. The warm, rich hue of the cedar wood is nothing short of breathtaking, particularly when paired with fiberglass enclosures and wooden posts.
The end result is a posh vibe that exudes sophistication and charm.
Deck skirting ideas for uneven ground
When tackling uneven terrains, incorporating high stairs on the deck skirt is crucial for creating a balanced angle. A solid or lattice deck skirt board provides an ideal solution, as it allows for a harmonious blend with the sloping ground.
For instance, a once-unsightly slope can be transformed into an inviting outdoor space by adding a high wood lattice deck skirt. This clever design not only adds aesthetic appeal but also creates an additional storage access point on the side.
If budget permits, feel free to mix and match elements to shift focus away from the sloped terrain, utilizing its unique features as a visual draw.
In this striking example, an elegant deck skirt crafted from concrete is elevated by the addition of mesh metal. The monochromatic palette of gray, white, and black adds a touch of sophistication, resulting in a majestic appeal that draws the eye.
Conclusion
When considering deck skirting, it’s clear that there are numerous reasons why this feature can be incredibly beneficial. Not only does it provide a seamless and clean appearance for your outdoor space, but it also serves various purposes beyond aesthetics. One of its primary functions is to enhance the overall visual appeal of your home, while simultaneously offering additional storage, an alternative entry point, or even serving as a barrier against unwanted animals.
With so many styles and designs available for deck skirting, the key lies in striking a balance between cohesion and functionality, ensuring that the benefits of this feature are fully realized.
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