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Picking the right deck skirting isn’t just about curb appeal—it also keeps things tidy and helps stop critters from moving in. The best deck skirting hides all that framing and makes it tough for raccoons, skunks, mice, and who knows what else to squeeze underneath. We want our decks looking sharp and protected, especially with unpredictable Canadian weather.
There are loads of skirting options—wood, metal, plastic, you name it—and each has its ups and downs. Let’s get into what really matters: durability, pest control, low maintenance, and easy access. That way, you can land on something that fits your space and your wallet.
Key Takeaways
- Go for skirting that blocks pests and hides framing.
- Pick materials that handle your local climate and suit your needs.
- Make sure you can still get under the deck and keep it tidy.
Why Skirt Your Deck? Hiding Framing and Keeping Out Pests
Deck skirting does a couple of big jobs. First, it covers up the underbelly of your deck—the frame and supports that aren’t exactly pretty. Second, it blocks pests and small animals from sneaking in.
Benefits of Deck Skirting
Adding skirting immediately cleans up the look of any deck, hiding those beams and joists. No one wants to relax outside and stare at rough lumber or hardware. Skirting keeps everything looking polished.
You also get bonus storage. Stash gardening gear, outdoor toys, or even patio cushions under there. It’s a clever way to use space that would otherwise just collect cobwebs.
Skirting can also help keep wind and debris from blowing through. Lattice panels let air flow but still block most leaves and litter, so you’re not constantly sweeping out under the deck.
Common Pest Problems with Open Framing
Leave your deck open underneath, and you’re basically inviting raccoons, skunks, and stray cats to set up camp. Even mice, snakes, and bugs love a cozy, dark spot to nest. Trying to evict a family of raccoons? Not fun.
Dampness under the deck attracts ants and spiders too. If enough pests gather, they might find ways into your house. That’s a headache nobody wants, and rodents can chew up framing if they get comfortable.
We’ve seen plenty of gardens torn up by animals digging to get under the deck. Solid skirting works as a real barrier, keeping most critters out.
How Skirting Enhances Deck Appearance
Let’s be honest—how your deck looks matters. Skirting does more than just hide the mess; it ties the whole space together. Whether you go with stained wood, painted panels, or vinyl, you can match your house or garden style.
You’ve got options: vertical boards for a classic look, decorative lattice for something lighter. Colour and texture choices let you blend the deck into your property.
A finished deck with crisp skirting just looks more cared-for. It boosts curb appeal, and if you ask us, it’s pretty obvious when a deck is “done” versus just thrown together.
Key Factors to Consider Before Choosing Deck Skirting
Skirting isn’t just about looks—it keeps your deck safe, tidy, and free of pests. Before picking anything, think about deck height, your climate, local rules, and of course, your budget.
Deck Height and Framing Visibility
How high your deck sits off the ground changes how much you need to hide. Taller decks show more framing, so you’ll want taller or more solid skirting. Low decks won’t need as much, but you still want to close up any gaps.
You can use lattice, horizontal boards, or solid panels. Just pick something that covers everything and matches your house. Removable sections are a lifesaver if you ever need to crawl under there for repairs.
Don’t forget about airflow. Good skirting lets air move underneath, so you don’t end up with soggy wood or a bug hotel. Especially on higher decks, make sure there’s some venting.
Climate and Pest Activity
Where you live really affects your skirting choice. In rainy spots, go for water-resistant materials like treated wood or composite. They’re less likely to rot or warp.
If you deal with raccoons, skunks, or rodents, make sure your skirting fits tight and doesn’t leave big gaps. Adding metal mesh behind panels can stop smaller animals without ruining the look. In places with lots of burrowers, heavy PVC, brick, or concrete skirting is a solid bet.
Snowy winters? You’ll need stronger materials so the skirting doesn’t get wrecked by snow piles. Raising the bottom edge a bit helps stop rot from pooled snowmelt.
Building Codes and Local Regulations
Every city or town seems to have its own rules for decks and skirting. Some require venting, others specify height or what materials you can use.
Always check with your local building office first. If you skip this, you might have to redo everything or pay a fine. Some places even have pest-related rules for bigger decks.
Ask your local authorities:
- Is there a minimum skirting height?
- Any venting or access requirements?
- Any restricted materials?
Getting those answers up front saves a lot of hassle.
Budget Considerations
You don’t have to spend a fortune for your deck to look good. Lattice panels are usually the cheapest, while composite or stone skirting costs more but needs less work later.
Factor in both what you pay now and what you’ll spend maintaining it. Wood might need painting or staining every couple of years; vinyl or PVC just needs a rinse now and then. If you really want to keep pests out, adding mesh or picking heavier materials costs more, but it might save you money (and headaches) down the road.
Here’s a quick cost rundown:
| Material | Estimated Cost (per sq ft) | Durability | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lattice Panel | $4–$7 | Medium | Moderate |
| PVC/Composite | $8–$15 | High | Low |
| Stone/Brick | $20–$40 | Very High | Very Low |
Try to balance what you want with what you can spend, so you get skirting that holds up and does its job.
Popular Deck Skirting Materials for Durability and Pest Prevention
The right skirting material hides the frame, keeps pests out, and protects the space under your deck. Each option comes with its quirks—some are easier to live with than others.
Pressure-Treated Lumber Options
Pressure-treated wood is still a go-to for a lot of folks. It’s pretty affordable and stands up better to rot and bugs than regular wood. Still, you’ll need to seal or stain it now and then, especially with our weather.
Styles range from lattice panels to solid boards or horizontal slats. Solid panels do a better job at stopping raccoons and rodents than open lattice.
Over time, pressure-treated wood will weather and might need a touch-up. It’s smart to check for rot or loose boards every spring. For most homes, it gives you that classic look and gets the job done.
Pros:
- Paint or stain any way you like
- Easy to find and budget-friendly
- Familiar, classic style
Cons:
- Needs regular upkeep
- Moisture can still cause trouble over time
Composite and PVC Panels
Composite and PVC panels are for anyone who hates maintenance. They don’t splinter, rot, or attract termites, so you’re not out there scrubbing and sealing every summer.
Composites look pretty slick, often mimicking wood but without all the fuss. PVC, especially, is non-porous and just needs a quick hose-down if it gets dirty.
They fit tightly, so mice and squirrels have a harder time sneaking in. The catch? They cost more up front, and some can get hot in full sun.
Pros:
- Super durable—won’t warp, crack, or rot
- No staining or sealing
- Great at keeping pests out
Cons:
- Higher price tag
- Not as many colour choices as wood
Metal and Aluminium Solutions
Metal and aluminium skirting is tough as nails. It doesn’t rot, soak up water, or give bugs a place to hide. Powder-coated aluminium looks modern and is a “set it and forget it” option for a lot of people.
You can install metal panels flush to the ground to block burrowers. They cost more than wood but need almost zero care. Just note—they can be noisy if smacked and might dent if hit hard, so placement matters.
Pros:
- Barely any maintenance
- Best for pest and rot resistance
- Modern, clean look
Cons:
- More expensive
- Can dent if kicked or hit
Design Styles That Conceal Framing and Discourage Critters
Hiding deck framing and blocking pests takes some thought. Different skirting styles offer their own mix of looks and protection.
Solid Board Skirting
Solid board skirting works when you want a sleek, seamless look and no gaps for animals to sneak through. Boards can run vertically or horizontally, depending on your deck’s vibe.
Benefits:
- Hides the whole deck frame—nothing peeking out
- Tight seams keep out mice, skunks, and raccoons
- Use pressure-treated wood, composite, or PVC for options in durability and price
Install it right, and don’t skip ventilation gaps—little slots or vents do the trick. If air can’t move, you might end up with rot or mold under the deck.
Set the boards at ground level or just above so water drains away. That helps avoid frost heave or soggy soil messing with your skirting.
Lattice with Fine Mesh Backing
Lattice looks light and classic, but by itself, it won’t stop pests. We usually add fine mesh behind it.
How it works:
- Lattice (wood or PVC) goes on the outside
- Galvanized wire mesh (holes 1/4 inch or smaller) is stapled to the back
- Mesh blocks critters but still lets air and sunlight through
This combo keeps things ventilated and makes it tough for anything to get in. It looks nice and doesn’t cost a fortune.
Pick mesh that won’t rust. Make sure it’s fastened tight—animals are persistent if they spot a weak point.
Stone and Masonry Inspired Looks
If you want a high-end finish, stone veneer or faux masonry panels look amazing. We attach them over a frame, and they hide all the ugly stuff underneath.
Advantages:
- Totally covers framing and beams
- Heavy panels keep out burrowers and chewers
- Comes in natural stone, manufactured stone, or concrete
- Makes the deck feel built-in and solid
These cost more but really boost curb appeal and handle bad weather. With good sealing and installation, stone skirting also keeps weeds from creeping in. Maintenance? Maybe a rinse now and then, or a touch-up if a panel chips.
Practical Features: Ventilation, Access, and Drainage
Deck skirting’s got to do more than just look sharp. Sure, it hides ugly framing and keeps pests at bay, but it should also make life easier—access, air flow, and drainage all matter.
Built-In Access Doors and Panels
Being able to get under the deck is a must for repairs, storage, or just chasing out critters. We usually add access doors or removable panels right into the skirting.
Access doors should blend in with the rest. We use hidden fasteners or simple hinges—nothing fancy, just what works. For storage, a lockable door keeps raccoons and bigger pests out. For quick jobs like cleaning or checking for mould, a little lift-out panel does the trick.
Access Panel Options:
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Hinged Door | Secure, easy entry | Needs more space |
| Removable Panel | Simple, no hinges needed | Not for big storage |
| Lockable Door | Extra security | More parts to install |
Matching the door’s material to the rest of the skirting keeps things looking neat and helps it stand up to Canadian weather.
Smart Ventilation Ideas
Moisture under the deck is bad news—wood rot, peeling paint, and pests love it. Air needs to move, so we add slots, vents, or lattice patterns to let things breathe.
Plastic vents can blend in, or we just space boards a half-inch apart. With vertical board skirting, those small gaps usually do the job.
Lattice is a classic option—lets in air and light, keeps critters out. If we’re worried about pests, we’ll put fine mesh on the inside. Just make sure the ventilation matches your deck’s size and design. Too little airflow and it gets damp; too much, and bigger animals might get ideas.
Integrating Drainage Solutions
Water pooling under a deck? That’s asking for mould and frost damage. We always leave a gap at the bottom of the skirting so rain can escape, not hang around.
Sometimes we’ll toss down gravel for drainage and a cleaner look. Slope the ground a bit, too, if you can manage it.
Drip edges along the bottom help channel water away, keeping the frame and skirting dry. Always check that nothing blocks drains or gutters—good drainage keeps bugs and rot away.
Sealing Gaps and Pest-Proofing Your Deck Skirting
Deck skirting shouldn’t just hide the frame. It’s got to keep out pests—mice, raccoons, you name it—and survive Canadian winters.
Using Pest Barriers and Mesh
We start with pest barriers. Galvanized hardware cloth works best—tough metal mesh, attached behind the skirting and dug into the ground for extra defense. Rodents and snakes don’t stand a chance.
A ¼ inch mesh blocks pests but still lets air through. For extra peace of mind, we bury the bottom a few centimeters deep. Rust-resistant fasteners keep it all together for the long haul.
Techniques for Tight Fits
Leave a gap and pests will find it. We measure each piece before cutting, making sure boards fit tight against each other. Table saw or circular saw—either gets us clean, straight cuts. For corners, a little exterior caulking or wood filler seals things up.
After installation, we check the skirting. If we spot holes or warping, we patch or swap boards right away. Weather can shift things over time, so it’s smart to check now and then. No one wants a surprise guest popping out during a barbecue.
Low-Maintenance Solutions for Canadian Climates
Canadian weather is rough—snow, rain, freeze, and the odd heat wave. Low-maintenance skirting options save hassle and keep things tidy.
Weather-Resistant Finishes
We need finishes that don’t fade, crack, or peel. Here’s what works:
- Vinyl: No rot, no rust, no painting.
- Composite: Looks like wood, but shrugs off moisture and bugs.
- Powder-coated aluminium: Tough as nails, barely chips.
If you’re set on wood, go for UV-resistant paints or stains—they keep colour bright and block water. Look for mould and mildew protection too. Usually, a quick hose-down keeps the skirting clean.
Easy-Clean Skirting Options
Nobody wants to spend Saturday scrubbing skirting. We pick materials and styles that don’t trap dirt.
Good bets:
- Solid panels: Less groove, less gunk.
- Lattice with big openings: Debris falls through.
- Lift-off panels: Pop them off, clean behind, done.
Composite and vinyl usually just need soap and water. Some designs even have built-in drainage so puddles don’t form. We always lean toward choices that handle mess, save time, and keep critters out.
Custom Skirting Ideas for Personal Style and Function
Skirting’s a chance to show off a little style. Materials and designs can match your house and hold up to the weather.
Popular picks:
- Lattice panels (wood or vinyl): Airflow, critter control, classic look.
- Horizontal or vertical boards: Modern, hides framing.
- Decorative panels: Metal or composite, unique patterns, long-lasting.
Let’s compare:
| Material | Style Options | Maintenance | Pest Deterrent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wood lattice | Classic, rustic | High | Good |
| Vinyl panels | Clean, simple | Low | Very good |
| Metal panels | Modern, bold | Low | Excellent |
| Composite | Versatile | Low | Good |
Paint or stain wood for a custom color. Matching colors with the deck really pulls things together. For extra pest control, add mesh behind panels or boards.
Pick a skirting idea that fits your taste and needs. Gardeners might add planter boxes along the skirt. Worried about critters? Go for designs with tight gaps.
Professional Installation Versus DIY Deck Skirting
So, do you hire someone or do it yourself? Both have their upsides, depending on your budget, time, and how handy you feel.
Here’s a quick rundown:
| Professional Installation | DIY Skirting | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Skill Needed | Minimal | Moderate to High |
| Time Commitment | Quick | Can take a while |
| Customization | High | Depends on your skills |
| Warranty | Usually included | Rarely included |
Hire a pro, and the job’s done fast and usually looks sharp. Less hassle for you.
DIY saves money, but you’ll need to measure, cut, and install everything yourself. Safety matters—nobody wants a trip to the ER.
Tough materials like stone or metal? Leave it to the pros. Wood or lattice? Not so bad for a weekend project.
It really comes down to your comfort with tools, your free time, and whether you want it done this weekend or… whenever you get around to it.
Frequently Asked Questions
We get plenty of questions about skirting materials, design ideas beyond lattice, and what actually keeps pests out. Costs, drawbacks, and balancing looks with function always come up too.
What options do I have for skirting materials that are both practical and critter-resistant?
Vinyl and composite boards are solid picks—they don’t rot and fit tight to keep animals out. Metal panels (like aluminium) work well too. If you go with wood, use pressure-treated lumber and seal those joints.
We always suggest screening behind any openings, no matter the material.
Are there cost-effective skirting solutions that also provide good coverage for deck underpinnings?
Pressure-treated wood planks and standard lattice panels are the cheapest. Solid plywood panels can work too, just finish the edges.
To save money and block pests, wrap the underside with hardware cloth before you install skirting.
Beyond the common lattice, could you suggest alternative designs for deck skirting?
Try vertical or horizontal slats, tin panels, or even stone veneer. Overlapping wood boards give a board-and-batten vibe. Decorative metal screens are catching on if you want something different.
How do prefabricated skirting panels measure up against custom solutions in terms of pest prevention?
Prefab panels go up fast but might leave gaps at corners and seams—easy for critters to sneak in. Custom skirting lets us cut each piece to fit tight, sealing all the entry points.
We always recommend adding wire mesh behind either option for extra protection.
Can vertical skirting designs be both aesthetic and functional for my deck?
Definitely. Vertical slats or panels can make the deck look taller, add a modern edge, and keep most critters out. Just make sure the slats are close enough together—no easy way in for animals.
What are some potential drawbacks to consider before installing skirting around my deck?
If you seal the skirting too tightly, you might end up with poor ventilation, and that can trap moisture underneath—never a good thing. Skirting also tends to hide pest issues, so you might not notice critters moving in until they’ve already made themselves at home.
It’s probably smart to add some screened vents and leave yourself an easy way to peek or crawl under there if you need to.