A charming porch or spacious deck extends your home’s living area outdoors. However, the space beneath these structures often ends up underutilized. Adding skirting is an easy way to improve functionality and aesthetics. With the right skirting design and materials, you can create a beautiful border that adds privacy, deters pests, enhances drainage, and ties in flawlessly with your home’s style.
Let’s dive in!
Materials for Porch and Deck Skirting
When choosing materials, consider durability, maintenance needs, cost, and how well each option complements your home. Here are some top options:
Wood and Composite Materials
Wood offers a classic look and can be painted or stained to match your exterior. Options include:
- Solid wood boards in cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated pine
- Tongue and groove boards for a seamless appearance
- Salvaged wood boards with an attractive weathered patina
- Composite wood materials like Trex that resist moisture and decay
Lattice
Lattice provides decorative flair and airflow while obscuring views underneath. Choices include:
- Low-maintenance vinyl lattice in white, black, or gray tones
- Cedar wood lattice panels for a natural vibe
- Composite lattice with the charm of wood but enhanced weather-resistance
Stone and Faux Stone
For organic texture, try stone or faux stone options such as:
- Natural thin stone veneer like flagstone or ledgerock
- Manufactured stone veneer for an authentic look with less weight
- Lightweight faux stone panels made from polyurethane
Beadboard
Achieve a timeless cottage-inspired aesthetic using beadboard in materials like:
- Classic pine wood beadboard with distinctive grooved detailing
- Moisture-resistant PVC beadboard
- Low-maintenance polymer beadboard that won’t crack or peel
Design Considerations for Skirting
Keep practical needs and design goals in mind when planning your skirting. Key factors include:
Privacy
The skirting’s opacity impacts privacy. Solid panels block views, while open materials like lattice offer just a sight barrier. The skirting height also matters–a taller height prevents passersby from seeing underneath.
Pest Control
Sealing any gaps in the skirting prevents pests from crawling underneath. For extra protection, incorporate wire mesh lining that deters burrowing rodents.
Drainage
Effective drainage prevents water from pooling under the porch or deck. Include gutters, proper slope, and water-resistant skirting materials like composite wood or plastic. This protects against deterioration.
Visual Appeal
Tie your skirting in with the house exterior using complementary colors and textures. Contrasting hues can also look striking. Consistent trim details and design elements create cohesion.
Building the Framework
A sturdy framework properly supports the skirting panels or boards and allows for easy installation. Follow these tips:
- Use properly spaced posts and support beams sized for the span
- Map out the skirting layout to determine material dimensions and any access needs
- Secure boards, panels, wire mesh, etc. snugly to the framework
Installing Skirting on a Porch
Adding skirting to a porch involves careful planning and execution.
Deck skirting requires working around posts, stairs, and changes in elevation. Follow these tips for success:
- Map out the deck layout and any obstacles to determine material dimensions
- Build a raised frame to attach the skirting to around the deck perimeter
- Accommodate spaces around posts and cut materials to fit any irregular angles
Finishing Touches
Final details give your skirting the perfect polished look:
- Stain or paint the skirting an accent color to match your home
- Add trim, corner posts, flower boxes, or other decorative elements
- Landscape around the structure with plants, stones, or mulch
Maintaining Porch and Deck Skirting
With proper care, your skirting will retain its beauty for years. Follow these maintenance tips:
- Wash regularly with mild soap and water using a soft brush
- Inspect for damage and repair or replace compromised sections as needed
- Seal any new gaps that develop to deter pest entry
Adding skirting enhances your porch or deck’s appearance, functionality, and comfort. With the right materials and design, you can create a customized look that maximizes your outdoor living space. The end result will become a beloved gathering spot to relax and entertain.
We hope these porch and deck skirting ideas have inspired you to makeover your outdoor oasis. The possibilities are endless when you incorporate this simple yet impactful upgrade.
