Your deck deserves to look polished from every angle, and that’s where smart skirting comes into play.
The right deck skirting transforms your outdoor space from unfinished to absolutely stunning while solving practical problems like storage and ventilation.
Let’s explore fifteen creative approaches that’ll make your deck the envy of the neighborhood, whether you’re working with a high platform or a ground-level design.
01. Hidden Storage Solution
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You can transform the space beneath your elevated deck into valuable storage that keeps your yard clutter-free.
Install solid boards with minimal spacing to completely conceal everything you’re storing below. This approach gives you extra room for outdoor equipment, seasonal items, and gardening supplies while maintaining a sleek appearance that looks intentional and well-designed.
02. Ground-Level Design
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A floating deck sits beautifully at ground level, requiring just a single horizontal board as skirting.
You’ll love that decks under thirty inches often skip the permit hassle in many areas, though you should always verify with your local building department first. This low-profile option creates a seamless transition between your deck and yard that feels natural and inviting.
03. Open-Bottom Style
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You’ll get the best of both worlds with partial skirting that features a horizontal board along the top.
Leaving the bottom open ensures proper airflow underneath your deck while preventing moisture buildup. This design also extends the life of your skirting boards since they never touch the ground, saving you money on maintenance and replacement costs down the road.
04. Composite Material Approach
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Matching your deck skirting to your composite decking creates a cohesive look that’s absolutely stunning.
These wood-composite materials blend polyethylene with wood particles for durability that outlasts traditional lumber. You’ll appreciate how this low-maintenance option resists fading, splintering, and warping while giving your deck a polished, professional finish that impresses guests every time.
05. Natural Plant Coverage
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Strategic landscaping around your deck can eliminate the need for traditional skirting altogether.
Ornamental grasses like pampas or zebra grass create lush, low-maintenance coverage that looks gorgeous year-round. For elevated decks, Japanese maple trees add height and elegance while naturally concealing the space below in a way that feels organic and beautiful.
06. Integrated Stairway Design
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Your horizontal skirting boards can flow seamlessly into inset stairs for a unified, sophisticated appearance.
This combination creates clean lines that make your deck look professionally designed and intentional. You might even skip guardrails if your deck meets local height requirements, which opens up sightlines and makes your outdoor space feel more expansive and welcoming.
07. Wraparound Steps
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Stairs that encircle your entire deck serve double duty as both access points and attractive skirting.
You’ll love the flexibility of entering your yard from any direction while creating extra seating for gatherings. This design choice adds architectural interest to your outdoor space while solving the skirting question in a functional, beautiful way that guests will admire.
08. Shrub Border
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Boxwood or inkberry holly shrubs positioned strategically around your deck create living skirting that evolves with the seasons.
This natural approach saves you from purchasing additional building materials while adding softness to your hardscape. Just remember to trim your shrubs regularly, keeping them away from deck boards to prevent moisture issues and maintain proper airflow underneath.
09. Reed Screen Alternative
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Reed screens bring a relaxed, casual vibe to your deck skirting at a fraction of traditional material costs.
Available in convenient sixteen-foot rolls, they’re incredibly easy to install for quick weekend projects. Keep in mind that reed screens won’t last as long as wood or composite options, but their affordable price point makes replacement easy when you’re ready for a refresh.
10. Classic Wood Boards
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You can’t go wrong with solid wood boards that match your actual decking for a timeless, coordinated look.
Leave small gaps between boards to allow for natural expansion and proper ventilation beneath your deck. Since deck boards stretch up to sixteen feet long, you’ll need fewer pieces for installation, and regular applications of quality deck sealer keep everything looking fresh.
11. Diamond Lattice Pattern
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Traditional diamond lattice remains one of the most budget-friendly skirting options you’ll find on the market.
For around sixteen to twenty dollars per eight-foot section, plastic lattice delivers classic appeal without breaking your budget. This tried-and-true material allows airflow while concealing the space below, making it perfect for homeowners who want proven results with minimal investment.
12. Front Staircase Feature
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Your front steps can double as deck skirting, creating a focal point that’s both functional and attractive.
Extend the stairs around the sides for full wraparound access, or fill remaining areas with complementary materials like lattice or shrubs. This flexible approach lets you customize your deck’s appearance while maintaining practical entry points that work perfectly for your specific yard layout.
13. Stone Veneer Elegance
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Natural river stone creates stunning, permanent skirting that adds incredible value and curb appeal to your property.
Manufactured veneer stone offers an easier installation process with lightweight units designed to fit together seamlessly. You’ll need to build a support structure from exterior plywood and cement board first, but the dramatic, upscale results are absolutely worth the extra effort involved.
14. Square Lattice Update
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Square lattice gives traditional diamond patterns a fresh, contemporary twist that feels current and sophisticated.
You’ll find installation easier since the straight lines align naturally with your deck’s structure and framework. White lattice creates striking contrast against darker backgrounds, while black versions discreetly hide under-deck areas when you prefer a more subtle, understated aesthetic.
15. Multi-Level Platforms
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Tiered decks gradually descend to ground level, using each platform’s edge as built-in skirting that looks intentional.
This approach works beautifully on sloped yards where a single-level deck would require extensive foundation work. You’ll eliminate the need for separate skirting materials entirely while creating visual interest and multiple zones for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying your outdoor space.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the perfect deck skirting comes down to balancing your aesthetic preferences with practical considerations like budget and maintenance.
Whether you opt for natural plantings, classic lattice, or elegant stone veneer, the right skirting completes your deck’s look while solving functional challenges.
Take your time exploring these options and select the approach that best fits your home’s style, your yard’s unique characteristics, and your long-term vision for your outdoor living space.
