Deck skirting is the trim that hides the framing under an elevated deck. It is one of those details that makes the difference between a finished space and an unfinished one.
What Skirting Does
Skirting closes off the area beneath an elevated deck. It hides the posts, beams, and storage area from view, which makes the entire deck look more polished from the yard.
It also keeps animals from nesting underneath, slows down debris collection, and can make the lower yard feel more like part of the landscape.
Lattice Skirting
Lattice is the traditional and most affordable skirting option. It comes in wood or vinyl, with diagonal or square patterns. It allows airflow and light to pass through, which keeps the area underneath from getting damp.
Lattice is a classic look but it can read as dated on more modern homes. The choice is really about style preference.
Horizontal Slat Skirting
Horizontal slat skirting, often in cedar or composite, creates a clean modern look. The slats can be spaced for ventilation or installed tighter for more screening.
This style has become increasingly popular on contemporary deck builds and pairs especially well with composite decks and metal railings.
Vertical Board Skirting
Vertical boards, especially in cedar or pressure-treated wood, give a more traditional finished look. They can be installed flush or with intentional gaps for ventilation.
This style works well on craftsman, farmhouse, and traditional homes.
Stone or Brick Veneer
For a high-end finish, stone or brick veneer skirting can transform an elevated deck into something that looks like part of the home itself. It is more expensive than other options but the visual impact is dramatic.
We build these on framed walls below the deck so the veneer has a structural base.
Use the Space Underneath
Skirting can also conceal storage. We often design access doors into skirting so customers can use the area under the deck for lawn equipment, kayaks, or seasonal items. From the outside, the door blends in with the rest of the skirting.
It is a great way to gain storage space without building a separate shed.
Ventilation Matters
Whatever style you choose, the area under the deck needs to breathe. Trapped moisture causes wood rot and creates a musty environment. We make sure every skirting design includes adequate ventilation.
Good airflow extends the life of the deck and keeps the underside dry.
Talk Skirting Options With Us
Skirting is often an afterthought, but it should not be. The right choice can make a great deck look complete. We are happy to walk through options that fit your home, your style, and your budget.
Pro Tips From Our Crews
• Always include ventilation in your skirting design. Trapped moisture rots framing.
• Build a hidden access door if you want to use the area underneath for storage.
• Match skirting style to the home's architecture. Modern slat patterns suit modern homes; lattice fits traditional ones.
• Stone or brick veneer is the highest-end finish and looks like part of the home itself.
• Skirting is often a small line item that finishes the entire deck visually.
Customers sometimes try to skip skirting to save a few dollars. We almost always recommend including it. The visual difference between a deck with and without skirting is significant, and the underside protection extends the life of the framing. It is one of those details you do not miss until you see what it looks like with skirting installed.
Common Questions From North Georgia Homeowners
Can I install skirting on an existing deck?
Yes, skirting can be added to most existing decks. We measure the perimeter, frame as needed, and install the skirting style of your choice. It is a relatively quick project that significantly upgrades the look of an older deck.
Do I need a permit to add skirting?
Usually no, since skirting is decorative and non-structural. Building codes typically focus on structural elements. We check local rules for any specific requirements before starting.
Serving North Georgia
We design and build custom decks, screened porches, covered decks, pergolas, and outdoor living spaces across North Georgia. That includes Pickens, Cherokee, Gilmer, Fannin, Dawson, Forsyth, Bartow, Cobb, DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Hall, Lumpkin, Murray, Paulding, Union, and Gordon counties. If you are anywhere in our service area, we would love the chance to come walk your property and talk through what we can build for you.