What Is Deck Skirting?

Elevated decks are an excellent way to increase outdoor space. There are many factors to consider when designing an elevated deck. Many homeowners often overlook the design of deck skirting. Deck skirting not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of a deck but also conceals the structural elements or storage areas beneath it.

This article will provide a detailed overview of deck skirting and its design options. Read on to create a deck skirting that is both visually appealing and functional.

What is Deck Skirting?

Deck skirting is a decorative and functional addition to the perimeter of a deck. It acts as a barrier to enclose the space underneath the deck surface. Deck skirting can hide structural components and gaps between the deck and the ground. This can significantly enhance the aesthetics of the deck. In addition to aesthetics, skirting can also prevent pests from entering the space underneath the deck. You can even use deck skirting to design a storage space.

There are many different types of materials for deck skirting, such as composite decking material. In addition, there are wood, vinyl, metal, brick, plants, etc. Different materials have different appearances and performance characteristics. You can choose according to different climatic conditions and design styles. The design of the skirting affects the overall visual effect, durability, and functionality of the deck.

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What is The Use of Deck Skirting?

Installing deck skirting can bring many benefits to your deck. Here are some of its common functions:

Enhance The Aesthetics of The Deck

Deck skirting can cover up the messy structure underneath the deck. Installing deck skirting can make your outdoor space look neater and more refined. In addition, by choosing the right materials and colors, deck skirting can bring additional decorative effects. Skirting can create a refined and polished look. It can form a harmonious and unified style with the deck, exterior walls of the house, or courtyard landscape.

Protective Function

Deck skirting can form a barrier between the deck and the external environment. It can prevent rodents, insects, and other pests from nesting or damaging the structure under the deck.

At the same time, deck skirting can also protect the bottom of the deck from rain, snow, and wind erosion. This can extend the service life of the lower structure of the deck. In addition, professional skirting designs can promote air circulation and reduce moisture accumulation.

Storage Function

In addition to aesthetics and protection, you can also try to make deck skirting more practical. Some skirting designs can incorporate storage functions. For example, a small door can be installed on the inside of the skirting. This space can be used to store gardening tools, outdoor furniture, or pool equipment.

You can even install a metal mesh on the inside of the skirting. This barrier prevents small animals from accessing items stored under the deck.

Common Materials for Deck Skirting

Before installing deck skirting, you need to understand the common types of materials. Deck skirting made of different materials has significant differences in cost, durability, and appearance. The main types of deck skirting materials are as follows:

Wood

Wood has a classic look. It can be painted or stained to match the deck or house. Its low price and natural beauty make it a very popular choice. However, the disadvantages of wooden skirting are also obvious. It is susceptible to moisture and insect damage. Therefore, you need to perform regular maintenance such as preservative treatment and painting.

Of course, you can also choose more durable solid wood materials such as mahogany. But they are also more expensive. In short, wooden skirting is more suitable for traditional-style decks. It is suitable for users who like the natural wood texture.

Composite Deck Skirting

Composite materials are a durable, low-maintenance option. They are effective against problems such as rot and insect damage. Composite deck skirting also has the natural beauty of wood. What’s more, you don’t have to worry about its durability. This is because it has extremely strong anti-corrosion and insect-repellent properties.

In addition, composite deck skirting is available in a variety of colors and textures. This allows for more variety in your deck design. In most cases, the deck skirting for composite decks should also be made of the same material. This ensures consistency in the overall design of the deck. Explore COOWIN’s composite decking on sale now to create durable and stylish outdoor spaces!

Vinyl

Vinyl has good weather resistance. Vinyl deck skirting is also available in a variety of colors. The advantages of vinyl deck skirting are that it is waterproof, mildew-proof, and corrosion-resistant. It is also very easy to clean. Therefore, it can be one of the choices for humid and rainy areas.

However, its appearance is not as natural as wood. Therefore, it is more suitable for minimalist-style decks. In addition, low-quality vinyl materials may deform under high temperatures.

Metal Materials

Many homeowners choose to use metal deck skirting to create a modern and stylish look. Common metal materials include aluminum and steel. You can paint, powder coat, or anodize them.

Metal deck skirting is easy to clean and very durable. It has a modern feel. Therefore, it is particularly suitable for industrial-style deck designs. However, if not properly maintained, metal can rust. It also absorbs a lot of heat in the summer, which may affect the comfort of the deck.

Artificial Stone or Brick

Many homeowners use artificial stone or brick to create a more solid and high-end look. Brick deck skirting can add a warm, classic style to your deck. It contrasts with the deck and plants to create a strong visual effect.

In addition, bricks are also durable and weather-resistant. However, the disadvantage of brick deck skirting is that it is complicated to install and expensive. You may need to hire a bricklayer to complete the construction work. Therefore, brick deck skirting is more suitable for brick and stone exterior walls. It is also often used to create high-end outdoor decks.

Plants and Shrubs

Carefully designed greenery can create a natural and flexible barrier. Using plants as deck skirting can hide the bottom of the deck while enhancing the overall beauty of the house. This design can make the deck more rustic and comfortable. Potted plants, window boxes, or vertical gardens can all be used as deck skirting. You can also combine it with other materials to enhance the visual effect.

However, it is important to ensure that the plants are kept at a sufficient distance from the deck support structure. This will prevent rot caused by moisture. In addition, plants need to be pruned and maintained regularly. They may also attract insects. In short, this design is more suitable for natural-style gardens.

How to Choose The Right Deck Skirting?

There are many factors to consider when choosing skirting boards. Match the right deck skirting for your deck based on the following points.

• Aesthetic Preferences: Deck skirting should match the style of the deck and the overall appearance of the home. Composite materials and metals are suitable for modern-style decks. Wood and brick are suitable for traditional-style buildings.
• Climate: Consider the local climate conditions. Choose materials that can withstand those conditions. For example, in humid areas, choose composite materials, PVC, and other deck skirting with good moisture resistance. In high-temperature areas, avoid metal or dark-colored materials.
• Maintenance: Evaluate the amount of maintenance required for each material. Low-maintenance options include composite materials, PVC, and metal materials. Wood and plants require regular maintenance and care.
• Budget: The cost of materials and installation is also important. The initial installation cost of composite deck skirting may be high. However, in the long run, its high durability and low maintenance make it more cost-effective.

Conclusion

Deck skirting is not mandatory. However, it can significantly improve the aesthetics, functionality, and durability of the deck. Skirting is an ideal choice for high decks or decks with cluttered space underneath. On the other hand, low decks or modern minimalist designs may not require skirting.

When designing and installing deck skirting, be sure to consider climate, maintenance, and budget factors. If you want a composite decking product that is durable and attractive in the long term, please contact us. COOWIN is a professional composite decking manufacturer. We can provide you with free samples to help you make the right choice.

FAQ

Does Deck Skirting Affect Ventilation?

If not designed properly, deck skirting can affect ventilation. This will cause the wood to rot. You can choose to install skirting with ventilation holes. In addition, make sure there is a gap between the bottom of the skirting and the ground.

How can You Prevent Small Animals From Entering Under The Baseboards?

You can add metal mesh or rat-proof boards to the deck skirting. In addition, choosing composite material skirting or PVC material can also resist insect attacks. Of course, don’t forget to check them regularly.

Can Deck Skirting be Installed By DIY?

Yes. However, it is necessary to pay attention to the correct installation method according to the material. Wooden skirting needs to be accurately measured and fixed with anti-corrosion screws. Composite material deck skirting usually has a snap-on design. Its installation is relatively simple. For brick skirting, it is recommended to find a professional mason to ensure stability.

How Long is The Service Life of Deck Skirting?

The service life of deck skirting depends on the material and maintenance. Wood has a service life of 10-15 years and requires frequent maintenance. Composite material deck skirting has a service life of up to 25-30 years. Moreover, it does not require frequent maintenance. In addition, rust-proof metal skirting can also have a service life of several decades.