Installing lattice under a deck is a great way to give the space an elegant, finished look. A lattice skirt around the base of a deck provides privacy, conceals unsightly areas underneath, and often increases home value. With the right planning and materials, installing lattice under a deck can be a straightforward DIY project.
Choose the Right Lattice Material
There are several options when it comes to lattice material for under deck installation:
Wood Lattice
Wood lattice is a traditional choice made from thin wooden slats crisscrossed to form a grid pattern. Redwood, cedar, and pressure-treated pine are common woods used.
Pros: Natural appearance, versatile for staining or painting, durable
Cons: More expensive, requires staining/sealing to prevent rotting, heavy
Vinyl Lattice
Vinyl lattice is made from PVC plastic in a lattice pattern. It is available in various colors and comes in rolls or panels.
Pros: Low maintenance, won’t rot, fade, or attract pests, affordable, lightweight
Cons: Plastic appearance lacks natural charm, not as durable as wood
Composite Lattice
Composite lattice combines plastic resins with wood fibers to create a synthetic lattice material. It has the look of wood but increased durability.
Pros: Resists mold, mildew, rotting and insects, low maintenance, natural appearance
Cons: More expensive than vinyl, not as durable as pure wood
Aluminum Lattice
Aluminum lattice provides a lightweight metal framework in acrisscross diamond or square pattern.
Pros: Very low maintenance, won’t rust, warp or rot, long-lasting
Cons: Industrial appearance, susceptible to dents, costlier than other options
Polyethylene Lattice
Polyethylene plastic is weaved into a latticework pattern for an affordable option.
Pros: Inexpensive, won’t rot, warp or attract pests
Cons: Plastic look lacks natural appeal, not as durable as wood
Consider how much maintenance, durability and natural versus synthetic appearance you prefer when selecting the right lattice material for under deck installation.
Calculate How Much Lattice You Need
Measure the total area around the perimeter of your deck that you want to cover with lattice. Calculate the total square footage using length x width.
For example, if the area you want to cover is 20 feet long by 4 feet high, that’s 80 square feet of lattice needed (20 x 4 = 80).
Add an extra 10% to allow for mistakes and cutting lattice panels to fit. For an 80 square foot area, add an extra 8 square feet for 88 total.
If using lattice panels, determine how many full panels are needed to cover the area vs how much will need to be cut. It’s best to minimize cuts for cleaner finished edges.
Knowing the total square footage and lattice panel sizes will allow you to estimate the amount of lattice material to purchase for the project.
Select an Installation Method
There are a few options for installing and securing lattice under a deck:
Install Lattice in Sections
One common method is to install the lattice in full 4×8 foot sections secured directly to the deck rim boards and support beams. This allows for fewer seams.
Cut sections to fit around posts and diagonals. Use exterior wood screws to fasten into the wood supports. Pre-drill holes to prevent splitting.
Frame with Furring Strips
You can also install furring strips around the perimeter to create a frame, then secure lattice panels inside the frame.
Use pressure treated 1×3 or 1×4 furring strips cut to length. Attach the strips around the edge using exterior screws.
Cut the lattice to fit inside the frame. Staple or nail in place. Having a frame allows for easy lattice panel replacement if needed.
Use Z-clips
For a more invisible installation, use Z-clips and latticework ceiling clips secured to the frame of the deck.
Slide the lattice into the Z-clips to hold it in place. This creates a floating look without visible screws.
Consider Best Practices
- Leave a 1/4″ gap between lattice panels for drainage and expansion.
- Match factory edges for seams rather than cutting lattice crosswise.
- Purchase a few extra panels in case of damage during installation
- Apply exterior primer & paint or cedar toner to wood lattice for protection
Choosing the best installation method will provide a secure, seamless lattice application under the deck.
Prepare the Area for Installation
Proper preparation is key to a successful lattice installation:
- Remove any existing debris, plant material or old lattice from the area.
- Check for level ground. Fill any holes or depressions with dirt or gravel.
- Cut back vegetation or grass around the perimeter of the deck.
- Remove rocks, branches or anything that could prevent the lattice from lying flush.
For wood or composite lattice:
- Seal, prime or stain all lattice pieces prior to installation for weather protection.
- Paint the trim boards that will secure the lattice using exterior paint.
For metal or vinyl lattice:
- Wipe and clean all lattice pieces before installing.
Good preparation ensures the lattice will install smoothly and look neatly finished.
Install the Lattice Skirting
Once materials are purchased and the area is prepped, it’s time for lattice installation:
Safety First
Use safety glasses, gloves, a face mask and long sleeves when cutting and nailing lattice to avoid injury. Work safely using proper ladders or scaffolding to access the underside of the deck.
Attach Furring Strips (If Using)
If framing with furring strips, measure and cut 1×3 or 1×4 pressure-treated lumber to fit around the deck perimeter. Use exterior screws to attach into the deck ledgers and rim joists every 12-16 inches.
Cut mitered corners to overlap neatly. Keep furring strips slightly above ground level for moisture protection.
Cut Lattice to Fit
Measure between furring strips or deck framing to determine lattice sizing. For a natural look, cut pieces to stagger seams between panels.
Use a circular saw with fine blade to cut lattice cleanly. Seal any cut edges of wood lattice with primer.
Secure Lattice Panels
Working section by section, press lattice tightly into place between furring strips or flush against the deck framing.
- For wood furring, use galvanized finish nails every 6 inches along the edges and every 12 inches on interior lattice cross-pieces.
- For metal Z-clips, slide the lattice into place.
- Fill gaps with exterior caulk for a finished look.
Finish Edges
Trim any protruding lattice edges with a reciprocating saw for a clean finish. Attach 1×4 trim boards around outer edges for a completed frame.
Add drip caps above the lattice to prevent water running behind. Caulk along the top edges.
Once installed completely, the lattice skirting will provide an upgraded, polished look under the deck.
Apply Final Touches
Adding final touches will enhance the appearance of the newly installed lattice:
- Paint or stain wood lattice and trim boards to match your deck color.
- Consider attaching benches or shelving to the lattice to get even more use from the space.
- Plant creeping vines, flowers or bushes in front of the lattice to add color.
- Add wind chimes, solar lights or other accessories to create an inviting area.
- Use the area for storage by attaching deck boxes or storage bins to the backside of the lattice.
Proper maintenance such as sealing, caulking and painting will extend the life of your new lattice. Installing lighting under the deck area illuminated by the lattice skirt creates the perfect hangout space.
With the right materials, safety precautions and installation technique, installing an attractive lattice skirt under your deck is a DIY project that can be tackled in a weekend. Getting creative with finishes and decorations will turn the ordinary space below your deck into a beautiful, enjoyable new hangout spot.
Frequently Asked Questions About Installing Lattice Under a Deck
Installing lattice under a deck is a popular way to finish the appearance, but it does require some planning and consideration. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Does the lattice have to match the deck?
Matching the style and color of the lattice to the deck is ideal for a coordinated, seamless look. For example, use natural cedar lattice under a cedar deck. But it’s not required – you can use a contrasting lattice style as an accent if desired.
How is lattice attached to a deck?
Lattice panels can be nailed or screwed into the wooden deck framing. For a hidden look, use specialty Z-clips instead to clip the lattice into place. Furring strips can also be installed around the perimeter to hold lattice panels within the frame.
Should there be spacing between lattice panels?
It’s recommended to leave a 1/4 inch gap between lattice panels to allow for drainage and expansion/contraction. Gap spacing can be left open or filled in with caulk for a cleaner look.
How much airflow is blocked by deck lattice?
The open crisscross lattice pattern still allows for adequate airflow underneath the deck. However, for maximum ventilation it’s best to include some fully open sections without lattice.
Should lattice go all the way to the ground?
It’s recommended to leave lattice slightly elevated off the ground rather than running all the way down. This prevents direct contact with soil and moisture which can cause faster rot and decay.
Can lattice turn a deck into an enclosed patio?
Not completely – lattice has an open-air look and allows breeze to flow through. To fully enclose a deck, use a solid material like siding or vinyl panels rather than lattice.
How long does under deck lattice last?
When properly installed and maintained, wood lattice can last 5-7 years before needing replacement. Vinyl, aluminum or composite lattice materials last even longer – typically 10-15 years or more.
Does lattice under a deck increase value?
Adding lattice around the base of a deck provides a cleaner, more polished look that can increase a home’s value. It also makes the space more useable and enjoyable. Just make sure it’s properly maintained.
Conclusion
Installing lattice under your deck is an affordable weekend project that can completely transform the appearance and enjoyability of the space. With proper planning to determine materials and installation method, along with safe work practices, you can successfully tackle this project yourself. Taking the time to properly prepare the area and apply finishes will result in a clean, integrated look that makes the deck skirt seem like an original part of the structure. Get creative with accessorizing to turn the often empty area below your deck into a beautiful new living space the whole family can enjoy.