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What can I put around my deck instead of lattice?

There are a variety of options to choose from when it comes to enclosing your deck instead of using lattice. Some options include:

1. Shrubs or plants – a line of shrubs or plants can provide a natural fence that still lets some light through.

2. Solid wood fencing – depending on your budget and the desired outcome, opt for a solid wood picket fence or board fence for a more customized look.

3. Bamboo fencing – this material is flexible, easy to install and provides a tropical look. They come in a variety of colored stains that can match your deck used for a cohesive look.

4. Wrought iron fencing – another option is to use wrought iron fencing to provide both a decorative look and plenty of privacy.

5. Beaded curtains – these come in a variety of colorful options that offer some privacy while still letting the light through.

6. Shade sails – opt for some shade sails to provide shade and privacy to any space. They’re available in many sizes, shapes and colors, meaning that you should be able to find something to match your desired look.

7. Glass panels – if your deck is elevated, using glass railing panels can offer plenty of privacy while giving you an unobstructed view from your deck.

Ultimately, the decision of what to put around your deck instead of lattice depends on your budget, desired look, and desired outcome.

How do I cover the sides of my deck?

Covering the sides of a deck is a great way to shield the area from the elements and provide additional living or entertaining space. How much you’re willing to spend and how much time you want to spend on the project.

One option is to install lattice panels along the sides of your deck to provide some extra privacy, weather protection and shade. You could also consider using glass panels, curtains or trellises. If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, you could build an awning or solid roof to protect the sides of your deck from rain and other outdoor elements.

Before starting any project, be sure to consult with an expert or local building codes to ensure that you’re following the proper regulations and taking all of the necessary safety precautions.

What do I close the bottom of my deck with?

The best way to close the bottom of your deck is to use hardware cloth or metal screening. This will keep out any rodents and other critters seeking shelter in the space underneath your deck. The hardware cloth should be covered with a heavy plastic or metal flashing and then stapled in place.

You may also want to consider using metal angle strips to secure any corners to prevent animals from trying to dig into the corner. Additionally, you may want to go around the bottom of the deck and caulk or seal any gaps or crevices that could potentially provide animals access underneath your deck.

Finally, you can use a layer of gravel and then install pressure-treated lattice panels or deck skirting to give the underside of your deck a finished look.

What is the purpose of lattice under deck?

The purpose of lattice under a deck is to provide both privacy and support for the deck. It creates an enclosed area beneath the deck that is both sheltered and secure. The lattice also provides additional support by reinforcing the deck’s framing and joists.

In many instances, lattice is also used to add a decorative touch or cover up unsightly areas. Additionally, lattice can also act as a wind break for the deck and help to prevent leaves and other debris from accumulating beneath the deck.

How much does it cost to install lattice around deck?

The cost of installing lattice around a deck will vary depending on a variety of factors. These factors include the size of the deck, the type of lattice being used, the complexity of the project, the geographic location, and any extras such as wood or hardware.

The total cost of the project can range anywhere from hundreds of dollars to thousands of dollars.

Generally speaking, the cost of wood lattice ranges from $15-$20 per panel, with each panel typically being 4’x8′. Additional materials such as wood framing, screws, and finishing materials can cost an additional $3-$7 per panel.

Labor costs can range from $20-$35 per hour, or around $600-$1,200 for a standard-sized deck. As a general rule, the more complex the project, the higher the costs will be.

It is important to note that the cost of installing lattice around a deck can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the job and the local market rates for labor. Additionally, if the deck is located in an area that requires a permit from local building authorities, this can add to the overall cost of the project.

Is deck skirting necessary?

Whether deck skirting is necessary depends on several factors, including the type of deck you have, its aesthetics, the surrounding environment, and personal taste.

If you are planning to build a wood deck, skirting can provide an aesthetic appeal and protect the open space underneath. It can also act as a wind barrier, protecting furniture, plants, and other items that may be stored there from strong winds.

Skirting also makes it easier to keep the area clean as it blocks debris and critters from getting underneath.

Vinyl decking and composite decking don’t need skirting as they are already resistant to wind and water damage, as well as pests and critters. But, even with these sturdy materials, skirting can enhance the aesthetics of the deck and add a finished look.

When considering whether deck skirting is necessary, consider the temperature fluctuations in your area. In colder climates, skirting may be necessary to prevent cold air from entering the deck area, as well as to block snow.

Ultimately, whether deck skirting is necessary is up to you and what you want to achieve with your outdoor living space. If you think skirting will improve the aesthetics of your deck, add a show of protection, or provide a sense of privacy, then it may be worth considering.

What do you put under a deck?

Under a deck you could put a number of things depending on the size, purpose and design of the deck. For example, if the deck is small and mainly used for aesthetic purposes, you can add some accent lighting, patio furniture, potted plants and other decorative items.

If the deck is larger and built as an outdoor living space, you can add an outdoor kitchen, deck chairs, an outdoor sofa and throw pillows, side tables and even an outdoor rug. If you want to create extra storage space, you can install some cabinets or shelves underneath the deck.

Additionally, if you want to make the area more private, you can hang potted plants or hanging planters or install a privacy fence. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what to put under the deck and how to use the space.

How do you frame lattice under a deck?

Framing a lattice under a deck is a great way to add privacy to an outdoor living area without taking away from the natural beauty of the outdoors. The process for framing a lattice under a deck is fairly straightforward and can provide an attractive and functional addition to your outdoor space.

First, use pressure-treated 2x4s to frame out the area where the lattice will be located, keeping in mind that it may be difficult to make exact cuts around the perimeter. You may need to use extra framing pieces to fit around obstructions such as deck stairs.

Secure the frame to the deck by attaching the 2x4s to the joists. Be sure to use screws or bolts that are treated with a corrosion-resistant coating, such as galvanized or stainless steel.

Next, cut the lattice to fit the frame and secure it with screws or nails. You may need to add extra support with 2x2s in areas where the lattice needs additional reinforcing. Cover the exposed framing with weatherproof trim for a neat and attractive finish.

Finally, if you’ll be using the lattice to keep pests out from under the deck, you’ll want to make sure to fill in any gaps between the lattice and the edge of the deck with caulk or sealant. This will ensure that no pests will be able to make their way up through the underside of your deck.

Overall, framing lattice under a deck is a straightforward process that can allow you to create a more private outdoor living space without detracting from the natural beauty of the environment. With a bit of patience and the right materials, you can successfully frame lattice under your deck and enjoy increased privacy in your outdoor living area.

Should I put rocks under my deck?

If your deck is built on soil, adding rocks underneath can provide additional stability and help prevent movement. Rocks can also provide better drainage, preventing water from pooling underneath the deck, which can help prevent mold and mildew build up.

That said, if you choose to put rocks under your deck, it is important to ensure they are laid in a way that allows water and air to pass through. Rocks should be no more than two inches deep and should be placed in uniform rows with spaces in between for drainage.

You should also make sure not to overfill the space between the rocks and joists as this can block ventilation. Lastly, if you are going to use large rocks, be sure to tamp them down to ensure a stable base.

Should landscape fabric go under deck?

Generally, landscape fabric should not go under decking. The main thing to be aware of is that too much moisture can accumulate underneath the decking, creating an ideal environment for mold and rot.

Landscape fabric can actually prevent excess moisture from escaping and make the area even wetter. It is also important to provide adequate drainage, as this will help to mitigate the accumulation of excess moisture and reduce the likelihood of mold and rot.

For example, if there is a great deal of weed growth where the decking is to be installed, then using landscape fabric can block them from emerging. Additionally, if an area is prone to flooding, then laying down landscape fabric can provide some extra protection for the decking above it.

Do you need to seal the underside of a deck?

Yes, you need to seal the underside of a deck. The deck provides a great opportunity for moisture and insects to get into gaps and hidden spaces and cause damage. Sealing the underside of the deck can help to prevent water from getting into the areas of the deck that are more susceptible to damage, while also providing protection from insects and other pests.

Some of the best materials to use when sealing the underside of a deck are pressure treated lumber, composite decking, or laminated decking. When applying the sealer, make sure to pay special attention to the joints, as this is a typical area where water can leak in and cause damage.

Additionally, it’s also important to keep in mind that you may need to apply more than one coat of sealer to properly protect your deck.

What can I put under my deck to prevent weeds?

When it comes to preventing weeds from growing under your deck, there are a few things you can do. The first is to lay down a thick layer of landscaping fabric, which will block sunlight from reaching weed seeds in the soil and prevent them from germinating.

Additionally, you can sprinkle a few inches of mulch, including cypress mulch, pine straw, or cocoa hulls, on top of the landscaping fabric. The mulch will act as an extra barrier by preventing weed seeds from being exposed to air, water, and sunlight, which will stop them from ever germinating.

If weeds do manage to get through the landscaping fabric and mulch barrier, they can easily be pulled away or sprayed with an all-natural weed killer. Additionally, you can use an herbicide barrier, which is a chemical treatment put around the edges of the deck.

This will help form a barrier between the deck and the soil, making it harder for weeds to push through.

What is deck skirting?

Deck skirting is a material used to enclose the area located under or surrounding a deck or porch. It’s commonly used to conceal the gap between the deck and the ground and make the space look more finished and polished.

It is generally most popular on decks that are higher off of the ground and can be made from different materials such as wood, lattice, vinyl, plastic, or fabric. Deck skirting can really contribute to the overall look of the area and set the tone for the rest of the outdoor living space.

It also provides a bit of extra storage space in the area under the deck.

Does a deck need to breathe?

Yes, a deck does need to breathe in order to stay in good condition. Breathing helps decks maintain their structural integrity and reduces wear and tear on the boards. When a deck is exposed to the elements, moisture can make its way into the wood, causing it to swell and eventually warp or rot.

This can be prevented if the deck is allowed to properly “breathe” by letting air circulate through the deck to reduce moisture levels. Proper air circulation will also keep mold and mildew from forming on the wood.

Furthermore, applying a coat of sealant or stain will help to seal out water, protect wood fibers, and extend the life of a deck. The sealant or stain should be applied in thin coats, with generous application on the ends, edges, and under any objects that block the boards from getting full exposure to the sun and air.

What is lattice under porch called?

The lattice under a porch is commonly referred to as skirting. Skirting is traditionally constructed from wood, but can also be made from other materials such as vinyl, plastic, or aluminum. Skirting is typically installed beneath the porch or deck and works to provide protection against weather elements, and provide a finished look to your outdoor living space.

Skirting helps keep larger animals or pests out and when done correctly, can provide a clean, neat and aesthetically pleasing look to your porch or deck area.

Should deck skirting touch the ground?

The answer to this question depends on a few factors, such as the material the skirting is made from, the design of the deck, and the local building codes. Generally speaking, if your deck skirting is made from a material that should not be in contact with the ground, like vinyl, then it should not touch the ground.

In this case, you should leave a gap between the skirting and the ground, which can be filled in with mulch or other appropriate elements.

If the deck skirting is made from a material that can withstand constant contact with the ground, like wood or stone, then you may be able to have it touch the ground. However, the design of the deck will partly influence this decision; if the design includes an uneven surface near the base of the skirting, then you may want to leave a gap even if the material is appropriate for contact with soil.

Finally, you should be sure to check with local building codes before making a decision. Depending on the region in which you reside, there may be specific regulations about how close the deck skirting should be to the ground.

Therefore, it’s a good idea to follow their instructions to ensure that you are constructing your deck up to the building codes.

How do you finish the bottom of a deck?

The bottom of a deck must be properly finished to ensure a safe and durable deck. The most important part of finishing a deck bottom is to ensure it has proper drainage and ventilation. The underside of the deck should be waterproofed by using a quality waterproof sealant, such as a silicone-based sealant.

If the deck is to be attached to a house with siding, a flashing should be installed between the deck boards and the siding to provide a moisture barrier. To prevent insect intrusion, the underside of the deck boards should be filled with a sealant to create a barrier.

If the deck is to be painted, the surface of boards should be sanded smooth and any nailheads should be countersunk and filled with a putty. It is also important to make sure that all the deck’s supporting posts and joists are properly secured, including flashing installation if necessary.

After the deck framing is secure, a gap of 1/4-inch should be left between the end of the boards for ventilation and to allow for expansion and contraction of the deck boards. Lastly, the bottom of the deck should be checked regularly for signs of moisture or insect damage, as well as to spot any other necessary repairs.

Does deck skirting need ventilation?

Yes, deck skirting should generally have some type of ventilation. This is because when the space underneath the deck is enclosed, trapped air can cause excess moisture to build up and potentially lead to mildew growth or rot.

Adding a vent or two in the skirting can help promote air circulation, keeping the area dry and discouraging moisture buildup. Additionally, by allowing air to circulate through the area, it can also help reduce the chances of insects and other pests from setting up residence underneath your deck, and discourage mold from growing.

Depending on your local building codes, the size and type of vent may vary. Check with your local municipality for regulations in your area.