Top 50 Best Deck Skirting Ideas – Elevated Backyard Designs
While it may not strike one as the sexiest of components in need of consideration where the appealing outdoor deck is concerned, skirting is nonetheless a crucial aspect of a secure and well-made deck.
Narrowing down your deck skirting ideas is much like choosing closet doors. They aren’t the most exciting design decisions, but you need something to cover unsightly areas. A deck skirt isn’t exactly something you want to draw attention to. Or is it?
Although your deck is the real star of the show, no deck plan is complete without skirting. Proper deck skirting ideas allow for ventilation to guard against mold and rot. The deck skirt also provides cover if you use the area for storage. Not only does it hide the area beneath an elevated deck, but it can also add beauty to your backyard.
Ideally, your deck or porch skirt will include a door to access the below-deck area. Deck skirting can be made of lattice, wood, stone, or several types of composite materials. Browse the following images and discover how many options you have for turning a potential eyesore into a lovely design element.
1. Lattice Panel Deck Skirting Ideas
Lattice panels are one of the most popular deck skirting ideas, and for good reason. The simple grid pattern goes well with many types of architecture, including traditional, cottage, and rustic homes. Lattice panel openings provide a decent balance between ventilation and visual covering. Hundreds of wood or vinyl lattice options exist to coordinate with your backyard décor.
Your deck or porch skirting latticework can be purchased in dozens of colors and sizes. Many types of lattice panels can be painted or stained to match your deck railing and balusters. Or, you may choose to use a color that matches your decking surface or home foundation.
Wood lattice can be built from high-quality lumber and stained for an elegant, natural wood finish. If you choose a less expensive type of lattice skirting, you will most likely want to paint it. To add visual interest, install each lattice panel at an angle instead of straight up-and-down. This results in diamond-shaped openings instead of basic squares.
2. Wood Deck Skirting Ideas
While wood lattice is perhaps the most popular form of skirting material, other wood materials open the door to many different deck skirting ideas. Simple wood planks installed horizontally, like shiplap, is an attractive skirting option that can be left bare or stained. Note that pressure-treated lumber weathers nicely into a warm gray that coordinates well with many color schemes.
It’s essential to leave a gap between boards to allow for adequate airflow beneath the deck. Keep the gap narrow for a shiplap-type effect, or widen it for a beachy feel. Anchor the wood skirt to the frame, not to the ground itself. This gap will protect the wood from damage caused by wicking moisture and frost.
Tropical hardwoods, such as teak and mahogany, offer natural resistance to insects and rot. For a different look, install wood deck skirting planks vertically instead of horizontally. Vertical wood deck skirting continues the deck banister lines, making an excellent background for tall plants or climbing vines. Watch this video for tips on installing wood skirting with deck screws:
3. Modern Deck Skirting Ideas
Horizontal lines are a classic element of modern design. Therefore, horizontally-fastened wood or composite deck skirting conveys a rich contemporary vibe. It elongates the appearance of your home and blends well with Asian-inspired backyard landscaping. Horizontal deck skirting ideas are also a good option for mid-century modern home exteriors.
Rich walnut, mahogany, and other warm wood stains highlight the beauty of good-quality wood. Metal or metal wire deck and stair railings stand out beside simple modern deck skirting. Further, emphasize your home’s lines and angles by varying the spacing between skirt boards. You can also alternate solid wooden skirt slats with boards routed with additional lines.
Add interest to your modern outdoor space by making your deck skirt an actual focal point. You can accomplish this by installing panels with an engraved or painted design pattern. If you can’t find panels with a design that suits you, consider stenciling your own. Large paisley, floral, and mandala stencils are available for deck and fencing board walls.
4. Skirting Ideas for Traditional Decks
A deck dedicated to outdoor living is one of the top features sought after by homebuyers. Whether you have a covered deck, roofless deck, or screen porch, it will need a skirt if it is elevated. Most people immediately think of lattice panels for traditional homes, but more elegant options abound.
Install vertical beams, spacing them the same width as your porch railing. Traditional Victorian homes with wood siding look lovely with this type of deck skirt. You can paint it white or whatever color that coordinates with your window and door trim. If you don’t like the look of wood or vinyl lattice panels, paint them a dark color and plant hedges to make them disappear.
A floating deck is another classic backyard deck option that works with traditional or modern homes. Also called freestanding decks, these decks seem to float above the ground. While they can be built directly on the ground, it’s better if they are built on top of gravel or a short frame. They generally only need a small deck fascia instead of a full deck skirt.
5. Craftsman Deck Skirting
Generating Craftsman deck skirting ideas means sticking to the elements that are foundational to this style. This includes a natural color palette, stone or brick foundations, and a preference for stained wood. Most Craftsman homes include a large, covered porch that requires some form of skirting. If you add a backyard deck, it’s a good idea to continue with the same type of skirting as the front porch.
Craftsman architecture can carry off traditional or modern deck skirting ideas. However, since its focus is showcasing the builder’s craftsmanship, you should use the best materials your budget allows. Opt for richly stained tropical or native hardwoods, or stone skirting. You can also use both stone and wood, especially if your front porch columns are built this way.
Lattice can work on a Craftsman home, but it should be used sparingly, set in wide wooden frames. If you must use lattice, paint it a dark color that makes it fade into the background. Your deck skirt should complement, not compete with, the beauty of Craftsman design.
6. Deck Skirting Using Composite Decking
Composite decking materials are generally durable and easy to work with. They come in a wide range of colors and textures. Most resemble the appearance of real wood, with some brands achieving this better than others. However, if you have a modern or contemporary home, you may prefer a smoother material without a prominent wood grain texture.
Composite decking is excellent for modern deck designs because you can use wider planks that won’t warp or sag. Trex decking is a popular brand worldwide due to its appearance and durability. It installs well vertically or horizontally and comes in a variety of plank widths. Composite lattice panels are available in both traditional grid and non-traditional patterns.
Like wood, spills can leave stains on composite surfaces, and they may scuff or scratch easily. Even so, composite deck skirting’s immunity to rot is a huge benefit. Installing Trex or another brand of composite deck skirting frees you from the routine maintenance required for wooden deck skirts.
7. Stone and Brick Skirting
Choosing stone or brick skirting material gives your home a solid, well-grounded appearance. It coordinates well with brick or stone columns and comes in a wide range of textures and colors. You can use real brick and stone or choose manufactured panels that give the appearance of real masonry.
One of the benefits of faux stone deck skirting is that it doesn’t chip, crack, or crumble like real masonry can. It’s virtually maintenance-free, aside from periodic cleanings with a power washer. Unlike actual brick or stone, faux panels are easy for DIY deck builders to install. It’s an inexpensive way to obtain the look of real masonry without the expense of hiring a mason.
Because stone and brick siding lacks natural ventilation gaps, your deck design must include strategically-placed vents. These will ensure proper airflow to prevent moisture problems in the area beneath your deck boards. Experiment with ways to include masonry in your deck skirting ideas list. For instance, combine skirting materials by securing wooden lattice to brick or stone columns.
Deck Skirting FAQs
How long does it take for pressure treated wood to look weathered? Can I speed up the process?
Left unstained, pressure-treated wood will begin to turn gray within three to six months. Many homeowners wonder how to rush the weathering process to obtain this attractive gray finish sooner. Or, they may want the new deck skirting to match the rest of the wood deck.
You can purchase weathered wood accelerator stains at your local home improvement center. However, an inexpensive DIY chemical reaction makes it easy to age wood yourself. Watch this video for instructions:
I don’t plan to store anything behind my porch lattice skirting. Do I still need to include an access door in my deck design plan?
A deck designer should always include a way to gain access to the space beneath the deck. Even if you don’t have storage plans, you still need some way to access the area. Include a door, deck hatch, or wire-screened gap beneath the deck stairs.
Why is under-deck access necessary? You may need to check for foundation issues or other problems in the future. A rodent or other small animal may crawl in and die beneath your deck, causing an odor problem. It’s much easier for you or an exterminator to remedy this situation if your deck skirting includes a door.
What should I do to prepare the ground beneath my deck before installing deck skirting?
Adequate ground preparation protects your home from pests and drainage problems. Cover the ground with a piece of weed-blocking landscape fabric, being sure to overlap at the seams. Then cover the fabric with a 3-inch layer of gravel or landscape stone.
These materials provide a good level of protection against moles, groundhogs, and other burrowing animals. Never use mulch or pine straw in the area behind deck skirting. These organic materials will decompose over time and invite termites, carpenter ants, and other pests into the area.
Top 29 Best Watches Under $500 For Men
With cellphones so ubiquitous, your watch choice can be less about telling time and more about personal style. However, a watch is not ‘just’ a watch. For example, the vast majority are made for right-handed people, but a select few cater to the lefties among us. There is a wide range in functionality and size.
The wristwatch is also one of the few socially acceptable accessories for men, so why not have a small selection? If you’re not cashing a CEO’s paycheck just yet, here are the top 28 most handsome watches for men that retail for under $500.
Got a bigger budget? Then check out our guide to the best men’s watches under $1000 instead.
Top 29 Best Watches Under $500 For Men
1. Tommy Hilfiger Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
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If you like the feel of a pliable, non-metal band but aren’t comfortable with genuine leather, this watch comes equipped with a handsome synthetic band. At 46mm in diameter, this watch is perfect for men of smaller stature, as it will not overpower your hand or make it look like you’re wearing your father’s watch. With bold Arabic numerals, a stainless steel case, and classic styling, this watch is an outstanding choice for an everyday watch and the man on a budget.
2. Nordgreen Pioneer – Black Dial
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Not everyone has an endless amount of cash to drop on a luxury timepiece. If you’re money-conscious but want something high-end, then why not consider the Nordgreen Pioneer.
An inspired take on a classic Chronograph, Nordgreen celebrates the Danish with what they call a timepiece “that captures the sustainable future.” Available in various dial colors from blue, black, and white. There’s even the choice of three case colors – gunmetal, silver, and rose gold. A perfect addition to the collection of any watch enthusiast.
3. Fossil Grant Brown Leather Watch
This lovely offering by Fossil features slim Roman numeral hour markers and delicate cut-out hands. The casing is stainless steel and is water-resistant to 165 feet, making it a great dive watch. The band is made of supple, soft calfskin leather and uses a buckle closure.
Of course, this timepiece also comes with the generous 11-year warranty and it’s own fun tin. This watch oozes class and is great for nearly every occasion in your life.
4. Citizen Sport Stainless Steel Men’s Watch With Brown Leather Band
If you don’t want to deal with changing out a battery in a digital watch, this watch is powered by either natural or indoor lighting. The mineral crystal face and stainless steel case make this watch water-resistant to 330 feet, making it a great choice for swimmers and snorkelers.
Handsome and utilitarian, this is a great watch for everyday wear. It’s one of the best watches for men who are always on the go.
5. Fossil Men’s Machine Chronograph Silicone Watch
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This watch was designed with the active man in mind. The knurled silicone band stands up to sweat and oils without issue, and the timepiece itself is water-resistant to 165 feet.
The patterned bezel and quality craftsmanship of the black dial is excellent, as is to be expected from a Fossil watch. It even comes in the iconic and collectible tin!
6. Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Watch
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This men’s watch features Japanese quartz movement that charges itself indoors or out when exposed to light, making it a great choice for those who don’t want to change out the battery too often. The stitched canvas strap is soft against your skin and will wick away moisture, while the mineral crystal face stands up to the rigors of your everyday life.
Water-resistant to 330 feet, this dive watch is a classic and simple design you’ll be proud of for years to come.
7. Invicta Pro Diver Chronograph Men’s Watch
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Another gorgeous offering by Invicta, this watch features a bold design with a slightly nautical feel to it. It will look at home whether you’re wearing a business suit or are going for a dive of less than 660 feet. This piece is also covered by a one-year warranty as a matter of course. The luminosity feature and magnified date window make it a great choice if you work or play in low light.
If you want something that looks like a Tag Heuer but without the luxury watch brand price tag, this is a good option!
8. Casio Edifice Multi-Function Men’s Watch
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This watch has three sub-dials for 12 hour, 60 minute and 60-second displays, in addition to the standard time. It also features a fold-over, push-down clasp on the stainless strap, keeping it secure throughout your activities. If you’re looking for a classy timepiece that shrieks sophistication, this is a great choice.
9. Fossil Machine Three Hand Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
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This quality watch is a chameleon piece. It looks at home as a dress watch riding below the cuff of your best suit, and it also looks great paired with jeans and a t-shirt. Backed by Fossil’s 11-year warranty as a matter of course and beautifully crafted, this smoke-colored piece is guaranteed to become the go-to accessory for nearly every occasion.
10. MVMT Watches Black Face Men’s Watch
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If you like the look of a simple watch, this minimalist offering from MVMT is right up your alley. With just a plain black face, tick marks to denote the hours and a single date window, there is nothing overdone or extravagant about this design. The is understated and suited to the simple design. It’s definitely a classy, low-key piece for the budget-conscious.
11. Timex Weekender Watch
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If you’re looking for a fun watch to pair with casual outfits, this is a great option. The band is blue and yellow woven nylon, and the face features both civilian and military timekeeping. An Indiglo night light is also included. This watch is water-resistant to 99 feet, meaning it can withstand splashes of water or exposure to rain but you won’t want to submerge it.
12. PUMA Ultrasize Black Sport Men’s Watch
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Boasting a 50mm diameter, this piece is perfect for the large-framed man or one who likes to wear his accessories oversized. A true fashion statement, this sports watch comes in eight different colors schemes to match your favorite hues.
Do be aware, however, that the dial knob is configure for left-handed men!
13. Timex Easy Reader Men’s Watch
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Another dress watch designed with the older gentleman in mind, this watch features a white dial with generously sized numerals that do not appear comical to the casual observer.
It’s also an excellent choice if you take your contacts out at night and still want to be able to check the time. With classic lines and a simple white face, the watch would not be out of place at any casual gathering. It comes with Timex’s one-year warranty at no additional charge.
14. Fossil Nate Men’s Chronograph Watch
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For men who like a more gritty, industrial feel to their accessories, this Fossil watch is right on point. The bezel is gear-edged and the face is utilitarian black and gray. Water-resistant to 165 feet, this watch is a great choice if you like your adornments to be understated yet add visual interest.
It’s definitely a stand-out piece, for those who would take notice!
15. Timex Expedition Field Chronograph Men’s Watch
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Featuring an indigo night light, tachymeter, a date window and a buckle closure, this watch is perfect for men who like to work or play outdoors. It is also water-resistant to 330 feet, making it a great choice for snorkeling or swimming.
You won’t want to wear it for diving, however. With classic, black styling and a genuine crystal face, this is a timepiece that will stand the test of time in both form and function.
16. Seiko 5 Automatic Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
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This Seiko automatic watch has all the bells and whistles you need, but presents it all in a plain and strikingly attractive manner. It features a date window in either English or Spanish, sword-shaped hands, a sweeping second hand and a mineral dial window. This is a great option for the man on the go. The canvas strap can be removed and hand-washed if sweat or other odors become an issue.
This watch is not water-resistant, so you’ll only want to wear it when you won’t be popping by the pool for a swim!
17. Invicta Pro Diver Collection Silver-Tone Men’s Watch
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For those who prefer an all-metal timepiece, the stainless steel Invicta fits the bill nicely. It has a similar aesthetic to a Tag Heuer watch, but at a more affordable price. Equipped with a unilateral bezel and removable links, the band can be customized to fit your wrist perfectly. The face is flame fusion crystal and features a magnifier to highlight the date window.
It’s also water-resistant to 660 feet. If you’re looking for a gorgeous watch that stands up to an active lifestyle, this is an excellent choice.
18. Seiko Men’s Adventure-Solar Classic Casual Watch
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This Seiko watch derives its power from either natural or indoor light and can withstand water depths of up to 330 feet. The supple brown leather strap and timeless brushed steel give this piece an attractive look, and the alarm chronograph is easy to set.
If you’re looking for a watch that can serve as a backup for your wake-up call while traveling, stand up to the elements and look awesome, this casual wrist watch is a winner.
19. Nautica Men’s Stainless Steel Watch with Blue Resin Band
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Featuring a plethora of options and a smart, snappy style, this a great casual watch with a eye-catching blue dial. The hardy resin band is adjustable, and the face is protected by a mineral window. Whether for work or play, this bold blue design is handsome and substantial on the wrist. It comes with Nautica’s five-year warranty at no additional charge.
20. Citizen Sport Men’s Stainless Steel Watch with Black Leather Band
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The black, red and white face of this piece eschews the traditional two-tone color scheme so often employed in other watches, and the contrasting stitching on the band adds creative flair. It comes backed by Citizen’s five-year warranty and will compliment any casual outfit.
21. Alessi Tic15 Analog Display Analog Quartz Black Men’s Watch
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Another not-quite-round offering on our list, the curved square casing of this piece gives it instant visual appeal. Sleek and clean, this unfussy design will be a compliment to almost any occasion. It has quartz movement and is water-resistant to 99 feet, making it a great choice for everyday wear.
22. Invicta 1517 I Force Collection Watch
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Another on our list designed for left-handed men, this watch is something special. Water-resistant to 330 feet and featuring oversize stenciled numbers and a sub dial, this watch is great for any casual outfit. The cloth band is extremely durable and stands up to dirt, sweat and grime.
If you lead an active lifestyle, this watch will be right at home in your collection.
23. TRIWA Blue Steel Nevil Canvas Watch
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This watch comes in a whopping 14 color variations, all of them beautiful. You may decide to add more than one to your collection!
Designed in Sweden, this watch features Japanese quartz movement, a stainless steel casing and a strap made from Tärnsjö organic leather. TRIWA, which stands for Transforming the Industry of Watches, believes in the artistry of fine jewelry and it shows in their product.
24. Victorinox Swiss Army Alliance Watch
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Another fine dress watch from the makers of the Swiss Army knife, this watch is emblazoned with the internally recognized cross and shield emblem. It has no sub-dials, tachymeter or other add-ons to detract from its simple and appealing style.
This watch will be at home with all but the most formal of outfits and carries a two-year warranty.
25. Ingersoll Automatic Stainless Steel Bull Run Watch
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Again, Ingersoll remakes the classics and brings them into the present day. With a highly polished stainless steel casing, two sub-dials, a date aperture and arrow-shaped hands, this quartz watch is beautiful.
The band features contrasting stitching on the fine-grain leather, adding depth and detail to the workmanship. This watch will compliment any casual occasion and can be relied upon for years to come.
26. Tissot Quickster Chronograph Black Leather Men’s Watch
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Made with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and Swiss automatic movement, this watch is a smart and utilitarian choice. If you’re looking for a solid Swiss watch that isn’t flashy, this is an excellent option. It’s also guaranteed for two years.
27. Seiko Sport Solar Men’s Beige Watch
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Are you getting tired of squinting down at your watch or holding it closer and closer to your face? Don’t worry, we all get a bit nearsighted with age, especially over the age of 40.
If you’re not quite ready for reading glasses or a comically huge watch, this is a great choice from Seiko. The numerals, indices and luminous hands stand out in stark white against a black background, and the numerals are generous in size. It’s a perfect casual watch for the older gentleman.
28. Seiko Men’s 5 Watch Blue Canvas Band
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This simple and affordable watch has a clean, crisp aesthetic to it and doesn’t bog down its design with a ton of bells and whistles. It’s time and date, end of.
If you want a watch for casual wear, this Seiko is a shoo-in. The band is forgiving and comfortable against your wrist, and it’s blue color will likely compliment your existing wardrobe. The price is also extremely affordable.
29. Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Stainless Steel Watch With Brown Leather Band
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Featuring the Hilfiger logo at the three o’clock position, this wrist watch is a statement piece. It is a bright, shiny stainless steel work of art that you’ll be proud to wear at all but the most stuffy of workplaces. The calfskin leather band uses a buckle closure and the date window is beside the logo at three o’clock.
If you’re a fan of Tommy clothing, cologne or luggage, you can complete your look with this stunning accessory.
