I’ve always enjoyed making my outdoor space feel tidy and welcoming, and adding deck skirting was one of the best upgrades I made.
It’s a simple way to hide the open space under the deck, stop animals from sneaking in, and give the whole area a more finished look.
I didn’t need expensive tools or fancy materials- just a little time, basic supplies, and a clear idea. In this post, I’m sharing the most budget-friendly deck skirting ideas I’ve tried or bookmarked.
Each one adds charm, protects the space, and helps keep things neat. You don’t need to be a pro or spend a lot to make a big difference. If I can do it, so can anyone.
What Is Deck Skirting?
Deck skirting is the material you add between the base of your deck and the ground to cover the open gap underneath.
It gives your deck a more polished, finished look while doing a few useful things, like keeping out animals, hiding storage items, and blocking leaves or trash from blowing underneath.
You can make it from all sorts of materials, like wood planks, lattice panels, or even old pallets. It doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. A simple frame and the right material go a long way.
I like it because it adds curb appeal and makes the whole space look cleaner and more put-together. Plus, it’s an easy weekend project that gives quick results.
If your deck feels unfinished or looks messy at the bottom, skirting is a great, low-cost fix.
Inexpensive Deck Skirting Ideas
These budget-friendly deck skirting ideas help you cover the underside of your deck using simple, creative materials without spending too much.
1. Horizontal Wood Slats
Horizontal wood slats offer a clean, modern skirting option. You can use affordable furring strips or fence boards, spaced slightly apart for airflow. Paint or stain them to match your deck or home.
This design adds a sleek line that makes your outdoor space feel intentional without needing much wood. It’s easy to build, great for airflow, and budget-friendly to maintain.
2. Painted Lattice Panels
Lattice panels are classic and easy to personalize. Choose from wood or vinyl, then paint them in a bold or subtle shade to match your style. Attach with a simple frame and trim the edges for a finished look.
It’s lightweight, allows ventilation, and hides the space underneath your deck. Lattice is cost-effective and easy to work with for DIY projects.
3. Pallet Skirting
Reclaimed pallets make for charming, rustic deck skirting. Just disassemble the pallets, sand the boards, and arrange them vertically or horizontally. Pallets are often free, especially from local stores or warehouses.
With a coat of sealant or paint, you get a durable and character-filled look. This option gives your deck a farmhouse feel without spending a lot of money.
4. Corrugated Metal
Corrugated metal sheets bring an industrial vibe to your deck. Lightweight and rust-resistant, they’re perfect for outdoor use. Attach the panels to a wooden frame beneath your deck and add trim for a clean finish.
They reflect light nicely and stand up to the weather year-round. You can often find them on sale at hardware stores, making this a low-cost, stylish upgrade.
5. Bamboo Fencing Rolls
Bamboo rolls are lightweight, natural-looking, and easy to install. Just cut to size and attach to a wood frame or directly to deck posts with zip ties or staples.
It gives your deck a tropical, earthy feel on a tight budget. Bamboo is weather-resistant and adds texture without needing paint or stain. It’s perfect for quick, eco-friendly skirting with minimal effort.
6. Vinyl Privacy Screens
Vinyl screens offer a clean and low-maintenance skirting solution. They’re easy to wash, won’t rot, and come in different colors and patterns. Install them with basic framing for a polished look.
Vinyl is budget-friendly and holds up well in any climate. It’s great if you want a long-lasting, neat appearance without the upkeep of wood or other natural materials.
7. Chicken Wire with Frame
Chicken wire makes for a super affordable and practical skirting idea. Stretch it across a wooden frame and staple it securely. It keeps animals out while allowing full airflow.
You can paint the frame for a more finished appearance. This option works especially well for rural homes or gardens and is perfect for a no-fuss, functional look.
8. Recycled Shutters
Old shutters can be turned into unique, eye-catching skirting. Stand them side-by-side beneath your deck and secure them with simple framing. Paint or distress them for a vintage style.
They’re easy to find at thrift shops or salvage yards and add character instantly. This is a fun, low-cost way to reuse materials and create a one-of-a-kind outdoor accent.
9. Faux Stone Panels
Faux stone panels mimic real stone but are lightweight and much cheaper. They’re simple to cut and attach with construction adhesive or screws. Use them to create a high-end look without the heavy cost.
Many options are UV- and water-resistant, making them ideal for outdoor use. Great for anyone wanting a durable, stylish upgrade with minimal tools required.
10. Cedar Fence Pickets
Cedar pickets are naturally weather-resistant and easy to work with. Line them vertically for a classic, clean finish, or try a staggered design for interest.
Cedar’s natural tones look beautiful as-is or can be stained for a custom touch. It’s more affordable than full panels and offers a timeless look that blends well with almost any deck style.
11. PVC Boards
PVC boards are lightweight, waterproof, and easy to cut. They’re great for clean, low-maintenance deck skirting. You can install them horizontally or vertically using screws and a simple frame.
PVC resists rot, mold, and insects, making it a smart pick for damp climates. Paintable or left white, it gives a modern, polished finish while keeping your budget and upkeep low.
12. Repurposed Window Frames
Old window frames can be reused creatively to create a vintage-style skirt. Line them up side by side, secured to a frame, and leave the glass in or remove it for airflow.
Paint or distress them for added character. This approach is ideal for farmhouse or cottage-style decks and is a great way to recycle materials while adding something artistic and charming.
13. Trellis Panels
Trellis panels add a decorative touch and are available in wood or vinyl. They provide partial coverage while allowing airflow and light. Install them with framing to keep them stable.
You can grow vines or climbing plants through them for a living wall effect. Inexpensive and stylish, they’re perfect for those wanting privacy and beauty without blocking the whole space.
14. Galvanized Steel Sheets
Galvanized steel is strong, weatherproof, and gives your deck a sleek industrial look. Attach the sheets with screws onto a simple wooden frame. It reflects light, resists rust, and lasts for years.
Pair it with wood trim for contrast and a finished edge. Great for modern or farmhouse-inspired decks, and it adds an eye-catching element without much effort.
15. Brick Pattern Stick-on Panels
Stick-on brick panels offer the look of masonry without the cost or weight. They’re lightweight, easy to cut, and can be applied directly to plywood or backer boards.
Most are weather-resistant and made for outdoor use. This idea is perfect for getting that rustic or urban vibe under your deck without hiring a mason or pouring concrete.
16. Wooden Crate Pieces
Break apart old wooden crates and use the slats to make a rustic skirt. Nail or screw the boards into place on a frame, mixing sizes and tones for a patchwork look.
This option is inexpensive, creative, and great for farmhouse or eclectic styles. Seal or paint them for durability. It’s a fun way to repurpose materials and add texture.
17. Cinder Block Base with Planters
Stack cinder blocks as a short wall beneath your deck, then add planter boxes inside the top holes. This provides both skirting and space for greenery.
Paint or stain the blocks for a cleaner look. It’s a sturdy, inexpensive solution that keeps animals out while adding flowers or herbs to your outdoor space. No hammering or complex framing needed.
18. Plywood Sheets
Plywood is affordable and easy to install. Cut sheets to fit the deck perimeter and paint them any color or pattern you like. Add trim boards for a polished edge. Use outdoor-rated paint for long-lasting results.
This idea gives you full coverage and a neat finish, all while keeping costs low and offering room for creativity and customization.
19. Composite Deck Board Scraps
If you have leftover composite deck boards, repurpose them into skirting. Attach them horizontally or vertically to a frame for a cohesive look. Composite is weather-resistant, low-maintenance, and long-lasting.
It matches your deck perfectly and costs nothing if you’re using scraps. This option keeps materials out of landfills and helps your deck look tidy and consistent.
20. Hanging Garden Boxes
Install small garden boxes along the perimeter of your deck to act as both skirting and planters. Use wood or plastic containers and attach them to a support frame.
Fill them with flowers, herbs, or trailing plants for a natural screen. It’s an affordable way to hide under-deck space while adding color and freshness to your outdoor area.
21. Rope Lattice
Create a nautical or rustic look by weaving thick rope through a wooden frame under your deck. Use a strong outdoor rope and crisscross it into a lattice pattern.
It allows airflow while creating a natural, beachy barrier. This inexpensive and creative method works especially well near coastal areas or rustic backyards, and adds texture without requiring much cutting or measuring.
22. Exterior Fabric Skirts
Use durable outdoor fabric to create a curtain-style skirt. Attach it to a wooden or PVC frame using Velcro or outdoor hooks so it’s removable for cleaning. Pick weather-resistant fabrics in neutral or patterned prints.
It’s lightweight, easy to install, and provides full coverage. Great for softening the deck’s appearance and creating a breezy, casual look for seasonal use.
23. Upcycled Barn Wood
Use old barn wood planks to build a rugged, textured skirt. Arrange them vertically or horizontally with small gaps for ventilation. Each piece has unique grain and wear, giving your deck character.
This approach works well in rural settings or with rustic themes. It’s eco-friendly, budget-conscious, and offers visual warmth using aged wood that’s often available for free or cheap.
24. Treated 2×4 Wrap
Build a simple wrap skirt using pressure-treated 2x4s laid side-by-side. You can arrange them vertically for a fence-like look or horizontally for a modern style.
It’s sturdy, straight to the point, and easy for beginners to build. Paint or stain them to match your deck. Treated wood resists rot and pests, so it’s a solid option for long-term outdoor use.
25. Simple Trim Board Skirt
Use 1×4 or 1×6 trim boards evenly spaced along the base of the deck. Nail them directly to a support frame or post base. This minimal and clean approach adds subtle structure without crowding the design.
Paint or stain for contrast. Trim boards are budget-friendly, widely available, and easy to replace if needed, making this a fuss-free skirting solution.
26. Wattle Fencing Style
Wattle fencing uses thin, flexible branches woven through upright stakes to form a textured panel. It gives your deck a handmade, old-world feel and blends beautifully with garden settings.
You can collect sticks from your yard or local woods, making it nearly free. This method is eco-friendly and creative, though it takes a bit more time and care to construct.
27. Weathered Tin Panels
Repurpose old tin roofing or siding panels to add rustic charm under your deck. The aged patina brings character and texture. Attach the panels to a basic wood frame and trim for safety and style.
Weathered tin holds up well outdoors and creates a sturdy barrier. It’s perfect for farmhouses, cabins, or anyone wanting a touch of vintage flair.
28. Hanging Curtain Style Skirt
Install a rod or wire and hang curtains made from drop cloths or outdoor fabric. Let them drape to the ground and tie back when needed.
This idea adds softness and flexibility- you can open or close sections. It’s easy to clean, cheap to replace, and requires no sawing or drilling. Ideal for renters or seasonal privacy that looks charming, too.
29. Privacy Hedge Insert
Plant tall, dense shrubs like boxwood or arborvitae along the base of your deck. These natural hedges block the open space and add greenery.
Use mulch and edging to keep the area tidy. While it takes a bit longer to grow, it offers a permanent and beautiful solution with minimal upkeep after planting. Plus, it blends right into your yard.
30. Sliding Panel System
Build wooden or composite panels that slide on tracks under the deck. This allows easy access to the underside when needed, while keeping the area clean and hidden the rest of the time.
It’s a smart option for storage decks and gives a high-end look on a budget. Use basic rails or repurposed hardware to keep it affordable and functional.
31. Paver Border with Open Front
Line the base of your deck with a row of pavers or bricks to define the edge, but leave the front open for airflow or decorative pots.
It’s a low-cost way to outline and anchor the space visually. You can add lattice or low plants behind the pavers for partial coverage while keeping a casual, breezy feel.
32. Faux Wood Vinyl Wrap
Use vinyl sheeting that looks like wood to create a sleek skirt without the upkeep of real lumber. Attach it to a base frame and trim with plastic or aluminum for a clean edge.
This material won’t rot, peel, or warp, and cleans easily. It’s ideal for those who want a modern finish without the maintenance or cost of hardwood.
33. Mixed Material (Wood and Tin)
Mix short wood slats and scrap tin in a patchwork style to build a mosaic skirt. Alternate textures and tones for visual interest. This eclectic style uses small leftover pieces and works great for upcycling.
Frame it in dark wood for a bold border. It’s creative, cheap, and makes your deck a true one-of-a-kind feature in the backyard.
34. Pebble-Filled Frame
Build a wooden or metal frame and fill it with small decorative pebbles or river stones. Use landscape fabric behind to hold them in place and create contrast.
It allows water flow and gives a natural, textured look to your deck’s base. This low-maintenance option is great for modern or Zen-style yards and doesn’t require much material to pull off.
35. Laser-Cut Decorative Panels
Use laser-cut metal or PVC panels for a detailed, designer finish. These panels come in floral, geometric, or abstract patterns and can be mounted with simple screws.
They’re more affordable than they look and make a big impact. Available at home improvement stores or online, these panels elevate your deck’s appearance without needing a big budget or complicated tools.
Tips Before You Start
These simple DIY tips will help you plan, prep, and build your deck skirting more easily and avoid common mistakes.
- Measure carefully: Know the length, height, and slope under your deck before buying materials.
- Plan for airflow: Leave gaps or vents to keep moisture from building up underneath.
- Check local codes: Some areas have specific rules about deck skirting, especially near foundations.
- Prep the ground: Clear weeds, level the soil, and consider adding gravel for drainage.
- Use treated materials: Choose rot- and insect-resistant wood or weatherproof panels for durability.
- Start with a frame: A simple wooden or PVC frame helps keep panels straight and sturdy.
- Have tools ready: Basic tools like a saw, drill, measuring tape, and level will speed things up.
- Paint or stain first: It’s easier to finish materials before installing than after.
- Think about access: If you store things under your deck, add hinges or sliding panels.
- Sketch your plan: A rough drawing can help you stay organized and avoid last-minute mistakes.
Conclusion
Adding deck skirting has made a big difference in how my outdoor space looks and feels. I love how it hides the empty space below while adding a clean, finished touch.
You don’t need to spend a lot or be a pro to make it work- just choose the style that fits your space and get creative with the materials you have.
From pallet wood to lattice and even old shutters, there’s something here for every budget and taste. I’ve enjoyed trying out different ideas, and it always feels good to build something with my own hands.
If you’re ready to give your deck a fresh look, start with one of these simple skirting projects. Don’t forget to save this post and share your results- I’d love to see what you create.