Before the hot summer sets in, my in-laws want to update their backyard deck and asked up for some help.
One of the first things they needed help with was figuring out lattice alternatives under the deck.
They wanted something that looked nicer and more unique.
Traditional lattice isn’t really their vibe, but they still wanted something that low-effort and sharp-looking.
After a bit of back and forth and lots of research, we landed on decorative screens as our top pick.
They’re modern, easy to install, and come in way more styles than we expected.
Honestly, once we saw them, we were kind of jealous isn’t wasn’t our deck.
But my in-laws are super happy!
So I wanted to share this idea with you in case your looking for ways to spruce up your deck this summer.
How to Use Decorative Screens Under Your Deck
Decorative screens look so much more polished on a deck.
And they don’t make you feel like you’re trapped in a giant garden trellis!
It was surprising easy and painless to install and the final look made their whole backyard feel upgraded.
If you’re hunting for lattice alternatives for under your deck, this is hands-down the easiest and nicest option we found.
Tools and Materials
To start, we grabbed some decorative screens in a design that matched their deck style.
We went with black, but decorative screens also come in white!
Since we didn’t want to attach it directly to the deck, we built a quick frame to fit under the deck with some wood strips and used a small saw to cut one screen down to size.
A measuring tape, drill, and level were also key to making sure things fit and didn’t hang on a slant.
How to Install
The screens went up one at a time, starting with the most visible section.
We wanted to make sure the first one was level before adding any screws.
If that one was off, the rest would follow!
Once we were happy with the placement, we drilled them into the frame, trimmed the final panel to fit, and stepped back to admire the new look.
It honestly felt like the whole deck got a makeover just from this one change.
Tips and Tricks
Of course, we had to do some course correction throughout the process, but here are a few things we learned:
- Pre-drill holes in the screens to avoid cracking, especially if you’re using composite or plastic ones.
- Match your screws to the screen color for a cleaner look—tiny detail, big difference.
- Stain or paint your wood frame before attaching everything, or you’ll be lying on the ground with a paintbrush later.
- Add landscaping or planters in front if you want to hide seams or gaps (we totally did this).
Most importantly, don’t block everythingt too tightly!
Airflow under the deck is still important, especially if it’s shaded and damp.
Do You Even Need Deck Skirting?
So I always thought skirting was absolutely necessary on a deck, but apparently it isn’t.
However, if you don’t put anything along the bottom of your deck, you could end up with weeds, trash blowing under there, or little critters making homes.
Plus it kind of looks unfinished.
If you have a low to the ground deck or one high enough to give you usable space, you can probably get away without one.
But just be ready to keep that area clean and maybe toss in some landscaping to make it feel intentional and finished.
More Deck Skirting Ideas That Aren’t Lattice
If you’re not feeling the classic criss-cross look, you’ve got a lot of options!
There are so many ways to finish off the bottom of your deck that don’t involve busted lattice or crawling underneath with a staple gun.
These ideas range from super simple to more solid and permanent, depending on your style and how much effort you want to put in:
- Horizontal wood slats: Clean, modern lines that look great with almost any home style.
- Corrugated metal panels: A little rustic, a little industrial, and surprisingly easy to work with.
- Vertical board-on-board planks: Gives off a fence-like vibe.
- Tall planter boxes: Pretty and functional. You can cover the space and grow herbs while you’re at it.
- Stone or brick veneer: More work, but gives your deck that solid, built-in look.
- Composite skirting panels: Low maintenance and designed to last through all kinds of weather.
- Painted plywood with trim: Budget-friendly and surprisingly sharp-looking when finished well.
- Hog wire panels with a wood frame: A good in-between for airflow and structure.
- Louvered wood panels: Sleek and slightly angled for a cool, custom look.
- Reclaimed pallet wood: Rustic, affordable, and easy to personalize with paint or stain.
Whatever you choose, it should fit your style and your energy level.
Some of these are perfect for a quick weekend project, and others will give your space a more permanent, polished feel.
But all of them beat cracked lattice and weeds peeking through!
Skip the Lattice for Under Your Deck!
You don’t have to settle for the same old lattice when there are way better-looking, easier-to-install options out there!
Decorative screens gave our in-laws’ deck a fresh, modern feel without a ton of work.
Some options offer privacy, some hide clutter, and some just make everything look more finished.
Whatever your reason, there’s a skirting idea out there that fits your vibe.
And you know what? This could spur some more ideas like a backyard kitchen!
Grab your drill, pick a style you love, and give that under-deck space the glow-up it deserves.
