What Is Lattice?

Wood lattice is the type that typically comes to mind when one thinks of lattice. The primary advantage of this material is that you can paint or finish it. Wood lattice is frequently used as porch or deck skirting. It’s also the best type of lattice for crafting because it’s inexpensive and very simple to cut and finish. Some of the most popular types of wood lattice crafts are decorative headboards and wall art.

Plastic lattice is a low-maintenance choice if you want to use lattice in the garden. It’s a great option for simple structures like trellises and arbors, and you can attach it to more substantial structures such as fence posts, pergolas and gazebos. Plastic is weather resistant, so you don’t have to worry about it cracking or rotting. Plastic lattice never needs painting and comes in a variety of colors and faux woodgrain designs giving you the convenience of a synthetic with a more traditional look.

Like plastic, PVC lattice is durable and weather resistant, which makes it a prime choice for outdoor use. Because of its thick, rugged construction, PVC lattice is one of the best types of faux wood lattice for building structures to conceal swimming pool pumps and air conditioners. It also makes for an attractive enclosure for outdoor trash cans to keep away raccoons and other pests. You can find PVC lattice in essentially any color or type of wood-grain pattern you want.

CPVC lattice has many of the same benefits of PVC lattice and is made from chlorinated polyvinyl chloride. The extra chlorination gives the material better heat resistance and greater overall durability. CPVC lattice is more stable in direct sun, hotter climates and areas with wide temperature swings. It resists warping and maintains strength better than standard PVC, which makes it ideal for long-term outdoor installations.

Decorative resin lattice panels typically aren’t intended to be used as a building material like wood, PVC or plastic lattice. Instead, you can hang them on indoor walls as artwork or in an outdoor sitting area, such as a porch or patio, to create a décor piece.

Polypropylene lattice is another versatile material for both indoor and outdoor use. Because you can paint it to match the surrounding décor, polypropene lattice is an excellent choice for stylish privacy screens around hot tubs and on porches and patios.

Vinyl lattice is an affordable option that won’t fade, split or warp from exposure to the elements. It comes in many different patterns and colors to suit virtually any décor theme, and you can clean and maintain it with minimal effort.

Lattice is a good choice for framing a garden area. You can even use it as a trellis to support tomato plants or flowering vines or incorporate it into a raised planting bed design.

Privacy lattice is an easy, low-cost way to give your outdoor seating area or garden a more secluded feel while keeping the space open and airy. You can attach your privacy-screen lattice to posts, a simple frame or outdoor walls to build a custom screen that fits your space and style.

One unexpected way to augment the look of plain deck railing or a privacy wall is to incorporate lattice into the design. This adds beauty without totally obstructing the view and provides additional space for creeping vines to grow if you’d like to add more greenery to an outdoor area.

If you’re looking for a new way to incorporate mood lighting into a patio or pool area, you can use lattice as a place to hang outdoor string lights. This practical and inexpensive idea transforms any space into a conversation area without the need to call an electrician.

Using lattice to create an outdoor wall planter is a simple way to add vertical greenery and bring more life to your patio or garden. The open grid makes it easy to hang pots or small planter boxes, while giving climbing plants plenty of support as they grow. You can mount a lattice panel to a fence or exterior wall then mix and match herbs, flowers or climbing plants to build a custom display that fits your style. It’s an affordable project that turns an empty wall into a living feature that feels fresh and inviting. For instructions detailing how to build your own wall planter, see our how-to video.