Tools and Materials
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What Are the Different Types of Deck Lattice?
Outdoor lattice panels are available in a variety of materials to match or accent the exterior of your home and deck. Learn about each one and the key points of each type.
Vinyl Lattice
Vinyl lattice panels are a long-lasting and budget-friendly option for your deck. Vinyl can resist twisting, warping, rotting or splitting. It also contains UV protection to keep its looks for years to come. Vinyl is available in a variety of colors, along with the classic white, that are easy to maintain and clean with soap and water. Matching trim pieces are also available.
Polypropylene Lattice
Polypropylene lattice offers an interesting option for your indoor and outdoor spaces in that they come premade as a framed panel in different sizes. Polypropylene is made from recycled materials, which makes it strong, durable and beautiful. Like vinyl it can resist warping, splitting, twisting, rotting and is resistant to high temperatures. It will also keep its color and can be painted for a new look. Panels usually have color-matching screw cap covers for a uniform look.
Plastic Lattice
Plastic lattice is affordable and easy to install. This lattice is available in both large sheets and framed decorative panels. You have a choice of a variety of fade-resistant colors that can be used to ad to your decking or construct trellises, garden fences and privacy screens. Made from UV-stabilized plastic, it too won’t rot, split or peel.
Wood Lattice
When you say deck lattice, many people immediately think of traditional diamond-look wood lattice. The versatility of wood lattice makes it a popular choice for both decking and creating accessory pieces. Wood lattice comes in spruce, yellow pine, redwood, and cedar. Wood can be painted or stained, or with redwood and cedar allowed to weather naturally and attractively. Also, redwood and cedar are naturally resistant to decay, rot and insects.
PVC and CPVC Lattice
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) and CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride) are both made from PVC, the difference being CPVC had added chlorine. This helps CPVC to be more rigid and resistant to higher temperatures. Either composition makes for an excellent choice in lattice panels. These panels are exceptionally durable, are impact resistant and are usually used as privacy screens on decks. They can be installed as sized or trimmed to fit a smaller space using lattice caps.
Aluminum Lattice
Aluminum lattice panels are a versatile and durable choice for both functional and decorative areas of your deck. Aluminum is resistant to rust, corrosion and weathering, and requires little maintenance. The allure of these panels is the different designs and color options available to accent your outdoor space. Aluminum can also be powder-coated for a specific shade. Thanks to its durability, privacy screens, trellises and fencing are some of the ways that aluminum lattice can be used.
Decorative Uses for Lattice
In our materials section, we referenced the many ways that lattice and lattice panels can be used. Let’s take a closer look at the most popular possibilities.
Under Deck Skirting
Deck skirting is the traditional look for lattice. It is an essential addition, providing a completed look to your deck, especially if you use below the deck boards for storage. It allows for ventilation via its open patterns. It will also help prevent any wildlife from getting under your deck. The most common materials for deck skirting lattice are wood, vinyl, and plastic. All of these are easy to install and flexible enough to be trimmed to fit any configuration. Lattice skirting will compliment many home styles like traditional, farmhouse, and modern, adding both curb appeal and privacy to your home’s looks.
Privacy Screens
For a different look from wood, think about a lattice privacy screen made from materials like CPVC or polypropylene. This is an easy way to add décor and seclusion to your deck or patio area. Available as single panels or in screen kits, you can add to deck railings for a unique visual combination or use as a stand alone wind breaker or screen to shield you from line of sight. You can choose from a variety of colors and style to create a one of a kind visual statement. Durable and low-maintenance, you can enjoy the look for years to come.
Decorative Accents
Thanks to its style and easy to work with materials, lattice can be more than just an outdoor accent. There is an assortment of do-it-yourself projects using lattice that enhance your backyard. You can hang a section of lattice to function as a garden lattice trellis for climbing plants like clematis, wisteria, roses, Mandeville or ivy. Use wood for a natural look or plastic for easy cleaning. Use lattice to make or add to a planter box for a unique look and plant support. Pergolas and arbors can incorporate lattice for shade and a base for climbing plants. And keep your trash cans out of sight with an enclosure made with lattice. All of these can be made with wood, vinyl, and plastic sheets of lattice. Lattice can also be used as a pattern in wet concrete for stepping stones.
Inside your home can also be enhanced using lattice. The distinctive pattern can be used as a painting stencil for walls or floors. Sheets can be trimmed and used as a budget-friendly wainscoting. For a crafty touch, use a small piece of plywood and lattice to make a memento board. You can even use a piece of wooden lattice as a kitchen trivet.
Installing Lattice with Decking
No matter what lattice material that you select, the panels will basically come in one of two common sizes: 4-ft H x 8-ft L or 2-ft H x 8-ft L. The open space you want to cover will determine the best size for your needs. Keep in mind that all of the panels can be trimmed for an optimal fit. There are several ways to install lattice skirting under a deck. For this example we will be building a frame for the lattice panels. This method can also be used for other uses like privacy panels, trellises and lattice for garden fences.
Constructing a deck typically necessitates a permit in numerous locations. While adding lattice beneath a deck might not require one, it's always best to verify with your local building department.
Measure and Assemble the Frame
Use the tape measure to find the inside distance between the deck posts. Next, measure the distance from the ground or floor to the underside of the deck. Your completed frame should be ½-inch narrower than the inside width and 1-inch shorter than the height to allow for proper fitting.
Cut the pressure treated boards to the measurements you took. Lay them out as a large square or rectangle (depending on the measurements) on a flat work space. Using your cordless drill and the included hardware, install a mending brace at the upper edge where the boards meet. Then mount a flat L brace closer to the inside corner to bolster the frame.
Once the outer frame has been assembled, add a center piece to sturdy the construction. Use a mending brace to secure.
For this example we are using pressure treated lumber. Pressure treated wood needs to season for three to four months before painting or staining.
If you are using regular lumber and want to paint or stain the frame, now is the time to do this. Use a good exterior paint and primer or stain and primer for regular lumber.
Cut the Lattice Panel
Your lattice panels should be one inch shorter than the frame on each side. Measure and mark the cut lines with a pencil.
When cutting lattice with your circular saw, it is important to have the proper blade to minimize the chance of splitting or breaking. It is recommended to use a 6-1/2 or 7-1/4-inch circulars saw blade designed to cut wood, vinyl and plastic. Look for a high blade tooth count and a fine or ultra-fine finish to reduce leaving a rough edge.
Place a board under the lattice sheet with your marked line upwards next to the board edge. Set the blade depth ½-inch lower than the lattice panel thickness. Power the saw to full speed and move slowly along the cut line. Use 120-grit sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges.
Attach the Lattice
Lay the trimmed lattice on the frame and position it in place. Secure the panel with clamps. Using the cordless drill, predrill holes every 18-24 inches around the lattice edge. Install the stainless steel screws in the drilled holes.
If you have a panel that has the lattice meet in the middle, you can fasten the seam with two rows of screws. Be sure not to overtighten the screws to allow for the panel to move with natural expansion and contraction.
Install the Finished Panels
The finished panels can be attached to the deck posts using corner braces. If you have a smaller panel, like one under a porch deck, consider using a T-hinge or strap hinge on the top of the frame to allow for storage underneath.
Lattice Care and Maintenance
To keep your lattice panels looking good for years to come, follow these simple upkeep suggestions.
- Annually check for loose screws or damaged lattice sections.
- Regularly inspect hinges and frames, and oil hinges as needed.
- Promptly repair any damage or issues to prevent further problems.
- Remove any buildup behind the lattice to prevent moisture damage.
- Trim vines or plants growing on the lattice to prevent overgrowth.
For wood lattice, apply a water-repellent sealer or repaint or restain the wood lattice every two to three years.
For vinyl or plastic lattice, clean your lattice regularly with a soft brush and mild soap solution. You can also pressure wash dirty sections with the proper nozzle for cleaning.
For metal lattice, check for any rust or signs of wear.