Give Your Deck a Modern Makeover With These Skirting Ideas

Is your deck looking a little stale and dated? Now may be the perfect time to give it a modern facelift with some stylish skirting ideas. Skirting the area below and around your deck opens up endless possibilities to amp up the style with contemporary materials, textures, and accents.

Read on for inspiration to revitalize the look of your outdoor living space.

Evaluate Your Existing Deck

Before diving into a deck makeover, take some time to assess your current setup. Consider the existing size, layout, traffic flow, and materials used. This will help determine if full demolition is needed, or if you can simply make some choice modifications to modernize the style.

Also look at how the deck relates to your home's architecture and the overall backyard landscaping. Aim for cohesive design between the home exterior, decking, and surroundings.

Decking Material

Look at your current deck boards closely. Composite and treated lumber decking tend to have a more traditional look, while exotic hardwoods and porcelain tiles create a more modern feel. If replacing the entire deck isn't in your budget, you can still freshen it up with cleaning, staining, or painting.

Railings

Assess the current deck railings. Do they align with the home's architectural style? Swapping out traditional spindled railings with sleek glass panels or thin cable railings can lend a contemporary edge.

Skirting

Take note of your existing skirting type and condition. Closed-in skirting tends to look more dated compared to open-air styles. Look for ways to open up the space below the deck while still achieving privacy.

Select a Modern Skirting Material

Choosing the right skirting material is key in creating a modern deck look. There are many options available today offering clean lines and low maintenance.

Wood

Wood naturally lends a modern, organic look. Opt for wide, reclaimed boards or bamboo panels attached vertically for a sleek finish.

Composite

Composite decking makes a durable, fuss-free skirting choice. Many composites now mimic wood grain for a natural yet modern appearance.

Aluminum

Sleek aluminum panels or lattice provide an ultra-modern look and are easy to maintain. This lightweight option also allows more light below the deck.

Corrugated Metal

A popular skirting choice, corrugated metal panels offer clean lines, durability, and good insulation. The ribbed texture adds modern appeal.

Concrete

Poured or precast concrete can create a striking, sculptural look. Consider adding modern patterns for added visual punch.

Tile

From Mediterranean inspired mosaics to linear brick, tile skirting provides texture and color for contemporary flair.

Glass

For wide open views, glass panels make a stunning modern choice. Frameless glass rails maintain visibility while defining the space.

Add Visual Interest With Texture

Skirting textures influence the overall aesthetic of your deck. Mixing materials and surfaces lends depth and contemporary appeal.

Wood Grain

Highlight the natural wood grain by arranging boards vertically. Add interest by alternating between roughsawn and smoother composite panels.

Fabric and Turf

For softness, use faux turf panels or outdoor fabric on your skirting. Great for kids play spaces.

Geometric Patterns

Make a statement with triangle lattice patterns or overlapping metal panels in geometric shapes.

Concrete Staining

Stained or stamped concrete skirting provides modern texture. Gray tones suit contemporary designs.

Incorporate Modern Railings

Switch out your deck railings to more modern materials for instant style. Focus on clean lines and minimal fuss.

Glass Panels

Frameless or barely-there glass makes a contemporary choice to maximize views without compromising safety.

Cable Railings

Stainless steel cable infill is a hot trend for modern decks. Super slim profile and less obstruction of views.

Metal Pickets

Sleek metal railing pickets in stainless steel or powder coated aluminum provide eye-catching modern appeal.

Illuminate With Lighting

Strategically placed lighting transforms any deck into a gorgeous modern oasis after dark. Emphasize key architectural and design elements.

LED Strips

Discreet LED strip lighting installed under railings or stairs create a cool ambiance.

Uplighting

Uplights placed along the base of the skirting wash the deck in a soft modern glow.

Accents

Spotlights, step lights and post cap fixtures provide modern accents and safety.

Define the Space With Fencing

Rethink deck boundaries and privacy with modern deck fencing ideas that pop.

Glass Fencing

Frameless glass panels enable visibility while defining the deck's footprint.

Cable Fencing

A series of taut horizontal cables create a minimalist border and transparent barrier.

Metal Pickets

Sleek metal or aluminum fence pickets in modern shapes provide an ultra-modern edge.

Make a Bold Statement With Color

Color choices create visual impact. Painted or stained finishes for skirting, railings, decking and fencing make a strong style statement.

Wood Stains

Opt for on-trend gray wood stains or keep it light with contemporary white washed tones.

Painted Skirting

Use your favorite bold modern hues like cobalt blue or charcoal gray to paint the skirting area.

Coordinating Colors

Choose complementary colors for decking, railings, and skirting for a pulled together modern look.

Get Creative With Accents

Draw the eye with unexpected modern accents and accessories that enhance your new decking style.

Hanging Planters

Add a burst of green with rows of modern planter boxes, hanging plants or living walls.

Murals

Make the skirting a canvas for artistic expression. Paint modern murals or add graffiti art.

Sculptural Elements

Incorporate modern sculpture, water features, or fire elements for artistic flair.

Finish With Furniture + Accessories

Curate your modern deck with minimalist outdoor furniture and lively accent pieces.

Furniture

Choose sleek outdoor sofas, chairs and tables in fresh white or gray tones.

Vibrant pillows, rugs and patio umbrellas inject playful pops of color and whimsy.

The skirting around your deck offers ample opportunity to infuse modern style. With the right combination of materials, textures, accessories and color, you can give your deck an exciting contemporary makeover.