How to Add Lattice to the Bottom of a Deck

There are a lot of reasons for adding lattice to the bottom of your deck. Hiding clutter and giving your plants a background are but two. It also gives your outdoor tools a place out of the weather that is both convenient and inexpensive to build.

Cost of Adding Lattice

Cost can vary due to length and height of the deck. Keep in mind if your support post is not on four-foot centers you will need to buy non-structural support in order to nail or screw the lattice panels.

Right now my local Home Depot charges:

4'x 8' Lattice Panel $12.97

8' U-Molding $ 6.97

1 Lb. Deck Screws $ 8.69

Estimating the project you would multiple $20.00 plus applicable sales tax times the number of panels you would need for the project. If you measure the length of the deck and divide by 4 you will know how many 8'x 4' panels you will need and therefore the cost of the project if you do it yourself.

Keep in mind if your post are not on four foot centers you will need to add the cost of the 4"x 4" post and bags of quick concrete to the total. Also if you're under deck is higher then 8' you will need additional lattice panels as well to complete the project and that could also add to the cost.

Steps to Adding Lattice to the Under Deck

Step 1- Gather the tools you will need for the project:

2 Sawhorses

1 Measuring tape

1 Drill

1 Jigsaw or Small circular saw

1 Two foot level

Step 2- If you intent to paint or stain this would be the best time. The reason I would do this step second is because it will be much easier to keep off the house or anything under the deck.

Spraying the lattice and u-mold would insure an even coating and help to speed up the process. Trying to paint or treat lattice is very labor intensive by hand and not recommended.

Did you know they now make these materials in vinyl? They are easily maintainable if you are using white as your color.

Step 3- If the under deck is exactly 8' then start by drilling pilot holes through the lattice and the u-molding so that when they are screwed to the support they are screwed together as well. This gives added support and makes the job faster.

Also it is smarter at this time to screw a couple of holes in the mid section for the u-molding to fasten to the lattice sheet so they are easy to hold and screw the ends in the support post. Make sure they are square when screwed together.

Step 4- Now is the time to add the lattice panels. You will need a second person to hold the panel up while you position it correctly. Make sure you position the lattice panel on center with the support post.

Before you drill the first lattice panel in place. Insure that it is level and square. This will be important for the following panels, because if the first panel is not square and level then neither will the following panels.

Step 5- The last step is to go back and touch up any small marks on the paint or stain.

That is all there is to adding lattice panels to your deck. It is a great project for DIY homeowners and looks fabulous when you're finished.