Why Horizontal Skirting Fails When Installed Incorrectly

Modern Design Only Works When It’s Built Right

Horizontal deck skirting has become a popular design choice for modern decks, but when installed incorrectly, it can cause serious long-term damage to the deck structure underneath.

At B&B Decks, we frequently inspect decks where horizontal skirting was installed for appearance alone — without consideration for ventilation, drainage, or access. These decks often show early signs of rot, corrosion, and moisture damage.

Horizontal skirting is not a cosmetic upgrade. It is part of the deck system.

1. Boards Installed Too Tight Together

One of the most common mistakes is installing horizontal skirting boards with little or no spacing between them.

Without adequate gaps, airflow beneath the deck is severely restricted, trapping moisture and humidity against framing members.

2. No Consideration for Ground Clearance

Horizontal skirting installed too close to grade absorbs moisture continuously. Even composite and PVC materials can trap moisture against framing if clearance is ignored.

• Organic debris collects behind boards
• Moisture cannot evaporate
• Pests gain access beneath the deck

3. Incorrect Fasteners and Framing

Horizontal skirting systems rely on proper backing and corrosion-resistant fasteners. When improper materials are used, boards loosen, warp, or fail prematurely.

In coastal Virginia, salt air accelerates corrosion when hardware is not rated for exterior exposure.

4. Blocking Required Ventilation Openings

Horizontal skirting is often installed without designated ventilation openings. This creates a sealed cavity beneath the deck — the worst-case scenario for moisture management.

Proper ventilation must be intentionally designed, not assumed.

5. No Access Panels for Inspection

Many horizontal skirting installations completely block access beneath the deck. Without access doors, issues such as standing water, pests, or framing damage remain hidden until significant failure occurs.

How Horizontal Skirting Should Be Installed

When installed correctly, horizontal skirting can be both attractive and durable. At B&B Decks, we design skirting systems that:

• Maintain consistent airflow beneath the deck
• Include intentional spacing between boards
• Maintain proper ground clearance
• Use corrosion-resistant fasteners and framing
• Include access doors when required

Modern Skirting That Actually Lasts

Horizontal skirting can be a great design choice — when it’s engineered as part of the deck system.

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