Under Deck Lattice Wall

If you have a deck or are planning to build a deck, you may want to consider adding a lattice wall underneath. When you add a lattice wall to your deck you immediately create some more storage room as well as dress up the exposed beams and support system that holds up the deck. A lattice wall is easy to install and very affordable.

For a general type lattice wall project, you will need the following:

Materials:

Measuring tape
Drill, with drill bit and Phillips driver bit
Level
Speed square
Circular saw
Miter saw
Safety goggles
Lattice
Lattice molding
Pressure-treated 2" x 2" boards
Galvanized screws
Hinges
Gate latch
 
Before you measure out your job, keep in mind that lattice typically comes in 4 foot by 8 foot sheets. If the support posts that are under your deck are more than 4 feet apart, you may want to go ahead and install some non-load-bearing posts at 4 foot intervals. This will allow you to nail easily as you position the lattice.

Another option is use what are called H-moldings. These allow you to seam pieces of lattice together. If you use H-molding, you will need to install a stake at the bottom to hold the lattice in place. The stake can be placed inside the wall so as not to be noticed from the outside.

   1. If you plan to install lattice between your deck posts, you will need some supports to hold it in place. You can make supports by cutting 2 inch by 2 inch supports. Cut to fit the length of the deck posts as well as the area along the bottom of the deck between the posts. Attach the supports to your posts by using exterior-grade deck screws.

   2. Measure and cut sections of lattice U-molding to fit each space. Use an inside miter cut on each corner.

   3. You can now cut the lattice panels to size with a circular saw or jigsaw. When you make your measurements, allow ¼ inch more on each side to allow for expansion and contraction of the panels.

   4. Snap the molding onto the lattice and make sure it is seated.

   5. Position the panel and molding and drill pilot holes through the molding. You can now secure the lattice with screws.

   6. Create a 2" by 4" support for the door. Toenail the top of the support into the deck and then secure the bottom of the support to a stake. Make sure that you check the support for plumb.

   7. Measure the opening for the doorway, allowing ¼ inch on each side for contraction and expansion.

   8. Make a simple door frame out of 2" by 4" boards. Attach the boards with deck screws.

   9. Cut a lattice panel to fit the door frame, and attach lattice trim around edges. Attach the lattice to the door frame with galvanized screws.

  10. Attach hinges to the door and attach a door handle to the outside. If you wish, attach a lock hasp as well.

  11. Attach the hinges to the door support to secure the door.

Your new lattice wall will look great, provide storage, and keep animals away. If you wish, you can now paint or stain your new wall.