Plastic, Lattice Alternatives, and Installation Instructions
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Adeck is a wonderful additionto any home.
A deck takes you above the world.
Enclosing the bottom of your deck can keep debris out while adding privacy for usable areas below taller decks.
emholk / Getty Images
Basics of Installing Deck Lattice
Latticeis available in either plastic or wood.
A few solid attachment points for lattice are found on thedeck.
On top, the lattice can be fastened to the deck’s rim joist or beam.
On the sides, it can be attached to the vertical posts.
Both diamond and square styles are usually available.
Molded as one piece, plastic lattice holds together well when cut.
Because the lower area ofdecksis often in contact with vegetation, vinyl’s durable, water-resistant nature reduces maintenance.
Yet plastic lattice provides fewer style choices than wood lattice.
It cannot be stained.Painting plasticlattice is possible to some degree.
But you lose the benefit of plastic’s baked-in color by painting it.
When plastic lattice has become discolored, the solution is to clean it since it cannot be painted.
Wood lattice comes in 8-foot lengths that are 2 to 4 feet high.
A chief advantage of wood lattice is that you might control the style.
Since the wood comes uncoated, it can be stained, painted, or left toweather on its own.
Wood is rigid, so it won’t bend as much as plastic lattice.
Wood lattice, though, does require frequent maintenance by repainting or applying more protective coating.
Since wood lattice is made from individual slats, these slats can become detached when you are cutting it.
Codes, Regulations, and Permits
Building a deck often requires a permit in many areas.
Transfer this measurement to the two-by-four.
Cut the two-by-four with the circular saw ormiter saw.
Step back the L-angles by 1 1/2 inches from the front of the posts.
Drill the two-by-four into place against the L-angles.
On the side, the lattice should reach the center of the posts, less 1/4-inch.
Cut the Lattice to Size
Transfer the measurements to the lattice.
For vinyl lattice, use a blade suitable for cutting plastics.
For wood lattice, use a fine-toothed blade.
Attach the Lattice to the Deck
Pre-drill holes every 24 inches around the perimeter of the lattice.
Hold the lattice against the installation area and screw it into place.
The lattice should be able to slightly move to allow for expansion and contraction.
Attach the Moulding Around the Lattice
Measure all four sides of the lattice.
Transfer those measurements to the molding (which can be either plastic or wood) before cutting the moulding.
Frame the lattice under your deck by attaching the moulding with screws.
Each screw should run from the moulding to the rear attachment point, but not piercing the lattice.
The lattice should be free to move.
Lattice is typically installed inside a frame.
Staples can be used for both vinyl and wood lattice.
Attach the frame for your lattice to a concrete foundation by drilling into the foundation with amasonry bit.
Use masonry screws to secure the wood to the concrete before installing your lattice.
Acircular sawor miter saw can be used to cut plastic lattice.
What’s the Average Cost to Build a Deck?HomeAdvisor.
