So you built a shed with a solid foundation and properly constructed frame, siding, and roofing. The shed is an excellent addition to your property from the perspectives of both form and function. The only distraction from the professional look of the shed is a large gap between the shed and the ground. If you did not build your shed on a concrete slab, there is most likely space between the structure and the earth beneath. The gap is problematic because it allows space for critters to nest or gnaw their way into the shed. If your shed rests on unsightly cinder blocks, you may be looking for a way to conceal the supports. If the area under your shed is left open, the condition of your shed will likely deteriorate more rapidly over time than if you properly enclose the space. 

Thankfully shed skirting is a great solution for covering the gap, creating a finished look, and preventing animals from making a home underneath your shed. There are many different types of shed skirting, and sometimes it is referred to building skirting. Let’s take an in-depth look at shed skirting, what it is, why it’s important, and what options are available.

What is shed skirting?

Shed skirting is exactly what the name suggests. It is a material that covers the lower portion of the shed and conceals the crawl space beneath the building structure. The gap between the shed and ground can vary from a few inches to one foot or more. There are many different materials that can be used for shed skirting including lattice, bricks, lumber, vinyl, and more.

The Importance of Shed Skirting

Shed skirting is important for both the appearance and function of the shed. Let’s take a closer look at the reasons why shed skirting is important. 

Shed Skirting Creates a Finished Look

Skirting creates a clean, finished look by covering the framing, foundation, or gap at the bottom of the shed. In fact, many homeowners’ associations require property owners to skirt a shed if it rests on concrete blocks. Concrete blocks, gaps, raw foundation, and unfinished framing detract from the overall look of the structure, and building skirting is a necessary finishing touch. 

Shed Skirting Protects Against Pests

In addition to improving the visual appearance of the shed, skirting provides an important function. Skirting prevents pets, wild animals, and rodents from getting into the area beneath the shed, making a home, chewing wires, and finding a way inside. The space under your shed is not a good space for animals to rest or reside, and you need to install shed skirting to keep critters out. If you want to create a proper shelter for an animal, visit this DIY page for inspiration. 

Shed Skirting allows for Ventilation 

Proper shed skirting maintains ventilation underneath sheds. Without adequate ventilation, moisture can build up under the shed. When moisture builds up, mold can grow. Ventilation is also necessary if you store flammable liquids such as fertilizers, pool chemicals, or gasoline in your shed. 

Shed Skirting Extends the Lifetime of the Shed

If you want your shed to last as long as possible, you need to take care of the foundation, floor, and ground beneath the shed. It would be a shame to build a nice shed only to have it deteriorate from rotting and chewing underneath. Shed skirting is an important component of preventative shed maintenance.

 

Shed Skirting Options

 

There are a variety of materials that can be used for shed skirting. Each material has a different look, requires a different installation approach, presents unique maintenance needs, and has a specific lifespan. Let’s examine the most popular shed skirting options. 

Lattice

Lattice is a popular choice for shed skirting because it is attractive, inexpensive, and easy to install. Either vinyl or pressure-treated lumber lattice can be used. The holes in the lattice are beneficial because they allow airflow to circulate and prevent moisture from building up under your shed. The downside to the holes in the lattice is that they are big enough to allow small rodents to squeeze through. If you want to prevent small rodents from going under your shed, line the backside of your lattice with hardware cloth. It is important to note that wood lattice is prone to deterioration, so this is not the best long-term shed skirting solution. 

Concrete Landscaping Blocks

Concrete landscaping blocks are a secure and durable shed skirting material. The concrete blocks will not deteriorate, and animals cannot get through. Despite these notable advantages, there are a few downsides to using concrete landscaping blocks for shed skirting. The material is relatively expensive, the installation is laborious, and the material does not allow for airflow beneath the shed. Airflow is important to prevent moisture accumulation that leads to mold growth. 

Brick

Brick is a classic material with a nice, finished look. If your home has brick walls or a brick foundation, a brick shed skirt can tie the home and shed together. Although brick is expensive and difficult to install, it is durable. Vents can be built into the brick shed skirting to allow for airflow while still preventing animals and rodents from going underneath the structure. 

Pressure-Treated Lumber

Pressure-treated lumber planks can be cut and fastened together to create a shed skirt. This is a rather affordable solution, and for many DIYers the installation is relatively straightforward. A pressure-treated lumber shed skirt can be constructed to allow for airflow under the shed. A downside to pressure-treated lumber is that it will eventually wear down. 

Chicken Wire

Although it is not the most visually attractive material, chicken wire can be used to create a shed skirt. Chicken wire is affordable and easy to install. It allows for airflow under the shed and prevents medium to large animals from crawling beneath the building. Unfortunately, chicken wire will not keep rodents out of the space beneath the shed. If you want to conceal the chicken wire, you can build garden beds around the shed and cultivate plants to grow in front of the shed skirt. 

Gravel or Stone

If your shed only has a small gap at the base, gravel or stone is an easy shed skirting solution. Create a thick base of the rocks that fill the space between the shed floor and the ground. This is an easy and affordable solution. The degree of airflow and protection depends upon your choice of rock and method of installation. 

Faux Stone

Faux stone is a popular but expensive way to add visual interest to the base of your shed. If your home is finished with faux stone, using the same material to make a shed skirt will create a cohesive and nice look. Faux stone will prevent animals from getting into the space between the ground and the shed floor. Unless you incorporate small air holes into your design, the faux stone will restrict air circulation. 

Vinyl

Vinyl is an affordable, durable, and attractive shed skirting material. If your shed has vinyl siding, using vinyl for the skirt will create a clean, united look. There are many different types of vinyl that can be used for shed skirting. Some types of vinyl are prone to deterioration, and other types of vinyl are long-lasting and resistant to the elements. 

Onduline makes TUFTEX UltraVinyl corrugated panels that are incredibly strong, weather resistant, suitable for DIY installations, and cost-effective. The TUFTEX UltraVinyl corrugated panels are made with a vinyl plastic polymer in an octagonal-wave pattern, and they are available in opaque white and tan. The panels will not rust, rot, chip, or peel. 

The Benefits of Shed Skirting

To meet professional standards, DIY projects need to address the finer details. If you build a DIY shed, it is important that you consider the finishing detail of a shed skirt. For your shed, a skirt offers several crucial benefits. While the space under your shed may be appealing to pets, animals, and rodents, your shed will likely be damaged if animals live beneath it. A shed skirt is beneficial because it keeps animals and rodents from making a home underneath your shed. A shed skirt is also beneficial because it provides a nice finished look to your shed. There are many attractive material options, and if you choose a durable solution, your shed will look nice for many years to come. Additionally, a shed skirt is beneficial because it allows ventilation underneath the shed. If moisture builds up, mold can grow and destroy your shed. Finally, a shed skirt is beneficial because it extends the lifetime of your shed. If you choose the right shed skirt material, your shed will be able to withstand the elements and destruction from pests for many years. 

For more DIY inspiration and high-quality materials, visit the Onduline site today.

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