How to Install Lattice

Co-authored by Anthony "TC" Williams

Last Updated: January 6, 2020 References Approved

Adding vinyl or wooden lattice beneath a porch or deck can give it a fresh new look. In addition, lattice can be used to create hidden storage space beneath your deck or porch. Lattice also hides unsightly areas such as the floor joist or posts. Installing lattice is easy and relatively inexpensive.

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

Preparing the Frames and Lattice

1
Remove any old lattice with a flat pry bar. Be careful not to damage the porch, deck, or support columns when removing existing lattice.
- Cut the lattice into pieces with a reciprocating saw if you are having trouble removing it. This will make it easier.^{[1]
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- You can also use a small carpenters cat's paw, which will help pry off small nails. If the old lattice is stapled, find a screwdriver with a blade just wide enough to fit onto the staple. Gently pry it off.
2
Make sure nothing is living under your deck or porch. Do not install new lattice without making sure there are no animals living underneath your deck.
- If you find animals, encourage them to leave by allowing as much light in as possible. Also, let your water hose run next to the deck. This will encourage the animals to leave because they like dark, dry, and quiet areas to nest in.^{[2]
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- Avoid using traps or poison as that may kill any non-target animals or kill an animal in an unreachable place.
- You may be able to find a volunteer group that will relocate wildlife. Call your local or state fish and game office or city animal control to learn about options in your area. If you can't find a volunteer, you may be able to hire a professional wildlife removal service.
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3
Gather the materials needed to make frames for the lattice. You will screw the lattice to the frames, and then you will attach the frames to the house. Be sure to use rust-proof hardware and fasteners.
4
Calculate the dimensions of the lattice frames. Measure the openings between the support columns or posts of the deck or porch. The completed frames should be 1/2 inch narrower than the overall width and 1 inch shorter than the height of the openings.^{[3]
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- If you install the lattice flush to the ground, the framing can buckle and snag leaves.^{[4]
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5
Make the four perimeter pieces for the lattice frames. Use a circular or jigsaw to cut 1-by-6 inch lumber to a length of 4 1/2-feet or to your required measured length.
6
Cut a center stile for each frame. Cut the center stiles the same length as the shorter edges of the frames using 1-by-4 inch lumber.
7
Assemble the frames. Lay the frame pieces face down and assemble them. Attach a 6-inch mending plate and a 3 1/2-inch flat corner brace to each corner joint of the frame. Attach the hardware approximately 1/4 inch from the edges of the frames using 3/4-inch flathead screws. ^{[5]
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- Make sure you work on a flat, sturdy surface to put together the frames
8
Attach a center stile to each frame. Use two 4-inch T-plates, making sure that the plate is centered on the support piece. Position the T-plates about ¼ inch from the edge of the frame. Use 3/4-inch screws to secure them. ^{[6]
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9
Cut the lattice panels to fit each frame using a sabre or circular saw. Lay the frames face down. Attach a piece of lattice to each frame using 1-inch pan head screws driven through washers.^{[7]
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- Allow a 1/ 4-inch gap on all sides between the edge of the frame and lattice. This lets the lattice to expand and contract when the weather changes. This will prevent the lattice from buckling.^{[8]
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10
Secure the seam between two pieces of lattice. The two pieces of lattice will form a seam on the center stile. Screw 1-inch (2.54 cm) pan head screws with washers to each of the lattice panels where they meet at the center stile. Make two rows of screws, drilling them at each point the lattices meet.

Part 2

Part 2 of 2:

Attaching the Frames

1
Attach the framed lattice panel to the porch or deck using 3 or 4-inch strap or T-hinges. Screw the hinges to the lattice frames first.
2
Place each panel inside the openings under the deck or porch.
3
Use a pry bar to raise the lattice frame so it will be tight against the porch or deck. Once it is tight, screw the hinges to the porch or deck using a drill with a screwdriver head.
4
Open and shut the lattice frames to make sure they shut properly. If the lattice frame drags on the ground or doesn't close all the way, use a shovel or garden hoe to remove some of the dirt in front of and underneath the frame. If there is too much space beneath the lattice frame, add and compact more dirt. Distribute the dirt evenly so that the ground will be flat.

Expert Q&A
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Question

I am installing 1/8 inch x 12 inches high lattice x 90 inch span on top of a board fence. Is there any way to prevent this from bowing?

Anthony "TC" Williams
Experienced Landscaper
Anthony "TC" Williams is a Professional Landscaper in Idaho. He is the President and Founder of Aqua Conservation Landscape & Irrigation, an Idaho Registered Landscape Business Entity. With over 21 years of landscaping experience, TC has worked on projects such as the Idaho Botanical Garden in Boise, Idaho. He is a Idaho Registered Contractor and a previously Licensed Irrigator in the State of Texas.

Anthony "TC" Williams

Experienced Landscaper

Expert Answer

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You could install small 'gusset backing' at equally spaced intervals to help add stability.
Question

How long should plastic lattice last?

Anthony "TC" Williams
Experienced Landscaper
Anthony "TC" Williams is a Professional Landscaper in Idaho. He is the President and Founder of Aqua Conservation Landscape & Irrigation, an Idaho Registered Landscape Business Entity. With over 21 years of landscaping experience, TC has worked on projects such as the Idaho Botanical Garden in Boise, Idaho. He is a Idaho Registered Contractor and a previously Licensed Irrigator in the State of Texas.

Anthony "TC" Williams

Experienced Landscaper

Expert Answer

Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

Prolonged direct sunlight will wear down Plastic or PVC, and the UV light is what causes the most damage. That said, the newer PVC or Fiberglass Plastic of today, if kept clean and not heavily weathered, should see a strong 7 years or more, but conditions vary. Ask the supplier for the manufacturer's guidelines.
Question

How much better is plastic lattice compared to wood lattice?

Community Answer

I have both in my yard. I like the wood better. It lasts longer than the plastic which cracks after 1-2 years in the heat. My wood is over 5 years old and still looks good. It is harder to paint and stain but still lasts longer than plastic.