Good fences make good neighbors, right? But what if your neighbors aren’t so great, and you need some extra privacy in the backyard? There are many advantages of fence toppers, from providing additional privacy and shade to keeping pets in and critters out.
Let’s take a closer look at fence toppers, their costs, materials, and the legal and aesthetic considerations of installing them.
What Are Fence Toppers?
At its core, a fence topper (also referred to as a fence extender) is simply a panel that attaches to the top of an existing fence to make it taller. This can afford you greater privacy from nosy neighbors and even limit your pet’s ability to escape the yard. Win-win, right?
Fence toppers may be strictly for aesthetic purposes or designed with increased privacy in mind. The design and material used for fence toppers can vary greatly, offering countless opportunities to spruce up your yard with something unique.
Benefits of Adding a Fence Topper
Let’s talk about the advantages fence toppers offer:
Increased Privacy
Whether it’s nosy neighbors or the prying eyes from passersby, you may not get enough privacy from a low fence. The extra height offered by fence toppers creates much-needed additional privacy in your yard.
Typically, fence toppers will add one to two feet, making the original privacy fence around six or seven feet tall with the addition. This additional height offers peace of mind that the original fencing doesn’t.
Prevent Pets from Escaping or Predators from Getting In
Your pup may be able to scale a four- or five-foot fence with ease, but add a couple more feet, and you’ve sealed off his escape route. Adding certain types of fence toppers also can serve as an additional protective barrier against predators.
While this isn’t foolproof, fence toppers like chain link or poly-mesh can make it more difficult for wild animals to enter your yard.
More Shade
Are there areas of your yard that receive too much sun in the afternoon to enjoy? A fence topper might just be the answer! Installing a fence-topper in a few select spots throughout your yard allows you to easily block off those sections of intense sunlight and enjoy a reprieve from the heat.
From the garden to the patio, a fence topper can keep that sun at bay and create some much-needed shade throughout your backyard.
Enhanced Security
Adding a fence topper can provide extra security, depending on the type of fencing you choose. For example, wrought iron is often used for decorative purposes but can also ward off intruders while keeping your family safe.
Increased Aesthetic Appeal
There’s no reason why functional and practical can’t be beautiful. Fence topper designs vary greatly, so you can find something that matches your existing fence and aesthetics. From wood lattice panels to decorative balusters, there are countless ways to create a unique, interesting look that provides much-needed privacy.
Types of Fence Toppers
We already discussed some of the perks that come with adding fence toppers, but what types can you actually purchase? Nowadays, materials are resilient and varied enough that it’s easy to find the perfect accent for your yard.
Let’s take a look at some of the more popular fence panels materials:
Vinyl Fence Topper
If you’re looking for a cost-effective solution while still making an impact, vinyl fence toppers are the perfect answer. From privacy panels to decorative picketing, there are plenty of ways that vinyl can dress up your existing fence and give you the privacy you desire. Since vinyl is waterproof, they’ll remain in good condition for years to come, even during inclement weather.
Wood Lattice Fence Topper
Nothing quite screams summer like a wooden lattice fence topper around your patio, garden, or pool. With hundreds of designs and styles to choose from, wood lattice fence toppers are easy to install and create a great backdrop for your outdoor area.
They can also be painted, stained, or sealed to match existing railings, depending on your preference.
Picket Fencing
For a charming, bucolic feel, low picket fencing makes great fence toppers. These are usually around three feet, ideal for an accent piece or extra privacy without overwhelming your yard.
Wood-Poly Panels
Heavy-duty wood and poly composite panels offer a modern look as well as enhanced privacy. These panels look great while still being resilient enough to withstand the elements just like vinyl or wood fences.
Wrought Iron
For an elegant twist, wrought iron fence toppers work well as either decorative pieces or for added security but are not recommended for privacy. With various intimate designs, wrought iron offers great security and enhances your yard’s look.
Wrought iron is incredibly durable and comes in a variety of styles to complement or stand out from existing fences.
Copper Fence Topper
As one of the more unique and beautiful options, copper fence toppers can add an exceptional element of design to any existing wood fence.
Rather than covering the entire length, using copper panels at regular intervals breaks up uniformity and makes a real statement. Not only does this look great, but copper is also relatively rust-resistant and durable.
Component Fence Toppers
Certain fencing companies offer component fence toppers that provide added security and privacy. Vinyl and aluminum are the most popular options, and they attach to almost any existing fence type for greater protection.
Bamboo Fence Toppers
Bamboo fence toppers are an excellent option for those looking to make a statement. Not only do they provide the privacy and security you need, but the natural look really brings out any existing outdoor decor with its beautiful aesthetics.
Bamboo is also sturdy and eco-friendly, two key characteristics that make it a popular choice for fence toppers.
Glass Fence Topper
For an unexpected twist, glass fence toppers look absolutely stunning and can make for an astonishing display. Whether you’re opting for pressed or erected glass, they provide a chic update to any existing fencing.
Since privacy isn’t always a major factor with this look, feel free to go bolder with color and texture to stand out. Here are the typical glass fence toppers:
- Pressed glass: These offer both a classic and modern appeal. It is usually made from molten glass pressed through a mold, making it one of the affordable options.
- Etched and stained glass: Etched or stained glass often feature intricate patterns that can be customized to suit individual tastes.
- Textured glass: As the name suggests, this type of privacy screen stands out due to its unique textures that may also contain images and other decorative patterns.
Brick and Stone Fence Toppers
For those who want a solid, enduring barrier between themselves and the outside world, brick or stone fence toppers can do the job. These materials are though more expensive but will enhance the curb appeal of your home and last for many years.
Depending on your tastes, scalloped edges, complex patterns, or straight lines offer individuality that sets your home apart from the rest.
Decorative Balusters
For a quick and easy addition, decorative balusters can top your fence with stunning results. Installing these can add either a pop of color or match the aesthetic of your current fencing, depending on the material choice.
Fence Topper Cost
The cost of fence toppers will vary depending on the material and complexity of the job. On average, a new fence typically costs $3,440 and can range from $1,330 up to $5,550.
Taking this into account, adding a fence topper may be a more economical way of sprucing up your yard’s security and aesthetic value. Here are two examples:
Wood Lattice
If you’re simply looking to accent and add a bit of privacy, wood lattice usually does the job. Eight-foot sections cost around $30 each.
A medium-sized yard with a 300-foot perimeter would take 38 of these sections, coming to a total cost of $1,140. This cost doesn’t include framing, painting/sealing, fence post extensions, or installation if needed.
Vinyl Lattice
Though it’s more expensive, vinyl fence toppers come in a variety of colors and styles that can bump up the aesthetic of your yard. Eight-foot sections normally cost around $70, or about $2,660 for a 300-foot fence. This, like the wood lattice example, does not include any extra materials or installation costs.
Fence Topper Tips and Considerations
Before running out to buy a fence topper, there are a few considerations and legalities you need to take into account:
Check Local Zoning Restrictions
Each city or county has its own zoning laws that may limit the fence height. It’s important to check these before adding anything, as a homeowners association may not be so forgiving if you don’t meet their standards.
Installation Costs
Don’t hesitate to ask for a quote for installation. Factors like complexity, location, and materials can increase the cost of the job, and you should have an estimate before beginning any work.
Existing Structure
What structure and material are you working with? Though wood fences can be easily nailed onto, concrete walls or iron railings won’t. It’s best to keep this in mind when considering fence topper options, as some will require different installation methods.
DIY Commitment
For those looking to install their own fence toppers, be sure to purchase the correct materials and have the right tools on hand. Despite being a relatively small job, fence toppers can still be a difficult and time-consuming DIY project.
FAQ About Fence Toppers
Though they may appear similar, the difference between a lattice and a trellis lies mostly in the materials used to construct them and their uses. The lattice is typically made of thicker pieces of wood, usually in a diamond or square shape. Trellises are thin wood or bamboo frames that help support plants.
Adding trellis clips to the top and bottom of each post ensures that your fence topper is secure. To start, use a drill to fix the clip with wood screws. Carefully fit the topper in place with a helper and fix it with 35mm screws through the brackets.
Better Fences Make Better Neighbors
No matter what type of fence topper you choose, a taller and more secure barrier creates privacy and peace of mind. The added aesthetic appeal can transform the most ordinary of yards into an outdoor oasis. Don’t know how to go about it? We can help you connect with fencing contractors in your area who can help you with your home improvement project. All that is left for you is to choose the right fence option for your property and summer-proof your backyard!
Photo Credit: LindaYolanda / Canva Pro / License
