DIY Fence Toppers for Privacy
Build your own fence toppers — lattice panels, reed/bamboo roll toppers, and planter box extensions. Tools, materials, and step-by-step guidance.
Material Cost
$10 – $45/linear ft
Recommended Materials
3 materials
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Recommended Materials
Easiest DIY topper material — pre-made lattice panels available at any home center.
Natural bamboo rolls make a simple, affordable DIY topper for any fence.
Cedar lattice doesn't need treatment — cut, frame, and install.
Building your own fence topper is a weekend DIY project that adds 1–2 feet of privacy to your existing fence for $2–$8 per linear foot in materials — a fraction of what a new taller fence would cost.
The three easiest DIY fence toppers are lattice panel toppers (buy pre-made lattice panels, cut to width, and screw to the top of your fence), bamboo or reed roll toppers (roll out natural material along the top of the fence and secure with wire ties), and planter box toppers (build narrow planter boxes that sit on top of the fence and fill with tall plants or trailing vines).
For a lattice topper, you'll need: 4x8 lattice panels ($15–$30 each), 2x2 or 1x2 framing lumber, exterior screws, a circular saw, and a drill. Cut the lattice to your desired height (12–24 inches is typical), frame the edges with lumber for a finished look, and screw the framed lattice to the top rail and posts of your existing fence.
A bamboo or reed roll topper is even simpler. Buy a roll of natural bamboo or reed fencing (available in 4-foot and 6-foot heights at $1–$3 per linear foot), cut to your desired topper height (12–18 inches), and attach to the top of your fence with galvanized wire or zip ties every 12 inches. This provides moderate privacy (70–80%) with a natural, garden-like aesthetic.
Planter box toppers are the most creative option. Build narrow boxes (4–6 inches deep, the width of your fence) from pressure-treated lumber, mount on top of the fence, and plant with tall ornamental grasses, trailing ivy, or flowering vines. This creates a living privacy wall that improves over time.
Tools needed for most DIY fence toppers: drill/driver, circular saw (for lattice), tape measure, level, exterior screws or wire ties, and a ladder. Total project time: 4–8 hours for a 50-foot section.
Published February 15, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Maintain a Wood Fence
Annual Maintenance Checklist
A well-maintained wood fence can last 15-20 years. Follow this annual routine:
- Inspect for loose boards, leaning posts, and rot — especially at ground level
- Clean with a garden hose or light pressure wash (1,500-2,000 PSI max)
- Trim vegetation, vines, and tree branches away from the fence
- Repair damaged boards, tighten hardware, and re-secure loose rails
Staining and Sealing
Apply a quality wood stain or sealant every 2-3 years. This is the single most important thing you can do to extend your fence's life. Wait for a dry period with temperatures between 50-90°F. New pressure-treated wood should weather for 2-3 months before the first stain application.
Preventing Rot
The most common failure point is where posts meet the ground. Ensure posts are set in concrete (not bare soil) and that water drains away from the base. Keeping the bottom of fence boards 1-2 inches above ground prevents moisture wicking.
What Is the Cheapest Fence to Build?
Most Affordable Privacy Fence Options
If budget is your primary concern, here are your best options from cheapest to most expensive:
- Bamboo: $10–$25/ft — cheapest eco-friendly privacy option
- Wood privacy: $15–$35/ft — cheapest durable privacy fence
- Cedar: $20–$45/ft — premium wood with natural rot resistance
- Vinyl: $20–$40/ft — cheapest long-term when factoring in zero maintenance
How to Save Money
- DIY installation saves 40-50% on labor costs
- Pressure-treated pine is the cheapest wood (vs. cedar or redwood)
- Standard 6-foot height costs less than 8-foot
- Straight runs cost less than lots of corners and angles
- Off-season installation (late fall/winter) may get better contractor rates
Cheapest vs. Best Value
The cheapest fence upfront isn't always the best value. A $15/ft wood fence lasting 12 years costs $1.25/ft per year. A $30/ft vinyl fence lasting 25 years costs $1.20/ft per year — actually cheaper over time.