Adding a cover to your existing wood fence is an excellent way to increase privacy in your outdoor space. The right materials can block views from neighbors while still allowing air and light to pass through. This detailed guide covers everything you need to know to cover a wood fence for optimum privacy.
Why Add a Cover for Privacy?
Before we dive into materials and installation tips, let‘s look at some of the key reasons you may want to add fence covers:
- Block unwanted views – Covers prevent neighbors or passersby from being able to see into your yard, allowing you to enjoy complete privacy.
- Limit noise – Fences with solid panels or plant covers can muffle sound from nearby roads, playgrounds or barking dogs.
- Enhance security – More seclusion from covered fences can deter intruders from entering your property.
- Increase property value – Homes with private backyard oases often command higher prices and sell faster on the market.
- Improve ambiance – The right covers create intimate spaces perfect for relaxing, entertaining or enjoying nature.
According to one survey by Houzz, over 60% of homeowners cite enhanced privacy and security as the top motivations for taking on fencing projects.
Common Materials for Covering a Wood Fence
There are several options when it comes to materials for covering a wood fence for privacy:
Lattice Panels
Lattice is one of the most popular covers for wood fences. The crisscross pattern of thin wood strips provides a partial visual barrier while still allowing some visibility. Lattice comes in different styles like square, diamond, or decorative patterns. It is an affordable option available at most hardware stores, with many homeowners and contractors using it.
Pros:
- Inexpensive at $3-$8 per panel
- Easy to install
- Allows airflow
Cons:
- Provides only partial privacy
- Can warp or deteriorate over time
Fence Screening/Fabric
Fence screening is an opaque fabric made from materials like vinyl, polyethylene, or polypropylene. It comes in rolls that can be cut to size and attached to wood fences. The fabric blocks visibility while allowing air and light through. This material is chosen by around 35% of homeowners.
Pros:
- Creates a more solid barrier
- Durable material resists fading and tearing
- Allows airflow
Cons:
- More expensive than other options at $0.40-$0.60 per square foot
- Attaching fabric requires more precision
Vinyl/PVC Fence Panels
For a completely solid covering, panels made from PVC or other vinyl materials can be installed right over an existing wood fence. The panels slide into fence posts and block all visibility. Vinyl is used by over 25% of homeowners for its durability.
Pros:
- Completely blocks views
- Durable and weather-resistant
- Variety of colors/finishes available
Cons:
- More expensive at $25-$40 per panel
- Can reduce airflow
Plants and Hedges
Plants are a natural way to cover a wood fence over time. Options like fast-growing evergreen vines, bushes, and shrubs can create a living privacy screen. Plants and trees are used by around 20% of homeowners.
Pros:
- Natural looking
- Can fully cover fence over time
- Improves aesthetics
Cons:
- Takes time to establish
- Requires regular pruning and maintenance
Now that you know the most common materials, let‘s go over proper installation techniques.
How to Install Common Fence Covers
Once you‘ve chosen the right materials, here are some step-by-step tips for proper installation:
Lattice Panel Installation
- Measure between fence posts and cut lattice to fit using heavy-duty tin snips. Leave a 1-2 inch gap between panels for expansion.
- Use 2-3" exterior wood screws to attach panels to fence boards. Pre-drill holes with a 3/32" drill bit to avoid splitting wood.
- For decorative lattice, attach cedar or pine trim pieces around the edges for a polished, finished look. Use finish nails or trim screws.
- Seal any exposed wood, edges, and screw holes with water-resistant outdoor sealant or stain to prevent deterioration.
Fence Screening Installation
- Measure the fence height and length. Purchase fence screening rolls at least 36-inches wide to cover from top to bottom.
- Cut the fabric to length using sharp utility or pruning shears. Heat sealing the edges with a lighter can help prevent fraying.
- Starting at one end, secure the top edge of the fabric to the fence with heavy-duty outdoor staples every 6-12 inches. Pull fabric taut.
- Continue stapling down one side, across the bottom, and up the opposite side. Overlap edges by 2-3 inches.
- Trim off excess and seal raw edges with clear vinyl glue to prevent fraying.
Maximizing Privacy With Plants
Plants are a great natural option for covering wood fences over time. Here are some of the best options:
- Vines: Fast climbers like virginia creeper, grape ivy, wisteria can quickly cover vertical spaces. Plant 1 foot apart for fast coverage.
- Bushes: Evergreen bushes like boxwood, arborvitae, and juniper grow 4-6 ft tall to block views. Space 3 feet apart or closer for a tight screen.
- Shrubs: Larger evergreens like holly, cherry laurel, and photinia provide ample coverage once mature at 6-10 ft tall. Space at least 5-6 feet apart.
- Bamboo: For tropical climates, clumping bamboo varieties can create a dense 15 ft screen in one season.
- Trees: Large evergreens like cypress and spruce or leafy trees like bamboo can provide overhead coverage and block second story views once mature.
This table provides a quick comparison of key plant characteristics:
| Plant Type | Time to Maturity | Mature Height | Density/Privacy Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vines | 1 – 2 years | 15 – 30 feet | Medium |
| Bushes | 3 – 5 years | 4 – 6 feet | Medium-High |
| Shrubs | 5 – 10 years | 6 – 15 feet | High |
| Bamboo | 1 – 2 years | 10 – 20 feet | Very High |
| Trees | 10+ years | 30 – 60 feet | High |
Be sure to give all plantings enough space and pruning to encourage optimal privacy coverage over and around the fence.
Decorative Touches for Enhanced Privacy
In addition to basic fence covers, consider adding decorative elements to increase privacy as well as improve the aesthetics:
- Add lattice along the top of covered fences for a polished look. Paint it in a bold color for extra pop.
- Incorporate planter boxes secured to fence posts to allow for flowers or vines to climb the cover.
- Paint or stain covers like lattice and fabric screens to match your color scheme and protect the materials.
- Attach ready-made garden arbors or trellises over gate areas to provide an entryway cover.
- Border covered fences with gravel pathways or low hedges to prevent unwanted peering from below or the sides.
- Hang outdoor string lights or lanterns from the top of covered fences for an elegant, intimate ambiance in the evenings.
Elements like these can complement privacy covers while also enhancing the design and function of your yard space. Get creative with colors, textures, and decorative features!
Cost Comparison of Fence Cover Materials
Here is an overview of estimated price ranges for common cover materials:
| Material | Cost Per Unit | Total Cost for 6ft High x 20ft Long Fence |
|---|---|---|
| Lattice Panels | $3 – $8 per panel | $60 – $160 |
| Fence Fabric | $0.40 – $0.60 per sq. ft. | $120 – $180 |
| Vinyl Fence Panels | $25 – $40 per panel | $500 – $800 |
| Fence-height Bushes | $20 – $60 per bush | $220 – $660 |
| Lattice + Plants | $60 + $200 | $260 – $360 |
Prices can vary based on material grades, regional suppliers, and labor if you hire out installation. Combining materials is a great way to get customized privacy on a budget.
Ways to Save on Materials:
- Use thinner 1/2" lattice panels instead of 1" thick for less coverage but lower cost
- Look for fence fabric on clearance or off-cuts for remnants at lower prices
- Check sales at home improvement stores for package deals on panels or bulk lattice
- Use fast-growing annual vines instead of bushes to cover sections while re-growing
With some savvy shopping and strategic combining of materials, you can cover an average wood fence for increased privacy starting at around $250 – $500.
Key Tips for Planning Your Fence Cover Project
Ready to get started on adding covers for privacy to your wood fence? Keep these tips in mind:
- Check your local regulations – Many communities require permits for work on backyard fences, including adding covers. Better to be safe and ensure your project follows homeowners association rules too.
- Consider your climate and wind factors – Lightweight covers like fabric and standard lattice can blow away in very windy regions. Prioritize more secure options like reinforced lattice, solid panels, or clusters of shrubs to block wind.
- Assess your needed level of privacy – Opaque vinyl panels provide the most complete privacy screening, while materials like bamboo or lattice are more semi-sheer. Choose based on your specific privacy needs.
- Account for accessibility and gates – Ensure entrance gates and access points will remain easy to open and functional after installing covers. Allow clearance space as needed.
- Evaluate your budget – Simple lattice and fast-growing vines provide ample privacy at a lower cost than solid panels. Combine materials to get the right privacy-to-price balance.
- Inspect and prepare the fence surface – Power wash grime, then make any needed repairs to posts, boards, and hardware before attaching new covers.
- Locate underground lines – Call 811 or check utility company websites to scan for buried electrical, gas, water, etc. before any digging to avoid accidents.
- Use eye and ear protection – Wear safety glasses and noise-blocking headphone when cutting materials or using power tools. Work gloves are a must too.
Sample Fence Cover Designs
Here are just a few examples of material combinations to spark ideas for your own perfect balance of privacy, aesthetics, and affordability:
Partial Privacy on a Budget
- Pressure-treated wood fence
- Classic square lattice top half
- Gravel border along base to fill gaps
Modern Design Privacy
- Cedar wood fence with steel frame
- Black aluminum lattice top-to-bottom
- Matte black planters integrated into posts
- Evergreen shrubs lining outer side
Ultimate Backyard Oasis Privacy
- Existing wood fence reinforced with steel posts
- PVC fence panels in dark green covering entire fence
- Row of matching green arborvitae trees inside the fence
- Grapevine covering panels on outer side
As you can see, the possibilities are endless when combining creativity, functionality and the right materials for your needs!
Keeping Your Fence Cover in Top Shape
Once installed, be sure to maintain your covers with proper care and cleaning:
- Inspect regularly for sagging, warped, or deteriorating panels. Replace damaged lattice or fabric promptly.
- Pressure wash vinyl or PVC panels annually to remove dirt and grime that can cause fading or discoloration.
- Re-seal exposed wood from lattice every 1-2 years to protect from moisture damage and extend the life.
- Prune back vines and foliage as needed to encourage optimal coverage and growth on fences.
With routine upkeep, quality fence covers can enhance privacy for many years before needing replacement.
Conclusion
Adding customized covers is one of the most effective ways to increase privacy and security in your backyard oasis. With proper planning, savvy material selection and creative touches, you can install covers that block unwanted views while complementing your landscape. Just be sure to research thoroughly, follow local regulations, and make safety your top priority. With some sweat equity, you‘ll be well on your way to a beautiful new sanctuary right in your own yard!
