Are you interested in enhancing your front yard or giving your pergola a unique touch? You're on the right track if you've opted for a lattice fence. But how can you transform a traditional lattice fence into something new and exciting? This article will explore various lattice fence ideas to help you create an outdoor space you'll truly adore.
What is a Lattice Fence?
A lattice fence comprises thin slats arranged in a crisscross pattern to form square or diamond-shaped openings. The lattice panels are attached to posts and connected by top and bottom rails, resulting in a beautiful lattice fence.
Due to the gaps in the lattice design, these fences are not typically ideal for privacy unless combined with dense shrubbery or plants. However, lattice fences are highly versatile and can serve as decorative elements or property delineators, making them perfect for gardens.
The origin of lattice work is unclear but dates back to at least the Classical Antiquity period (Greco-Roman times). Lattice designs can be found throughout history, including in India, the Islamic World, and the Eiffel Tower. The lattice pattern is found on the beloved classic American dessert, apple pie.
Different Types of Lattice Materials
Wood
Wood is a popular and timeless choice for lattice fences. You can customize the color with paint or stain. Wood lattice fences are affordable, readily available, and easy to install. To ensure durability, it is recommended to use pressure-treated wood.
Vinyl
Vinyl is a solid option for lattice fences as it requires minimal maintenance and can withstand most climates. Vinyl lattice fences are gaining popularity, widely available at garden centers, and easy to install. While not as inexpensive as wood, vinyl is still affordable.
Metal
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Metal is the most robust choice for a lattice fence, capable of withstanding all weather conditions. Metal lattice fences are a popular choice but tend to be more expensive. If you decide to go with metal, you have a few options:
Composite
Composite fencing is a close second to metal in terms of durability. It is available in various styles and offers the natural look of wood without requiring extensive maintenance. Composite fencing is more expensive than wood but demands less upkeep.
Bamboo
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Bamboo deserves special mention for its intriguing lattice fencing potential. Due to its rapid regrowth, bamboo is considered environmentally friendly. Unlike most wood, it is easy to assemble, requires minimal maintenance, and stands up well to moisture and sun exposure. However, since it is often grown overseas, it can be more expensive.
Brick
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Brick can be laid in the lattice, creating an interesting fence-wall combination. Brick fences are highly durable, easy to maintain, and long-lasting. They add a unique touch and enhance curb appeal. However, hiring a mason for installation can be costly.
Exciting Lattice Fence Ideas
Your imagination only limits the possibilities for lattice fencing. Need some inspiration to get started? Here are a few ideas to embark on your lattice fence journey.
Change the Color
When it comes to the color of your fence, you have numerous options. Let's explore two main categories: paint and stain.
Paint
Paint offers several advantages for fences:
Longevity: A well-maintained paint job can last up to 10 years.
Weather resistance: Paint acts as a UV blocker and is water-resistant, protecting your fence and extending its lifespan.
Customization: Paint allows you to choose from a wide range of colors to match your lattice fence to your home's exterior or create a bold contrast.
If you choose to paint, you'll have to pick a color. First, it should match the house. If you have an HOA, you must see what colors are allowed. Aside from those limitations, it depends on the look you want. Here are a few popular color choices.
White. White is classic. It also matches any color house. You could also choose an off-white color like cream or ivory.
Black. Using black as your fence color will make other lawn features, like flowers or lights, stand out. Black is bold but not flashy.
Gray. Gray is a neutral middle ground that varies in shade. A lighter shade is gentle, but a darker shade is striking.
Navy. Like black, navy is a bold color that will accent your landscaping. Yet, navy is softer than black and looks beautiful when paired with a cool-colored home.
Green. A natural green will act as a hedge and blend nicely with nearby flowers and shrubs. It also pairs well with neutral and warm-colored homes.
Stain
Staining your lattice fence offers a more natural and rustic look. Some benefits of staining include:
Enhancing the wood's natural beauty: Stain penetrates the wood, bringing out its grain and highlighting its natural characteristics.
Protection against moisture: Stain provides a protective barrier that helps prevent water damage, rot, and warping.
Ease of application: Staining is a simple process that can be done with a brush or sprayer.
You've decided to go with stain, but how do you choose a shade? Consider matching or coordinating the stain with other outdoor wooden structures. It's also important to remember that the more opaque a stain is, the more faded it becomes over time. Otherwise, you have a plethora of choices.
Dark stains. Dark stains make your fence pop, giving your outdoor area rich color and depth. Try mahogany, espresso, or chestnut.
Light stains. Light stains are moderate, allowing other outdoor features to stand out. Try oak, pine, or driftwood.
Red stains. Stains with a red tint give a splash of color while maintaining the stunning wood grain look. Try cedar, cherry, or redwood.
Accessorize
Adding accessories is a great way to personalize your outdoor space. Options range from simple and inexpensive to grandiose and pricey. Let's look at a few popular accessories.
Climbing Plants
Climbing plants are beautiful and relatively easy to maintain. On the lattice, they can create a living fence or wall. Not sure which climbing plant to choose? Here are a few possibilities.
Ivy (English, Boston, or Persian)
Carolina Jessamine vine
Climbing roses
Morning Glory
Wisteria
Honeysuckle
String Lights
String lights, sometimes called fairy lights, are magical, especially at night. The bonus is that they're affordable and super easy to personalize. Here are some ways to individualize string lights.
Colors. Pick a complementary color that pairs with your other outdoor features.
Seasons. Choose a light that matches the seasons. Tiny white lights are perfect for winter. Larger multicolored lights match the summertime vibe.
Holidays. Celebrate the holiday cheer while personalizing your space. Simply replace your everyday lights with festive ones.
Embellishments
Add some extras to your lattice fence to make it pop. Here are some ideas.
Carvings. Add interesting carvings to your fence, like characters, flowers, or shapes.
Plaques. Add your house number or an inspirational quote to a plaque and attach it to your fence. Face it outward to inspire the world (or at least your neighborhood) or inward to motivate yourself.
Custom. Add something unique to you or your family – a pet's plaster pawprints, a cool antique found at a flea market, or an arts and crafts piece made by children.
Post Caps
Fence caps protect posts from weather and rot and can be subtle or bold in appearance. Changing them can be a quick and easy way to change your fence's look dramatically. How easy? Caulk or screws affix caps to the fence posts, so if you can wield a screwdriver, you can change a cap. While the possibilities are endless, let's look at a few ideas.
Classic cap. There is something about keeping it simple. A standard flat square cap looks classic and sleek and comes in many colors and materials.
Lighted cap. Installing LED caps is a beautiful way to make your fence stand out. Choose from hardwired or solar lights. Not only do they look fantastic, but they provide extra light and security to your property.
Fleur de Lis cap. This design is often seen on metal fences. This interesting spearhead-like design is bold enough to stand out without being ostentatious.
Ball cap. As the name suggests, a ball post cap has a ball on the top. It's softer than a Fleur de Lis cap but still stands out. They come in several varieties, like oval and carved.
Custom. If you want your fence to stand out, consider a custom design. You can custom design any post cap, including hearts, Avengers, or birdhouses.
Top Line
Changing the line of your fence will change the overall feel. There are four main lattice fence line styles.
Straight. A straight fence line is flat and straight. For a simple look, a straight line is your best choice. You might see this design in a cottage garden.
Scalloped. A scalloped line is an inverted arch, creating a classic but atypical look.
Arched. An arched line is like it sounds. The fence line creates an arch.
Alternating panels. The alternating style mixes short and high panels. This interesting look is sometimes featured in Japanese gardens.
Lattice Top
If you love lattice fences but want privacy, consider a lattice top. Add a lattice top to your new or existing fence to make a traditional privacy fence more unique.
Flower and Storage Boxes
Beautify and organize your outdoor space with flower and storage boxes. Besides flowers, what exactly would you put in these boxes? Try these.
Herbs and spices
Vegetables like potatoes, radishes, peppers, or tomatoes
Garden tools
Outside of sandbox toys
Small rock collection
The boxes are fantastic. Personalize them with paintings and carvings. Or you can try using other containers too.
Coffee cans
Shoes
Hanging plants
Hooks
Repurposed kitchen items like vases, teapots, mugs, or water bottles.
Before you adorn your fence, be mindful that the lattice has a weight limit.
Gates
If you have a fence, you likely have a gate. Changing up the look of your fence gate can add flair or complexity to your home's exterior. Here are some design ideas.
Switch up the design. Just because you have a lattice fence doesn't mean you have to have a lattice gate. A different style of gate makes your fence stand out. A lattice fence with a picket gate pops.
Hardware. Add interesting or unique hardware to your gate. Simply switching out the hinge or latch can change the whole look.
Change the color. Choose an opposite or complementary color for your gate. This simple change can have a dramatic, fun visual effect with minimal effort.
Arbors
An arbor is a creative adornment for your home. Many arbors use lattice in their design, so an arbor and lattice fence pairing is natural. There are five main styles of arbors, but if none of them strikes your fancy, you can have one custom designed. Let's check out the main options.
Gabled. A gabled arbor has a pitched roof. These are typically made from wood and metal but can be constructed from bricks or other masonry.
Formal. Formal arbor designs have clean lines, usually with well-manicured plantings nearby. Wedding and formal venues often feature these arbors.
Arched. An arched arbor is like its name, crafted with an arched roof.
Traditional. Traditional arbors have either an arched or flat roof and built-in trellises. There are few to no embellishments, keeping the design simplistic.
Natural. A natural arbor incorporates natural material into its simple design. You'll see materials like rough tree branches, limbs, and rocks.
FAQ About Lattice Fences
Are Lattice Fences Sturdy?
Yes, lattice fences are sturdy. The lattice design allows wind to pass through the gaps. But they're not as sturdy as traditional fences. Many factors will determine the sturdiness of your lattice fence.
Material. The building materials of your fence are the most important factor in your fence's sturdiness. For example, a wrought iron fence is stronger than a wood fence.
Maintenance. The upkeep of your fence makes a big difference in your fence's strength and longevity. If you don't take care of rot, your fence will weaken.
Slat Width. The width of your slats will largely determine your fence's strength. Although some wood is harder than others, wood is among the weakest fence materials. But the thicker the slats, the stronger your fence.
How Tall is a Lattice Fence?
In general, fences are 3-4 feet tall. However, the purpose of your lattice fence will determine its height. A pool fence, for example, must be at least 4 feet tall. A garden fence is about 3 feet tall but will vary depending on the animals you want to keep out. Privacy fences are about 6 feet tall.
How Long Does a Lattice Fence Last?
As a general rule, fences last about 20 years. However, the longevity will rely on its construction material. An unmaintained wooden fence crumbles within 10 years, but a maintained wrought iron fence lasts a century. Maintenance is the second factor in longevity. Like everything in life, the better care you provide, the longer it lasts.
Lost in Lattice?
Choosing your lattice fence design is half the battle. But installing the fence is another battle entirely. If you need a helping hammer, highly-rated local professionals can help. For more information or a quick quote, contact Latitude Fencing today.
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