How to Make Your Wood Fence Panels More Private Without Raising the Height
Privacy is one of the main reasons homeowners install fencing around their gardens. However, there are situations where increasing the height of a fence isn’t practical — or even allowed under local planning regulations. Fortunately, there are several effective and attractive ways to enhance the privacy of your existing wooden fence panels without making them taller. At Fast Fix Fencing Impington, we regularly assist customers in Impington, Cambridge with practical fencing solutions that improve privacy while maintaining compliance and visual appeal.
Here’s how to boost the privacy of your wood fencing without exceeding permitted height restrictions.
Why You May Not Be Able to Increase Fence Height
In most parts of the UK, the general rule is that fences facing a public road or footpath cannot exceed 1 metre in height without planning permission. For other boundaries, this limit is usually 2 metres. Before making any alterations, it’s important to check with your local authority or consult with a fencing professional like Fast Fix Fencing Impington to avoid breaching regulations.
Smart Ways to Improve Fence Privacy at Standard Heights
1. Add Trellis Panels with Climbing Plants
Trellis can be fixed to the top or face of your existing fence panels to create a natural screen.
Advantages:
- Adds height without creating a solid structure
- Encourages vertical planting with ivy, clematis, honeysuckle or roses
- Creates a softer, more natural aesthetic
Tip: Choose a tight lattice pattern to limit gaps and enhance visual coverage.
2. Install Bamboo or Reed Screening
Bamboo rolls or reed screens can be attached directly to your existing fence for an instant privacy boost.
Benefits:
- Easy to install and remove
- Provides full or partial screening depending on the thickness
- A cost-effective solution for renters or temporary screening
Note: Bamboo screens should be fixed securely to prevent movement in windy conditions.
3. Fix Decorative Fence Panels to the Existing Fence
Decorative slatted panels or privacy screens made from treated timber or composite can be mounted onto your existing fence.
Advantages:
- Enhances both privacy and style
- Can be installed in sections to suit your needs
- Available in a variety of designs to complement your garden
4. Use Outdoor Fabric or Shade Sails
In small sections of your garden where extra screening is needed — such as near seating or patio areas — you can use weatherproof fabrics or garden shade sails.
Benefits:
- Adds flexibility to your privacy solution
- Can be seasonal or temporary
- Offers shade as well as screening
Ideal for: Urban gardens, balconies, or overlooked courtyards.
5. Grow Evergreen Hedges or Shrubs Along the Fence Line
Planting a narrow border of evergreen shrubs in front of your wooden fence can enhance privacy over time.
Popular choices include:
- Laurel
- Photinia ‘Red Robin’
- Portuguese laurel
- Box (for low-maintenance borders)
Why this works:
- Creates an effective living barrier
- Can be trimmed to the desired height and shape
- Improves the look and feel of your boundary
6. Add Horizontal Slats or Battens
If your existing panels have wide gaps or are spaced designs, fixing horizontal slats or battens between the fence posts can create a more closed-off effect.
Benefits:
- Maintains airflow while increasing visual screening
- Can be painted or stained to match your fence
- Provides a modern, clean finish
7. Position Garden Features Strategically
If modifying the fence isn’t an option, use garden features to block direct views into your property.
Ideas include:
- Raised planters
- Vertical wall planters
- Garden screens or panels
- Pergolas with side screens
These features not only enhance privacy but also improve the usability and design of your garden.
Why Privacy Matters
Improving fence privacy without raising height is not just about reducing visibility — it also enhances your enjoyment of your garden. Whether you’re relaxing on a patio, entertaining guests, or simply reading outdoors, a well-screened space offers:
- Greater comfort and peace of mind
- Reduced exposure to neighbours or passers-by
- Enhanced garden aesthetics and structure
How Fast Fix Fencing Impington Can Help
At Fast Fix Fencing Impington, we offer tailored fencing solutions throughout Impington, Cambridge. Whether you need new fencing, privacy enhancements, or garden screening ideas, our experienced team can advise on the most effective approach for your space, budget, and local regulations.
We supply and install:
- Trellis and decorative screening
- Contemporary slatted panels
- Climbing structures and fencing accessories
- Bespoke fencing upgrades to improve both security and appearance
Conclusion
You don’t need to raise the height of your wood fence panels to create a more private outdoor space. With clever additions like trellis, screening, planting, and slatted enhancements, it’s possible to significantly improve privacy while staying within planning limits. If you’re in Impington, Cambridge and looking for expert help to upgrade your fencing, contact Fast Fix Fencing Impington today for professional advice and high-quality installation services that transform your garden’s privacy and usability.
Call us on: 01223 912 290
Click here to find out more about Fast Fix Fencing Impington
Click here to complete our contact form and see how we can help with your fencing needs.
