Can you extend the height of a wooden fence?

Extending the height of an existing wooden fence is certainly possible for most homeowners. While fences often provide privacy or security or act as a boundary marker, there can be various reasons why you might want to make your current fence taller. Adding height can block the view of neighboring properties if new construction has occurred, can deter jumpers or climbers, or may be required by local codes or ordinances. With some planning, the right tools, and a lot of patience, fence height extensions can be a do-it-yourself weekend project.

When Is Extending Fence Height Needed or Desired?

There are a few common reasons homeowners opt to extend or raise the height of their existing fences:

• A neighbor has built a second story addition or built a structure like a pool house or gazebo that allows them to see over your fence into your yard.
• You’ve added a pool, hot tub, or other feature and want more privacy or improved safety.
• You have pets or small children and need a taller barrier to keep them safely in the yard.
• You want to deter deer or other wildlife from entering your yard.
• Local ordinances have changed and now require a taller fence than what you currently have.
• You need extra security from intruders.

Even a difference of a couple of feet can make a dramatic impact on privacy and security for a property. And in many neighborhoods, it’s common to see fences of varying heights as homeowners’ needs change over time.

How High Can You Legally Build a Fence?

Most areas have local zoning laws and ordinances that dictate the allowed height and location of fences within property boundaries. Standard fence heights are usually 4 to 6 feet, but can be shorter in front yards or as border fences between neighboring properties. Some common factors that influence legal fence heights include:

• Location – Front, side and back yards often have different height allowances.
• Materials – Chain link or wire fences may have lower height limits than solid wood or vinyl.
• Visibility – Height restrictions may be lower near intersections or driveways for visibility.
• Permitting – Your plans may need a permit if exceeding standard heights.

When planning to extend a fence upward, be sure to research your local codes first. Many municipalities put their specific fence ordinances and guidelines online for easy access. If you’re still unsure what heights are allowed after checking, a quick call to your city permit office can provide clarity.

How High Should You Extend Your Existing Fence?

Once you know your maximum legal height, you can determine how high you wish to extend your current fence. Consider where privacy or security is most needed and the minimum height that would provide the desired benefit. A few feet of added height goes a long way visually. For most purposes, extensions of 1 to 3 feet are adequate. Major factors to consider include:

• Purpose – Only extend as high as needed for privacy, security, containment, etc.
• Appearance – Maintain neighborhood aesthetics and avoid an institutional look.
• Cost – Height adds construction materials, time and labor expenses.
• Balance – Avoid major height differences between sections or adjacent yards.
• Scalability – Can an extension be built in phases if needed in the future?

In most back and side yards, extensions up to the maximum legal limit are fine if desired. But less height is usually better suited for front street-facing fences or borders between neighbors. Optimal height depends on your goals, but is often in the 1 to 3 foot range.

How to Extend Wood, Vinyl and Chain Link Fences Upward

The construction technique you use to make your fence taller will depend on the existing fence type:

Wooden Fences

For wood fences with planks, boards or pickets, the common solution is to add new tops rails or framing along with additional pickets. To do this:

1. Obtain wood planks or boards for rails in the needed lengths. Use pressure-treated lumber for durability.
2. Measure and mark for any new vertical fence posts needed due to added height and install into the ground with concrete.
3. Install and secure new top rails along the length of the fence just above the existing framing.
4. Attach new pickets or boards of needed height between the new top rail and existing fence structure. Maintain identical spacing as existing pickets.
5. Secure all new pickets and rails into framing with galvanized nails or screws.

Vinyl Fences

For PVC vinyl fences, adding height involves getting new vinyl fence panels cut to size:

1. Remove any top rail from the existing vinyl fence panels.
2. Make precise measurements of each existing fence panel width and height.
3. Order replacement panels made of the same material in the taller size needed.
4. Install the new taller panels in place of originals following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Chain Link Fences

For chain link fences, new chain link fabric panels can extend existing galvanized posts upward:

1. Obtain additional galvanized pipe in needed lengths and diameters for any new vertical fence posts.
2. Measure exact dimensions for new chain link fence panels including height and width.
3. Install any new fence posts as needed using concrete to secure in the ground.
4. Secure new chain link fencing to existing and new posts using required tension bands and hardware.

Cost to Raise Fence Height

Extending fence height does require an investment of both materials and labor. Standard costs include:

• Fence lumber or panels
• New fence posts
• Concrete for fence posts
• Hardware – brackets, screws, nails, bands
• Equipment rental – post hole digger, miter or table saw
• Labor – carpentry work and installation

Total costs can vary based on the length of fence being extended, needed height increase, and materials selected. For reference, here are average costs to extend the height of a 6 foot tall wooden fence by 1 to 3 additional feet:

Added Height	Average Cost
1 foot	$15 – $25 per linear foot
2 feet	$25 – $40 per linear foot
3 feet	$35 – $50 per linear foot

Always get multiple estimates for your specific project to compare pricing. There are often ways to reduce costs such as using pre-assembled panel systems, installing sections gradually, or completing labor yourself if you have the DIY skills.

Tips for Raising Fence Safely and Effectively

Doing the project right the first time will save you money and prevent the need for repairs down the road. Here are some tips to extend fence height safely and effectively:

• Check local regulations and get permitting if required before starting work.
• Add even amounts of height across all fence spans for consistent appearance.
• Use sturdy, pressure-treated posts and lumber rated for outdoor use.
• Set posts in concrete below the frost line to prevent shifting.
• Space pickets at the same interval as existing sections for uniform look.
• Review manufacturer instructions if using prefab vinyl or chain link panels.
• Wear safety glasses, gloves, and other PPE when operating tools.
• Dispose of old fencing responsibly by recycling materials if possible.

Conclusion

Although it requires an investment of time and money, going taller with your current fence can provide added privacy, security, and visual appeal. By getting the proper permits, using quality fencing materials, and installing your extension correctly, you can enjoy the benefits of an enhanced fence for years to come. Understanding the technique required for your specific fence type will ensure success. With the right tools and preparation, fence height extensions can be an achievable DIY project for many homeowners looking to improve their outdoor living space.