How do I extend my fence higher?

Why Would You Want to Extend Your Fence Height?

There are a few common reasons why homeowners choose to extend the height of their existing fence:

• Increasing privacy – A taller fence can help block views from neighbors or the street into your backyard.
• Boosting security – A higher fence acts as an additional barrier to intruders entering your property.
• Keeping pets contained – For homeowners with dogs or other animals, a taller fence helps prevent them from jumping or climbing out.
• Reducing noise – An extended fence can help muffle sounds from nearby roads, schools, parks, etc.
• Improving aesthetics – Some homeowners simply prefer the aesthetic of a taller fence around their yard.

So if your current fence height isn’t meeting your needs, extending it upwards can help solve a number of common problems.

How High Can I Legally Make My Fence?

Most municipalities have regulations around the maximum allowed height for residential fences. Here are some typical standards:

• Front yard fences – 3 to 4 feet high.
• Side and rear yard fences – 6 feet high is common, but some areas allow up to 8 feet.
• Fences around swimming pools – Usually 4 to 6 feet high.

However, keep in mind your local zoning laws may be more restrictive. Some homeowners associations also have their own fence height rules.

So before purchasing materials or starting work, check with your city or county permit office to learn the official fence height regulations for your property. Having an accurately surveyed property line is important too, so you can ensure the new fence height stays within your own yard’s boundaries.

How Can I Extend the Height of My Existing Fence?

If your current fence height meets local codes but you want to make it taller, there are a few ways to extend an existing fence upwards:

Add Pickets

For simple picket, spaced picket, and shadowbox fence designs, additional pickets can often be added above the current panels. However, the original posts must be tall enough to support the increased height. It also requires matching pickets to the existing style and color.

This adds weight, so confirm the posts are firmly set into the ground or sunk in concrete to handle it. Screw new pickets securely into place.

Install Lattice

Lattice is an affordable way to add height to an existing fence. Use exterior grade lattice panels in cedar, redwood, or vinyl. Attach the lattice to fence posts and stringers using galvanized screws, nails, or heavy duty wire.

For best privacy, overlap the lattice and install panels tightly together. Paint or stain the lattice to match your fence.

Attach New Fencing

For fences made from horizontal boards or rails, new fencing material can sometimes be directly attached on top. Add weather-resistant wood boards, composite boards, or PVC panels to extend the height. Consider cutting the new material to alternate heights for visual interest.

To bear the weight, the original fence should be strongly built. Bolt or screw new boards securely through the original rails or directly into the posts. Using the right galvanized hardware prevents rust.

New Top Rails

If your fence has a top rail but simply needs more height, you can replace it with a taller top rail. Use strong, durable wood or a wood composite to handle the leverage. Install new posts first if needed to accommodate the increased height.

Attach the new top rail by screwing into the posts and original rails. For a picket fence, also add new pickets between the original top rail and new one. Make sure picket spacing matches.

Extend the Fence Posts

For lasting results, extending your fence posts above the original height is best. Wooden posts will need to be sistered or replaced entirely. Metal posts can sometimes be extended with post sleeves or by welding on new material.

Carefully remove fence panels, gates, and top rails first. Sistered wood posts are attached snugly to the sides of original posts with exterior grade screws or weather-resistant construction adhesive. Extending post caps protect the new wood tops.

Reassemble fence panels, gates, and other elements after posts are extended. Add matching new pickets, boards, or other materials to reach desired height.

What Materials Work Best for Extending Fence Height?

To match the look of your existing fence and withstand the elements, choose extension materials that closely match the original fence:

• Wood – For wood fences, use new pressure treated pine, cedar, or redwood boards. Match the wood species and grade as the original fencing.
• PVC/Vinyl – Vinyl extensions should match the original PVC product. Connecting systems may be needed to combine old and new vinyl pieces.
• Composite Wood – Composite pairs well with real wood. Choose the same look and color as the original composite material.
• Wrought Iron/Aluminum – Match the original metal style and colors. New posts sleeves or pole extensions may be needed.
• Chain Link – New metal fence slats are attached to extend chain link privacy. Match gauge of wire to integrate seamlessly.

Avoid mixing incompatible materials like wood and vinyl. The best extensions use materials that integrate consistently with your existing fence for appearance and performance.

How Much Does It Cost to Increase Fence Height?

Extending an existing fence up by around 1 to 3 feet typically costs $10 to $35 per linear foot. Based on fence type and height, materials and labor, expect to pay:

Fence Type	Added Fence Height	Cost Per Linear Foot
Picket	1 foot height	$10 – $20
Picket	2 feet height	$15 – $25
PVC	1 foot height	$15 – $30
PVC	2 feet height	$25 – $40
Chain Link	1 foot height	$10 – $15
Chain Link	2 feet height	$15 – $25
Wood Board	1 foot height	$15 – $35
Wood Board	2 feet height	$25 – $50

Other factors like demolition and disposal costs, gate modifications, and permits can add $5 to $15 per foot. Have a professional fence company provide an estimate for your specific project.

How to Increase Height on a Chain Link Fence

Chain link is one of the most affordable and flexible fencing materials for adding height. Here are some tips:

• Use tension bands and barbed wire – Installing tension bands or barbed wire along the top can deter climbing and increase perceived height. Ensure local codes allow barbed wire fencing.
• Install privacy slats – Slats made of plastic, metal, or wood slide vertically into chain link to block views and boost privacy. Match slat height and color to existing fence.
• Add rail extensions – Top and bottom fence rails can sometimes be extended with sleeves to raise the entire fence up 1-2 feet higher.
• New end posts and fabric – For more height, install larger end posts to extend the full fence framework up. Stretch new chain link fencing for desired height.

When budget allows, extending the end and line posts for a complete new section of taller chain link fence provides the most security and longevity.

How to Increase a Wood Fence Height

Wood fences can also be extended upwards:

• Sister or replace posts – For optimal support, sister new wood to existing posts or install taller posts. Go at least 6 inches higher than planned height.
• Add boards – For board-on-board fences, screw new boards to the original fence. Stagger heights for interest.
• Extend pickets – Add 1-3 feet of new pickets between original rails. Maintain same picket spacing.
• Raise the rails – For added height, replace the top rail with a longer 2×6 or 2×8 wood or composite board.
• Lattice – Affix lattice panels to posts and stringers for easy height extension.

When possible, extending the posts for a sturdy frame provides the best support. Match wood color and grade to integrate new and old fencing.

Do I Need a Permit for a Taller Fence?

In most areas, increasing fence height beyond 6 feet requires a permit. Some key things to know about permits:

• Over 6 feet – Permit requirements often kick in once you exceed 6 feet in height, but check local codes.
• Front yard – Expect permits for a taller front yard fence even if under 6 feet.
• Pool fence – Increasing pool fence height usually needs a permit.
• HOA rules – Get HOA approval before seeking permits from the city or county.
• Application – Include your official property survey and site plan showing the proposed fence height.
• Fees – Permit fees range $25 to over $100 depending on location.

Going through the proper permit application process ensures your fence extension meets all zoning and safety codes. Check with your local building department to learn exactly when taller fence permits are required.

Conclusion

Extending the height of your existing fence can provide added privacy, security, and visual appeal. Common techniques include adding pickets, lattice, boards, rails, post extensions, or completely new fencing sections. Match materials and color to integrate old and new. Consider costs of $10 to $35 per linear foot depending on height and materials. Check your local zoning laws for maximum allowed fence heights and get the proper permits before starting work. With the right approach, you can successfully increase the height of a current fence to better meet your needs.