A Secluded Yard Beyond the Privacy Fence

A privacy fence creates a secure and secluded space, but some homeowners may want to go beyond traditional fencing to increase coverage and enhance the aesthetic appeal of their outdoor area. Whether seeking additional privacy from neighbors, noise reduction, or a visually pleasing upgrade, there are multiple ways to enhance privacy beyond the fence while creating a beautiful and functional backyard.

By incorporating decorative elements, landscaping features, and sound-blocking techniques, homeowners can maximize privacy and create a more comfortable outdoor retreat.

Lattice or Trellis Toppers: Adding Height and Style

A lattice or trellis topper is an excellent way to extend the height of a backyard privacy fence while maintaining a light and open feel. These additions provide extra coverage while allowing air and sunlight to flow through, making them a perfect blend of privacy and style.

Benefits of Lattice and Trellis Extensions

A wrought iron fence topper on a privacy fence can increase seclusion and security in a backyard.

Increases Fence Height Without Feeling Enclosed

Instead of a solid, closed-off wall, lattice panels offer extra privacy while keeping the space airy and inviting.

Encourages Plant Growth for Natural Coverage

Climbing plants like ivy, jasmine, or climbing roses thrive on trellises, adding a lush, green privacy screen over time.

Visually Enhances the Fence

A decorative trellis adds architectural interest to the fence, making it a design feature rather than just a functional structure.

Best Uses for Lattice and Trellis Toppers

Patio or Garden Enclosures – Lattice panels provide privacy for seating areas while still letting in sunlight.
Pool Fencing – Trellis extensions help screen pool areas without creating a claustrophobic feel.
Backyards with Close Neighbors – Raising the fence height slightly with a lattice insert adds subtle privacy without making the yard feel boxed in.

A lattice or trellis topper is a great way to customize an existing fence, improving both privacy and curb appeal in one simple addition.

Hedges and Landscaping: Natural Privacy Solutions

Pairing a fence with strategically placed greenery softens its appearance and adds another layer of privacy. Tall plants, shrubs, and hedges create a natural barrier that blends seamlessly with the yard’s landscaping.

Best Plants for Added Privacy

A brick path with a garden of flowers and trees. Fast growing shrubs and trees can supplement a privacy fence.

Fast-Growing Trees and Shrubs

Species like arborvitae, bamboo, or privet fill in gaps quickly, offering dense coverage within a few seasons.

Evergreen Hedges

Boxwoods, holly, and yews provide year-round privacy, ensuring coverage doesn’t disappear in winter.

Tall Grasses for a Softer Look

Ornamental grasses like pampas grass and miscanthus create movement and texture while increasing privacy.

How Landscaping Improves Privacy

Breaks Up the Solid Look of Fencing – Instead of a plain barrier, greenery adds depth and dimension to the yard.
Absorbs Noise and Wind – Dense hedges help reduce noise pollution, making backyards quieter and more peaceful.
Creates a Layered Privacy Effect – A combination of trees, shrubs, and fences creates a multi-layered enclosure, improving seclusion without feeling restrictive.

Landscaping Ideas for Privacy

Plant shrubs along the fence line for extra coverage.
Use potted trees on patios or balconies for flexible privacy solutions.
Mix flowers, hedges, and trellises for a visually appealing privacy wall.

Incorporating landscaping into privacy fencing not only increases coverage but also enhances curb appeal and makes outdoor spaces feel more inviting.

Sound Barrier Fencing: Reducing Noise for a Peaceful Backyard

For homeowners in busy neighborhoods or near high-traffic roads, noise pollution can disrupt the enjoyment of outdoor spaces. While a solid privacy fence helps block some sound, additional soundproofing elements can make a backyard much quieter.

Best Sound-Reducing Fencing Options

A brick wall covered with foliage. Masonry walls can add additional sound dampening in conjunction with privacy fences.

Thicker Fencing Materials

The denser the material, the more effective it is at absorbing sound. Wood and vinyl fencing provide some noise reduction, but masonry walls (brick or concrete) offer the best soundproofing.

Adding Sound-Dampening Barriers

Specially designed acoustic fencing panels help reduce outside noise levels. These are ideal for homes near highways, railways, or commercial areas.

Layering Vegetation with the Fence

Planting dense hedges, trees, or shrubs in front of the fence helps absorb and deflect sound waves, further reducing noise.

Tips for Creating a Sound Barrier

Install a tall, solid fence to block direct noise from roads.
Combine fencing with dense greenery to maximize sound absorption.
Use multiple layers of materials—a solid fence backed by a hedge works better than fencing alone.

Ideal Situations for Sound Barrier Fencing

A photograph of an urban neighborhood. Additional privacy, seclusion and sound barriers enhance backyards in urban settings.

Backyards Near Highways or Busy Streets

Reduces traffic noise, making the outdoor space more enjoyable.

Homes Near Schools or Playgrounds

Helps dampen loud activity from public spaces.

Urban Living Spaces

Provides a sense of seclusion in areas where noise is constant.

For homeowners who value peace and quiet, investing in sound-reducing fencing and landscaping can make a significant difference in the overall enjoyment of their yard.

Creating a Complete Privacy Solution

A privacy fence is the foundation of a secure and secluded backyard, but adding extra features can improve both coverage and style.
Lattice and trellis toppers extend fence height while allowing airflow.
Landscaping with hedges, shrubs, and trees softens the fence line and increases privacy.
Soundproofing elements help block noise for a quieter outdoor space.

By incorporating these elements, homeowners can enhance their backyard privacy while creating a beautiful, inviting space that feels truly secluded.

Take the First Step Toward Better Backyard Privacy

At First Step Fence, we specialize in designing and installing custom fencing solutions that enhance privacy, security, and curb appeal. Whether you’re looking for a new privacy fence or ways to improve an existing one, our team can help.

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Justin Kent | Owner

Justin Kent is the owner of First Step Fence, the premier provider of residential and commercial fencing in Richmond, VA. Justin writes about topics that assist homeowner’s and businesses in maintaining the visual appeal and extending the lifespan of their decks and fences. You can call Justin at (804) 902-2411 or use our contact form to send an email.