How to Dress Up a Residential Metal Panel Fence
Posted on: 18 May 2017
A metal panel fence can be a great choice for both privacy and security; metal is very durable, so it doesn't require the same maintenance and repairs as a wood privacy fence, and metal panels are very difficult to scale, so your property can be very secure behind such a fence. However, you might feel that such fences are a bit industrial or drab; to make them cosier and more inviting, note a few simple tips for dressing up your home's metal panel fence.
Vines
Climbing vines are a great way to disguise a fence and add some greenery. You can string fishing line or twine or another secure string horizontally across the fence in several rows, and then plant the climbing vine at one end, getting it started along a row of string. Healthy vines will soon grow across all the lines of string, and fill in to hide the fence. Look for any variety of grapes, morning glories, or clematis for something very attractive and casual.
Landscaping trees
Mature trees may be too tall to plant by a fence, but landscaping trees are smaller and shorter and can provide some camouflage for the fence without overwhelming it. Japanese maples are a good choice for adding colour, and fruit trees are often smaller than mature trees; look for crab apple or pear trees for your yard. Dogwood and redbud are also smaller but very full and very attractive, and a great choice for planting near a fence.
Lighting
If you enjoy your space in the evening, rope lighting can make the fence look brighter and offer a nice reflection against its surface, while toning down the look of the metal. Clip the ropes to the top of the fence as you loop it across the surface, or string the rope lighting horizontally. Both options can create a nicely illuminated surface that is very relaxing and welcoming.
Hanging planters
To break up the look of long, solid panels, opt for outdoor planters that you place along the surface. Choose ones that are as large as you can find, as larger plants with lots of stems and flowers will tone down the look of the metal. You can hang the hooks from the tops of the fence panels or bolt them to the front with a household drill and heavy-duty screws. Get creative with the look; stagger the planters and mix up the flowering plants you choose, for lots of colour and variety in your outdoor space.
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