Ideas for Fence Gap Fillers: Whether you’re putting up a new fence or fixing a broken one, you’ll need to find ways to fill in the spaces between each post. You could leave these gaps open, but that leaves your yard open to cats and people who don’t belong there. Filling in fence gaps keeps your outdoor space secure and also provides the opportunity to add decorative accents.
There are many creative fence gap filler ideas to choose from. When choosing how to fill the spaces between each fence section, think about what your yard needs in terms of function and style. Here are some of the most popular fence gap filler ideas that will make your outdoor living space safer, more attractive, and more your own.
As a homeowner, one of the most frustrating things is noticing ugly gaps popping up between the boards in your fence. Not only are these gaps an eyesore, but they also allow your curious pets to escape and unwanted critters to sneak into your yard.
While you could always rebuild the entire fence to fix the problem, that would be extremely time consuming and expensive Luckily, there are several clever and affordable ways to fill fence gaps that will restore your fence’s uniform appearance In this article, we’ll walk through 7 of the best methods for filling gaps between fence boards.
Shift Boards to Add Newer Slats
One of the simplest solutions is to pry up the loose boards and slide them over to cover the gaps, then add in new boards in the empty spots. This takes advantage of unused space at the ends of your existing boards.
With a pry bar, gently lift each loose board straight up to avoid cracking the wood. Tap boards over to close the gaps, then use galvanized nails to re-secure them in their new positions. Measure the empty spots and cut new slats to size. Predrill holes to avoid splitting, then nail the replacement boards in place.
If your fence boards are badly warped or cracked, you’ll need to replace them completely rather than shifting them around. Evaluate each board and replace deteriorated ones as needed for long-lasting results.
Cover Fence Gaps With Vinyl Woven Straps
For a quick cosmetic upgrade, consider covering gaps with vinyl woven fence gap covers. These flexible straps come in various widths and weave right over your existing boards to disguise gaps up to 3 inches wide.
The straps feature a UV-resistant vinyl coating and a woven polyester center that allows them to flex. Their neutral colors like tan, brown, or black blend right in with wooden fences. Just secure the straps using galvanized staples, tacking them to each board across the gap. No need for removal or board replacement!
Fill Gaps With Creeping Vines or Flowers
For an organic approach, allow climbing vines or flowers to make your fence gaps disappear. Plants like ivy, Virginia creeper, morning glory, and flowering vines will readily creep across your fence. Their leaves and blooms will ingeniously conceal any uneven gaps.
Annual flowering vines grow quickly from seed, while perennial vines may take a few seasons to fill in. Plant them at the base of your fence and train the vines to climb the boards. You’ll enjoy bonus curb appeal, seasonal flowers, and privacy as the vines spread. The plants’ tendrils also help hold boards together in place of nails or screws.
Line the Fence With Hedges
Along the fence line, plant a lush row of hedges like boxwood, yew, privet, or arborvitae. As the hedge fills out, it will completely mask visibility through gaps and boost your fence’s screening ability.
The hedge plants also deter pets and pests from approaching the fence, since they’ll be met with prickly branches on the way. Space your hedge plants according to their mature width, keeping them trimmed neatly against the fence as they grow.
Add Fence Decorations for Eclectic Coverage
Embrace the fence’s imperfections by decorating the gaps and drawing the eye elsewhere. Hang mirrors, wall art, shelves, birdhouses or other decorative items on and around the fence. Utilize the gaps by tucking potted plants, lanterns or other accents into them.
Paint or stain the fence an eye-catching color to further diminish the gaps. No need to disguise flaws when you can have fun decorating them instead! Add whimsical garden ornaments, seasonal displays, and found objects for an eclectic look.
Hang Shelves to Store Plants and Other Items
Add wooden shelves that mount directly over the gaps, either hiding them or even utilizing them as pockets to hold potted plants. Shelves can also provide a spot for lanterns, flower pots, and other cute accents that detract from imperfect boards behind them.
Measure the fence gaps and cut shelving boards to size. Screw steel shelf brackets into the fence boards above and below the gap. Then set the shelf boards into place, creating perfect little nooks and platforms every few feet down the fence.
Use Stones to Fill Gaps Closer to the Ground
For low gaps near the ground, consider using rocks, pebbles, or mulch to create a decorative filler. This is an ideal solution if you have pets or critters sneaking through small openings in the bottom boards. Completely pack the gaps with tightly fitting stones for a stylish hardscape feature.
Gather rounded river rocks, lava rock, pea gravel or your stone material of choice. One by one, force stones into the fence gaps, tapping them gently with a mallet for a snug fit. Repeat across all ground-level gaps, then top with extra stones or mulch for a polished look. The stones will erode over time, so check yearly and repack as needed.
With a little creativity and elbow grease, you can make those pesky fence gaps disappear or even become unique design features. Instead of an eyesore, you’ll have an attractive, pet-friendly boundary securing your landscape. Whether shifting boards, planting vines, or decorating with shelves, you can find the right solution to suit your fence and yard.
Utilize Lattice for a Traditional Look
One of the most classic fence gap filler options is to install a lattice. This timeless look provides both form and function. Lattice has a crisscross pattern that lets light and air pass through but keeps people from seeing through or getting through.
Lattice fence panels come in both wood and vinyl. While wood has a classic, natural look, it will need more upkeep to keep looking its best over time. Vinyl is a lower maintenance option that won’t rot or warp. There are various colors available to match your existing fence or home exterior.
You can put pre-made lattice panels between each fence post, or you can buy lattice by the foot and cut it to the right size for each gap. Use weather-resistant zip ties, nails, or screws to attach the lattice firmly into place. A fresh coat of exterior paint or stain will help the lattice panels blend seamlessly with your fencing.
Let Plants Do the Work for a Living Fence
For the most natural fence gap filler, turn your fence line into a living fence. Position plants and shrubs inside the gaps, allowing their branches to interweave and fill in the spaces. This creates a seamless hedge that blurs the boundaries of your yard.
Choose low-maintenance, drought-resistant bushes like boxwood, privet, or holly. Evergreens like arborvitae and cypress keep a living fence filled in year-round. Plant compact, dense varieties that will grow together to form an impenetrable barrier.
A living fence may take a year or two to fully fill in but is beautiful and eco-friendly. It provides food and habitat for birds and pollinators too. The plants will also help filter noise, dust, and views for added privacy and security.
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