Trellis fencing and garden screens

Choose the purpose before the pattern

Trellis consists of an open framework, commonly arranged in a square or diagonal pattern. The size of the openings affects how much can be seen through it and how it relates to the planting around it. A decorative garden divider has different requirements from a boundary where privacy is the main aim.

Explain whether you want the trellis to stand alone, sit within a new fence arrangement or support plants. The installation should be planned for that purpose. A small sample image does not establish how a full-height screen will look from your windows, patio or neighbouring ground level.

Screening without a solid wall

An open trellis allows views through the framework. Closely spaced patterns can change the visual effect, but they should not be described as providing the same screening as a solid panel. Consider where someone will stand or sit and the angle from which privacy is needed.

Planting can alter the appearance over time, but the outcome depends on the plants and their upkeep. Do not base an immediate privacy requirement on an assumption that foliage will fill the screen quickly or remain dense throughout the year. If a closed boundary is essential, compare closeboard fencing before deciding.

Supporting climbing plants

If planting is part of the plan, tell us what is already growing and what you intend to add. Mature vegetation can place demands on the framework and make maintenance access more difficult. The trellis, posts and fixings should be selected with the intended use in mind rather than treated as decoration alone.

Keep a practical route for inspecting the fence and managing the plants. A screen covered in growth may conceal loose connections or deteriorating timber. Decisions about plant selection and care should be made separately where specialist gardening advice is needed.

Adding trellis to an existing fence

An existing fence is not automatically suitable for an extra section above it. The condition of the posts, the attachment points and the proposed overall arrangement need checking. Additional height changes both the appearance and the demands on the supports.

Discuss the total finished height and any applicable permissions before the work is agreed. We do not assume that a decorative topper falls outside requirements that affect a boundary. This page does not provide a site-specific planning assessment; any uncertainty should be resolved with the appropriate source before installation.

Standalone screens and garden divisions

A trellis screen can help separate a seating area, frame a view or define a transition between parts of a garden. Its position should leave useful circulation space and access for cleaning or maintaining nearby surfaces. Consider the appearance of the back as well as the front if both will be visible.

Describe ground levels, paving and any nearby structures. Known services and existing footings may influence post positions. Where the screen meets a wall or another fence, the connection should be discussed as part of the specification, not improvised from a photograph on the day.

A complete installation quotation

Ask for the screen dimensions, pattern, timber finish, support arrangement and fixings to be identified. Confirm whether removing existing material, clearing vegetation or disposing of waste is included. If the project involves new planting, lighting or other garden work, identify which elements are outside the fencing quotation.

Access can affect handling and assembly, especially through a narrow side passage or into a courtyard. Tell us about steps, shared routes and any requirement to bring materials through the property. A clear brief makes it easier to compare the actual work rather than simply the price of a trellis panel.

Discuss your garden screen

Call 020 3797 3058 for a free quotation. Give your postcode and explain where the screen will sit, its approximate dimensions and the purpose it needs to serve. Our fence types overview can help you compare trellis with slatted or picket alternatives. The proposed materials and supporting arrangement will be confirmed for the actual site.