Do not rely on the thin top edge of the fence panel as the only support. Our fence topper guidance recommends fixing the trellis back to sound posts or a suitable supporting frame.
Do not rely on the top edge of the fence panel as the only support for fence topper trellis. Our product guidance recommends supporting topper panels from sound fence posts or a suitable supporting frame.
The trellis is a separate timber panel positioned above the existing fence. For example, our 1.83m x 0.3m Traditional Square Trellis is a full-width pressure-treated panel rather than a narrow capping strip designed simply to sit on the upper edge of another panel.
Before fitting the topper, measure the span and check the existing supporting posts or framework. The trellis should then be secured to those supports with suitable exterior fixings rather than expecting the fence panel itself to provide the only fixing point.
This becomes increasingly relevant as topper height increases. A 300mm panel adds a relatively shallow section above the fence, while 450mm and 600mm toppers add progressively more timber above the original panel. In each case, the topper should form part of the supported fence arrangement rather than being treated as an unsupported extension of the panel.