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An outdoor sitting area around a wood brazier, with fence extensions installed on top of a wooden fence

Overview

Create some extra privacy for your outdoor space by adding a fence extension. They're super affordable and really easy to install. Here's how.

Steps

1Check with your neighbours first

You know the saying – everybody needs good neighbours. And you'll want to keep them on side for this little project; so let them know your plans first. Who knows – they might even end up splitting the cost with you? You should also check your local council or state government for any regulatory restrictions – these may relate to colour, height, or where the fence is installed on your block.

2Pick up your fence extensions

We have a heap of different varieties of fence extension kits. Some come already made up, while there are some that you slot together and create yourself. Once you've decided which to use, you can opt to leave your timber panels ‘natural' or paint them like we did (do this first, before installing). 

3Measure up your fence

The extension panels we're using come already measured to 2.4m in width. To figure out how many we needed, we measured the entire length of the fence, then divided that number by 2.4. Easy!

Bunnings team member measuring the topmost part of a fence

4Slip your extensions over the fence

Once you've measured, you're ready to slot your extenders over the fence – use gloves to do this so you don't get splinters. You'll need your long panels to be on the front of the fence, with the short panels on the side with the rails.

Gloved person attaching a fence extension to a wooden fence

5Fix them together

We used 44mm galvanised screws to fix our extenders to the fence – these are weatherproof, so ideal for outdoor use. Use one per fence post to secure them to the rail, then use an impact driver drill to screw them in nice and tight (if you're screwing them into the paling side, 75mm galvanised screws are probably better).

Green Bunnings hammer
Pro tip: impact drivers are louder than a regular drill, so use ear protection.
Bunnings team member drilling a fence extension into a wooden fence wearing safety ear muffs, glasses and gloves

6Admire your handiwork

How easy was that? Now you've added more height to the fence you've got more privacy – summer sunbathing, here we come!

7Watch more projects from this episode

Watch the full Make It Yours backyard episode and discover more D.I.Y. projects.

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.