Expandable Privacy Fences
Expandable and faux privacy fences — accordion-style trellis panels, expandable bamboo screens, and artificial hedge fence panels.
Material Cost
$10 – $35/linear ft
Recommended Materials
2 materials
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Recommended Materials
Expandable privacy fences use accordion-style or modular designs that compress flat for storage and expand to cover a wide area when needed. They're popular for patios, balconies, and anywhere you want adjustable, removable privacy.
The main types of expandable privacy fences are expandable wood trellis fences (diamond-pattern lattice panels that stretch from a compact folded state to 6–8 feet wide — often with faux ivy or fabric woven through for privacy), expandable faux ivy fences (artificial ivy leaves attached to an expanding trellis frame — provides 80–95% privacy with a natural garden look), expandable bamboo fences (real or faux bamboo panels on an accordion frame — natural aesthetic with full expansion), and modular hedge panels (artificial boxwood or hedge panels that connect together — each panel is 20x20 inches and multiple panels build to any size).
Expandable faux ivy privacy fences are the most popular product in this category. A single panel typically compresses to 10–12 inches wide and expands to 6–8 feet wide, standing 3–4 feet tall. They're made from UV-resistant polyester leaves on a wood or plastic expanding frame. Prices range from $20–$50 per panel. Multiple panels link together for continuous coverage.
Artificial hedge panels provide the most premium look. Individual panels (typically 20x20 inches) mount to fences, walls, or freestanding frames. Quality panels use UV-stabilized polyethylene that resists fading for 3–5 years. Prices range from $10–$30 per panel, or $25–$60 per square foot installed on a backing frame.
Key considerations for expandable fences: wind rating (accordion-style panels catch more wind than solid structures — secure bases well), UV resistance (cheap products fade within one season — look for UV-stabilized materials with 3+ year warranties), and fire safety (artificial materials are flammable — keep away from grills and fire pits, and check local fire codes for balcony use).
Published February 15, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Maintain a Wood Fence
Annual Maintenance Checklist
A well-maintained wood fence can last 15-20 years. Follow this annual routine:
- Inspect for loose boards, leaning posts, and rot — especially at ground level
- Clean with a garden hose or light pressure wash (1,500-2,000 PSI max)
- Trim vegetation, vines, and tree branches away from the fence
- Repair damaged boards, tighten hardware, and re-secure loose rails
Staining and Sealing
Apply a quality wood stain or sealant every 2-3 years. This is the single most important thing you can do to extend your fence's life. Wait for a dry period with temperatures between 50-90°F. New pressure-treated wood should weather for 2-3 months before the first stain application.
Preventing Rot
The most common failure point is where posts meet the ground. Ensure posts are set in concrete (not bare soil) and that water drains away from the base. Keeping the bottom of fence boards 1-2 inches above ground prevents moisture wicking.
What Is the Cheapest Fence to Build?
Most Affordable Privacy Fence Options
If budget is your primary concern, here are your best options from cheapest to most expensive:
- Bamboo: $10–$25/ft — cheapest eco-friendly privacy option
- Wood privacy: $15–$35/ft — cheapest durable privacy fence
- Cedar: $20–$45/ft — premium wood with natural rot resistance
- Vinyl: $20–$40/ft — cheapest long-term when factoring in zero maintenance
How to Save Money
- DIY installation saves 40-50% on labor costs
- Pressure-treated pine is the cheapest wood (vs. cedar or redwood)
- Standard 6-foot height costs less than 8-foot
- Straight runs cost less than lots of corners and angles
- Off-season installation (late fall/winter) may get better contractor rates
Cheapest vs. Best Value
The cheapest fence upfront isn't always the best value. A $15/ft wood fence lasting 12 years costs $1.25/ft per year. A $30/ft vinyl fence lasting 25 years costs $1.20/ft per year — actually cheaper over time.