What's the price to build a combination fence with a solid bottom and lattice top in Richmond?

A combination fence with solid bottom and lattice top in Richmond typically costs $45-$75 per linear foot installed, depending on materials, height, and design complexity. This style combines privacy at eye level with an open, decorative top section that allows light and air flow while maintaining security.

Material and Design Options

The most popular combination fence design in Richmond uses Western Red Cedar for both the solid bottom section and lattice top. A typical configuration features a 4-foot solid privacy section with a 2-foot lattice top, creating a 6-foot total height that meets Richmond's maximum bylaw requirements for rear and side yards. The solid section provides privacy for patios and yards while the lattice top prevents the fence from feeling too enclosed and allows air circulation that's beneficial in Metro Vancouver's wet climate.

Pressure-treated lumber offers a more budget-friendly option at $35-$60 per linear foot, but requires regular sealing every 2-3 years in Richmond's marine climate. Vinyl combination fencing is also available at $40-$70 per linear foot and offers the advantage of zero maintenance - particularly valuable for the lattice section which can be difficult to stain or seal thoroughly due to its intricate design.

Richmond-Specific Considerations

Richmond's flat terrain and exposure to Fraser River winds make combination fencing an excellent choice. The lattice top allows wind to pass through rather than creating a solid barrier that can catch wind and stress the fence structure. This is particularly important in Richmond's open areas and newer subdivisions where there's less natural wind protection from mature trees.

Richmond's maximum fence height of 1.83 metres (6 feet) in rear and side yards accommodates the popular 4-foot solid/2-foot lattice combination perfectly. For front yards, the 1.22 metre (4 feet) limit typically means a 3-foot solid section with 1-foot lattice top, though many Richmond homeowners choose lower picket-style fencing for front yards to maintain neighbourhood openness.

Installation and Cost Factors

Posts for combination fencing require careful planning since they must support both the solid bottom section and the lattice framework. 6x6 cedar posts are recommended over standard 4x4 posts for the additional strength needed to support the varied load distribution. This adds approximately $10-$20 per post compared to standard privacy fencing.

The lattice section requires additional framing - typically 2x4 cedar rails top and bottom to hold the lattice panels securely. Quality lattice panels cost $25-$45 each (covering approximately 8 feet of fence length) and must be properly secured to prevent sagging or wind damage.

Total Project Estimates

For a typical Richmond residential project:

• 100 linear feet: $4,500-$7,500 total installed


• 150 linear feet (common for corner lots): $6,750-$11,250 total installed


• 200 linear feet (full perimeter): $9,000-$15,000 total installed

These estimates include all materials, concrete footings, labour, and cleanup. Add $300-$600 for a matching gate with combination solid/lattice design.

Maintenance Requirements

Cedar combination fencing requires staining or sealing every 2-3 years in Richmond's climate, with special attention to the lattice section where moisture can collect in the intersecting wood joints. The lattice top section may need more frequent maintenance than the solid bottom due to greater weather exposure and the difficulty of achieving complete coverage during staining.

Professional Installation Recommended

The precision required for proper lattice installation, combined with the need for additional framing and careful post sizing, makes this a project best handled by experienced fence contractors. Poor installation can result in sagging lattice sections, gaps that compromise privacy, and premature failure of the connection points between solid and lattice sections.

Need help finding a fence contractor in Richmond? Vancouver Fence Builders can match you with local professionals who specialize in combination fencing for a free estimate on your project.