Cedar lattice panels are an alternative or an addition to a solid cedar board fence. Rough or smooth-sawn lattice is available pre-built in a choice of square or diagonal patterns in modular sizes to match the most common prebuilt fence panels and post spacings. A lattice fence offers less wind resistance than a solid fence and allows sunlight into shady garden areas. The degree of privacy is		A simple post and rail lattice fence. Finials on posts add a distinctive touch.
governed by the obscurity ratio of the latticework. Clear cedar lattice is one popular option but lattice manufactured from cedar with sound tight knots is both economical and good quality. Lattice made from 1x2 in. cedar is more sturdy and lasts longer than panels made from lath. When purchasing lattice, you should make sure that it is well-manufactured from good quality cedar of adequate thickness and that it has been correctly assembled. Heavier lattice panels are usually assembled with staples only and require no perimeter framing. Thinner lath lattice may be assembled with exterior-type glue and/or with staples. Lath lattice should be framed around its perimeter. The better quality lath lattice is stapled such that the crown of the staple is flush or counter-sunk in the wood and the points of the staple do not penetrate the face of the panel.

Some important points to remember when comparison-shopping for lattice panels are:

• Size of opening: a tighter weave provides greater privacy but is more costly because of the increased wood content.

• Thickness of lath: thicker is stronger and longer lasting but more expensive.

• Fasteners: corrosion-resistant fasteners greatly increase the service life of the fence panel and prevent unsightly rust streaks.

• Glue: exterior glue adds strength and rigidity to the panel.