Lattice fence love! Styles, uses and easy install tips

Here at Jack, we’re all about products and projects that deliver on both style and function—and screening definitely ticks both boxes.

With so many screen styles and designs to choose from, we reckon you can’t go wrong with lattice fence panels. Timeless yet modern, they’re a simple way to add privacy, define spaces, and bring a bit of flair to your garden or outdoor area. You can even use them indoors!

We love lattice, and we know you will, too. Once you see how practical, versatile, and good-looking it is, you’ll be hooked. Keep scrolling for tips, ideas and inspo, plus our top product picks. Hint: Matrix lattice is hard to beat!

A lattice fence (or lattice screen) features a crisscross pattern—usually diamond-shaped—formed by overlapping slats or moulded panels.

Produced from materials like timber or long-lasting recycled plastic, lattice panels can be used as fence extensions, garden screens or stand-alone features. They’re as versatile as a trowel in a toolbelt!

Timber, like treated pine, is a classic choice. It’s natural, warm, and perfect if you’re after a traditional look. But it does need a bit of TLC to stay in good shape. Think painting, staining, sealing. That’s a hard pass!

Plastic lattice fences, on the other hand, are the perfect low-fuss option. They’re weather-resistant, won’t warp or rot, and come in colours that stay fresh without the upkeep. They’re just the job for busy and budget-conscious outdoor DIY’ers.

Fun fact: the crisscross design of lattice has been used around the world for centuries. From ancient Greece and Rome to India, where stone-carved ‘jalis’ were used to provide privacy and keep areas cool.

Lattice has always been loved for both its decorative and functional appeal, and lattice fences and screens for your backyard or outdoor spaces offer the same benefits today.

Whether you use them as a screen or a feature, lattice fences add some pretty architectural style. They also block nosey neighbours! But unlike standard fences, lattice lets the breeze and sunlight through, giving you privacy and pleasant surroundings without that penned-in feeling.

Plus, lattice fences are lightweight, so you don’t need to be a gym buff to install them!

When it comes to choosing lattice fencing or screening, you can’t go wrong with the lattice products in our Jack Matrix range.

All of our Matrix lattice panels are made from recycled plastic that’s UV-stable, won’t rot, warp or rust, requires little maintenance and lasts for years. They also come in a select range of Colourbond hues for matchy-matchy garden design!

Just pick your purpose, style and level of privacy:

Go classic lattice

Our Matrix Lattice Classic Diamond panel is your all-rounder. It’s simple, stylish, and suits pretty much any garden or space. Offering around 60% privacy, it’s just enough to keep the neighbours guessing!

Need a bit more cover?

Our Matrix Lattice Privacy Diamond keeps things sleek while stepping up the coverage—around 80%. Or try the Woven Diamond for a textured, basket-weave 3D design, which also blocks prying eyes and garden eyesores.

Want a different look?

Our Matrix Lattice Reeded Diamond adds subtle grooves for extra depth. There’s also the Reeded Square for a different shape and a wider gap, perfect for climbing plants. And it’s the lowest-priced lattice plastic fence on the Aussie market!

Going up?

Our Fence Extension Kits are perfect for adding height and privacy without starting from scratch. Choose from Classic or Woven styles. And don’t forget your Matrix Diamond Clips for a quick and tidy install.

Where to buy!

Wondering where can you buy these awesome Matrix lattices? They’re sold all over Australia and NZ at a wide range of home and garden retailers, including Bunnings! Find your local store.

Search our lattice products online first so you know what you want in your basket.

Keen to go the DIY route? The good news is installing a lattice fence or fence extension is a weekend project you can actually finish over a weekend (no, really!).

Whether you’re boosting backyard privacy or adding a decorative touch (and some added security) to your existing fence, it’s pretty straightforward and super satisfying, too.

What you’ll need:

You don’t need a full tool shed for lattice fence installation. Just a few essentials:

• Drill or screwdriver
• Screws (stainless steel is best for outdoor use)
• Measuring tape
• Spirit level
• Hardware – brackets or Matrix Diamond Clips for a neater finish
• Handsaw (optional)

If you’re extending an existing fence, our Matrix Fence Extension Kits are made to fit. They come with pre-drilled posts and fittings to keep things simple—and safe.

Your step-by-step guide

• Step 1 – Measure up. Decide where your lattice is going and measure the space to make sure the panel fits. No trimming is needed with our Matrix panels. They’re made to size but are easy to cut if you need to.
• Step 2 – Mark your spots. Use a pencil or chalk to mark where your brackets or clips will go. This helps you keep everything level and even.
• Step 3 – Attach your fixings. Screw in your quality brackets or clips on both the fence post and the panel. If you’re using an extension kit, follow the included instructions—everything lines up for a quick fit.
• Step 4 – Secure the panel. With a helper holding the panel (or a very patient stack of buckets!), drill or screw it into place. Use a spirit level to keep it nice and straight. No one wants a wonky fence!
• Step 5 – Stand back and admire.

That’s it! You’ve just upgraded your fence and your backyard style.

Your outdoor spaces should feel like an extension of your home. Welcoming, relaxed and a little bit ‘you’.

Whether you’re building a backyard sanctuary or simply sprucing up the fence line, lattice fence panels are a great way to bring structure, shade, and style to your garden.

Here are a few ways to make the most of them:

Pick colours that blend in—or pop!

Jack Matrix Lattice comes in a few colours depending on the specific product:

• Smooth Cream
• Off White
• Rivergum
• Mist Green
• Heritage Red
• Caulfield Green
• Bright White
• Slate Grey
• Charcoal

There’s something here for every aesthetic. Greens like Rivergum, Mist Green, and Caulfield Green blend beautifully into leafy backdrops—perfect if you want your plants to be the stars of the show.

Lighter shades like Bright White, Off White, and Smooth Cream feel fresh and clean, adding a coastal or modern edge.

For something with a bit more drama, Slate Grey, Charcoal, or Heritage Red offer striking contrast and depth. This makes them great for framing garden features or drawing the eye to a certain spot.

Use lattice as a climbing frame

Love pretty climbers? Lattice screens (like our Matrix Lattice Reeded Square) give them room to grow and put your garden to work. It’s a simple way to bring more life, shade and softness to your outdoor space, especially in Aussie backyards where plants like to take off.

• Use it to train fragrant climbers like star jasmine, wisteria or bower vine near a deck or pergola for natural shade and scent.
• Go practical with passionfruit and cherry tomatoes, turning a sunny fence line into your own mini-produce patch. Even hardy natives like Pandora or Happy Wanderer love the support.

Over time, you’ll create a lush, living screen that offers privacy, cools things down, and makes your space feel more like a backyard retreat. It’s functional, good-looking, and the birds and bees will thank you!

Frame a feature or hide the not-so-pretty bits

Lattice panels are great for more than just good looks. They’re a practical way to bring order and flow to your backyard.

• Create privacy around entertaining areas without closing things in. A well-placed lattice screen can block out the neighbours while still letting in light and breeze. You can also use it alongside pool fencing.
• Hide the eyesores like bins, pool pumps, water tanks or clotheslines. Pop up a lattice screen, and suddenly, like magic, the clutter disappears behind a clean, stylish façade! Opt for the Privacy Diamond or Woven Diamond.
• Frame what you want to highlight, like a BBQ area, vegie garden, fire pit or outdoor shower. Lattice gives structure and definition, so your garden looks more intentional.

Go lattice in limited spaces

Got a courtyard, balcony or a skinny side yard? You don’t need a big backyard to make a big impact. Lattice gives you the freedom to go up instead of out, making it perfect for tight spots where every square metre counts.

• Create a vertical garden with a lattice panel and climbing plants. It’s a great way to add colour and texture without taking up floor space.
• Add privacy to a small patio or balcony with a lightweight lattice screen. It’ll help block out the view from next door without making your space feel cosy.
• Hang outdoor décor like lights, artwork or mirrors from the lattice to add personality and charm to your space.

With Jack Matrix Lattice, small doesn’t mean limited!

Looking for more ways to use Jack Matrix in the garden? Here’s a bit of inspiration to get the ideas flowing.

Still got questions? Here are some quick answers to the most common lattice fencing queries, just in case we haven’t covered everything you need to know yet.

Is lattice fencing easy to install?

You bet! Jack Matrix lattice is lightweight, low-maintenance and easy to handle. So whether you’re a weekend DIYer or calling in the pros, getting it up is simple. Use it with a steel frame, attach it to a fence, or slot it into a screen kit. No fuss or no heavy lifting.

Can lattice panels be painted?

Technically, yes. But with Jack Matrix lattice, you won’t need to. Our lattice comes in a range of pre-coloured options (Colourbond matched) designed to suit Aussie and NZ gardens and conditions. No paint means no peeling, chipping or repainting down the track.

What’s the best material for Australian weather?

Tough plastic is the go-to. Jack Matrix lattice is made from UV-stabilised polypropylene, which means it won’t rust, rot or warp—even after years in the sun and rain. It’s designed to handle everything from Darwin humidity to Tassie frosts.

Will lattice hold up to coastal conditions?

Absolutely! Unlike timber, our plastic lattice won’t swell, splinter or corrode in salty air. It’s a smart choice for beachside homes or windy spots where other materials might struggle.

Can I use lattice fence panels indoors?

You sure can! We’ve seen it used in home offices, around staircases, or as a room divider in open-plan spaces. It brings texture, light and interest without blocking off a room.

How do I clean lattice fencing or fence extensions?

Easily. Just give it a hose down or wipe it with soapy water and a soft cloth. No special cleaners or elbow grease needed!

Ready to give your outdoor spaces some lattice love? Explore our full range of lattice fencing solutions to pick your products, then head to your nearest local supplier to fill your basket and get busy getting them up!

Once you’ve got your lattice fence panel or extension in place, why not share some snaps on socials, tagging @meetdiyjack? We’d love to see how you create and build with these stylish and practical crisscross screens.