Do you have something to hide in your yard? A nice way to conceal bulky garbage cans or a not-so-attractive HVAC unit is with a lattice divider. Vinyl lattice panels provide a good-looking cover-up and create an attractive backdrop for any landscape. Even an eyesore in your neighbor’s yard can be shielded from view. These are versatile panels that will endure all kinds of weather and require only a routine wash down with a garden spray to remove dirt and mildew.
Lattice material, in white and green, is sold in 4-by-8-foot sections and U-shaped channels in 8-foot lengths. The channels frame the panels to create finished edges and are fastened together with screws. Both are sold in the building materials sections of home and garden centers and lumber yards. To build a 16-foot divider, you’ll need four 4-by-8-foot vinyl trellis panels, eight molded U-shaped channels, screws, crushed stone and pressure-treated end posts.
A handyman will build the divider and install it for $588, which includes labor and material. You can buy the materials and build it yourself for $300, saving 49 percent for your effort. The project involves digging post holes, and setting the posts in a bed of crushed stone, then assembling the panels in the channels and fastening them together with a screwdriver. Use a carpenter’s level to make sure the divider is straight and level.
To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com and m.diyornot.com on smartphones.
Pro Cost—DIY Cost—Pro time—DIY Time—DIY Savings—Percent Saved
$588—$300—7.8—11.0—$288—49 percent
