Using Trex Components to build Custom Fence Designs

While the Trex Seclusions system is based on specifically configured designs, the fact that the material is not assembled in pre-built panels means a person building a fence has quite a bit of latitude for creativity. Trex is similar to wood in that it can be cut to any length from its original dimensions. That’s why it’s easy to build a fence shorter or taller than the standard 6′ or 8′ tall height. The components can also be used in combination with other materials as we’ve written about in previous posts (such as bamboo fill in between Trex posts and rails).

Here are two designs contributed by contractors that have adjusted the configuration of the Trex fence. The first example is a semi-private fence with a baluster top to provide a more open appearance. There are a couple of different ways of building this style. In both cases, a frame is built with balusters spaced apart like railing to create an attractive window without compromising security. The method used to create the look for the baluster top is simple. Since the Trex aluminum rail is shaped like an “H”, channels exist on the top and bottom where material can be inserted. In this design, a second bottom rail serves as a mid-rail which allows the pickets beneath to be enclosed by the bottom cavity of the aluminum rail and a semi-privacy panel is dropped into the top channel of the aluminum rail. Then, once the panel is in place the Trex top rail is placed over the top of the panel to secure it. Keep in mind room needs to exist for the top rail brackets, so the baluster panel would need to be a little narrower than the actual space between the posts.  Here’s a graphic that shows the basic principles of this design.

The second example is a clever use of Trex fence pickets to create a closed-off space under a deck. In this instance, the homeowner had the need for outdoor storage that he wanted to keep out of site. Using the interlocking Trex picket system, the contractor framed a structure under the deck and built a sturdy wall and door. The finished look complimented the Trex decking material above and gave the whole deck a beautiful finished look. Because the pickets interlock, the space underneath is completely hidden.