Elevate Your Curb Appeal: Decorative Fence Accents That Personalize Your Madison Property

Chad Swartzell • February 24, 2026

Turn Your Boundary into a Statement Piece with Custom Post Caps, Lattice, and Hardware

When most homeowners in Madison think about installing a fence, they focus on the "big three": privacy, security, and containment. While these are the functional foundation of any good fence, your backyard boundary doesn't have to look like every other lot on the block.


At Good Neighbor Fencing, we believe a fence should do more than just mark a line—it should reflect your personal style. By adding decorative accents, you can transform a standard wood or vinyl fence into a custom architectural feature that enhances your home’s character.


The Crowning Touch: Decorative Post Caps

Post caps are the easiest and most effective way to instantly upgrade a fence. Beyond protecting the end grain of wood posts from Wisconsin’s heavy snow and rain, they provide a finished, high-end look.


  • Solar Lighting: Add a soft ambient glow to your perimeter without the need for wiring. It’s perfect for summer evening BBQs in the Isthmus.
  • Metallic Finishes: Copper or black aluminum caps offer a sophisticated contrast against natural cedar or white vinyl.
  • Classic Wood Carvings: For a traditional look, choose ball or pyramid-style wood caps that match your fence material.


Elegance from Above: Lattice and Trellis Toppers

If you want privacy without feeling "boxed in," a lattice topper is the perfect solution. Adding 12 to 18 inches of diagonal or square lattice to the top of a solid privacy fence allows dappled sunlight and breezes to pass through while keeping your yard secluded.


  • Greenery Support: Lattice is a natural home for climbing plants like clematis or hydrangeas, turning your fence into a living "vertical garden."


Hardware with Personality

Standard hinges and latches get the job done, but decorative hardware adds "old-world" charm or "modern-industrial" flair.


  • Heavy-Duty Ornamental Hinges: Oversized black iron hinges can give a gate a "carriage house" feel.
  • Decorative Handles: Swapping a standard gravity latch for a thumb-latch or a ring-turn handle makes your entrance feel intentional and welcoming.


Cutouts and Windows

For a truly unique look, consider "peek-a-boo" windows or decorative cutouts.


  • The "Puppy Porthole": A small, clear acrylic window at eye level for your dog can keep them curious and reduce barking.
  • Inlays: Adding a small section of ornamental ironwork into a solid wood fence creates a "window" effect that breaks up the visual weight of a long fence line.


Color and Contrast

In Madison, where winters can be gray, a splash of color goes a long way.


  • Two-Tone Designs: Consider a dark frame with lighter pickets, or vice-versa.
  • Stains: Instead of a standard "natural" look, try a slate gray or a deep navy stain to make your landscaping colors pop.


Start Customizing Your Madison Backyard

Your fence is one of the most visible parts of your property. Don't settle for "standard" when you can have "spectacular." Whether you are looking for a brand-new installation or want to refresh an existing boundary, the team at Good Neighbor Fencing is here to help you navigate the options.



We take pride in being Madison’s choice for quality craftsmanship and neighborly service. Contact us to  to request a free estimate.


Ready to see how decorative accents can change your view? Let’s schedule a consultation to design a fence that is uniquely yours!

Get a Free Quote Today!

Contact Us

Tan vinyl privacy fence along a green grassy lawn.
By Chad Swartzell January 9, 2026
Pet-Friendly Fencing Ideas: Creating a Safe and Secure Backyard for Your Best Friend
Beige vinyl fence with decorative posts in a grassy Madison, WI yard under a partly cloudy sky.
By Chad Swartzell December 19, 2025
Why Winter Is the Best Time to Plan Your Spring Fence Installation
White horizontal slat fence with decorative sections along a snow-covered street.
By Chad Swartzell November 19, 2025
Winterizing Your Fence and Gates: Prevent Freeze Damage Before the Cold Sets In
Brown slatted fence with stone base in a grassy yard, trees in the background.
By Chad Swartzell October 27, 2025
Privacy Fence Designs That Also Boost Curb Appeal
Beige vinyl privacy fence with decorative posts in a grassy yard under a partly cloudy sky.
By Chad Swartzell September 9, 2025
Fall Fence Maintenance: How to Protect Your Investment Before Winter
By Chad Swartzell August 11, 2025
Choosing the Right Fence Material for Wisconsin’s Weather
very old fence
By Chad Swartzell July 3, 2025
5 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Fence
newly installed vinyl fence in Madison, Wisconsin
By Chad Swartzell June 16, 2025
Wood vs. Vinyl Fencing in Wisconsin’s Climate: Which Holds Up Better?
newly installed chain link fence in Madison, Wisconsin
By Chad Swartzell May 9, 2025
The Best Fencing Options for Sloped or Uneven Terrain
Newly installed unique fence in Madison, Wisconsin
By Chad Swartzell April 7, 2025
Decorative Fencing Ideas That Add Privacy and Curb Appeal