My name is Tom Lopatosky. I’m the President of LOPCO Contracting (www.LopcoContracting.com), and I’m honored to have the opportunity to talk to you about home improvement on a monthly basis. I love answering your questions! Please send them to tom@LopcoContracting.com, or call 401-270-2664. Thanks in advance for taking the time to read this column!
What Is the Purpose of Lattice?
A number of years ago, I was having a conversation with a client. They were excitedly telling me a story of how on the previous day, they were looking for a paint product that they knew was around their home, but they just could not figure out where they had left it.
Their search took them to the shed in their backyard, where upon opening the shed door, they discovered – to their heart-dropping surprise – a napping coyote!
Although beyond startled, the client had enough sense about them to softly close the door and quietly tiptoe backward, until they were comfortable that they were far enough away, and were able to quickly hurry into their home.
While not as dramatic, it would not be unusual for us to find animals taking shelter in various areas around our homes, particularly under porches, decks, etc.
One way that this can be prevented is by utilizing lattice to – in a nice-looking way – close off these areas, which would otherwise be tempting for many wild animals that are looking for a place to hang out and set up shop.
Though lattice would not keep out mice and tinier creatures, which may be able to fit through their openings, it certainly can be effective in keeping out rats, squirrels, raccoons, groundhogs, and yes – coyotes!
Lattice is a type of framework made of wood, metal, or plastic that is often used around people’s homes for various purposes – not just for keeping animals out from where it is preferred they not be! It’s made up of crisscrossed strips or bars, creating a pattern, with open spaces in between.
Lattice is fairly easy to find for purchase at any lumberyard, neighborhood hardware store, big box hardware store, many department stores, or plenty of places online.
One common use of lattice around homes is as a decorative element. It can be attached to fences, decks, or porches to add a touch of style and charm. Lattice panels come in different designs, such as diamond, square, or oval patterns, allowing homeowners to choose one that matches their aesthetic preferences.
Another popular use of lattice is for privacy and screening. By installing lattice panels around a patio or deck, homeowners can create a sense of seclusion, without completely blocking off the area. Vines or climbing plants can be trained to grow on the lattice, providing additional privacy, while also enhancing the visual appeal of the space.
Lattice can also serve as a support structure for climbing plants and vines in gardens. By attaching lattice panels to walls or fences, homeowners can create vertical gardens, allowing plants to grow upwards, and save space. This is particularly useful for small yards or areas, with limited ground space for gardening.
Lattice is a versatile and often practical addition to homes, offering functional benefits, as well as those that are cosmetically pleasing – and it can be super for enhancing privacy!
Whether it’s used for keeping out coyotes, improving outdoor aesthetics, creating privacy, or supporting climbing plants, lattice is a popular choice for homeowners looking to beautify and improve their outdoor spaces.
About Tom Lopatosky
Tom Lopatosky has run his own RI-based painting and repair business since 1995; LOPCO Contracting – the “Personable, Particular Professionals” – specializes in exterior & interior painting and carpentry. Recently LOPCO Contracting was named ‘RI’s Finest Painting Contracting Company’ by ShopInRI Magazine. In 2013, Tom was named “Humanitarian of the Year” by the Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA) and a “40 Under 40” award winner by Providence Business News. He is a member of both PCA (Painting Contractors Association) and RIBA (Rhode Island Builders Association). Tom has often had weekly ‘Home Improvement Tips’ that have aired on the radio on 630 WPRO AM and on television on WPRI 12. You can catch Tom LIVE on the radio EVERY Saturday, 2pm-3pm, on 630 WPRO AM (99.7 FM) during his weekly ProTalk Home Improvement Radio Show!
