Yes, it provides a lot more stiffness to the top edge since we don't have the benefit of a backer and an overlay with that design. However, this is a very location specific design since it isn't for anything but to keep the rocks out of the door openings. The little hook rocks I mentioned above tend to go right over the door sill and then wreck the door opening. The little rail keeps that from happening or has so far. Height is also important since the height keeps it from hooking under rocks that stick into our V notches we need to climb out of.