Deck Privacy Screen Ideas: Enjoy Seclusion in Style

We all like a little privacy now and then, especially on our porch, patio, or deck. While it’s nice to get out and soak in the sun’s rays, we may want to make our outdoor living area a little more shielded from passersby and observant neighbours and protect our decks from the scorching heat.  

Creating a Private Outdoor Oasis

Post-pandemic, more and more Aussies are enjoying their outdoor spaces. We have compiled a list of creative ideas you can employ to give yourself some extra privacy. Most of these involve privacy screens – and we’re sure you’ll discover a privacy feature that suits you and your family’s needs and style.

Traditional Deck Privacy Screen Ideas

Most people think in terms of using a metal or wood screen. These are both excellent choices to provide a sight barrier, and it’s easy to add your personal flair and make this traditional barrier attractive.

Timber Privacy Screen

Whether your deck is timber or composite decking, a timber privacy screen works well. You can get one with slats, so it’s not fully opaque. Protect your outdoor area from prying eyes; the timber will complement your deck or outdoor space.

Metal Privacy Screen

Another well-established type of privacy screen would be one made from metal. Metal can be laser-cut to fit differently-sized spaces, and etching in geometric patterns is possible. Metal remains one of the most popular types of privacy walls because of both its durability and versatility.

Building a Balcony Barrier

A balcony barrier works with second-story decks, balconies, and raised patios. Use your balcony or deck railing by installing a more solid railing. Besides making it stronger, this will block the view of your activities. You will likely still be able to see over the rail, but your vision will be obscured beyond a certain point.

Modern Deck Privacy Screen Ideas

Besides timber and metal, plenty of other materials will work perfectly with creating a private outdoor “living room” of sorts. Here are some more contemporary choices to augment your deck, patio, or backyard privacy.

Fabulous Fencing

If you have a privacy fence, you may as well take advantage of it. Utilize your fence panels to create a border between your deck and your neighbours – or your street. A garden fence can be placed around a flower or plant garden near your deck or patio, adding to the overall tranquillity and privacy. A few potted plants can also act as a clever and natural barrier.

Outstanding Outdoor Kitchen with a Fire Pit

A lovely idea – and not always possible with spatial constraints – is to set up an outdoor kitchen. It can be as elaborate as you make it. A beautiful stone fireplace or a fire pit can act as a boundary for you and your guests to enjoy an afternoon or evening of outdoor dining.

Boundaries with Bamboo Screens

Bamboo is an excellent material to enclose your private space. Bamboo is a type of thick grass woven to create a sustainable medium that looks and behaves like timber. It’s an excellent option for encompassing your deck, patio, or porch.

Privacy With a Pergola

A pergola is a freestanding structure customarily made of timber, which allows some sun to come through. You can install a pergola for partial privacy. Adding in a retractable cover or incorporating a climbing plant or vines will help your backyard space become more secluded. Plus, having greenery grow on your pergola will give you more fresh air and oxygen.

DIY Deck Privacy Screen Ideas

Let’s check out a few options that will provide peace and privacy. These are privacy screens you can DIY construct with a few materials. Additionally, you’re ahead of the curve if you have some landscaping, like large trees or evergreens.

PVC Privacy

PVC is short for polyvinyl chloride. This useful and multi-purpose material is UV-resistant and will last quite a while. It’s ideal for covering a pergola or making a privacy wall. The PVC pipes can be cut in half lengthwise for varied uses and even to hold soil for climbing plants.  

Shade Sail and/or an Awning

Add a splash of colour with a shade sail to keep prying eyes diverted from your yard. Awnings nowadays have come a long way from those old-fashioned-looking striped creations. Get a retractable awning to choose when you want to encounter warm, direct sunlight or hang out in the cool shade. If you desire extra protection from the sun’s rays, a large brolly will work.

Lattice or Latte Poles

It’s amazing what you can do with a little lattice work or latte poles. Lattice panels can be cut to size and put in place to make a creative barrier from your neighbours. Latte poles are made from the sturdy stalks of eucalyptus. They look great and will complement wicker or rattan outdoor furniture.  

Decorating with Drapery

We like this option – drapery can add much to the décor and ambience of your deck or patio. Available in all sorts of colours and patterns, this UV and weather-resistant option is sure to make homeowners feel as though they have the flexibility to enclose their enclave or pull back their outdoor curtains to allow a little more of the sunlight in.

Lush Landscape Design

This idea doesn’t require an interior design or landscape design degree! As mentioned, a few well-placed trees, large planters, and natural barriers will help conceal your outdoor living space. Don’t forget that, with time, you can grow a living wall, or a green wall, which is a gorgeous and healthy addition to your outdoor area. Fun fact: a lush living wall will also help with noise control.

In Conclusion:

As you can see, there are so many ways to make your deck or patio space more secluded, and in the process, you’ll be giving your deck a makeover! These relatively simple home-improvement projects will ensure you are happy, relaxed, and secure in your outdoor oasis for a long time.