There’s nothing better than relaxing in your backyard that you’ve spent months perfecting. Whether you’ve recently added a patio, fire feature, pool, or something else, enjoying your space is the reward at the end of the long renovation tunnel. However, if you’re like many people, you may not welcome the addition of nosy neighbors to your daily outdoor relaxation ritual. You're probably in need of some backyard privacy.
Creating privacy in your space is a great way to boost the comfort of your backyard, and allow you to feel truly relaxed and at home in your outdoor living area. No matter the size of your yard, creating a level of privacy you’re satisfied with is possible. From fences, to strategic planting, to focusing on smaller areas, here are some of our favorite ways to keep your outdoor living area out of sight from prying eyes.
Traditional Fencing
If you’re investing in a brand new outdoor space, it might be a good idea to include a fencing design in the overall initial renovation. While a great fence can be pricier than other DIY options, it also offers the maximum effectiveness in creating a private and enclosed space.
Many automatically think of traditional wood fencing. Wood is a great material for many properties, and comes in a wide array of finishes, stains, grains, and designs. However, those looking for a different aesthetic shouldn’t be put off the idea of fencing altogether.
Other materials such as metal or composites can offer a different look, as well as varying versatility. While wood fences may need more extensive maintenance and can boast shorter lifespans, homeowners who prefer a more hands off approach can find what they’re looking for in options such as composites, or metals such as steel or wrought iron.
Backyard Privacy Screens
While fencing is highly effective, it’s not always a viable option. Limitations caused by cost and possible zoning laws can often prevent homeowners and renters from installing more permanent fencing on their property. If this is the case for you, privacy screens could be a great solution.
Available in a huge range of styles and designs, privacy screens are a minimally invasive way to create separation between your yard and your neighbor’s property. From wood, to laser cut metal, these screens come in all kinds of materials and patterns meaning you can get the look you’re going for without breaking the banks.
Privacy screens are commonly available for purchase affordably on suppliers like Amazon and Wayfair, however if you’re feeling particularly capable, it is possible to DIY your own privacy screens as well. Though this method takes some know-how, it allows you to customize your screen and save money in the process.
Lattice & Trellis
A recurring theme in creating natural blocking around your yard, using lattice or trellis can be a great way to block your space from surrounding properties. Lattice and trellis come in all makes and models, and can be used alone or as a vining apparatus. Vining plants can create extra coverage and bring greenery into the space, perfect for those looking to bring more plant life into hardscapes like patios and decks.
Strategic Planting for Backyard Privacy
If you’re looking to go green, strategic planting can be almost as effective as solid fencing. Dubbed “privacy plants” for a reason, there’s a species that will work for any climate.
Bamboo, Buckthorn, Privet, Arborvitae, and even Cacti can be effective ways to create privacy in your yard the natural way. It’s important to select species that are hardy in your zone, and avoid picking plants which can become invasive.
Privacy plants require maintenance to keep them looking their best. Trimming, watering, and treating your natural fence will allow you to enjoy the maximum benefits for years to come.
Use Large Planter
In ground planting is not the only way to effectively use privacy plants to create a screen effect in your yard. Large elevated planters help keep plants contained, and lower the amount of required maintenance as spread is prevented.
With the use of planters, visual interest is created not only in the plants themselves, but in the container. Nowadays, planters come in all shapes, colors, materials, and sizes. From modern concrete to traditional terracotta, you’re able to find a style that fits your outdoor space perfectly.
Pergolas
For those not looking to completely block off their backyard, a pergola can offer the coverage you want without making your space feel completely enclosed. As with most outdoor living structures, pergolas can be designed in a wide range of makes and materials, and can be purchased ready to assemble, or custom built to fit your yard.
If you’re looking to enhance the coverage of a pergola, consider vining plants. A green roof not only gives you space more privacy, but enhances the existing shade benefits of installing a pergola in your outdoor living space.
Section Off Space
If you’re not thrilled about the idea of cordoning off your entire backyard, integrating privacy into your outdoor space on a smaller scale can be a practical solution. This practice is often thought of as forming outdoor “rooms”. Creating screening or coverage that is specific to smaller areas of your space such as decks and patios can give you privacy where you want it without making your yard feel closed in.
There are multiple approaches to achieving this sectioned off space. From hanging curtains, to bamboo screens, to large planters and more, many of what works on a larger scale can be applied at a smaller scale here.
Overall, creating a more private feel to your yard doesn’t have to be expensive or difficult. Whether you like the look of a natural planted wall, want to invest more money into custom fencing, or simply are interesting in blocking off a small amount of space, providing outdoor coverage is possible for all aesthetics and within all budgets.
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