How to Choose a Privacy Screen
Choose the Right Privacy Screen Option
An outdoor privacy screen can make your backyard, deck, or patio more private. If you don’t have a privacy fence for your deck or yard, or if your fence or wall is short enough to see over, a privacy screen can make you feel more comfortable. You have a lot of options when it comes to the material, style, design, color, and size of your privacy screen. The options you choose will depend on where you live, building codes and HOA regulations, the size of your outdoor living space, and your personal preferences. Here is your guide to how to choose the right privacy screen option for your deck or patio.
Measure Your Space
Start by measuring your space to determine how big your deck privacy panels need to be. This will help you determine what materials and features you want your screen to have. If you need a large screen, some materials may be outside your budget. In addition to measuring your deck or patio, you should also measure nearby structures that could affect the installation of your privacy screen, such as overhangs, roofs, eaves, rafters, and trees.
Research Building Codes & Regulations
Some cities may impose regulations regarding the size, installation, or placement of privacy fencing or screens. Ensure you are familiar with your local building codes and regulations. You should also find out if you will need to secure a permit to install a privacy screen. Working with an experienced contractor or fence builder can make this process easier.
Evaluate Your Privacy Needs
Next, evaluate your privacy needs. You can choose a full privacy screen, a half screen, or one that can be moved as needed to offer more flexibility. The type of material used will also affect your level of privacy. Lattice-style screens may offer less privacy, especially if you don’t cover them with vines or plants. A solid privacy screen that has opaque panels will offer maximum privacy but will also obscure your view of your yard and will affect how much natural light your deck or patio gets. You can also choose a hybrid option that combines solid panels on the bottom with an open-style or lattice weave top.
Consider Your Patio or Deck Style
The privacy screen you choose should complement the existing style of your deck or patio. Choosing similar materials or colors will make the screen blend in more so that it won’t turn into an eyesore. You should also select a size, style, and design that complements your home’s architecture. Consider how the privacy screen will integrate with your existing outdoor living space to create a seamless, natural extension of that space.
Factor in the Weather & Climate
The weather and climate in your area will play a huge factor in the type of material you choose for your privacy screen. A wood privacy screen is vulnerable to moisture intrusion, rot, sun damage, and pests. A composite privacy screen is made from a combination of wood fibers and plastics, which may make it more durable and weather-resistant. If you live in an area that gets a lot of rain and wind or experiences extreme temperatures, you should choose a material that can handle the wear and tear. Composite and vinyl privacy screens are more resistant to pests and damage and may last longer without as much care and maintenance. Metal and wood privacy screens will need to be treated using a stain or sealant to protect them from pests, moisture, and the weather.
Complement Your Style & Aesthetics
Of course, you should also consider your personal style and aesthetic preferences. Take into account how much time you want to spend cleaning and maintaining the screen as well. If you choose a vinyl privacy screen or a composite material, you may have a range of colors and designs to consider. If you choose natural wood, you can paint or stain the screen to match the color of your deck.
Call to Explore Your Privacy Screen Options
Dick’s Evergreen Fence and Deck offers a range of privacy screen options. We specialize in natural wood, vinyl, and composite privacy screens as well as custom privacy fences for decks and patios. We can help you choose the perfect material and design for your home, and help you enhance the beauty and privacy of your outdoor living space. Our high-quality privacy screens are decorative, durable, and functional and can transform your deck or patio by enhancing your comfort and privacy. Call us now or reach out to us online to explore your privacy screen options in the Portland, OR, area.