5 Inexpensive Backyard Privacy Ideas
There’s nothing quite like kicking back, relaxing, and enjoying the Aussie sunshine in your backyard. Unless, of course, the neighbours have front row seats to your every movement! If your backyard, front yard, or patio area is more exposed than you’d like it to be, here are some simple, budget-friendly things you can do to create a private outdoor retreat.
You don't have to spend a fortune to create a private oasis within your backyard. There are many simple and easy changes you can make that won't cost a lot and are a great way to hide from neighbours.
Privacy screens
Privacy screens are an inexpensive backyard privacy idea that are a great way to create a secluded space. They are also an aesthetic décor item which won't close off your backyard too much.
Once set up, privacy screens can be used as support for hanging baskets, climbing roses, vines, or any other climbing greenery to create a natural green screen. You'll get closer to nature and protect your privacy at the same time — it's a win-win!
They come in a range of different materials to suit your look and budget. Either buy them from a store or create your own.
Privacy panels are so versatile that they can be made out of any sturdy material that's semi-translucent or opaque, meaning that creating your screens can be a great DIY project and opportunity to use either new, cheap materials, or scraps left over from previous projects.
With a touch of paint, DIY privacy screens can fit right into your backyard without being something unpleasant to look at.
Privacy screens can be both a temporary fixture or a permanent one. If you're renting, adding a temporary screen won't damage your outdoor area and you'll have some additional privacy.
Even things such as bamboo fencing can be used as a privacy screen. Bamboo is a great material and looks completely natural to fit in with the backyard, rather than feeling unnatural in the space like some materials can.
Add outdoor window coverings
Another low budget backyard privacy idea is to make small changes to the window coverings you're using. External blinds, awnings and shutters come in a wide range of budget-friendly options to suit many homes and are a simple way to create more privacy.
Many blind options are available in a range of fabrics to suit your level of blockout and privacy.
Here are some outdoor blind ideas for your home:
Café or patio blinds
Café or patio blinds are a great option to give you uninterrupted views, while not sacrificing on privacy. Patio blinds are available in PVC, sunscreen or canvas fabric options, meaning you can choose your desired level of transparency in the fabric.
Zipscreen blinds
Zipscreen outdoor blinds are another great way to shield your activities from prying eyes. Plus, the patented zip-lock technology also works to reduce heat, block UV rays, and keep out unwanted insects.
Windmaster blinds
Windmaster blinds are like Zipscreen blinds in terms of functionality, however if you live in a wind-prone area, these are the blinds for you.
These blinds are specifically designed to be sturdier against strong winds as they are made with more wind resistant and durable materials.
Retractable awnings
Retractable awnings (also known as Folding Arm awnings) are a type of outdoor covering which extends from the side of your home to provide additional coverage. With Retractable awnings, you can have an additional 3 metres of shade.
These awnings are like a sunshade and are often used to provide coverage over pool areas, courtyards or even balconies.
Outdoor shutters
These sturdy and stylish window treatments are a recluse's dream.
With outdoor shutters installed, you can turn any outdoor area into a secluded sanctuary to be enjoyed all year round.
Simply adjust the louvers to control your level of privacy, light and airflow throughout the day or night.
Outdoor shutters are best suited to entertaining areas that already have a protective barrier, such as a partially enclosed patio or deck.
Using plants and hedges as privacy
If you have a bigger yard (and you own the property) consider buying fast-growing trees which can reach great heights in just a few years. This leaves you with a natural privacy barrier to shelter you from your neighbour's view.
Popular fast-growing plants for privacy include Lily Pilly, Pittosporum tenuifolium, clumping bamboo and viburnums to name a few.
For anyone renting, use pot plants and larger growing plants to create a privacy barrier. The bonus of potted plants is that you can take them with you when you move — no more buying plants for each home you live in.
Privacy hedges
Hedges are another great option that can create a nice barrier between your backyard and any neighbours.
Not only are they pleasant to look at, but they are also thick and durable plants that once established, create a sturdy barrier and privacy partition.
Privacy hedges are a great natural option for your backyard, are easy to maintain and work well as a feature in your garden.
Vertical gardens
If you don't have a lot of space to work with, why not try a vertical garden?
Vertical gardens grow up lattices and when they're established, the greenery creates a barrier that neighbours can't see through.
It's also a great way to add more to your garden without cutting into the ground space.
Thinking about outdoor window coverings for your home? To arrange a free measure and quote with a highly-trained consultant in your own home, give us a call on 13 13 15 or fill out this simple online form. We provide this service to a wide range of locations around the metro and select regional areas, 6 days a week between 8am and 6pm.
The majority of our blinds, curtains and awnings are made in Australia and are sold for the lowest price in the market, guaranteed. Just bring in a quote on any competitor's comparable item and we'll beat it by 5%.