There’s nothing like enjoying a summer party or a BBQ with your friends and family in your backyard, but it’s never comfortable to feel a neighbor’s eye following you everywhere. That’s why you should consider making your backyard private. But how can you do so without breaking the bank?
In this article, we’ll tell you ten cheap ways to block a neighbor’s view and enjoy privacy in your backyard, so keep on reading!
1. Install Wooden Boards or a Fence
The easiest way to gain some privacy in your backyard is to install wooden walls or a fence. The bonus point about wood is that it’s aesthetically appealing when installed among green grasses and plants. Also, it’s budget-friendly to purchase and install. That said, it isn’t as durable as a metal fence.
Metal fences with screens are another excellent option for your backyard. In addition to being affordable, they’re soundproof to give you complete privacy if you throw a party.
Kindly note that before installing any material in your backyard, you’ll need to check the regulations for doing so in the area where you live.
2. Install Curtains Around Your Patio
While installing curtains around your entire backyard can be inconvenient, you can at least cover your patio. Outdoor curtains are easy to install, budget-friendly, and will look elegant hung around your patio furniture. If you want to hide from your neighbors’ eyes completely, you can purchase blackout curtains, as they block light completely.
3. Plant a Hedge Wall
Planting a hedge wall will make your backyard look more colorful and give you all the privacy you need. It costs less than installing fences and boards, but it requires regular maintenance and care. If you’re up to it and want to add a splash of green to your house, visit a local gardening store and choose a plant.
Some of the most famous plants for hedge walls are yew bushes, lilacs, barberry bushes, and boxwood shrubs. If you have a cat or a dog, check whether the plant is safe to be around them or not.
4. Install a Bamboo Fence
Unlike what many people think, bamboo fences are highly durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions, making them ideal for installing around your backyard. They’re inexpensive to buy, and best of all, they’re easy to install. If you have enough patience for DIY projects, you can install the fence yourself and save the money of hiring a professional.
However, there’s always a catch. Bamboo fences grow fast, so they require regular maintenance and care. Also, they don’t grow well in cold weather.
5. Surround the Backyard With Container Plants
Container plants are aesthetically appealing, easy to care for, and pretty affordable. If you don’t want to install a fence or your neighborhood doesn’t allow it, you can opt for them instead. Purchase container plants that grow fast and tall, and they’ll give you a semblance of privacy in your backyard.
It’s worth mentioning that they aren’t suitable for all weathers, though. If you live in a cold region, the plants might not grow efficiently, therefore, won’t cover your backyard from curious eyes.
6. Install a Privacy Lattice Screen
Lattice screens are favored by many because they don’t block light and air. While they don’t provide 100% privacy, they’re an excellent option if you’re on a limited budget. As a bonus point, they’re elegant and can boost the aesthetic of your house.
The best part is that lattice screens are easy to install at home, so you don’t need to hire an expert. Also, you can try and build one yourself if you have a thing for DIY projects.
7. Install a Retractable Awning
If your neighbor lives above you, not next to you, you can install a retractable awning over your patio. It’ll protect you from sunlight and rain and provide you with all the privacy you need without blocking your view of the neighborhood. Also, it won’t cost you much to purchase and install.
While some people install non-retractable awnings, they aren’t convenient if you like basking in the warm sunlight every now and then.
8. Get Artificial Plants
Real plants are a serious responsibility that you’ll need to bear if you buy them. That’s why if you have a busy schedule and don’t have enough time to water and trim your plants, you should consider surrounding your backyard with artificial plants instead.
Choose tall plants so that they can provide you with the privacy you need. Also, make sure to buy plants that complement each other in terms of appearance and color. You don’t want your backyard to look like a chaotic explosion of green. While artificial plants are pricier than real ones, they’re still pretty manageable for most people.
9. Build a Vertical Garden
Vertical gardens are challenging to build; we won’t deny it. But in addition to the privacy they provide, they’ll make your backyard look like a magical forest. Not to mention, they’ll save planting space in your backyard.
While vertical gardens are affordable if you build them at home, they can affect your budget a bit if you hire a professional gardener instead.
10. Get a Vinyl Privacy Screen
Vinyl privacy screens are portable and affordable, making them an excellent addition to your backyard. They’ll protect your house from snooping eyes, but a fair warning, they aren’t as aesthetically appealing as the rest of the options on our list. Also, vinyl isn’t highly resistant to harsh weather conditions, so if you live in a cold region, it might not be a good idea.