Looking for some privacy in your backyard? A privacy screen is one option! Privacy screens are detached, freestanding screens that allow you to shield off part of your yard or property. They come in a variety of styles and materials, and they’re one way to keep out the prying eyes of passers-by.
But a privacy screen is not the best solution in every case! You’ll want to consider how much of your yard you want to protect and the different styles of screens available to determine if they meet your needs.
But don’t fret — take a look at these pros and cons of a privacy screen to help you decide what’s best for your home!
Pro: You can use them for a small portion of your yard
One of the biggest benefits of a privacy fence screen is that you can use it for small areas in the yard. A screen is a good option if you’re looking for some privacy while you’re sunbathing or you want to keep your excitable dog from seeing the neighbor’s cat in their window. Similarly, a screen could be an effective solution if there is an unsightly area near your home you don't want people to see, like an old shed or a compost pile.
Depending on the type of privacy screen, you can also move it around your yard to block different areas from sight at different times. Shield your patio from the busy portion of the sidewalk while you’re having a romantic dinner, or set it up over the garden to provide shade for certain plants during peak sunlight hours.
Con: You won’t be able to cover your entire yard
If you want to complete privacy in your yard, a privacy screen or two probably won’t cut it. While helpful in blocking small areas, these screens aren’t usually larger than a few fencing panels. Complete privacy around your yard or pool will require a proper privacy fence installation, either wood or vinyl.
Pro: Privacy screens are inexpensive
Privacy screens are inexpensive compared with traditional fencing because they're just a panel or two, equating to less material. They can also be installed without professional help, meaning you won’t pay for installation services like a traditional fence.
Privacy fence screens can be made from various inexpensive materials, including natural ones like bamboo or recycled materials like old pallets (which could be a fun DIY for the family!).
Con: Your HOA might not allow privacy screens
If you live in a community with a Home Owners’ Association, you’ll want to check your by-laws before installing anything significant in your yard, whether that’s planting a new shrub or setting out a privacy screen.
Some HOAs are more strict than others about what you can and can’t put in your yard. You’ll need to get permission from the board and potentially pay an application fee to set up your privacy screen. If they approve your application, there's still a chance that they will require some type of waiver. This is relatively common if the look of the screen doesn't match other properties in the community or if it blocks views from your neighbors' yards.
Going through this entire process can be a hassle, which might make you consider going for the full privacy fence if you have to put in this much work!
Pro #2: Privacy screens come in a variety of style options
Privacy screens can come in the form of plastic screens all the way to stately vines crawling up trellises. With all these options, a privacy screen is a versatile addition to your yard that doesn’t have to compromise on your home’s aesthetic. You can paint or stain wooden privacy screens to match your house so that it blends into the landscape better or meets HOA standards.
Con: You might not like the look
While highly styleable, you might not like the look of a privacy screen. Cheaper, plastic screens can be very unattractive, making them an eyesore for you and your neighbors. Privacy fence screens, such as wood or vinyl slats inserted into chainlink fencing, can attract more attention than distract.
Standard, budget-conscious screens are often designed in ways that don't match with other styles of architecture. For example, a bright vinyl screen will detract from the classic style of a Victorian home.
So is a privacy screen right for your yard? If you just need a private corner in your yard or over your patio, then a screen is a great option! But if you’re looking for a permanent privacy solution for the whole yard, you’d be better off with a traditional fence.
While your budget is essential to consider, investing in a solid privacy fence is a solution that lasts for many years with proper maintenance and care. And at HOA Affordable Fence Company, we have different financing options available to make that dream fence a reality without breaking the bank.
