11 cheap ways to block neighbors view For Backyard Privacy.

When it comes to enjoying your outdoor space, privacy is key. front yards can be ideal for socializing with neighbors and staying up-to-date on local happenings, backyards are frequently seen as a sanctuary where privacy is highly valued.

Of course, privacy is not just about keeping people from looking in – it’s also about being able to enjoy your outdoor space without feeling like you’re on display. This is especially important if you like to host parties or meetings in your yard. The last thing you want is for your neighbor to overhear everything you’re saying.

To make sure you have the privacy you need, it’s important to think about line of sight. If you can’t see them, they can’t see you. That’s why it’s worth considering some of the inexpensive privacy solutions we’ve outlined in this article.

Whether you live in a condo with a balcony or have a spacious backyard, there’s a budget-friendly way to create the backyard privacy you need. So don’t let nosy neighbors spoil your outdoor fun, try out some of these tips and enjoy your space in peace!

1. Erect a wooden fence

Dependig on where you live you can erect a wooden fence without the need of a building permit. For example in Portland you don’t need a permit as long as your wooden fence isn’t higher than 7ft or 2134mm. This should be a straightforward endeavor as it merely involves positioning a small number of wooden posts, beams, and panels. Furthermore, as I have yet to encounter anyone taller than 6 feet 6in (2m), such a wooden fence will provide you with absolute privacy from any snooping neighbors.

2. Plant shrubs, trees and hedges

You can enhance the beauty of your home and ensure privacy by planting fast-growing bushes and trees. Varieties like Cherry Laurel, Fagus sylvatica, Ligustrum ovalifolium, and Golden Leylandii are cost-effective options that can block the view of nosy neighbors without professional landscaping assistance. This is an easy DIY project that only requires digging holes, filling them with soil, and planting the selected tall trees or shrubs.

Keep in mind that you should select evergreen trees and shrubs for this long-term solution, and be patient as it may take some time before you can fully enjoy the privacy and scenic view.

3. Bamboo privacy wall

As bamboos are notorious for their invasive nature, it’s no surprise that planting them can quickly obstruct your neighbor’s view of your yard and provide much needed privacy.

However, to prevent it from spreading uncontrollably, it’s essential to contain it properly. Planting it straight in the ground is not recommended. Instead, you can consider using raised beds or large planters. By placing several of them together, you can create a natural and evergreen fence that will serve as an effective privacy wall.

4. Ornamental grasses 

Growing long grass can be an effective way to create a living fence for privacy while adding natural beauty and greenery to your yard.

Ornamental grasses are a great option for creating a privacy screen. They grow faster than shrubs and evergreen trees and can reach maturity within two seasons. There are many types of ornamental grasses that can improve the privacy of your garden, including Zebra Grass, Pampas Grass, Clumping Bamboo, Pink Hair Grass, and Fountain Grass. These grasses not only look elegant but also provide a more private environment for your garden.

5. Corrugated metal fence

If you want to block your nosy neighbors and ensure privacy, consider installing a corrugated metal fence. You can easily purchase corrugated metal sheets from DIY stores or online merchants.

Just remember to double check your local building regulations on whether you need a permit to build a metal fence in your local area. Building a metal fence yourself is a straightforward procedure. You just need to install wooden posts and beams and attach the corrugated metal panels to them.

To prevent rust and enhance the sleek appearance of your corrugated metal fence, we highly recommend painting it. This will not only protect the metal but also add to the overall aesthetic of your fence.

6. Super-sized planters

If you’re looking to create some privacy in your backyard, flowers can be a great option. Not only do they add a beautiful touch to your outdoor space, but they can also block the view of any nosy neighbors. One easy way to do this is to purchase a large flower pot or planter and place it strategically to obstruct the line of sight.

It’s worth noting that flowers grow relatively quickly and can become bushy in just a few months. While this is great for creating privacy, it’s important to keep them trimmed regularly to prevent them from overhanging onto your neighbor’s property. With proper maintenance, however, your flowers and plants will continue to thrive and provide the privacy you desire.

One cost-effective solution is to try your hand at creating your own planter from wooden pallets. You can follow a helpful video guide on how to make your own inexpensive wooden planters.

7. Outdoor curtains

Outdoor curtains offer an affordable and uncomplicated means of creating privacy in your garden and blocking out the view of neighboring properties. Their low cost is attributed to their widespread availability at numerous retailers.

Crafting them yourself is also a breeze with minimal steps involved. Once made, setting them up is a breeze as all that’s needed is a sturdy rod to hang them from, which can be further reinforced with wooden bars.

Should privacy be unnecessary, the curtains can be conveniently folded away. Moreover, they can double up as overhead shade, like a shade sail, and contribute to a cozy ambiance.

8. Trellis for privacy

Trellises offer a quick fix to privacy issues in outdoor spaces, regardless of their complexity or origin, whether locally made or commercially produced.

They are ideal for supporting climbing plants, and can be combined to form stunning structures for your outdoor living area such as creating a privacy trellis for deck area.

Additionally, they can be used to create designated zones in your garden all separated with a trellis privacy screen, instead of erecting a typical wooden fence you can create a privacy fence trellis.

9. Outdoor Screens

Outdoor screens are widely available in outdoor furniture stores, these screens can be easily moved to various areas of the garden to provide privacy where it’s needed. These screens also prevent anyone from seeing through them to the other side.

When not in use, the screen can be conveniently folded and stored away in a garage or garden shed. However, outdoor screens may be susceptible to weather damage, which may cause them to fade or tear quickly.

You can get outdoor screens made from various materials, here’s one made from willow

You can also get outdoor screens which look like giant sculptures or art installations which are fixed in place and non movable.

10. Utilize cascading landscapes

Although it may appear costly, building cascading levels can actually be quite inexpensive using homemade materials. However, this DIY project requires physical labor and is best suited for those with hands-on experience. Patience is also crucial, as the process may take some time.

Displaying your plants and bushes on multiple levels is an excellent way to enhance their aesthetic appeal. A skilled landscaper can offer advice on designing a landscape that suits your needs. Additionally, arranging beautiful flower vases and outdoor lighting on terraces can maximize their potential visual impact.

11. Hang it up

Hanging your greenery can benefit you in numerous ways. For instance, it provides an opportunity to showcase your gorgeous flowers. Although others around you may perceive it as a fashion statement, only you understand that it serves to block your neighbors’ view of your garden.

In addition to creating privacy, hanging outdoor plants frees up space that can be utilized for other activities, such as barbecuing and sunbathing. Moreover, the additional space generated in the garden can be utilized to place decorative items or outdoor furniture.

Conclusion

Regardless of your budget, we are confident that the above-mentioned options will assist you in finding an affordable way to block your neighbor’s view. We have provided a range of methods to cater to different budgets and needs.

In addition, we have included a video that explains the importance of privacy and offers solutions to address any privacy concerns you may have.