Adding privacy to a deck railing can be a great way to increase your outdoor living space. A private deck allows you to relax, entertain, and enjoy the outdoors without feeling exposed. There are several effective methods to increase the privacy of your deck railing. The best solution will depend on your specific needs, budget, deck layout, and aesthetic preferences. Some quick things to consider are:
- Do you need total visual blocking or just a degree of screening?
- What direction is your deck facing?
- How much shade do you want to create?
- Do you want permanent or removable options?
- Are you able to make structural changes to add privacy?
Taking time to assess your goals, view angles, sunlight needs, and style preferences will help narrow down suitable railing privacy solutions. In this article, we’ll overview the most popular ways to increase deck railing privacy. We’ll cover pros, cons, costs, and considerations for each method. Read on to discover the best ideas to make your deck more secluded.
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Add Privacy Panels or Screens
One of the easiest ways to increase deck railing privacy is to install removable or permanent panels. There are many materials and styles to choose from like:
- Wood panels
- PVC or composite privacy screens
- Bamboo or reed fencing
- Metal or aluminum slat systems
- Fabric or mesh screens
Panel systems mount directly to the deck railing frame. They can be full height or partial height. Full height panels give you complete privacy. Partial height options offer some visibility while also creating separation. Here are some pros and cons of using privacy screens:
Pros
- Wide range of materials like wood, pvc, metal, and fabric
- Can get full or partial visibility
- Many feature removable panels
- Less permanent than new railing installation
- Customizable sizes to fit railings
- Offer shade and UV protection
Cons
- Can block views and breezes
- Partial visibility still allows some overlook from neighbors
- Permanent panels don’t allow flexibility
- Some materials fade or degrade over time
- Installation can be complicated for DIY
When shopping for privacy screens, look for durable materials like composite or bamboo that resist weathering. Aluminum is another great option that won’t rust or need ongoing maintenance. For the easiest installation, choose a prefabricated panel system made to fit common railing dimensions. Expect to pay $25 to $100 per linear foot installed.
Plant Vines, Trees, or Shrubs
For a natural look, carefully selected plants can increase deck privacy. The best options have dense foliage to create an opaque screen when viewed from off the deck. Some top choices include:
- Climbing vines like ivy, wisteria, and jasmine
- Espalier fruit trees and citrus
- Bamboo or tall grasses
- Arborvitae, cypress, cedars, and other evergreens
- Hedges like boxwood, holly, or cedar
When planning a living screen, consider the mature size and growth habit of the plants. Vining plants work well on railings and overhead structures. For ground barriers, choose thick hedges or trees clustered close together. Combining a few complementary plants boosts privacy. Here are some key benefits of using plants for privacy:
Pros
- Natural, attractive look and ambiance
- Plants improve air quality
- Flowers, fruits, foliage enhance the space
- Evergreen plants offer year-round privacy
- Less expensive than structural additions
Cons
- Takes 1-5 years for full privacy as plants establish
- Regular pruning and maintenance required
- Could block views, light, and airflow if placed poorly
- Vulnerable to disease and extreme weather
- Provides less privacy in winter if deciduous
For fast, affordable privacy use fast-growing annual vines. Or invest in mature plants for instant screening. Improper plant selection or placement can actually highlight views into your space, so plan carefully! Expect to spend $100 – $300 per large plant installed.
Replace Railing with Privacy-Focused Options
For the highest level of privacy, replacing your entire deck railing system is the best option. Many railing designs and infill materials will completely block lines of sight. Here are some top choices:
- Solid railing wraps made of pvc, aluminum, or wood
- Railing systems with woven cable infill
- Composite boards placed vertically and tightly spaced
- Glass panels or acrylic sheeting
- Iron, steel, or aluminum picket designs with minimal gaps
Dense post spacing is also key. Aim for 4-6 inch maximum spacing between balusters or infill panels. This prevents unwanted views but still allows breeze flow.
Replacing deck railings has the highest upfront cost but also delivers maximum privacy. Here are some key considerations:
Pros
- Completely blocks unwanted views of your deck
- Wide choice of durable, low-maintenance materials
- Customizable to perfectly suit your space
- Allows safe use of full deck area without exposure
Cons
- Higher upfront investment than other options
- Permanent change to your home’s exterior look
- Professional installation often required
- Building permits may be required
- Could reduce open views from your deck
For a full railing replacement, expect costs starting around $50 per linear foot. Factor in removal of your old railing too. Combining a new railing with plants or screens boosts privacy even further.
Strategically Add Overhead Elements
Installing overhead structures adjacent to your deck is another great privacy technique. Options like pergolas, gazebos, trellises, and patio covers limit views from above or the side. For best results:
- Place overhead elements on the side(s) needing screening
- Aim for at least 8 feet above deck floor height
- Use beam spacing of 2 feet or less for maximum coverage
- Add vine plants or hanging screens to block overhead views
Here are some key considerations for overhead privacy structures:
Pros
- Prevents views from above or side angles
- Provides useful shade and shelter
- Available in wide range of styles and materials
- Less drastic than full railing replacement
- Can be added to complement existing railings
Cons
- Most effective when added near deck edges
- Can block sun exposure if placed improperly
- Must be built on stable footing
- Tall structures may need planning permission
- More difficult DIY installation
Average costs for installed overhead structures range from $2,500 – $5,000. Complex designs with finishes and lighting add to the overall price.
Use Strategic Fencing
Installing vertical fence panels around the deck perimeter boosts privacy from ground-level views. This technique works best for decks close to property lines or public areas. For effective screening:
- Use fence height of 6 feet or taller
- Place fencing as close to deck edge as possible
- Combine with overhead elements for added privacy
- Leave small gaps between panels to allow airflow
Popular fencing materials include wood, composite, aluminum, vinyl, and chain link. Here are some key considerations when using fencing:
Pros
- Blocks most side and ground-level views
- Wide choice of durable materials
- Provides security and sound dampening
- Freestanding installation not attached to deck
Cons
- Can feel closed-off if overdone
- Less effective for screening overhead views
- Almost fully blocks breeze access
- Most styles obstruct all views from deck itself
Basic fencing starts around $15 per linear foot. Complex designs with gates or automation can run $50+ per foot installed.
Strategically Place Trees, Shrubs, and Planters
Ground-level landscaping can make a big impact for deck privacy. Placing trees, shrubs, planter boxes, and potted plants around the perimeter prevents views from below. For best results:
- Use groupings of taller plants for layered screening
- Combine low and high elements like shrubs + trees
- Place planters and pots at railing edges
- Allow a buffer space between plantings and the deck
Here are some benefits of using landscaping plants and planters:
Pros
- Softer look than fencing alone
- Plants improve the surrounding environment
- Pots and planters are movable for flexibility
- Trees and shrubs provide other benefits like fruit and shade
Cons
- Takes years for trees to mature for privacy
- Can feel closed-off if over-planted
- Need for regular pruning and maintenance
- Less effective for blocking upward views
For fast, affordable results, use large planted containers. Or invest in more mature trees and shrubs for immediate impact. Proper planning is crucial to allow adequate growth room.
Combine Multiple Elements for Layered Privacy
The most effective approach combines several elements listed above. For example:
- New railing system + overhead pergola + vines
- Fencing + fast-growing hedges + privacy panels
- Trees + shrubs below + tall planters along railing
This layered effect limits views from all angles. It prevents that exposed feeling while still allowing breeze flow. Here are some key benefits of a comprehensive privacy design:
Pros
- Blocks views from above, beside, and below the deck
- Allows flexible use of full deck area
- Can combine permanent and removable elements
- Provides security, sound dampening, and UV protection
Cons
- Higher upfront costs for installation
- May require professional design services
- Restricts open views and sight lines from the deck itself
For maximum results, work with a professional deck designer. Expect to invest $5,000 or more for a fully layered privacy design. The benefits can be worthwhile for comfort, enjoyment, and flexible use of your deck space.
Conclusion
Adding privacy to your deck railing opens up new possibilities for relaxation and entertaining. The many techniques covered offer ways to suit any budget or style needs. Keep visibility goals, material preferences, and costs in mind as you choose the right options. Investing in privacy enhances your deck’s livability and functionality for years to come. With some creative planning, you can transform your deck into a secluded outdoor oasis!