How to build a privacy screen around hot tub?

Having a hot tub in your backyard can be a great way to relax and unwind. However, you may want some privacy from neighbors or passersby while you’re soaking. A well-designed privacy screen can help block views while complementing your yard’s style.

Should You Build a Privacy Screen?

There are a few main reasons you may want to add a privacy screen around your hot tub:

• Block views from neighbors or people passing by
• Make the tub area feel more secluded and peaceful
• Protect bathers from wind, rain, and other elements
• Add visual interest and style to your yard

If you want a private, relaxing experience when using your hot tub, a privacy screen is highly recommended. The level of privacy and style you want will determine the best type of screen to build.

Planning Your Hot Tub Privacy Screen

Here are some key factors to consider when planning your hot tub privacy screen:

Location

Determine the best place to situate the screen based on views, sunlight, and access to the hot tub. Try to block direct sight lines from neighbors while still allowing you some visibility. Be sure to leave enough space around the tub for easy access.

Size

Measure the area you want to enclose and make sure the screen will be large enough. Allow for entry points and access to equipment. A screen 6-8 feet high is ideal for privacy while still allowing sunlight.

Materials

Choose materials that complement your yard while providing the level of privacy you want. Some top options are:

• Wood: Cedar, redwood, bamboo, pressure-treated pine
• PVC or vinyl fencing
• Bamboo
• Reed, rattan, or straw screening
• Lattice
• Fabric or canvas
• Plants: tall grasses, trees, shrubs

Budget

Less expensive options like wood lattice and bamboo fencing can cost $15-$30 per linear foot. More extensive materials like cedar pergolas with reed screening can be $50-$100 per foot. Determine how much you can spend for the look you want.

Design

Consider the overall look and style you want to achieve. Curved, rounded screens promote relaxation while straight screens work well in contemporary spaces. Mixing materials can create visual interest. Match the style to your home.

Permits

Depending on the size and materials used, you may need a building permit from your city or county. Research local regulations for accessory structures.

Building a Wood Screen

Wood is a classic choice for fencing and screens. Cedar and redwood are naturally resistant to rot and insects. Here are some tips for building a wood privacy screen:

Choose the Wood

Cedar and redwood are great options since they are durable and require little maintenance. Pressure-treated pine is more affordable but requires a sealer and more upkeep. Choose boards 1×4, 1×6, or 1×8 depending on the look you want.

Set the Posts

Dig holes for 4×4 wood posts, setting them 8 feet apart. Embed the posts 2-3 feet deep in concrete. Make sure the posts are perfectly plumb.

Add Stringers

Cut 2×4 stringers to connect the posts horizontally. Attach with galvanized screws or nails. Place every 16-24 inches for stability.

Install the Boards

Cut boards to length and attach to stringers vertically with galvanized finish nails. Leave a small gap between boards for airflow. Use 6-8 foot boards for full privacy.

Seal and Protect

Apply water-repellent sealant to wood screens annually. This prevents cracking, warping, and rotting. Unsealed screens will weather to a gray tone.

Add Screening

For extra privacy, attach reed fencing or commercial screening material to the inside of the wood frame. This also helps block wind while allowing airflow.

Building a Lattice Privacy Screen

Lattice is an easy and affordable way to build a hot tub privacy screen. It has a light, airy look while still providing privacy and protection from wind.

Choose the Lattice

Opt for pressure-treated pine or cedar lattice that is rated for outdoor use. Sections are typically 4×8 feet and come in different patterns.

Set the Posts

Dig holes and set 4×4 posts 8 feet apart and 2-3 feet deep in concrete footing. Make sure posts are plumb.

Add Stringers

Attach 2×4 or 2×6 stringers horizontally between posts with galvanized nails or screws. Space 16-24 inches apart for stability.

Install the Lattice

Cut lattice panels to size and secure to stringers with galvanized finish nails or staples. Leave small gaps between panels for airflow.

Trim and Finish

Use 1×4 wood trim to frame the lattice and provide a finished look. Match the trim to your deck or exterior woodwork.

Seal and Protect

Apply water-repellent wood sealant annually to prevent rotting and extend the life of the lattice screen. A sealant tint can enhance the wood tone.

Using Bamboo for Privacy Screens

Bamboo makes an eco-friendly and stylish privacy screen option. It has a tropical look while also being durable and natural.

Choose Bamboo

Opt for bamboo fencing or poles designed for outdoor use. Horizontal or vertical bamboo designs will work well for screens.

Set the Posts

Bamboo screens require 4×4 or 6×6 posts set 2-3 feet deep in concrete footing, spaced 6-8 feet apart.

Add Stringers

Connect posts using 2×4 stringers attached with galvanized hardware. Closer spacing of 12-16 inches provides support.

Install Bamboo

Use stainless steel screws to attach bamboo fencing or poles to the stringers. Keep a small gap between pieces for airflow.

Seal Cut Ends

Any freshly cut bamboo ends should be sealed with a clear wood sealer to prevent rotting and insect damage.

Maintenance

Reapply sealer yearly. Hose bamboo down periodically to prevent buildup of dirt and debris.

Using Plants for a Living Screen

Planting tall grasses, trees, vines, and shrubs is an attractive way to create a natural privacy screen. This option blends into the landscape.

Choose Plants

Evergreen trees like arborvitae and spruce will maintain privacy year-round. Bamboo, tall grasses, laurel hedges, and trellised vines also work well.

Allow for Growth

Leave 3-5 feet between plants and any structures for future growth. Space plants 3-5 feet apart depending on their mature size.

Prepare Soil

Improve the soil with compost and organic matter to encourage healthy plant growth. Good drainage is key.

Plant and Mulch

Dig holes for plants according to size recommendations. Set plants, backfill soil, and water well. Spread mulch around plants to retain moisture.

Provide Support

Install bamboo poles or wood trellises for any climbing vines or plants. Secure firmly in the ground.

Maintenance

Water deeply 2-3 times per week for the first year as plants establish. Apply organic fertilizer in spring and fall. Prune and trim as needed.

Mixing Materials for Custom Screens

Combining different materials lets you create a custom privacy screen that perfectly suits your space. Get creative with these ideas:

• Hang fabric curtains on a wood frame for soft, flowing privacy
• Combine lattice up top with a lower concrete or stone wall for added seclusion
• Use wood panels on some sections and bamboo on others
• Install trellises for vines to climb up a solid fence or wall
• Mix different types of plants and staggered heights for natural screening
• Use gravel and stone in front of lattice to block views from below
• Combine solid fencing with an open gate or arbor entryway

Using different materials and heights creates visual interest and customizes the screen to your needs.

Do’s and Don’ts

Follow these top do’s and don’ts when planning and building your hot tub privacy screen:

Do:

• Check local permit and code requirements
• Call 811 before digging for underground lines
• Wear protective equipment when handling lumber and tools
• Allow for easy access to hot tub equipment
• Use weather-resistant and durable materials
• Slope any solid wall or fencing away from the hot tub for drainage

Don’t:

• Block or limit access to hot tub components
• Allow roof overhangs above the hot tub without gutters
• Use pressure-treated lumber right next to the hot tub
• Place bamboo or plants too close to the hot tub
• Create an enclosed space without proper ventilation

Adding Entryways and Access Gates

Be sure to allow for easy access into your screened-in hot tub area. Here are some entryway ideas:

Simple Opening

A basic 5-6 foot opening is all you need to get in and out. Use two posts with decorative caps.

Arbor Entry

An open arbor framed with wood or bamboo lets you walk through while plants cover the sides.

Lattice Gate

A gate with lattice infill provides privacy while allowing passage when open.

Dutch Door

A split Dutch door lets you open the top and bottom separately. The bottom stays closed for privacy.

Pathway

Having a stepping stone or gravel pathway leads from the gate right up to the hot tub steps.

Porch Entry

Connect the screened area to a covered patio, porch, or pergola for sheltered entry.

Decorating and Furnishing the Space

Once your private hot tub oasis is created, add furnishings and decor for ambiance:

• Outdoor rug
• Patio chairs
• Side tables
• Sconces or lanterns
• Privacy curtains
• Towel racks
• Speakers
• Fire pit or chimenea
• Plants and pots

Keep decor simple and minimal for a relaxing spa-like feel. Proper lighting also creates a cozy nighttime environment.

Sample Materials List

The materials needed for your privacy screen will vary based on the size and design. Here is an approximate estimate:

Material	Amount
Cedar boards	150 linear feet of 1×6 boards
4×4 posts	10 posts, 8′ length
2×4 stringers	160 linear feet
Post concrete	4 bags
Galvanized screws	5 lbs
Wood sealer	2 gallons
Metal post caps	10 caps
Landscaping plants	15-20 plants, 5 gallon pots
Weed barrier	200 sq ft
Mulch	4 cubic feet

Expect the total budget to be around $2,000-$4,000 depending on materials used.

Conclusion

Building a privacy screen is a great way to enhance your outdoor hot tub experience. With proper planning and construction, you can create a peaceful, secluded oasis right in your own backyard. Pay close attention to selecting durable, weather-resistant materials as well as allowing for accessibility and ventilation. Mix and match fencing, lattice, plants, and divider panels to achieve the look you desire. Your private hot tub sanctuary awaits!