Want to get away from it all? I would love to tell you to book a ticket to Fiji, but let’s face it —that’s probably not very realistic right now. Why not have a staycation instead? It’s a corny word but a cool idea: save money by enjoying a relaxing vacation at home. And with the perfect deck, you can feel relaxed and secluded in your own backyard. So check out our deck railing ideas for privacy if you’re sick of feeling like your neighbors are spying on you. Or perhaps they’re so friendly that when they see you enjoying your deck, they take it as an opportunity to come join you? No one should have to feel like they’re being exposed or put on a stage when they’re relaxing in their own backyard. If you want to make your deck a retreat, read on to learn our deck railing ideas for privacy.
Deck Railing Ideas for Privacy
1. Choose a vinyl railing. First, if privacy is one of your primary concerns, consider installing a vinyl railing. Unlike wrought iron and aluminum railings, vinyl can create a full barrier with either no openings or very small openings. If you want to block out your neighbors or unattractive scenery, vinyl should be your go-to railing material. Plus, it is durable, maintenance free, easy to install, and stylish.
2. Select a private or semi-private railing. For optimum privacy, choose a vinyl railing that is both solid and high. This will totally block out your deck’s surroundings. You can also find semi-private railings, which are solid on bottom but partially open on top. For example, they may be topped with latticework or spaced rails. Finally, you could choose a railing with small openings, perhaps with rails spaced very close together. This may be a good idea if your space is small and you want to increase its ventilation and allow in breezes while still maintaining your privacy.
3. Add a privacy screen. Privacy screens were created to help people feel unobserved and undisturbed on their decks and patios. They’re available in permanent and removable varieties, as well as a number of styles, textures, and colors. You could also install a shade to protect your deck and its guests from the sun and birds. You could set up a temporary privacy screen behind your railing, taking it up and down as needed, or you could implement a permanent solution.
4. Use nature as your guard. Blocking off your deck from neighbors can also mean blocking your deck from nature, unfortunately. If you want to add privacy while still enjoying the natural elements in your backyard, consider adding a lattice trellis and allowing vines or climbing flowers (like ivy, clematis, wisteria, or petunia) to grow up the structure. Other natural deck railing ideas for privacy include placing potted (small) trees along your railing or installing flower boxes and planting tall flowers.
5. Add decorative panels. If you want a more stylish barrier (as opposed to a basic screen), consider installing carefully-placed panels. Asian-style panels are simple but serene. A trellis installed above your deck railing would be very charming as well, and it would still let in a lot of light and air. It could separate your deck from the outside world while inviting in daylight and airflow.
6. Go outside the railing. Maybe you love your railing the way it is. In that case, instead of changing the look of your deck, why not change the look of your yard? Consider adding a privacy fence around the perimeter of your yard. You could also plant some tall trees or hedges. These ideas are especially beneficial because a fence is also great for dogs and kids, and planting new trees is good for the environment as well as your yard’s landscaping.
7. Hang curtains. For an easy, breezy solution to your privacy concerns, consider hanging curtains around the perimeter of your deck. Granted, this option won’t work for everyone. Curtains work best if your weather is not especially windy or temperamental. Buy them (or sew them yourself) in a weather-resistant fabric and construct a horizontal panel above your railing to hang them. Curtains are a great way to add some extra color to your deck, and they can be adjusted to suit your privacy needs.
8. Block out bugs with a Westbury ScreenRail. If you are more concerned about blocking bugs than your neighbors, consider purchasing a Westbury ScreenRail. The bottom portion is a sturdy rail, and the entire structure (from floor to ceiling) is covered in a screen to completely enclose the deck and prevent the invasion of insects. This powder-coated aluminum railing system is available in twelve standard colors, and your screen options include a Charcoal Fiberglass Screen, a Pool & Patio Screen, a Super Screen, a Tiny Mesh Super Screen, a Pet Screen Mesh, an 80% Tex Solar Screen, and a 90% Tex Solar Screen.
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If you’re craving some alone time, I hope one of these deck railing ideas for privacy struck your fancy. They span a wide range of budgets and styles, and they will help you make the most of your backyard. So say goodbye to spying eyes and look forward to relaxing on your serene, private deck
Finally, if you’re looking to purchase a vinyl railing for privacy, be sure to check out MMC Fencing & Railing. You might be interested in the PolyRail Vinyl Railing system, which is distinctive, versatile, and virtually maintenance-free. Amongst the many available styles, you’re sure to find one that fits your home’s style and your personal preferences. If PolyRail doesn’t charm you, take a look at the TRX Vinyl Railing system. The styles are classic, simple, and airy, and they’re also available in a number of different colors and design variations. Finally, remember to consider the Westbury ScreenRail system. It’s durable, easy to assemble, and will keep gnats, flies, and mosquitos out of your relaxation space.
For more railing options, please check out the MMC Fencing & Railing online store or give us a call at 1-866-931-5002. We would be happy to help you select a vinyl or aluminum railing that fits your needs regarding style, cost, maintenance, durability, and (of course) privacy.