If you have a deck in your backyard, chances are that you’re going to use it a lot for things like socialising and relaxing time alone.
Sometimes it’s hard to enjoy all of these things when you feel as if you’re on display to your neighbours and people passing by.
Here are 5 simple tips to transform your deck into your own private oasis;
Add a Timber Screen
A screen is probably the most common way to achieve privacy from neighbours and the street. Simple timber screening caps off a backyard retreat, providing the perfect secluded gathering space.
Deck privacy screens are available in a variety of different timbers, styles,colours, which should make it simple for homeowners to find one that fits their needs. It’s the perfect way to create privacy and block out unwanted wind while still allowing cooling breezes to flow through.
Some privacy screens can be installed right into the or attached to the railing of your deck. Timber screening using Vulcan, Modwood or NewTechWood boards is the perfect way to make your deck feel like your own personal retreat.
Check out our massive 16,000sqm warehouse to browse our screening products.
Take Advantage of a Natural Canopy
Many homeowners go with a screen of trees instead of a constructed fence.A few trees spread around the deck create a soft, leafy curtain without taking up too much space in the yard.
Evergreen trees are first-rate picks for creating privacy and filtering noise year-round. There’s an evergreen for almost every garden; they come in a wide range of colours, shapes, and sizes.
Find out what type of tree will flourish in your area and remember to account for the root spread of the tree so it won’t interfere with the foundation of your home or deck.
Instead of clearing the ground when you add a deck, take advantage of what’s already there. An old tree can complement the deck by creating more privacy and a natural canopy too.
Utilise Existing Structures
Your home might give you the perfect spot to place a deck which will reduce the necessary garden maintenance.
Fitting the deck underneath an extended roof coming out from a home helps the outdoor area look as if it’s always been part of the landscape.
Add Plants & Vines
Climbing vines are the ultimate plant for providing privacy as they journey up a dividing wall or the support posts of a pergola.Gardeners in warm-winter climates know how tropical plants can create almost instant privacy.
If you live in an area where these plants can thrive, plant them around the deck to create a barrier. Bougainvillea creates dense shrubbery to block your neighbour’s view while giving you something pleasant to look at.
If your deck is raised off the ground or has wooden slats with openings, plant shrubbery in big pots all around the deck or weave a growing vine through the railings to give you more privacy.
While vines can provide scent and privacy, some can become overwhelming and difficult to contain, certain areas have guidelines for how to work with plants which are considered invasive, so check your council’s guidelines if you’re in doubt.
Create a Timber Pergola
Pergolas can help to create shade and make your deck more private. They are a great way to make your deck space feel more cozy and cool.
Beyond helping your space feel cozier, a pergola creates shade and adds interest — especially if you dress them up with light fixtures, planters, and baskets to make the most out of them.
Create more privacy with the addition of a lattice which doesn’t completely block the view but offers enough protection to make the deck more agreeable.
With the right design and consideration, you can create a beautiful, functional space for the Australian Summer where you can relax and socialise.
Building any pergola or decking in Perth on your property requires council approval. Speak with your local council, as the laws surrounding pergola structures vary between areas.
Contact Austim today to learn more about decking installation and materials best suited to your situation.
