Adding a Privacy Screen to Your Deck

If you have an existing deck – or are planning a new deck – you might be considering adding the design and functionality of a privacy screen.

At Hickory Dickory Decks, we get a lot of inquiries from customers about adding a privacy screen to an existing deck or to a new deck that we are designing for them.

And while it is certainly possible to add a privacy screen to an existing deck, it may be a complicated endeavour.

Why may it be difficult to add a privacy screen?

When you think of putting up a privacy screen on a deck, you may think that means simply erecting a wall on one side of the deck. But to ensure that the deck and screen still comply with building code, there is a little more to it than that.

To ensure everything is built in compliance with your local building code, adding a privacy screen to an existing deck usually means removing the deck floor, trim, and skirt so that the screen can be properly installed.

In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to install the screen directly into the ground with concrete footings just outside of the deck footprint.

Including a Privacy Screen with a New Deck Build:

If you’re planning a new deck and anticipate wanting a privacy screen, incorporating it into the initial design and construction is highly recommended. This approach offers several advantages:

• Seamless Integration: The screen’s structure can be seamlessly built into the deck’s framing from the start, ensuring optimal stability and a cohesive look.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Building the screen concurrently with the deck is generally more budget-friendly than adding it as a separate project later.
• Optimized Design: Our designers can ensure the screen complements the overall deck layout, sun exposure, and desired privacy level from day one.

If you are considering your options for a new deck, we would be happy to provide you with detailed quotes for the deck, both with and without a privacy screen, to help you make the best decision for your needs and budget.

What if I want to add a privacy screen in the future?

If you are currently building a deck and think you might want to get a privacy screen in the future, you should let us know. That will allow us to install the proper framing into the deck beforehand, making the installation of the privacy screen easier when you are ready to do so.

Adding a privacy screen to your deck can increase the amount of enjoyment you get from it, but if it doesn’t fit in your budget today, you can plan to add that at a later date. If you have any questions about privacy screens, we’d be happy to help!