How to Create a Sense of Privacy in Your Yard

Have you ever felt like your backyard is a fishbowl? Are you surrounded by neighbors and feel like they are always peering into your yard? Even if they aren’t peering in, it can still feel that way when your outdoor space lacks privacy. The good news is that there are plenty of ways you can address this issue – it just depends on your budget and your vision. Here’s a look at some of the best ways you can create a sense of privacy in your yard.

Use Hedges as a Natural Option

For those who envision a backyard surrounded by nature, hedges and thick trees can be a fabulous choice. This will create a border around your yard but in a way that stays true to nature. The only downside about this option is that it will take time to grow and fill out, so you won’t get that sense of privacy right away.

So, which plants are best to use? Look for low-maintenance plants that are also fast growing. These can include:

• Holly
• Dogwood
• Bamboo
• Cypress Tree
• Cherry Blossom Tree
• Boxwood
• English Laurel
• Emerald Green Arborvitae

You may wish to use a variety or stick to one type – it depends on the soil and sun conditions, your budget, and the amount of space you need to cover.

Install Fencing for Instant Privacy

If you’re looking for an instant sense of privacy, and a sense of security at the same time, installing fencing is the best option. There are several different types of materials you can use for fencing, but vinyl fencing tends to be the most popular. To better understand why vinyl fencing is the top choice for most homeowners, all you have to do is look at the list of pros. For example, it has impressive durability, various colors to choose from, and is low maintenance.

No matter what kind of fencing you install, it will define the space and make it feel as though it’s your private slice of the outdoors.

Strategic Privacy May Be All That’s Needed

While the above two options address your entire yard, some people don’t need or want to go that far. Perhaps you are happy with strategic privacy, meaning you want one particular area of the yard to be kept private. If strategic privacy is all you want, then these ideas can be a great solution:

• A covered gazebo – you can look for one with netting or drapes on the side for added privacy
• An oversized standing umbrella or a patio table umbrella – whichever works with the space
• Lattice or a trellis to create a wall
• A retractable awning on the house, giving you a choice to have privacy or not

Having a sense of privacy in your backyard is something that many homeowners want, and the good news is that there are plenty of different ways in which you can achieve this.