How To Build A Privacy Screen For Only $80

When we bought our condo we knew privacy was going to be a challenge as the patios all sort of face each other. I took a trip to the hardware store and sought to solve this challenge. What we created was not only beautiful but freestanding so that we were within the code of our association. This solution only cost $80! I'm going to show you how to do it yourself.

Step1 - Buy Privacy Screen Materials 

Head over to the fencing department and purchase the needed amount of cedar picket fencing. Here we used three 1x4 pickets and 9 6"x6' picket fencing boards.

You are going to need some 8x8x8 Concrete blocks as well to place your fencing into for support. We used 6 of them total and stacked 2 together.

Step 2 - Build the privacy screen 

Begin by screwing a the fencing planks to the posts.

 Be sure to stagger them so that you can repeat this process on the other side.

Step 3 - Place the fence into the concrete blocks. 

Measure with a level to ensure it is balanced. If there are balance challenges, just add some pebbles to the bottom inside of the blocks to get things even.

  Once we are all balanced just fill the inside with pebbles for security and strength.

Step 4- Decorate & Enjoy

Now that everything is all said and done you may decorate to create a little oasis. Here we used hanging plant pot brackets and added some low maintenance plants to the mix. We also added a really great solar lantern and hung it along the side for some whimsey night enjoyment. Patio oasis is complete for under $80! Try it and post your pics below. Don't forget to tag me on Instagram @gartnerjames.