How to Add Privacy to a Deck

With more people enjoying their decks as flex spaces for work and relaxation, maintaining a level of privacy can help homeowners maximize productivity when working from home and their ability to unwind during a staycation. While this may be more of an issue for elevated decks that peek above privacy fences, ground level decks on properties with more open fence designs can also benefit from incorporating features that reduce sightlines.

Privacy decks can help homeowners design an outdoor living space can provide a quiet space and encourage social interactions with their neighbors. But there is a fine line between affording enough privacy and severing a deck's connection to its surroundings. Homeowners looking for privacy deck ideas should first consider their needs. What sightlines do they want to block? Do they want a permanent fixture like a privacy fence on their deck? Or would a more flexible design that can be moved to accommodate changing desires?

The following privacy deck ideas can help homeowners achieve their design goals with durable and beautiful outdoor living solutions.

Privacy walls made from horizontal deck boards

For homeowners looking for a stationary and permanent feature, installing a privacy fence or wall on a deck with deck boards can create a lasting and stylish nook for homeowners. They can attach two steel joists vertically to their deck’s outer joist and join them together with horizontal and evenly spaced composite deck boards for a weather-resistant privacy wall. Homeowners who choose this method may want to consult with a local decking professional before building to ensure their privacy wall meets all code requirements.

Alternatively, homeowners can install a privacy fence-like railing by joining railing posts with deck boards. This type of privacy deck feature will need to adhere to all local and international safety codes, so homeowners are encouraged to consult with a professional before installing.

Creating a private outdoor space with a pergola

Privacy features can also be multifunctional. Steel pergolas can incorporate a number of privacy-enhancing design elements, including outdoor curtains. These curtains can be closed to create an area tucked away from outside eyes or drawn back to allow breezes to roll freely through the flexible structure. In addition to adding sought-after privacy, pergolas can enhance the overall design aesthetic of a deck by providing a focal point for gathering and entertaining.

Horizontal composite boards increase privacy on steel pergola Steel pergola with privacy boards shelters ground level deck

Using plants to create a living privacy fence

Homeowners can decorate the perimeter of their decks with large plants to create a living privacy fence that also supports biophilic design. This privacy deck idea will heighten the space’s connection to nature while helping create a secluded oasis for homeowners to enjoy.

That said, large plants can present several challenges for traditional wood decks. For one, the added weight of the plants, pots and soil may inch dangerously close to deck load limits. Secondly, spills and drainage may expose deck boards and framing materials to water, causing premature rot and decay. Because steel is corrosion resistant and supports larger load limits, decks framed with this durable and strong material can take on the added weight of oversized plants.

There are many ways to build a privacy deck

The privacy deck ideas above are only a few of the many ways homeowners can create a secluded, flexible space for themselves and their loved ones. Whichever method a homeowner chooses, steel and aluminum solutions from Fortress Building Products can help ensure any privacy features will be both long-lasting and beautiful.