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Outdoor setup with metal screen.

Overview

A screen is a great way to introduce privacy into your garden. Whether you're looking to create an intimate space to spend time with loved ones in a sprawling backyard, or hide unsightly bins or garden equipment, there is a screen option to suit everyone.

Like any D.I.Y. project, it requires a little planning. The most important question to answer is why you want a screen - is it to block off? To define an outdoor zone? To create an entertaining area? Answering this question will make it easier to choose the right project and products.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, ear muffs, gloves and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

1Bamboo screens

Bamboo screening is a quick, easy and cost-effective way to cover a fence.  with minimal effort! If you have a small space that’s a little bland, adding some bamboo screening can transform the entire zone, introducing warmth and texture that’s immediately visually appealing. The best part is that these screens are affordable and non-permanent, making them perfect for renters.

This type of bamboo screening is easy to install - all you need is a hammer and galvanised nails. It has minimal impact on the fence and can be easily removed, so if you need to refresh it or are moving house, you can take it with you!

Once it’s installed, add some bistro furniture, a kettle BBQ, outdoor lighting and a couple of plants for an entertaining zone that is sure to delight visitors.

Outdoor chairs and table setup with barbeque and bamboo screen.

2Timber screens

For an elevated and more permanent look with warm, textural tones, it’s hard to look past a timber screen. These are great for creating separate zones in your garden, adding a new level of privacy or simply hiding unsightly items like bins or garden equipment. You can choose whether to fix your timber vertically or horizontally, depending on the look you’d like to achieve.

You can build the screening by attaching it to your existing fence line, or by building a frame. If you’re looking to separate your garden into zones, we suggest using a frame. In this project, you’ll need to install some posts, build the frame using treated pine and then attach the timber slats.

The versatility of a timber screen means you can make it your own. Opt for pre-oiled timber panels for a natural look, or paint your slats in a bright colour for a real statement. When it comes to deciding on the size of the gaps, you can space them closer together or farther apart, depending on your needs. You could even mix up the spacing to create a geometric or abstract look.

Garden with flowers and timber screen.

3Metal screens

If you’re a fan of the breezeblock look, but don’t want to commit to a labour-intensive installation process, decorative metal screens are the way to go. They introduce a real wow-factor, creating a beautiful silhouette, but are extremely durable and low-maintenance. In fact, once installed, they require little to no maintenance at all, as they don’t need to be painted and will never rot or rust.

This type of screen can create privacy, but they still let light in and don’t restrict airflow. They come in a huge range of patterns and colours, so the hardest part will be choosing which pattern to go for!

To install a metal screen, it’s as easy as setting in some posts and constructing a frame to attach them to. Once the frame is built, the metal panels are simply put into place and fixed with screws for a high-quality finish and luxuriously intimate space. Add some comfy chairs, a coffee table and some gorgeous cushions and you’ll have the perfect retreat for afternoons with a good book, or coffee with friends.

Outdoor chair and table setup with metal screen.

4Are you ready to create your very own space?

Try out our guide on installing bamboo screening.

Suggested products

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.