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How to build a decorative screen

outdoor area with outdoor screens, trees and outdoor setting

Overview

Unite form and function while adding a little wow-factor into your backyard by installing a D.I.Y. decorative screen. They create a beautiful silhouette, similar to a breezeblock look, but are extremely durable and much easier to install.

The benefits don’t end there – these screens create privacy but don’t block light and still allow for airflow. They are also incredibly low-maintenance – they don’t need to be painted and will never rot or rust. The hardest part of this project will be choosing which pattern and colour to go with!

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

Steps

  1. 1

    Measure and mark your space

    The first thing to do is to grab your tape measure and measure your space to see how many screens you’ll need. The screens will be attached to timber posts, so measure to the inside of the post if you want to create a framed look around the screens.
    outdoor area with timber fence, trees and paved area
  2. 2

    Set up string line

    In this project, the design is an L shape, with three screens on one side and two on the other. Once you've determined your design, set up a string line so that you know your screens are straight. Hammer a picket at the starting point, two at the corner point (one for each post) and another at the other end point. Tie the string tightly from one point and stretch it around the centre pickets, finishing up on the other corner. Make sure the string is taut, as this will act as your guide.
    person tying string to a small metal post
  3. 3

    Mark your post holes

    Once the string line is perfectly straight, it’s time to mark where the holes for the posts will go. Use the measurements of the screens between the posts to guide you and mark with marking paint.
    person spray painting on ground to dig holes
  4. 4

    Dig the holes

    It’s time to get digging! A general rule of thumb is that the depth of the post should be one-third of the height of the post above the ground. This post’s finished height is 1800mm, so the hole needs to be 600mm deep. Add an extra 100mm for gravel at the bottom. You don’t want the hole to be too wide – just enough to fit the post and gravel.
  5. 5

    Paint the bottom of the post

    Before inserting the post, it’s a good idea to paint the part that goes in the ground with bitumen paint, as this protects the timber from rotting. Lay down a drop sheet, then measure and mark the bottom third of the post. Put on your safety equipment and use a paintbrush to apply. Wait until it dries completely.
    person painting timber post with large paint brush
  6. 6

    Paint the posts

    Before installing the screens, it’s a good idea to paint or varnish the remainder of the posts in your chosen colour. Add one coat and leave to dry. Repeat with a second coat and leave to dry completely.
    person painting timber post with paint roller
  7. 7

    Mix the concrete 

    Read the instructions on your bag of concrete powder to find out the correct ratios and then grab a bucket to mix your concrete in. Add the water first, then the powder, in the right ratio. Mix it well using a stick or piece of leftover timber to a toothpaste consistency, with no dry powder spots.

    If you have a wheelbarrow, you can also mix it in there; either way, make sure you’re wearing a mask, safety glasses and gloves while you mix.

    person mixing concrete using a wheelbarrow
  8. 8

    Pour the concrete

    Pop each post into its corresponding hole and get ready to pour the concrete in. Before you do, double-check your post measurement is correct. Now you can go ahead and pour the concrete into each hole, filling it almost to the top.

    person pouring out concrete from there wheelbarrow
  9. 9

    Brace the posts

    You’ll need to ensure each post is straight. To do this, brace each one with two pieces of timber. Attach one to one side with a clamp and another piece opposite that one. These will support the post while the concrete dries overnight. Before you finish, check the post is plumb by using a spirit level on all sides. You can now remove your string guide, as well.
    person using clamps to secure post
  10. 10

    Trim the posts

    Measure the height of the screens and mark them on each post. Use a square to trace that mark around the post – that way, you’ll get a nice even cut. Put on your safety equipment and cut the posts to the correct height using a handsaw.
    person marking a timber posted with pencil
  11. 11

    Construct the frame

    It’s time to construct the frame you'll attach the screens to. In this project, we will build the frame before we attach them to the posts. Make sure you wear the appropriate safety equipment while doing this.

    If required, now’s the time to measure, cut and paint the timber of your frame, and using a drill to join it all together with screws. Along with the four pieces of timber that make up your frame, we suggest including one or two supporting beams down the middle for extra support. When measuring, allow for a few millimetres to make sure your frame fits between the posts.

    person marking on a timber post with pencil
  12. 12

    Attach your frame to the posts

    Using exterior screws, attach your frame to the posts. To help keep it at the right height, chock the bottom of the frame with a piece of timber.
    person using a hand drill to attach timber post together
  13. 13

    Attach the screens

    The final step is to attach the screens. To make installation easier, pre-drill some holes in each screen beforehand. Slide each screen to the top of the post and then screw to the frame using your drill and screws.

    Add some comfy chairs, a coffee table and some pretty cushions and you’ll have a wonderful space to relax outdoors, which still lets the air flow through your space.

    person using a hand drill to attach timber post together
  14. 14

    We've got the perfect range of decorative screens

    Check out our range of D.I.Y. decorative screens, which are perfect for this project.
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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.