Balcony Privacy Solutions: Stylish and Functional Options

Discover stylish and functional balcony privacy solutions with screens, plants, and smart design ideas that enhance comfort while maintaining airflow.

Don't you just hate feeling like every single person around you can see your balcony?

There is nothing more annoying for a balcony owner. When you own an apartment or a townhouse, you will find yourself having neighbours around, making it very common for them to catch a glimpse of your outdoor area.

But did you know there is hope?

Believe it or not, there are several balcony privacy solutions that actually work and look good at the same time. You no longer have to sacrifice style for function when it comes to privacy screening.

In this post:

• Why Balcony Privacy Is More Important Than Ever

• The Best Privacy Solutions That Look Amazing

• The Materials That Work (& Which Ones Don't)

• Installation Tips That Make A Big Difference

  
  

Why Balcony Privacy Is More Important Than Ever

Did you know that outdoor spaces are more important now than ever before? According to Houzz research, the demand for outdoor areas has increased by a whopping 50% since 2020.

And here's the catch…

It isn't enough to just have an outdoor area. People are looking for private outdoor areas that they can actually enjoy and relax in. So, if you are looking to upgrade your balcony with high-quality materials and modern solutions, you have to keep privacy at the top of your priority list.

Here's why…

A balcony with no privacy is no better than a bedroom with no curtains. Don't get me wrong. It is still functional, but you'll never truly be comfortable with using it in that state.

Having a private outdoor space is even more important with the number of multigenerational families increasing. More people are choosing to live under one roof. With that in mind, there is a real need for a private balcony where people can come and rest.

The Best Privacy Solutions That Look Amazing

Privacy screens can vary in quality and function greatly. Some are cheaply made and can easily be damaged after a few seasons, while others are highly overpriced for the result.

I'm here to help…

Privacy Glass Panels

Privacy glass panels are the ultimate luxury for balcony privacy. They are the perfect shield from wind and neighbours while still letting the natural light through.

Here are some of the reasons they work so well.

• They don't make your balcony feel cramped.

• They are super easy to maintain.

• They last a long time.

• They add value to your property.

Industry insiders know. An updated outdoor space has a huge impact on a property's value, and, according to industry data, no less than 98% of them believe this is the case. Glass panels not only look modern and stylish, but they are also a great investment.

The only downside? They are more expensive than other options. However, it's one of those cases where you truly get what you pay for.

Privacy Screens and Lattice Panels

Privacy screens and lattice panels are the more affordable alternative. You can find these in various materials such as wood, metals and composites.

When used correctly, these products will work in the following situations.

• Mount them at a good height.

• Choose the material that complements your balcony's design.

• Add some climbing plants to complete the coverage.

Lattice panels work well because they allow air to move through them. No one wants a balcony that turns into a steam room when the summer comes.

Outdoor Curtains and Blinds

Outdoor curtains are another flexible option. Open them up when you want some sun and close them when your neighbour decides to have a barbecue.

However, there is a small catch…

Cheap outdoor curtains are very visible after a short while. The sun will fade them, rain will cause them to grow mould and wind will tear them to shreds. So, if you decide to go down this route, make sure to use an actual outdoor fabric that is rated for UV and weather exposure. You will be glad you did.

Living Privacy Walls

Plants are the privacy walls that nature provides. Tall potted bamboo, ornamental grasses or climbing vines can all be used to create a green privacy barrier.

However, this method does require some patience as plants take time to grow and fill out the gap. You also have to water and maintain them.

But the reward? You end up with a living privacy wall that will add colour, texture and will even help with the air quality. Neat, huh?

Materials That Work (& Which Ones Don't)

Materials can make or break any privacy solution. You can spend a lot of money on a great looking privacy screen only to have to replace it after a year.

Here are some of the materials that work well.

• Tempered glass

• Powder-coated aluminium

• Composite panels

• Treated hardwood (when properly sealed)

Here are some of the materials to avoid.

• Untreated pine

• Cheap plastic

• Standard fabric

• Low-quality bamboo

Outdoor materials will have to deal with sun, rain, wind and all sorts of temperature changes. Make sure your balcony privacy solution can handle it all without coming apart at the seams.

Installation Tips That Make A Big Difference

Even the most expensive and high-quality balcony privacy solution can fail with bad installation. Here are some tips to help you do it right.

• Check your body corporate rules first. Apartments often have restrictions on what you can and can't install. Get the approval first and save yourself the headache of having to remove the panels you just bought.

• Measure twice, order once. Balconies can have awkward shapes and sizes. Off-the-shelf options often need custom modifications, which rarely work out as well as you want them to.

• Consider your anchor points. Some privacy solutions require solid mounting points while others can be free standing. Know what your balcony can actually support first before committing to something.

• Wind load is your friend. Solid panels will act like a sail if your balcony gets the brunt of the wind. Opt for airflow or solid mounting if you live in an exposed area.

  
  

Layering Several Privacy Solutions

One little-known secret I learned is that the best results are obtained by layering several privacy solutions. Glass panel on one side, a couple of tall plants on the corner and a retractable awning overhead will create a private balcony oasis for you and yours.

Layering balcony privacy solutions also gives you more flexibility to adjust coverage depending on the time of day and who's in the vicinity.

A little extra benefit to consider. Privacy solutions also provide temperature control. Glass keeps the wind out. Plants provide shade. Awnings stop direct sunlight. When combined, they make a huge difference and keep your balcony comfortable.

Privacy as an Investment

Fun fact you can consider is the fact that privacy upgrades are a smart investment. Outdoor spaces are a strong and consistent value-adder to any property.

If you plan on selling your place one day, a private and functional balcony is a genuine point of interest. People are very picky about these things. A cramped balcony with little privacy just feels like wasted space. A private outdoor retreat feels like a bonus room.

The Final Word

Balcony privacy can be made both functional and stylish if you only know what you're doing. With the right techniques and tips, you can create your very own private outdoor space.

Start by identifying your most prominent privacy issues. Is it nosy neighbours, traffic on the road below or overhanging apartments? The answer to this question will dictate which privacy solution works the best.

After that, make sure to pick materials that will fit both your budget and maintenance preferences. Glass and aluminium panels are more expensive but last a long time. Screens and plants are cheaper but require more maintenance.

Then, you have to make sure to install it all properly. A nice-looking balcony privacy solution that flies away in the first storm is no solution at all.

Your balcony should be a place where you can sit back and relax. With the options presented in this article, it can and will finally be that.