© Stark and Greensmith ZeroWe all want our outdoor spaces to feel like our own personal paradise, and that's hard to do when they feel like they're encroaching on neighboring areas. Fortunately, there are many ways to create privacy in your garden, but some of them can cause unforeseen problems.
These issues range from potential disputes between neighbors to inelegant business deals, and are best avoided. So, to get the desired results from your garden privacy ideas, you need to be aware of these common mistakes.
If you want to create privacy for your pool, deck or lawn, these pitfalls should be avoided.
1. Use inappropriate plants for a privacy screen
"In an effort to create more privacy in their garden, some homeowners choose to plant trees, which can be a great natural way to draw attention," says Suhail Patel, gardening expert and founder of Luxury Screens. “However, not all trees are suitable, and many may make the mistake of choosing slow-growing trees such as Japanese maples, which can take a long time to create a sufficient privacy barrier.
"Another common mistake is not to buy an evergreen tree," Suhaila continues. "For someone who just wants privacy in the warmer months, hardwoods may be right up your alley, but if you want to build a year-round block, you need to be careful around conifers or you'll be exposed in the cooler months." ."
Of course, you don't have to use trees to create a botanical screen - there are plenty of fast-growing shrubs and hedges that can be great alternatives, while large plants in containers can be an effective idea for a private garden. . But, as with the choice of trees, some considerations should be kept in mind.
Miguel Palma, professional gardener and owner of Jardintinda, cautions against choosing trees that are too small or sparse, as they will not provide the desired level of privacy. "Also, plants that are too aggressive or disease-prone can cause more problems than they solve."
He recommends careful research and selection of plants that are well adapted to climate, soil and light and have been shown to provide privacy.
2. Ignoring the needs of neighbors
"Before investing in any type of privacy solution for your garden, it's vital to consider your neighbors and their potential needs," advises Keith Saint, property acquisition director at GT Home Buyers. “This includes maintaining communal fences, tree borders or walls, and taking into account the potential noise pollution that the new garden feature may cause.
"To avoid unnecessary conflict with your neighbors, research the types of privacy solutions that are allowed in your area, as some may have special rules," she adds.
Shawn Martin, owner of We Buy House in Denver, adds that if you're considering building a garden fence, it's a good idea to check your local building codes and regulations first.
Suhail Patel points out that planning permission is often overlooked: "it's not always necessary, but it's definitely something to think about".
3. Turn off lights and vision
You certainly want to create a more private outdoor space, but keep in mind that some methods will sacrifice the amount of sunlight the area receives, as well as your views.
"If you decide to put a fence or wall around your yard, it's important to make sure it doesn't completely block sunlight from entering your space," advises Patrick Grayson of Paramount Property Buyers. "Consider installing a permeable barrier, such as mesh or trellis, that can provide privacy without blocking the sun."
If you want to keep the scenic look more intact, planters or wall planters may be a better option than a solid fence, as Shawn suggests. Lulu & Georgia's Ravine planter is perfect for any modern garden. Modern pergolas with adjustable side screens and louvered roofs offer another option and a luxurious look.
4. Ignore the wind
When you're considering a garden screen, it's important to consider the direction and strength of the prevailing winds in your area, Keith says.
"This will help ensure that any privacy solution you choose can withstand strong wind gusts while reducing the risk of being blown away." Keep in mind that fences and garden structures must always be installed and secured correctly.
5. Forgetting about aesthetics
Whether it's a new fence, screen, shade, planter or something else, think about the overall look of your new garden privacy feature. As well as its functionality for a more welcoming and elegant space.
Try to create a sense of harmony by choosing colors and materials that are already present in the surrounding landscape. And if you do use plants, they may need to be pruned and given other care to keep them looking their best.
Creating a sense of exclusivity in your garden is important for a more comfortable space, especially if you live in an urban area. But rather than rushing in without a plan, consider your privacy settings carefully with the tips above in mind, so you can avoid potential problems down the road.
