A good privacy screen with slats is built by first starting with the line of sight, then choosing the spacing and direction of the slats, and finally selecting the dimensions of posts and fixings based on the location. This allows you to create privacy without the screen needing to be completely opaque.
Slats allow light and air to pass through while blocking the view. How opaque the screen appears therefore depends not only on the spacing between slats , but also on their size, orientation, and the angle from which the screen is viewed.
In this guide, we'll go over slat spacing, vertical and horizontal slats , materials, fixing , and the assembly order so you can adapt the privacy screen to fit your specific patio.
How does the angle affect views through the slats?
A slatted privacy screen may appear dense when viewed straight on but significantly more transparent from the side. The eye then follows the openings between slats rather than encountering their broad surface.
Therefore, choose the spacing between the slats based on where the view is actually coming from. For example, if your neighbour’s patio is diagonally behind the screen, you may need smaller gaps or adjust the orientation of the slats to block that specific line of sight.
Straight on – more shielded
Your eye is drawn to the faces of the slats, and the gaps become less noticeable.
Viewed obliquely from the side—more transparent
The eye follows the gaps between the slats, allowing you to see further through the screen.
Also, position each slat according to the line of sight
The depth and orientation of the slats affect how much is visible from the side. Therefore, base your decision on the direction you primarily want to block off when determining which way to position the slats.
| Slat Spacing | What You'll get | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
| Approx. 30–50 mm | A denser appearance and greater privacy | Property boundary facing the street or a neighbour |
| Approx. 50–70 mm | Good shielding from the front with more light entering | Decking and patios |
| Approx. 70–100 mm | More airy and decorative, with less screening | Boundaries and plant supports |
The measurements are approximate guidelines, not strict rules. How dense the screen appears also depends on the width and depth of the slats, how they are oriented, and the viewing angle from which overlooking occurs.
Should privacy screen with slats be in portrait or landscape orientation?
Vertical slats are generally less suitable for climbing, while horizontal slats provide a clearer horizontal appearance and can be perceived as more screening from certain lines of sight. The orientation must therefore be chosen based on both appearance, the direction of the view, and whether the screen is also intended to serve as protection against falls.
Vertical and less suitable for climbing
Vertical slats create a vertical appearance and do not produce the same obvious footholds as horizontal slats. The extent to which they block the view depends on the spacing between the slats, the depth of the slats, and the viewing angle.
Horizontal appearance and different sightlines
The horizontal slats design creates a calmer, horizontal look. How much the screen blocks the view depends on the spacing, the dimensions of the slats, and the height and angle from which it is viewed.
When horizontal slats are also used where there is a change in level
- Prevent climbing
- Horizontal slats can create obvious footholds. If the screen is also to serve as fall protection, you need to choose a design that makes it difficult for children to climb on or get over the guard.
- Combining form and function
- If you want to keep the horizontal slats higher up, the lower section can be designed to prevent climbing, for example, with vertical slats or another suitable solution. Openings and other safety requirements must also be met where the screen functions as fall protection.
What material works best for a privacy screen with slats?
Pressure-treated pine is a common and affordable choice; cedar requires less ongoing maintenance, and aluminium is very low-maintenance. Choose primarily based on your budget, the look you want, and how much maintenance you’re willing to put into the screen over time.
Pressure-treated pine
A common choice when you're building on your own and want to keep material costs down. The wood needs to be maintained with a suitable finish to retain its desired appearance over time.
Cedar
Cedar is naturally resistant to rot and requires less maintenance than many other types of wood. If left untreated, the surface will take on a greyish hue over time.
Aluminium
Aluminium requires very little ongoing maintenance and is not affected by moisture in the same way as wood. However, it is less flexible to work with yourself if the design requires custom modifications.
Which screw should you use for a privacy screen with slats?
In coastal, humid, and other more exposed locations, A4 stainless steel screws are a durable choice. In less exposed environments, A2 stainless steel screws or other screws with adequate corrosion protection may be suitable. Always select a screw based on the environment and the material to be fastened.
The wrong type of corrosion protection can leave visible marks on the wood
If the screw begins to corrode, dark discoloration may appear around the fixing and spread down the wood surface. This not only affects the appearance but also indicates that the fixing is being subjected to more than it is intended for.
Pre-drill near the ends of the slats
That is where the risk of splitting is greatest, especially in harder or more types of timber that are more prone to splitting. Pre-drilling reduces the risk of slat splitting when the screw is tightened.
How do you build a privacy screen with slats step by step?
Start by deciding which line of sight you want to block and how close together slats should be. Next, build the supporting frame, treat the wood, and finally install slats at the same spacing along the entire screen.
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Start with the sightlines
Decide what you want to block
Consider where overlooking actually comes from and from what height and angle the screen will be viewed. This determines both the placement and how opaque the shield needs to be.
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Choose the slat spacing
Determine the direction and the spacing between the slats
Choose vertical or horizontal slats and determine the spacing based on the privacy you need at that location. Don’t just assess how the screen looks from directly in front, but also from the most important line of sight.
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Mark
Position the posts
Mark the post positions using a string line or chalk line. Adjust the distance between posts based on the height of the screen, wind direction, fixing , and the design you have chosen.
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Check that the posts are plumb
Align and secure each post
Use a level and check posts before fully tightening the fixings. Small deviations become apparent when straight slats are installed over a longer distance.
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Build the frame
Install the frame rails
Install the top and bottom rails and add intermediate supports where the height and design of the screen require them. Check again to make sure the frame is straight before continuing.
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Before installing the slats
Treat the wood and the cut surfaces
If you are building with wood, slats should be treated before assembly, especially on end grain and cut surfaces that will be harder to reach later. Follow the instructions for the surface treatment you are using.
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At regular intervals
Install the slats, using a spacer as a template
Cut a single spacer to fit the gap you've chosen and use the same template between each slat. That way, you won't have to remeasure at each fixing, and the spacing will be even across the entire screen.
Would you like a ready-to-use privacy screen for your patio?
If you don't want to build the ribbed screen yourself, you can compare our ready-made privacy screens or contact customer service for help finding a solution that fits the space.
What do you need to know about building a privacy screen with slats?
Here are brief answers to common questions about slat spacing, materials, installation, sight lines, and planning permission.
Can I combine vertical and horizontal slats on the same screen?
Yes. If the screen also needs to prevent climbing, the lower section can, for example, be made vertical or solid, while horizontal slats are used above it. If there is a risk of falling, the entire structure must also meet the safety requirements in effect at the site.
How do I make the spacing the same between all the slats?
Cut a simple spacer to fit the gap you've chosen and use the same template between each slat. That way, you won't have to remeasure at each fixing, and the spacing will be even across the entire screen.
When should I pre-drill the slats?
Be sure to pre-drill, especially near the ends of the slats, where the risk of cracks is greatest. This is particularly important with harder or types of timber more prone to splitting.
Which slat material requires the least maintenance?
Aluminium requires very little ongoing maintenance. Cedar typically requires less maintenance than many other types of wood, while pressure-treated pine needs to be maintained with an appropriate finish over time.
What determines how close together the posts need to be?
The post positions must be adjusted according to the height of the screen, wind conditions, fixing , and the structure. Taller screens and locations that are more exposed to wind typically require a more stable structure.
How should slats be translated to improve the page's privacy screen?
Start with the direction you primarily want to block the view from, and position the slats so that their depth helps block that specific line of sight. The effect also depends on the dimensions of the slats and the distance between them.
Is planning permission required for a privacy screen with slats?
A tall or dense slatted screen may require planning permission or other approval. The assessment is influenced by factors such as the screen’s height, location, and design.
Check the regulations that apply to the property before you begin construction, especially if the screen is to be placed near a property boundary.
