If you want privacy from neighbors, extra gardening space, and to decorate your backyard, this DIY project has it all. You’d be surprised how a few basic wood slats can provide your backyard space with a complete and easy DIY makeover. 

    Backyard privacy can make a huge difference and in this guide, we’re talking about building your own outdoor privacy wall as well as step-by-step instructions on how to do it. 

    And it’s easy too — watch the step-by-step tutorial video to see how it’s done! You’ll be redirected to Checking In With Chelsea’s website to view the full step-by-step video.


    Materials Needed for the DIY Privacy Wall

    To build this simple DIY privacy fence, you’ll need:

    • 1×3 furring strips
    • Landscape timbers
    • 2×4 boards
    • Exterior wood screws
    • Landscape fabric
    • Gravel or mulch
    • Privacy panels
    • Exterior wood stain or paint (optional)

    The amount of materials depends on the length and height of your DIY privacy screen. Get one landscape timber per foot of length. Measure where you’ll install the wall and buy materials accordingly.

    Basic hand tools — a hammer, saw, drill, and level — will work. But renting a circular saw makes quick work of cutting the furring strips and timbers.

    Today’s Homeowner Tips

    Helpful power tools, though not essential, include an impact driver for quickly installing deck screws and a post hole digger for digging holes in hard or rocky soil.


    Steps to Build a DIY Privacy Wall

    Use the tabs below to see the details for each step of the project.

    1. Start by laying out the landscape timbers in your desired pattern. Level and space the timbers about 6 inches apart.
    2. Dig holes for end timbers and corners 6 inches deeper than the timber bottoms for stability. Backfill with gravel for drainage.
    3. Join timber frames at corners by driving exterior wood screws at an angle through the vertical board sides.
    1. Cut 1×3 furring strips to your wall’s height minus 3 inches. This leaves a gap at the bottom for drainage.
    2. Space the furring strips between timbers, no more than 16 inches apart. Screw them into the timber insides.
    3. For stability, drive stakes cut from treated 2x4s into the ground at furring strip ends and centers.
    1. Measure between furring strips and cut panels to fit, leaving a 1/4-inch gap for expansion and drainage. Most panels are 3 feet wide.
    2. Drive exterior wood screws through the furring strips every 12 inches around and in the middle of each panel.
    1. Stain or paint the panels and furring strips.
    2. Add landscape fabric and gravel or mulch around the base.
    Today’s Homeowner Tips

    Maintaining your wall is easy. Check for loose screws or timbers periodically and tighten as needed. Clear overgrown vegetation. Wash panels with mild soap and water.


    Is a DIY Privacy Wall Right for You?

    A DIY privacy wall is relatively easy with basic woodworking skills. It affordably creates a secluded relaxation and entertaining area. The open panels allow air and light through while blocking views.

    Panels don’t block sound, so you should add insulation between furring strips to reduce neighbor noise. You’ll also need to maintain panels regularly, periodically washing them and clearing vines.

    Overall, a wood privacy wall inexpensively adds function and beauty to your outdoor living space.


    DIY Privacy Wall FAQs

    How long does it take to build a DIY privacy wall?

    With materials and tools ready, an experienced DIYer can build a basic 20-foot by 6-foot privacy wall in 2-3 days alone. Frame the timbers on day one. Add furring strips and panels on day two.


    What is the best wood for outdoor privacy panels?

    Cedar and redwood are rot-resistant softwoods ideal for outdoor projects. For a less expensive option, use pressure-treated pine rated for ground contact. Hardwoods like oak and mahogany also work well.


    Should I use treated or untreated privacy panels?

    Treated wood panels resist rot and insects, better for prolonged outdoor exposure. Untreated panels are cheaper but deteriorate quickly.

    Staining or sealing untreated panels helps them last longer. Use exterior-rated products.


    How far apart should I space the furring strips?

    Space furring strips no more than 16 inches on center behind privacy panels. Closer spacing prevents sagging.


    What kind of screws should I use?

    Use exterior-rated screws like coated deck screws or screws for treated lumber. They resist corrosion much better than standard screws.


    Should I install landscape fabric behind privacy panels?

    Landscape fabric is optional but blocks weeds. Lay it between timbers and furring strips before installing panels. Overlap seams at least 6 inches to prevent weeds.


    How much does a DIY privacy wall cost?

    A basic 6-foot by 20-foot pressure-treated pine privacy wall costs $400-$800 in materials. Cedar or redwood costs 2-3 times more but is naturally durable. Adding a footer, post caps, or gate can increase the budget to $1,500 or more.



    Conclusion

    Installing a DIY lattice privacy wall can upgrade your outdoor space with a weekend project. Just measure carefully, get the right materials, and follow the building steps. Maintain your new privacy wall properly so it lasts for years. With the right tools and techniques, you can affordably gain privacy, decoration, and extra gardening space.

    Editorial Contributors
    avatar for Coty Perry

    Coty Perry

    Expert Writer & Reviewer

    Coty Perry is a lawn and garden writer for Today’s Homeowner. He focuses on providing homeowners with actionable tips that relate to the “Average Joe” who is looking to achieve a healthier and greener lawn. When he isn’t writing he can almost always be found coaching youth football or on some trail in Pennsylvania in search of the next greatest fishing hole.

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    photo of Lori Zaino

    Lori Zaino

    Lori Zaino is a freelance writer and editor based in Madrid, Spain. With nearly two decades of editorial experience, she’s written and edited for publications like Forbes, CNN, Insider, NBC, Newsweek, The Points Guy, The Infatuation, and many others. Having just completed her first home renovation, she’s more interested in home improvements than ever, dedicated to bringing you fresh and accurate content to help you update your living spaces.

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