Looking to add a little privacy or character to your outdoor area? A DIY timber privacy screen or garden divider is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to transform your backyard. Whether you want to hide a fence, separate a garden area, or create a relaxing outdoor retreat, building your own timber screen is a great weekend project.
At Renovation Warehouse Whangārei, we stock everything you need to build a stylish and durable privacy screen — from treated pine and reclaimed timber to fixings and posts. Here’s how to get started.
Why Add a Timber Privacy Screen?
Privacy screens do more than block the view — they define spaces and elevate the look of your backyard. Here are a few reasons Kiwis love them:
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Privacy: Keep your deck or spa area hidden from neighbours.
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Wind & shade: Reduce exposure to strong winds and summer sun.
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Style: Add architectural detail and warmth with natural timber.
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Sustainability: Use reclaimed timber for an eco-friendly and unique finish.
Planning Your Privacy Screen
Before you start building, think about:
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Purpose: Is it for privacy, shade, or decoration?
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Positioning: Check how the sun and wind move through your yard.
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Height & design: Taller screens provide more privacy but may require council consent if they exceed 2 metres.
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Material choice: For outdoor use, choose H3.2 treated pine or similar to resist moisture and insects.
Choosing the Right Timber
Renovation Warehouse has a great selection of Whangārei renovation supplies perfect for outdoor screens, including:
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Treated pine or macrocarpa boards for clean, modern lines.
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Reclaimed timber slats or weatherboards for a rustic, character look.
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Posts: Use H4 or H5 treated posts for ground contact.
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Fixings & finishes: Exterior-grade screws and brackets to protect your timber from the elements.
How to Build a Simple DIY Privacy Screen
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Mark out your posts – Space them evenly (typically 1.2 m–1.8 m apart) and set them in concrete.
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Attach framing rails – Fix horizontal rails between posts to create your structure.
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Add timber slats or panels – Run them vertically or horizontally depending on your design. Leave small gaps for airflow.
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Secure and finish – Use stainless or galvanised screws, then stain or oil the timber for protection.
Tip: Mix vertical and horizontal slats for a designer look, or use reclaimed boards of different widths for a rustic feel.
Design Inspiration
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Natural look: Use reclaimed timber with visible grain and variation for a warm, textured finish.
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Modern lines: Paint or stain your screen in dark tones like charcoal or black for a sleek look.
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Green wall: Mount planters or trellis panels and let climbing plants grow through for a lush garden feature.
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Mixed materials: Combine timber with corrugated iron or steel edging for a bold, industrial feel.
The DIY Advantage
A DIY privacy screen is a quick, affordable way to refresh your outdoor space — and it’s easier than you think. By sourcing your materials from Renovation Warehouse Whangārei, you’ll find quality timber, posts, and reclaimed materials at unbeatable prices.
Whether you’re after modern minimalism or rustic charm, you’ll be amazed how much a simple screen can change your backyard.
Visit Renovation Warehouse today to explore our huge range of timber, posts, stains, and reclaimed materials — perfect for your next DIY garden or outdoor project.