Buy Privacy Screen Netting in 2026: Complete Guide for Privacy, Calm and Smart Choices
, 12 min reading time
Privacy screen netting is one of the fastest ways to create more calm and privacy in an outdoor space. Instead of committing to a costly, permanent option like a solid fence or wall, a privacy screen (sometimes called screen fabric or shade netting) gives an immediate upgrade: fewer sightlines from outside, a neater boundary, and often a bit more comfort against wind and harsh sunlight. But not all netting performs the same. Density (how much you can still see), dimensions, colour and installation quality make a big difference. Buy too short and you’ll end up with gaps. Install it with uneven tension and it can flap, sag or look messy. In this complete guide, you’ll learn how to choose privacy netting for gardens, terraces and balconies, which sizes tend to work best, and which options fit both small and large fence runs.
What is privacy screen netting?
Privacy screen netting (also referred to as privacy netting, screen mesh, screen fabric or privacy cloth) is a woven material you attach to a fence, wire panel or balcony railing to reduce visibility. It’s designed to let air and water pass through, which helps limit wind load and prevents rainwater from “pooling” against the fabric. Many nets offer a high screening rate (for example 95%) and are UV- and weather-resistant, helping them keep their colour and shape for longer.
Pros and cons of privacy netting
Pros
- Instant privacy: less visibility from neighbours, passers-by or nearby buildings.
- Quick upgrade: a fence or balcony edge looks calmer and more finished in little time.
- More comfort: softens wind and filters sunlight without completely closing off airflow.
- Flexible use: suitable for gardens, terraces, balconies and property boundaries.
- Low maintenance: in most cases, rinsing with water is enough.
Cons
- Not always 100% opaque: depending on light, distance and angle, some woven nets can remain slightly see-through.
- Installation matters: uneven fixing can cause wrinkles, sagging or flapping.
- Your fence must handle it: weak or loose panels may need reinforcement.
Best 5 privacy screen nets for 2026
1) Practo Privacy Screen 95% 1000x180 cm – black (best all-round choice)
A solid, dependable pick if you want a clean result without complicated installation. The 180 cm height and 10 m length suit many standard fence setups and create a modern, tidy look. Because the roll often covers a full section in one piece, the finish tends to look instantly more uniform.
- Size: 1000 x 180 cm
- Colour: Black
- Screening: 95%
- Best for: standard garden fences, terrace edges or balconies
2) Practo Privacy Screen 95% 2500x180 cm – black (best for long fence runs)
Covering a lot of metres and want as few joins as possible? This extra-long option is ideal for creating one continuous, consistent line along a large boundary—less aligning, fewer seams, and a calmer overall look.
- Size: 2500 x 180 cm
- Colour: Black
- Screening: 95%
- Best for: long boundaries and bigger projects
3) Practo Privacy Screen 95% 1000x180 cm – green (best natural look)
If you want privacy without a strong dark “block”, green tends to blend better with plants, lawns and hedges. The result can feel softer and more natural, while still providing strong screening.
- Size: 1000 x 180 cm
- Colour: Green
- Screening: 95%
- Best for: gardens with lots of greenery or a subtler effect
4) Practo Privacy Screen 95% 2500x150 cm – black (best when 180 cm isn’t needed)
A smart choice when you mainly want to block seated sightlines or your fence is lower. You keep the look clean and modern without paying for extra height you don’t need.
- Size: 2500 x 150 cm
- Colour: Black
- Screening: 95%
- Best for: long runs with lower screening height
5) Practo Privacy Screen 95% 2500x180 cm – green (best for large green zones)
For large areas where you want strong screening without a heavy visual feel. The generous size helps you create a calm, uniform background fast—especially along long boundaries where you want a consistent finish.
- Size: 2500 x 180 cm
- Colour: Green
- Screening: 95%
- Best for: long boundaries with a natural look
Comparison table
| Model | Size | Colour | Screening | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Practo 1000x180 black | 10 m x 180 cm | Black | 95% | All-round privacy screen |
| Practo 2500x180 black | 25 m x 180 cm | Black | 95% | Long runs with fewer seams |
| Practo 1000x180 green | 10 m x 180 cm | Green | 95% | Natural, softer look |
| Practo 2500x150 black | 25 m x 150 cm | Black | 95% | Lower fencing / seated sightlines |
| Practo 2500x180 green | 25 m x 180 cm | Green | 95% | Large green areas |
Buying guide / tips: how to choose the right privacy screen netting
1) Pick the screening level that matches your needs
High screening (such as 95%) cuts visibility dramatically, but light and distance can still affect what’s perceived through a woven fabric. If you want maximum discretion, focus on real-world execution: tight, even tension and full coverage with no gaps make the biggest difference.
2) Measure smart: length, height and “awkward spots”
- Length: measure the full section and add extra allowance for fixing and tensioning.
- Height: 180 cm is a common “full coverage” height; 150 cm can be enough for lower fences or partial screening.
- Check obstacles: posts, corners, gates and bends determine where you’ll need to cut or overlap.
3) Black or green: appearance and how it feels
- Black: modern, tidy, often feels more private visually.
- Green: blends with planting and looks more natural.
4) Installation quality: even tension isn’t optional
Privacy netting works best when it’s fixed evenly. Secure it at multiple points (top, middle and bottom) and keep the tension consistent across the full length. That prevents flapping, sagging and visible waves.
5) Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)
- Buying too short: creates seams, gaps and a patchwork look.
- Fixing only along the top: causes flapping and distortion in wind.
- Not planning corners/gates: leads to messy cuts and awkward finishing.
- Over-tensioning on weak fencing: can deform panels; reinforce first if needed.
Step-by-step: how to install privacy screen netting
- Measure and plan: decide where the net starts/stops and note posts, corners and gates.
- Clean the fence: remove dirt and any protrusions that could damage the fabric.
- Position the net: hang it loosely along the top first so you can align it.
- Fix evenly: secure the middle and bottom next, working outward to distribute tension.
- Finish corners neatly: trim if needed and keep edges taut without pulling crooked.
- Check after 24 hours: some materials settle slightly; re-tension lightly if needed.
FAQs about privacy screen netting
How long does privacy screen netting usually last?
Quality netting often lasts several years when it’s UV-stabilised and installed correctly. Even tension and enough fixing points help prevent premature wear and can noticeably extend lifespan.
Does the colour affect how much you can see through it?
Yes. Dark colours like black often appear more opaque, while green blends into plants and tends to look softer and more natural.
Can privacy screen netting be cut to size without fraying?
Most woven privacy nets can be trimmed if you cut carefully. Securing the edges well during installation helps keep the structure tidy and stable.
How tight should privacy netting be installed?
It should be taut, but not overstretched. Even tension along the top, middle and bottom prevents sagging, flapping and unnecessary strain on the material.
How do I maintain privacy screen netting?
In most cases, rinsing with water is enough. Remove leaves and stuck-on dirt in time to keep the net looking neat and reduce extra strain on the weave.
Stop comparing: choose in 60 seconds
When privacy screen netting is NOT the right solution
- Your fence is unstable or loose: without reinforcement, the net may move and the structure can deform.
- You need 100% total opacity in every condition: woven fabrics can remain slightly see-through depending on lighting.
- You’re dealing with extreme wind exposure: fence strength and fixing become critical; a heavier fixed solution may be better.
When it’s probably overkill
- You’re already fully out of view: a small targeted panel may be enough.
- You only need a short stretch: choose a length that fits instead of buying far too much and keeping leftover metres.
Common buying mistakes (and how to avoid them)
- Focusing only on the percentage: the final look depends mostly on full coverage and neat, taut installation.
- Too few fixing points: causes waves and flapping—work top, middle and bottom.
- Not planning for gates/corners: decide cut and overlap zones before you start.
Who it suits (and who it doesn’t)
- Great match: if you want fast privacy with a neat, low-maintenance finish along fencing or a balcony.
- Great match: if you want the space to feel calmer without a big renovation.
- Not the best match: if you want a permanent, fully closed barrier like a solid wall.
Doika as a selective advisor
Doika doesn’t aim to sell you “just any net”, but to help you pick the right screen for your setup—correct length and height, and a look that fits your outdoor space. The goal is to help you avoid the most common frustrations: buying too short, installing it poorly, or expecting something the product type can’t deliver. That way, you choose faster and avoid hassle later.
Why Doika
Doika focuses on practical outdoor solutions with an emphasis on durability, easy installation and a clean finish. You benefit from clear product information and reliable service, plus free delivery from €40, 90-day return period and at least a 2-year warranty. Customers rate Doika 4.5/5 on Trustpilot, which adds confidence when you’re choosing a product that visibly changes your outdoor space.
Conclusion
Privacy screen netting is a smart, flexible way to create more privacy and calm without major construction. Pay attention to sizing, screening level and—most importantly—installation quality to avoid disappointment. Choose the right privacy screen and you’ll enjoy a neat look, added comfort and an outdoor space that feels more like your own. View all privacy screen netting at Doika.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does privacy screen netting usually last?
Quality netting often lasts several years when it’s UV-stabilised and installed correctly. Even tension and enough fixing points help prevent premature wear and can noticeably extend lifespan.
Does the colour affect how much you can see through it?
Yes. Dark colours like black often appear more opaque, while green blends into plants and tends to look softer and more natural.
Can privacy screen netting be cut to size without fraying?
Most woven privacy nets can be trimmed if you cut carefully. Securing the edges well during installation helps keep the structure tidy and stable.
How tight should privacy netting be installed?
It should be taut, but not overstretched. Even tension along the top, middle and bottom prevents sagging, flapping and unnecessary strain on the material.
How do I maintain privacy screen netting?
In most cases, rinsing with water is enough. Remove leaves and stuck-on dirt in time to keep the net looking neat and reduce extra strain on the weave.
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