A DIY backyard privacy screen is easy to make, decorative and can be used on a patio, deck or anywhere outdoors. Today I am sharing how to build a DIY backyard privacy screen or lattice fence on a budget with my dad. Do you have ugly ac units, trash cans or looking for screening cheap ways to block neighbors? Thankfully, we like our neighbors (knock on wood) but we have two large ac units that are at the end of my mom’s patio so we decided to make a simple and inexpensive lattice privacy screen.
*This post may contain affiliate links for your shopping pleasure. This post has been updated recently 2022 as our backyard privacy screen project was done at our old house.
How to build a lattice DIY privacy screen
Last week I posted our patio makeover and showed you how to repair an old cracked cement patio. As I mentioned last week, this happens to be my mom’s outdoor patio space so we are trying to “beautify” it for her . I cannot believe the amount of emails I received asking for a tutorial on how we built the lattice vinyl fence and privacy screen. I have updated this post to share the most recent information regarding the affiliate links I have shared below as well. Google and Pinterest have so many lattice vinyl fence ideas and I happy to say that ours is trending on Pinterest :).
DIY Backyard Privacy Screen
I love tutorials that I find online but especially love the visual tutorials, so I decided to create this post using mostly pictures.
My dad thought the solution was to hang the privacy lattice from the gutters above with hooks but the man only thinks in practicality, not in aesthetics. So I showed him some pictures of ideas for privacy on a patio and diy lattice privacy screen on a deck that my mom and I liked in order to get his brain in “design” mode.
He is definitely a person that can duplicate things if he sees a picture. I am the same way.
Image found at Better Homes and Gardens
I love how this lattice privacy fence had a planters box on the top, so pretty!
So lets get started with the tutorial of how you can make your own DIY backyard privacy screen.
Our DIY Lattice Fence Installation Process
First, paint your “frame” before assembling the lattice. We used 1×4 pine as our frame that I painted white prior to starting the project. We needed to make 3 lattice vinyl fence privacy screens so we started with the 8′ section first.
We purchased plastic/PVC lattice from Home Depot (you can now order online!) OR you can get this Stylish vinyl brand from Lowes (order online!) You will need to use stainless steel screws so they do not rust.
We used 8 x 1 – 5/8″ screws to create the lattice patio screen and used 10 x 3″ screws to attach the privacy screen to the existing post on the patio.
Next step, I painted the 1×4’s before we assembled the privacy screen
Creating a Lattice Panel
You are essentially going to sandwich the lattice screen between your frame creating a lattice panel. Layout your frame (1×4 pine pieces cut to size), place your lattice on top and then add 1×4’s again on top of your lattice.
You will basically be cutting 2 pieces of 1×4’s for each side. 
You want the side that you will see to be pretty, you do not want to be looking at screws! Look at my cute dad, he thinks I’m crazy :). 
Note how we staggered the screws, this is very important according to my daddio! 
Inexpensive backyard privacy ideas
My dad said in the middle of this project, “why do I want to share all my secrets with these people? I don’t even know them!” hehe. Isn’t he is funny? 🙂 We ended up making 3 privacy screens to hide the air conditioner units so the next one, required cutting.
If you have a deck or patio that faces a grumpy neighbor, you could definitely make one of these DIY backyard privacy screens and just cut your frame and lattice to the size you need. This is an inexpensive way to get privacy easily and quickly!
We used the same steps to create the other two lattice privacy panels. 
By this time, he is getting annoyed with all my pictures I am taking because I keep stopping and saying, “wait, I need a picture of that!” I really did help, but in between pictures. Of course, I got stuck cleaning everything up. My grandfather is watching out the window giving directions. ha. 
Lattice Privacy Fence Installation Tips
Note that the screws are facing inward. 
Order Vinyl Fencing ONLINE and GET THE LOOK (click images below to shop my affiliate links)
Ordering online these lattice panels makes if you prefer ordering from Amazon. So simple!
Click links/images below for more shopping options:
You can purchase a variety of vinyl lattice online whether it be wood (that you can paint) or vinyl. The vinyl is maintenance free. For those of you asking about our adirondack chairs, here are a few we love… These are gorgeous from Wayfair (click here for adirondack chairs, these are great adirondack chairs (very affordable / click here) from Walmart .
Updated: Did you see our Trash Can lattice privacy fence?
Updated Blog Post 2022 – Are you new here? Meet Jessica and here latest update of the death of her grandparents, surviving divorce and a new marriage proposal!
Related Idea with vinyl lattice – This cute little garbage can privacy fence is at our campsite and is perfect for trash!
This lattice privacy fence project was such a great addition to our back patio. Patios with lattice also add to the visual appeal as well. Whether it be a trellis or lattice screen, it adds nice texture to the outdoor space.
Our total cost was under $40 (cost of vinyl lattice, pine for frame & screws). Hopefully after this project tutorial you feel a confident and motivated to build your own lattice privacy screen. I found may comments on forums with people asking how to build a backyard lattice privacy screen and it’s really not that hard especially if you have someone to help you.
They come in all sizes so you could always do a smaller version of this one. We also made a privacy screen panel to hide our garbage cans at the campsite. My mom loves that the ugly ac units are hidden and she has a pretty back for her flowers. You can see more of diy our projects and spaces by checking out our interior page. Mission accomplished!
Kristi @ Addicted 2 Decorating says
Your lattice screen looks great! In fact, you whole patio looks amazing!
Jessica says
Thank you Kristi! Hope you are enjoying your summer 🙂
Melissa @TheHappierHomemaker says
Jessica-you just made my day! This is a great project and please thank your Dad for giving away his “secrets” and thank you for giving such a thorough breakdown! We have {ahem} neighbors I could do without seeing and are putting in a pool next week so this project is totally on my to-do list now! Thanks again!
Melissa
Jessica says
Thank you Melissa 🙂 Good luck with those neighbors!
Jaye @ Just Trying to Make Cents of it All says
Wow! First of all, let me just gripe about builders and why they think it’s okay to just plop those horrific (but necessary things) right in the middle of everything!
Second of all – that turned out AWESOME! What a beautiful space you made for your Mom! I’ve seen people butcher “lattice privacy screens” before but you guys did great. Your Dad cracks me up!
On my way over to Sand and Sisal now!
Thanks for the tutorial!
Jessica says
Ha ha , thank you! 🙂
Maury @ Life on Mars says
This looks great! We built a lattice covering for under our house last year and we were not smart enough to buy the pre-painted version. I’m glad you did because that stuff is NO FUN to paint.
Jessica says
No kidding, oh that must have stunk painting it! 🙂
Ashley@AttemptsAtDomestication says
That patio turned out awesome! And I love this screen! Definitely going to have to get my husband to help me make one for our unit outside!
Jessica says
Thank you Ashley!
Jen says
It looks lovely! Tell your Dad all these people he doesn;t know appreciate him!
Jessica says
Thanks Jen!
Sonia says
Such an attractive patio solution! Your tutorial inspires me to camouflage a heat pump that is located right off the deck. Would you be able to tell how the planters are secured on top? What an attractive and functional idea you and Dad created. Thank you!
Jessica Bruno says
Hi Sonia, you can screw the containers from the inside (of the container) right to the top of your wooden lattice piece. Just use stainless steel screws so they don’t rust. You may want to use those containers that have the water catch at the bottom b/c they usually come off of the bottom of the planter so you could screw the water catch to the top and then place your planter inside. Hope that made sense 🙂
Matt says
Please tell your father I say ” Thank you!” for sharing his secrets. I put together the first of two 8’x6′ screens on Friday and mounted it in place today. It looks great and my neighbor even came out to say so. I’m using them to screen off a small area of the yard where we keep our composters.
Jessica Bruno says
That is great Matt! I will pass it along to my dad 🙂
Deb says
Do you mind me asking about the slats for the lattice? What did you use for them? It doesn’t look like regular 1 x 4’s from here.
thanks in advance.
Jessica Bruno says
Hi Deb, we used 1×4’s for the frame on the lattice. Is that what you are talking about or are you talking about the existing posts on the patio that we attached the lattice frame to?
Deb says
I meant in the lattice itself. The 1×4’s I have seen are thicker, like 3/4″ and I was wondering if those are what you used, or did you use something from the trim section that is thinner.
Thanks in advance.
Jessica Bruno says
Hi Deb! We bought the lattice already assembled in a big 4′ x 8′ sheet. It’s vinyl lattice sheets.
Deb says
Thanks. I see now how you did it.
Kim says
Tell your Dad this was a great find and we really appreciate him sharing! Some daughters don’t have Dad’s nearby for yard makeovers! So we’ll “borrow” yours through the magic of the internet.
Jessica Bruno says
🙂
Corky says
thanks for posting this..and say thanks to DADS too…. he is helping me get my hubby motivated !
Jessica Bruno says
ha thank you! 🙂
Hillary says
Is this just free standing? What keeps it from falling over? Im in Florida and we get some winds that would throw that across the yard! LOL! Just wondering what he attached it to
Jessica Bruno says
No, it’s screwed to one of the existing support posts for the roof. You can see it in the pictures if you look close 🙂 You would definitely need to screw the privacy screen to something to keep it from falling over. It’s big!
Gail says
Love this project…NO MITER CUTS…It seems most bloggers have a carpenter for a husband..So although the projects are GREAT..we can’t RECREATE this is so do~able for everyone…Thanks!
Jessica Bruno says
No miter cuts on this one 🙂 Thanks for stopping by!
Jennifer Farsh says
Tell your Dad he is super cute;-) he reminds me of my Dad. Just found your site and I love it! Thank you for sharing your creations!
ANABEL says
MY HUSBAND AND ME DID IT WITHOUT LOOKING AT YOUR DADS SECRETS
🙂
Jessica Bruno says
hehe 🙂
Andrew says
Just wanted to say thank you for posting. I’ve been looking at purchasing vinyl fencing to hide our wood pile and garabge cans and your fence project is not only cheaper but better looking. Great looking patio as well.
Jessica Bruno says
Thank you , glad you like it!
Renee Valdes says
What a fabulous project – and so budget-friendly. Thank you for the inspiration. I’ve posted this to Pinterest/homedepot on the “Garden Party” pinboard.
Jessica Bruno says
Thank you Renee! Glad you like it and thanks for pinning 🙂
Patti Teeters says
Hi, Jessica. Love your idea and tutorial. Your Dad is a cutey! Thanks to both of you for tutorial. It is exactly what I am looking for, for the west side of my front porch. Nice wind breaker and nice to put some morning glories on. And the price of the project fits my pocket book just right. Have a great time in the new patio area!!
Jessica Bruno says
Thank you Patti!
Hanna says
Thanks for this tutorial! Two quick questions for Dad:
1. Can you explain how you connected the corner? Brackets or just screws?
2. I need to do this but need 3 panels horizontally (you had just one). How do I connect each panel to one another?
Thanks ‘Daddio’!
Hanna
Jessica Bruno says
We used screws but you could use corner/L brackets. Just make sure they are for outdoors and will not rust over time 🙂 Good luck!
Susan says
You are so lucky that your dad is around !!!!! My dad was just like him. Your privacy screen came out beautiful.
Jessica Bruno says
Thank you Susan 🙂
Dana Sutherland says
This looks great…We have a 35×15 chain link dog kennel that I have been trying for so long to think of something creative and attractive to conceal it with. I think I just found the perfect idea for it. Thank you for posting this. Let your dad know he just helped you help another family!
Lil says
Thank you for the step by step … very helpful. I too have “those neighbors” and maybe this might help my plight (waking up with garbage in my front yard). I will be building 6 of these and maybe they will get a hint.
Jessica Bruno says
You are hilarious! 🙂
Jennifer says
This looks great, and you’ve made it so easy! My only question is: how do you prevent it from blowing over? is it attached to the ground or the house somehow, or is it freestanding? thanks in advance for your time!
Jessica Bruno says
Thank you Jennifer! The side posts are screwed to the wooden columns (that holds up the roof). It would definitely blow over if it wasn’t attached to something.You can always use cement screws (for outside) if you need to attach it to a cement patio:)
Katey says
Thank you so much for the GREAT ideas love the pictures of your dad an projects . I use to work with my dad on projects so this hit home for sure !
Jessica Bruno says
That is great Katey you have done stuff with your dad. Great memories for sure 🙂
Delvalouisia says
Wonderful tutorial and very clean photos. They help alot. I going to try making a small fence this summer. Thanks So Much! Delvalouisia
Reetee says
My son and I are going to attempt nstalling privacy lattice on our carport,(upper). Need any help you can give. Reetee
Donna says
I was wondering how you all get along. Do any members of the 4 generations clash??? We have 3 generations in my house and the grandpa and the dad clash alot.
Jessica Bruno says
For the most part we all get along. My husband works over 70 hours a week so he is barely home and if anyone clashes, it’s me and my grandfather. We have moments where we butt heads but mostly, it’s ok 😉
Betty819 says
Does your Dad have a tuitorial on how to build that plant stand on the patio? I need this privacy screen on my patio..as my neighbor’s shrubbery sheds on my patio all the time and makes such a mess.
polly says
Jessica-thanks for this tutorial!I’ve been thinking about this type of project and now I don’t have to reinvent the wheel:)
Amber Wegener says
Thank you for this tutorial! My husband and I were able to use your project as inspiration for our own backyard, and shared your tutorial on our blog! Check it out! https://amberwegener.wordpress.com/2016/08/16/fun-diy-backyard-weekend-projects/#more-278
Jessica Bruno says
Your screen came out great Amber!!!! So happy you liked our tutorial 🙂
Kat says
So how do I get the lattice screen to stay up? I’m going to try to build it to block out my neighbors who are loud and hoarders.
Jim says
Great tutorial Jessica. As I write this comment the guys are here installing a new AC unit and I needed a way to protect it from my male dog that killed our last AC unit by lifting his leg on it all the time. You idea is exactly what I need to hide and protect my air conditioner. Thanks for great tutorial, yours came out great!
Jessica Bruno says
Oh no! Yes male dogs wreck tons of things with their leg and pee 🙁 Good luck and we love our barrier, we have since added window boxes filled with flowers to it 😉
Hannah says
There are SO many ads on this page that the article is literally unreadable on mobile 🙁
Jessica Bruno says
oh no!! I am sorry. I will look into that.
Sandi says
This came at the perfect time! I was asking my son about putting something up at the end of my patio to block my view of my neighbors. This is just what I wanted. Thank you so much. Tell your dad he was a big help and a lot of us out here wish we had such a great handy fella around.???? Hugs,
Jessica Bruno says
That is great Sandi! 🙂 Stay safe and healthy!
amanda says
What are your thoughts on the pvc trim so the wood doesn’t need painted? We bought it to attempt a privacy screen on the side of our deck to block our neighbor’s windows but now I am worried it may bend or sag since pvc is a bit flexible and the screen will be a bit tall. Our deck railings are white vinyl so we have to zip tie the screen to hold it to the deck rail. Thanks!!!
Jessica Bruno says
We have used PVC trim before on other projects and loved it.
Anita says
This looks really good and gives your mom a great place to relax without looking at AC units or garbage cans. Your dad is so funny! And it’s great that he can help you sometime.
Jessica Bruno says
Thank you . haah yes my dad makes me laugh 🙂