Bye, Nosy Neighbors: Add Balcony Privacy With An Easy-To-Use Amazon Find

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Stepping onto the balcony lets you breathe in the fresh air and catch a glimpse of the world. But it can also expose you to prying eyes from neighbors and passersby. Not to mention, blasts of wind, dust, and other forces of nature can make your outdoor time less pleasant. The Sunny Guard Balcony Privacy Screen is designed to make the space more private. It's less than $20 for a 10-foot panel, but it comes in different heights and lengths for customization.

Sure, there are plenty of unexpected items you can upcycle into a backyard privacy screen, but they can be bulky and difficult to install on a balcony. This particular privacy screen is made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) to create a lightweight, breathable panel. Double-stitched hems and aluminum grommets increase the durability of the screen, allowing it to withstand outdoor conditions. It's a good option for renters because of how easy it is to install, without using any tools or making any permanent changes to the balcony. The screen comes with zip ties, which are used to attach it to the railing. That makes it quick to install and easy to remove. And unlike using vines as a natural way to add privacy to a balcony, this option doesn't require ongoing care.

Keep in mind that this material doesn't create a complete blackout effect. It allows some sunlight to pass through to avoid making the balcony feel too dark, but it does provide 95% UV protection. The fabric also allows some wind to flow through it to support air circulation, and it comes in different colors to match the outdoor aesthetic.

You can achieve privacy with the Sunny Guard in many ways. Surround your entire balcony railing or choose just one section. For example, if you want separation for your neighbors, install a short panel on the sides of your balcony. Leaving the front railing open maximizes sunlight and lets you enjoy the views. Or, do the opposite, only blocking the front to stop passersby from seeing your balcony. This strategy works well if you live in a busy city and want relief from traffic and pedestrians. Because the screen comes in several sizes, you can find a panel that fits your needs.

But installing the panel while you're decking out your apartment balcony offers some benefits you might not consider. If the area is often windy, the Sunny Guard helps ease those environmental issues. While the fabric lets some wind pass through, it can help slow down stronger breezes to make your time outdoors more comfortable. It can also stop some dust from blowing through the railings. 

The panels could also be helpful if you have kids or pets. The fabric keeps them from sticking their heads, arms, or legs through the spaces in your balcony railing. Keep in mind that the Sunny Guard isn't a baby-proofing device (protective netting and rigid railing covers are better for that), and kids should always be supervised on a balcony. But it can keep you from constantly reminding them to keep their arms inside the railing. For dogs, the screen can keep them from seeing animals, people, and other things that make them bark.