Quick answer: Pick a screen the same height as your fence or slightly shorter, add up the length of every fence run, and choose 170 GSM Standard for most homes or 220 GSM Heavy Duty PLUS for windy sites, job sites and sports courts. If no stock length fits, order a custom length.
A privacy fence screen is the fastest way to turn an open chain-link or metal fence into a private yard. It zips on in minutes, blocks most of the view and still lets wind and rain pass through. This guide walks through the five decisions that matter.
1. Match the height to your fence
Measure your fence from the top rail down to where you want the screen to stop, usually an inch or two above the ground. Choose a screen that is the same height or slightly shorter, so it sits flat without folding over the top rail.
| Screen height | Typical use |
|---|---|
| 3–4 ft | Pool fences, front yards, low railings, dog runs |
| 5 ft | Chain-link and side-yard fences |
| 6 ft | The classic backyard privacy fence |
| 8 ft | Tall fences, tennis and sports courts, construction sites |
2. Measure the length
Measure each straight run of fence from post to post and write the numbers down. Add them together for the total length. Corners and gates usually work best as separate pieces, so a typical backyard might need two or three screens rather than one long one.
If your fence is longer than one stock screen, line up several side by side. If no stock length fits a run, order a custom length: we cut, bind and grommet it to your measurements in our California workshop.
3. Choose the fabric weight
| Standard | Heavy Duty PLUS | |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric | 170 GSM knitted HDPE | 220 GSM heavier-weight HDPE |
| Privacy | Blocks up to 90% of the view | Heavier knit for extra durability |
| Edges | 3 in. double binding, rust-resistant grommets | Heavy-duty reinforced binding and grommets |
| Heights | 3–8 ft, any custom length | 4–8 ft, 50 ft rolls |
| Warranty | 3 years | 4 years |
Standard screens are right for most homes. Choose Heavy Duty PLUS for windy areas, job sites, sports courts or anywhere the screen will get bumped.
4. Pick a color
Standard screens come in 6 colors and Heavy Duty PLUS screens in 5. Dark green and black blend into hedges and shadows and are the most private-looking. Beige and gray look lighter against a house or a light-colored fence. Not sure? Order free fabric samples and hold them up to your fence at different times of day.
5. Install it in minutes
Zip ties are included with every screen. You don't need any tools besides scissors.
- Unroll the screen along the fence with the grommets facing you.
- Start at a top corner. Loop a zip tie through the grommet and around the fence, pull it snug and leave it loose enough to adjust.
- Work along the top edge first, pulling the screen gently tight between ties.
- Fasten the sides, then the bottom edge.
- Go back and tighten every tie, then trim the tails.
To remove the screen later, just snip the zip ties.
Where privacy screens work best
- Hiding a yard, pool or patio from neighbors and the street
- Cutting wind and glare on decks, tennis courts and job sites
- Covering construction sites and storage yards
- Giving dogs a calmer run by blocking what they can see
Frequently asked questions
Will a privacy screen make my fence catch more wind?
Some, yes. The knit lets air pass through, which reduces the load compared with a solid panel, but a screen still adds wind load. On tall or windy fences, use every grommet and consider Heavy Duty PLUS.
Can I install it on a wood or metal fence?
Yes. Zip ties work on chain-link and metal rails. On wood fences, you can use screws with washers or staples through the grommets instead.
How long does a custom length take?
Custom lengths are made to order in 1–3 business days and ship within 3–7 business days. In-stock sizes ship in 1–3 business days.
Can I return a custom screen?
Custom-size items are made just for you and cannot be returned, so please double-check your measurements. Unused in-stock screens can be returned within 30 days.
Shop privacy fence screens → or call 888-777-2538 for help with an unusual fence.
