A privacy screen is the fastest way to turn a see-through chain link fence into a private yard, pool area or job site. Getting the size right is simple once you know two numbers: the height of the fence and the total length you want to cover.
Step 1: Match the screen height to the fence
Measure from the top rail down to where you want the screen to stop, usually just above the ground. Order the screen height that matches your fence height. Our screens are made slightly smaller than the listed size so they sit tight inside the frame: the 170 GSM screen is about 1 inch smaller than listed, and the 220 GSM PLUS screen is about 3 inches shorter than the listed height. That way a 6' screen fits a 6' fence without bunching.
Common fence heights: 4' (front yards, dog runs), 5', 6' (backyards and pools) and 8' (commercial and job sites).
Step 2: Measure the run and count screens
Measure the total length of fence you want to cover. Then divide by the screen length and round up.
| Fence run | Screen size | How many |
|---|---|---|
| 40 ft | 6' x 50' | 1 (or a custom 40' screen) |
| 75 ft | 6' x 50' | 2 |
| 120 ft | 6' x 50' | 3 |
| 24 ft | 4' x 25' | 1 |
Measure each straight side separately if the fence turns a corner, and plan joints at a post so the seam is easy to tie down. If a run is an awkward length, a custom screen made to the exact height and length avoids cutting or overlapping.
Step 3: Choose the weight
- 170 GSM standard: about 90% privacy, heights 3' to 8', lengths 3' to 50', 6 colors. Right for most backyards, balconies and dog runs.
- 220 GSM PLUS: up to 98% privacy, 4', 5', 6' and 8' high in 50' lengths, with wider binding and larger grommets. Better for windy, open fences, pools and courts.
See our full comparison: 170 vs 220 GSM privacy fence screen.
Step 4: Attach it so it stays tight
Brass grommets run around the bound edges: 4 in each corner, every 12 inches on the short sides and every 24 inches along the length. Plan on one zip tie per grommet.
- Tie the top corners first.
- Work along the top rail, pulling the screen snug as you go.
- Tighten the sides, then the bottom.
- Trim zip tie tails for a clean look.
Because the mesh is breathable, wind passes through instead of loading the fence like a solid tarp.
Shop 170 GSM privacy screens · Shop 220 GSM PLUS screens · All fence screen sizes
Related: How to install a privacy fence screen · How to choose a privacy fence screen · Balcony privacy screen guide
