Installing a privacy screen is a great way to add peace and coziness to any porch without compromising on style. Whether you’re looking to add privacy from neighbors, keep out a bit of harsh sunlight, or simply spice up the aesthetic, a DIY wood screen can help turn your front porch into an outdoor oasis. While a single ready-made panel can cost upwards of $100, it’s possible to build one from scratch for a fraction of the price. Depending on the materials and finishes you choose, a DIY wood screen can start at as little as $30.

To get started, measure the height and width of your porch’s sides, running from the house to the nearest post or column. These measurements will guide the cutting and sizing of all of the wood pieces, so pay close attention. A single screen will typically use two or three 1-by-2-inch planks, plus 10 or so cedar fence pickets. 

Since this DIY will live outdoors, search for kiln-dried wood boards that have been pressure-treated, as these are better equipped to withstand the elements, especially rain and moisture. A pressure-treated wood panel can last over 40 years compared to just 3 to 10 years for untreated pine. Finally, you’ll need a jigsaw to cut the wood to size and a nail gun to assemble all the pieces together in a few simple steps.

To DIY a wood privacy screen for your front porch, start by measuring its height and installing two vertical wood planks. One should be a couple of inches from the home’s outer wall and the other a few inches from the post. For a wider porch, add a third plank down the middle for additional support. These will form the frame for your cedar fence pickets, so nail them securely to the top and bottom of your porch. If there is an existing railing, simply place the panels on top of it and, if desired, nail them to the rail as well for added stability.

Now, add the horizontal slats. The more space is left between them, the more breeze and sunshine will come through. For the utmost privacy, you’ll want to place them just a few inches apart. Divide the height of your porch by the width of one cedar plank to find out how many can fit, taking into account how much space you’d like to leave in between. Next, measure the width of the porch sides, cut the cedar fence posts to size with the jigsaw, and attach them to the horizontal planks with a nail gun, using a spacer to keep things even.

You can then add your own style by choosing a higher-end wood or opt for a cheaper one and follow these wood stain tips and tricks to achieve a fresh hue. Take the DIY a step further by attaching a few wall planter hangers to the horizontal panels to hold pretty succulents and small plants. You’ll have a beautiful, and budget-friendly outdoor piece in no time at all.