Do you love spending time outdoors on your patio, but hate the wind that seems to always be blowing? Well, you’re not alone! One thing that can ruin an outdoor party or gathering is a gust of wind that comes out of nowhere. In this article, we will share some tips on how to block the wind and make your outdoor space more comfortable. Whether you’re looking for a short-term or long-term solution, we have you covered. Let’s get started!
How Wind Can Harm Your Patio
Your patio is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, but it can also be a target for strong winds. Wind can be a real nuisance when you’re trying to enjoy time outside.
Not only can it make it difficult to keep things like napkins and plates from flying away, but it can also make it uncomfortable to sit outside for long periods of time. And if you live in an area with high winds, your patio furniture can be blown around, your plants can be damaged, and your outdoor entertaining area can become unusable. That’s more than frustrating!
Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to block wind on your patio and make outdoor living more enjoyable. By taking some simple steps, you can create a windbreak that will protect your patio furniture and make it easier to relax outdoors.
What Can I Use To Block Wind On My Patio?
In this section, we’ll discuss some of the best ways to block wind on your patio. By using one or more of these methods, you can create a wind-free oasis in your own backyard!
Consider fencing
One of the most effective ways to block wind on your patio is to install a fence. A fence will not only provide a physical barrier against the wind, but it can also act as a visual barrier that will help to reduce the amount of wind that reaches your patio.
There are a variety of different types of fencing that can be used to create a windbreak, so you’ll need to choose the option that best suits your needs and budget. Some popular choices include wood fences, chain-link fences, and vinyl fences.
In addition, you’ll need to make sure that the fence is installed securely. If the fence is not properly secured, it could be blown over by strong winds, which would defeat the purpose of having a fence in the first place! [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6]
Install a windscreen
Windscreens often called windbreaks or privacy screens, are panels designed to block the wind. They can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, bamboo, metal, and fabric. Windscreens can be freestanding or attached to a structure like a fence or a pergola.
Most people use windscreens to create a more comfortable outdoor living space. If you have a patio or deck, you can use a windscreen to block the wind and make the area more inviting. Windscreens can also increase privacy by blocking the view of neighbors or passersby. They can be freestanding or attached to your house or fence.
Windscreens are typically 4 to 6 feet tall and can be as long as you need them to be. They’re an excellent choice for blocking out strong winds and creating a more secluded outdoor living space.
Plant big trees or shrubs
One way to block wind on your patio is to use plants. strategically placed trees, shrubs, and other plants can provide a natural barrier against the wind. If you live in a particularly windy area, you may want to consider planting evergreen trees as they will provide year-round protection from the wind. Not only do trees provide shade and privacy, but their dense leaves will also act as a barrier against strong winds. Evergreen trees are especially good at blocking wind, but they can take many years to grow to their full size. If you need some immediate relief from the wind, try planting fast-growing deciduous trees like maples or oaks.
Shrubs also make good windbreaks. Evergreens like yews and boxwoods are excellent choices, but deciduous shrubs like hydrangeas and Forsythia will also do the trick. When choosing shrubs for your windbreak, make sure to pick varieties that are appropriate for your climate zone. [1] [3] [4] [5]
Place potted shrubs
You don’t necessarily need to plant something into your soil to create a wind block. Potted shrubs can do the trick just as well!
Bushes and evergreens make great wind blocks when planted in large pots. Place them around the perimeter of your patio for the best results.
If you live in a particularly windy area, you may want to consider weighing down your pots with sand or rocks. This will ensure that they don’t get blown over by strong gusts of wind. [1] [3] [4]
Consider hedge walls
Hedge walls are one of the most effective ways to block wind on your patio. They are tall, and dense, and can be easily customized to fit the dimensions of your outdoor space. Plus, they offer privacy and can serve as a visual barrier between your patio and the rest of your yard.
The negative of this (and all live plant methods) is that they require some maintenance. You’ll need to trim your hedge walls regularly to keep them looking neat and tidy. [1] [3] [4] [5]
Use climbing vines
Another green method to block wind on your patio is to use climbing vines. Vines can be trained to grow up around support structures like trellises, fences, or pergolas. As the vines grow, they’ll create a natural barrier that will help block wind from coming onto your patio.
Some of the best vines for blocking wind include:
- Ivy;
- Wisteria;
- Trumpet Creeper;
- Boston Ivy;
- Grapes [3];
Install lattice panels
Lattice panels are another way to block wind on your patio. They can be placed vertically or horizontally, and come in a variety of materials such as wood, plastic, or metal. You can even find lattice panels that are already decorated with lights or plants!
Installing lattice panels is easy. You can use screws, nails, or glue to attach them to your patio posts or rails. If you’re using screws, make sure they’re the right size and type for the material of your lattice panels. Nails should be long enough to go through the thickness of the panel and into the post or rail. If you’re using a wooden lattice, you may want to stain or paint it to match the rest of your outdoor furniture. [1] [3] [5]
Install a glass wall
If you’re planning on installing a glass wall, be sure to hire a professional contractor to do the job. Glass walls are not something that should be attempted by amateurs!
And once you have your glass wall installed, clean it regularly. Dirt and grime can build up on the glass, which can make it difficult to see through. [1] [3] [4] [5] [6]
Privacy screens
Privacy screens are panels or fences that are used to block wind and provide privacy. They are made of various materials such as wood, metal, or PVC. Privacy screens can be purchased at most home improvement stores.
To install a privacy screen, first, measure the area where you want to install the screen. Then, mark the location of the posts using stakes and string. Next, dig holes for the posts and concrete them in place. Finally, attach the privacy screen panels to the posts using screws or brackets.
When choosing a privacy screen, consider the following:
- The material of the privacy screen. Wood, metal, and PVC are all common materials for privacy screens. Consider the look you want to achieve and the maintenance required for each material. Most privacy screens are made of mesh or another type of fabric. This material allows you to see through it while still providing some protection from the wind;
- The height of the privacy screen. The taller the screen, the more effective it will be at blocking wind. However, taller screens can be more expensive and more difficult to install;
- The color of the privacy screen. Darker colors will absorb more heat from the sun, making them ideal for colder climates. Lighter colors will reflect heat, making them ideal for hotter climates;
If you have a small patio, you may not need a full-sized privacy screen. In this case, consider using potted plants as a natural wind blocker. [1] [4] [5]
Windscreen fence
We’ve already covered that fences can work as wind blockers. And same goes for windscreens. But what about a windscreen fence?
This is a type of fence that’s specifically designed to block the wind. It’s usually made of PVC or another type of plastic, and it has small holes in it that allow the wind to pass through but not blow everything around.
You can find pre-made windscreens at most home improvement stores, or you can order one online. If you’re feeling crafty, you could even make your own! Just be sure to use sturdy materials that won’t blow away in a gust of wind.
Install outdoor shades or curtains
One of the simplest and most effective ways to block wind on your patio is to install outdoor shades or curtains. Outdoor shades are special types of window treatments that can provide protection from the sun, wind, and rain. They are typically made from durable materials that can withstand the elements, and they can be attached to your home in a variety of ways. Outdoor shades can be freestanding, mounted on a wall, or even hung from a ceiling. Just pick the one that best suits your needs!
If you want to get really creative, you could even combine outdoor shades and curtains! Just make sure to choose materials that are compatible with each other so they don’t clash. [1] [3] [4] [5]
Consider retractable screens
Retractable screens are a great way to enjoy your patio or deck while blocking out the sun, wind, or pests. They can be mounted on walls, ceilings, or doors and come in a variety of sizes to fit any space. Most retractable screens are made of durable mesh that will allow you to see through while still providing privacy and protection from the elements.
When choosing a retractable screen, you’ll want to consider the size of the opening you’re trying to cover, as well as the type of material you want the screen to be made from. If you’re looking for maximum coverage, a motorized retractable screen might be better. [1] [3]
Consider sail shades
Sail shades are large pieces of fabric that are attached to poles or posts. They are often used as sunshades or canopies, but they can also be used to block the wind. Sail shades come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors, so you can find one that will suit your needs.
Sail shades work by creating a barrier between the wind and your patio. The fabric will catch the wind and redirect it around your patio, instead of through it. This will create a more comfortable environment for you to enjoy the outdoors.
There are many reasons why you might want to use sail shades on your patio. If you live in an area that is prone to strong winds, sail shades can help you enjoy the outdoors without being blown away. Sail shades can also provide privacy and protection from the sun and rain.
Build a wall
While this might be too permanent of a solution for some, building a wall is one of the most effective ways to block the wind. If you have the space and the budget, constructing a solid wall around your patio will create an impenetrable barrier against the wind.
There are many different materials you can use to build a wall, but brick or stone are usually the best choices for blocking wind. If you’re not sure how to build a wall yourself, hiring a professional contractor is always an option.
How to Block Wind Without Blocking the View
Now that we have covered some ideas of what you can use to keep the wind at bay, we will go over a few tips on how you can block the wind without blocking your view. After all, one of the best parts about having a patio is being able to enjoy the outdoors!
To start, you’ll want to choose materials that are transparent or semi-transparent. This will allow you to see through them while still blocking out the wind. Some good options include glass, PVC, and mesh.
One option is to install outdoor shades or curtains. These can provide protection from the sun, wind, and rain while still allowing you to see through them. Another option is to use potted plants as a natural wind blocker. Just be sure to choose plants that are tall enough to block the wind but not so tall that they block your view.
You’ll also want to consider the placement of your wind blockers. If you’re trying to block wind without blocking your view, you’ll want to place them in strategic locations. For example, if you have a beautiful view of the sunset, you might not want to place a windscreen in front of it. Instead, you could place it to the side or even behind you so you can still enjoy the view.
Just be sure to use a heavy-duty adhesive that can withstand the elements. [1]
FAQ
How do you keep the wind from blowing patio furniture around?
There are a few things that you can do to keep your patio furniture from blowing around in the wind. First, you can weigh down your furniture. You can use sandbags or water balloons to weigh down your chairs and tables.
Another option is to anchor your furniture to the ground. You can do this with rope or bungee cords. Finally, you can buy special covers for your furniture that will help to keep the wind from blowing it around.
How do you build a wind barrier for a patio?
There are a few ways that you can build a wind barrier for your patio. One way is to use lattice panels. You can attach these to your fence or your house and they will provide some protection from the wind.
Another way is to use plants or shrubs to create a natural wind barrier. If you have tall plants, they can act as a barrier to keep the wind from blowing onto your patio. Finally, you can install a wooden fence or trellis. This will provide a more solid barrier and will also add some privacy to your patio.
How do I block the wind on my back porch?
There are a few ways that you can block the wind on your back porch. One way is to use curtains or blinds. Another way is to use awnings or umbrellas. Finally, you can use plants or trees to create a natural wind break.
What is a natural windbreak?
Trees, shrubs, and other tall plants can act as a natural windbreak, blocking wind and providing privacy. If you live in a rural area, you may want to plant a windbreak to protect your home from strong winds.
How do I block the wind without blocking my view?
One way to block the wind without blocking your view is to use lattice panels. Lattice panels are made of wood or plastic and have an open grid pattern. You can attach them to your fence or porch railings to create a barrier that will deflect the wind while still allowing you to see through it.
Another option is to use glass barriers. Glass barriers can be either opaque or transparent, so you can choose the level of privacy you want. Wind blockers made of glass are also available in a variety of styles to match your décor.
Useful Video: Re-purposing Glass Doors | DIY Patio Wind Block Glass Partition Wall
Conclusion
Everyone wants their patio to be a comfortable and inviting space where they can enjoy the outdoors. But when the wind picks up, it can quickly become an uncomfortable and even dangerous place. In this article, we’ve shared some tips on how you can block wind on your patio and enjoy the outdoors again. You can either use physical barriers like fences or walls, or you can use natural barriers like trees and shrubs. You can also use a combination of both to create the most effective wind block for your patio.
If you live in an area with high winds, it’s important to take action to protect your patio furniture and belongings. High winds can damage or destroy outdoor furniture, umbrellas, and even grills. If you have lightweight patio furniture, anchor it down with heavy weights or tie it down with rope. And if you have any loose items on your patios, such as potted plants or lawn decorations, make sure they’re securely anchored so they don’t blow away and cause damage.
By taking some simple precautions, you can keep your patio a safe and enjoyable space for you and your family to enjoy the outdoors. Thanks for reading!
References:
- https://balconyboss.com/guides/wind-block-ideas-for-balcony-porch-or-patio/
- https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/landscaping-windbreaks
- https://www.fallsgarden.com/block-wind-on-patio/
- https://designingidea.com/patio-wind-block-ideas/
- https://backyardscape.com/how-to-block-wind-on-patio/