When you think of owning a pool you most likely imagine fun and relaxation, but what if that pool comes without privacy. You don’t want people to be able to watch you relaxing by your pool. It needs to be a place to unwind and that’s difficult to do when you’re in full view of your neighbors. No need to worry though, there are a number of ways to increase your pool privacy.
Below we have included 9 ways to make your swimming pool more private.
1. Privacy Screens
Privacy screens are a fantastic option when it comes to adding privacy to your pool area. They are low-cost and easy to set up. They can either be a portable stand or a fixed structure. A great feature of privacy screens is that they only need to be utilized in a targeted area that needs more privacy. So if you only need to block one area you can simply put up one privacy screen. If you are considering Privacy Screens be sure that you check with your homeowner’s association (HOA) to be sure that it complies with the rules. You may also need to verify that it meets state regulations if you are using it to act as a pool barrier.
2. Water Features
When you imagine adding more privacy to your pool you probably don’t think about water features but they can be a great option. They act as a sound buffer by making it harder for you and your neighbors to hear each other. They also add a wonderful background noise that creates a super relaxing ambiance.
Some water features you might consider are slides, waterfalls, or a large fountain. The type of water features you choose will determine whether it’s a low-cost or high-cost installation. You will need to consider the ongoing costs of a water feature as well when you make your decision.
3. Professionally Landscape Around Your Pool
Beautiful landscaping around your pool can help create a tranquil place of refuge. However, the wrong choice of trees and plants can cause added pool maintenance and costs. Speak with a local professional landscaper to get advice on the best choice of trees for your swimming pool. The wrong trees can cause structural damage due to large root systems. They can also attract insects and wildlife and create debris problems that will have you constantly maintaining your pool. Below are some recommended types of trees that are often used around a pool due to limited debris and maintenance.
The best trees to plant around your pool for privacy
- Banana Tree
- Citrus Tree
- Evergreen Trees
- Holly Trees
- Magnolia Trees
- Fruitless Olive Trees
- Oleander Trees
- Windmill Palm Trees
- Acacia Trees
- Japanese Maple
4. Fences
Swimming Pool Fences are a great option for safety compliance and privacy. They are also mandatory, although certain states might have different minimum and maximum height requirements. Costs for a pool fence can vary widely depending on the type of material you select. A wood fence is certainly going to be more expensive than Vinyl.
Types of Fences to Place Around Your Pool
- Wood
- Vinyl
- Bamboo
5. Canopies
Depending on where your neighbors are situated in relation to your property a pool canopy may offer partial privacy. For example, if your home is located on a hillside and your neighbors have a downward view of your pool, a canopy will offer you privacy from above whenever you are out of the pool.
6. Umbrellas
Pool Umbrellas are definitely the most economically friendly choice on the list however they also offer the least amount of privacy when compared to the other choices. If you’re planning to go with a pool umbrella be sure to get one with an aluminum frame so that it will stand up to inclement weather. You will also want to make sure that the umbrella you choose offers a great deal of position flexibility. This will allow you to adjust the umbrella to your desired position in order to provide you with maximum privacy. While umbrellas may not offer the most amount of privacy in all situations they do offer a great deal of flexibility since they can be moved and positioned according to need.
7. Pergolas
Pergolas can add a lot of class to your pool if done correctly. They can also be used to provide privacy if they are added with an additional complimenting feature like a fireplace or a waterfall. If you want to keep costs down you can also pair a pergola with a privacy screen or by enclosing the back side.
8. Gazebos
A Gazebo is very similar to a Pergola except that it provides more shelter due to its fully covered roof. A Pergolas roof still allows air and sunlight to pass through. A Gazebo also normally offers more features such as a full Barbeque setup or a TV with a lounge-style setting. A Gazebo is a great option if you are looking for additional privacy near your swimming pool.
9. Pool Cabana
Pool Cabanas are kind of the middle road between a Pergola and a Gazebo. They are normally enclosed by optional use drapes and normally include a waterproof mattress for inclement weather. You will normally find Cabanas at an upscale hotel chain pool such as a Hilton or a Hyatt but they can also be purchased on Amazon for private use swimming pools.
Conclusion on Pool Privacy Ideas
There are a variety of combinations of options available for you to provide all the pool privacy you may need. However, your choice will ultimately depend on the type of pool you have, your backyard, and the layout of the pool. We recommend looking at Pinterest if you want to get a good idea of what other pool owners have done to create maximum privacy.
