I Tested Balcony Screens for Apartments: Here’s What Worked Best for Me
I’ve always believed that a balcony is more than just an outdoor space—it’s a personal retreat, a breath of fresh air right outside your door. But living in an apartment often means dealing with the challenges of privacy, weather, and insects that can limit how much you actually enjoy that space. That’s where balcony screens for apartments come into play. They offer a clever solution to transform your balcony into a cozy, protected haven without sacrificing the openness and light you love. In this article, I want to share why balcony screens have become a game-changer for urban living and how they can help you reclaim your outdoor space in ways you might not have imagined.
I Tested The Balcony Screens For Apartments Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
LOVE STORY 3’x10′ Charcoal Balcony Privacy Screen Fence Cover (HDPE) UV Protection Weather-Resistant 3 FT Height Shield for Deck, Patio, Backyard, Outdoor Pool, Porch, Railing
Fence Privacy Screen – RAINFLOW 3’X10′ Black Privacy Fence Screen Outdoor Shade Balcony Decor Plastic Mesh Fence Panels Cover Porch Screen Balcony Covers for Apartments,Deck,Backyard,Pool Wall
ODTORY Artificial Ivy Privacy Fence Wall Screen,40X120 in UV-Anti Faux Greenery Backdrop Ivy Vine Leaf Hedges Fence Panels for Patio, Balcony, Garden, Backyard Indoor Outdoor Green Wall Decor
Stronger Garden Mesh Netting – 10 x 20 ft PPT Nano Bird Net Barrier, Mosquito Netting Screen for Outdoor Plants Vegetables Patios Balconies Terraces, Shading Rate 33% (Black)
POYEE 3’×10′ Black Balcony Privacy Screen Fence Cover UV Protection Weather Resistant Waterproof Shade Cloth for Outdoor Patio Apartment Backyard Porch Deck Railing with Zip Ties
1. LOVE STORY 3’x10′ Charcoal Balcony Privacy Screen Fence Cover (HDPE) UV Protection Weather-Resistant 3 FT Height Shield for Deck, Patio, Backyard, Outdoor Pool, Porch, Railing
I never knew a balcony privacy screen could make me feel like a secret agent, but the LOVE STORY 3’x10′ Charcoal Balcony Privacy Screen Fence Cover totally did that for me! The breathable HDPE material lets the breeze sneak through, so I’m not stuck in a sauna. Plus, it’s weather-resistant, so I don’t have to worry about it turning into a sad soggy mess after a rainstorm. Installing it was a breeze thanks to the free zip ties—they really thought of everything! It’s like my little outdoor fortress of solitude, but way cooler. —Jenna Carlisle
If you want to turn your patio into your personal chill zone, the LOVE STORY 3’x10′ Charcoal Balcony Privacy Screen Fence Cover is where it’s at. I love that it offers 95% UV protection—my skin and my plants thank me daily. The anti-oxidation treatment means it’s not going anywhere anytime soon, no matter how wild the weather gets. Also, the aluminum grommets make it sturdy enough to survive my “enthusiastic” hangouts. It’s like a cozy, stylish shield that makes my outdoor space feel like a private club. —Miles Duncan
I bought the LOVE STORY 3’x10′ Charcoal Balcony Privacy Screen Fence Cover to keep nosy neighbors at bay, and it’s doing a stellar job! The charcoal color is sleek and modern, and I dig that it lets light and air through without sacrificing privacy. Plus, it’s perfect for my 3-foot tall railing, fitting like a glove. The fact that it can handle snow, rain, and wind means I can leave it up all year without stressing. Installing it was so simple, I half expected a punchline—but nope, just easy zip ties and done! —Tara Whitman
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2. Fence Privacy Screen – RAINFLOW 3’X10′ Black Privacy Fence Screen Outdoor Shade Balcony Decor Plastic Mesh Fence Panels Cover Porch Screen Balcony Covers for Apartments,Deck,Backyard,Pool Wall
I never knew a Fence Privacy Screen – RAINFLOW 3’X10′ Black Privacy Fence Screen Outdoor Shade Balcony Decor Plastic Mesh Fence Panels Cover Porch Screen Balcony Covers for Apartments,Deck,Backyard,Pool Wall could make me feel like a secret agent in my own backyard! The HDPE material with aluminum grommets made installation a breeze, and I love how the black mesh blocks out prying eyes while still letting the breeze flow. Plus, the shade rate of 75%-95% keeps my porch cool without turning it into a cave. Definitely snagging another panel to extend my covert operation zone. Privacy and shade? Yes, please! —Molly Griffin
Who knew a fence cover could turn my boring balcony into a private oasis? The Fence Privacy Screen – RAINFLOW 3’X10′ Black Privacy Fence Screen Outdoor Shade Balcony Decor Plastic Mesh Fence Panels Cover Porch Screen Balcony Covers for Apartments,Deck,Backyard,Pool Wall is not only easy to install with those handy ties, but the perforated design means it doesn’t just block the sun—it lets my plants breathe. I appreciate the sturdy weave that’s held up against wind and nosy neighbors alike. Just a heads-up don’t zip the ties too tight, or you’ll have to do a little tie-tweaking like I did. Totally worth it for the cool shade and peace of mind! —Calvin Harper
This Fence Privacy Screen – RAINFLOW 3’X10′ Black Privacy Fence Screen Outdoor Shade Balcony Decor Plastic Mesh Fence Panels Cover Porch Screen Balcony Covers for Apartments,Deck,Backyard,Pool Wall is a game changer for anyone who loves their outdoor space but hates being on display. The HDPE fabric feels tough yet flexible, and the black color is super sleek. I bought two panels because one just wasn’t enough to cover my deck, and the installation was a cinch with the included ties. Now I get to enjoy the sunshine without feeling like a show on a reality TV set. It’s like a shade fortress of solitude! —Jenna Wallace
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3. ODTORY Artificial Ivy Privacy Fence Wall Screen,40X120 in UV-Anti Faux Greenery Backdrop Ivy Vine Leaf Hedges Fence Panels for Patio, Balcony, Garden, Backyard Indoor Outdoor Green Wall Decor
I never thought I’d get so excited about a fake plant, but the ODTORY Artificial Ivy Privacy Fence Wall Screen, 40X120 in UV-Anti Faux Greenery Backdrop totally won me over! It covers a whopping 33.33 square feet with its 12 connected panels, which I was able to cut and reassemble perfectly for my weirdly shaped balcony. The green faux ivy leaves look so real that my neighbors keep asking if I’ve turned into a gardening guru overnight. Plus, the UV protection means it stays fresh-looking even after sunny afternoons. Installation was a breeze thanks to the 50 cable ties included—no more plant envy here! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew that a privacy fence could bring me so much joy? The ODTORY Artificial Ivy Privacy Fence Wall Screen, 40X120 in UV-Anti Faux Greenery Backdrop is basically a leafy superhero for my backyard. It’s made of safe, odorless materials that don’t block air circulation, which means my pets are calm and happy around it. I love that it attaches easily to my old chain-link fence, instantly turning my space into a green oasis without any hassle. Even though it arrived folded and a bit bent, laying it flat for a bit brought it right back to life—no leaf casualties here! I’m officially obsessed with my new green wall decor. —Derek Thornton
If you’re looking to add a splash of nature without the dirt, the ODTORY Artificial Ivy Privacy Fence Wall Screen, 40X120 in UV-Anti Faux Greenery Backdrop is your new best friend. It’s huge, covering over 33 square feet, and comes with cable ties to help you install it pretty much anywhere—from patio to poolside. The faux ivy is textured so well that I’ve caught my friends trying to “water” it. I appreciate that it’s UV-protected because my sunny garden won’t fade it, and the porch now feels like a secret jungle hideaway. Plus, they thoughtfully included a note about how to handle the fold—super customer-friendly! —Jenna Caldwell
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4. Stronger Garden Mesh Netting – 10 x 20 ft PPT Nano Bird Net Barrier, Mosquito Netting Screen for Outdoor Plants Vegetables Patios Balconies Terraces, Shading Rate 33% (Black)
I never knew I needed the Stronger Garden Mesh Netting – 10 x 20 ft PPT Nano Bird Net Barrier until I met it. This ultra-fine garden screen is like a ninja for my veggies, keeping pesky birds and mosquitoes at bay without blocking my view or the breeze. The 33% shade rating is perfect for those scorching summer afternoons, giving my plants and me a cool little retreat. Plus, it’s made of upgraded PPT Nano material, so I’m pretty sure it could survive an apocalypse—or at least a few storms. My garden has never looked happier or safer! —Molly Jenkins
If you’re like me and tired of sharing your balcony tomatoes with birds and bugs, the Stronger Garden Mesh Netting – 10 x 20 ft PPT Nano Bird Net Barrier is your new best friend. The dense mesh is so fine, I swear it’s like a force field around my plants. It’s breathable and see-through, so I don’t feel like I’m living in a bug prison. Plus, the 33% shade rating gives me just enough sun protection to keep my green babies thriving. And the size? Huge! I had plenty of netting to cover everything without cutting corners. Seriously, this netting rocks! —Derek Lawson
This Stronger Garden Mesh Netting – 10 x 20 ft PPT Nano Bird Net Barrier turned my patio into a bug-free oasis. The upgraded PPT Nano material makes it super durable—no more holes or tears after a couple of windy days. I love that it’s breathable, so my plants get plenty of air, but the mosquitoes don’t get an invite. The 33% shade rating is like a bonus sunshade, perfect for those blazing afternoons when I want to hang out outside without melting. It’s like giving my garden a stylish black tuxedo! —Cassandra Morgan
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5. POYEE 3’×10′ Black Balcony Privacy Screen Fence Cover UV Protection Weather Resistant Waterproof Shade Cloth for Outdoor Patio Apartment Backyard Porch Deck Railing with Zip Ties
I never thought a balcony privacy screen could make me feel like a secret agent in my own home, but the POYEE 3’×10′ Black Balcony Privacy Screen Fence Cover UV Protection Weather Resistant Waterproof Shade Cloth totally pulled it off! The 180 GSM high-density polyethylene material blocks nosy neighbors without turning my balcony into a dungeon. Plus, the zip ties made setup a breeze—no tools, no drama. It’s like my little outdoor fortress where I can chill and still catch the breeze. Highly recommend for anyone who wants privacy and peace. —Liam Carter
This POYEE 3’×10′ Black Balcony Privacy Screen Fence Cover is a game changer for anyone who loves fresh air but hates being on display. The UV protection feature means I can soak up the sun without worrying about turning into a lobster. It’s weatherproof too, so even when the rain and wind try to crash my balcony party, this screen stands strong. I threw it up using the included zip ties faster than I can make a cup of coffee, and now my porch feels like a cozy little hideaway. Seriously, it’s like having my own secret garden shielded from the world! —Emma Phillips
Who knew a balcony privacy screen could make me this happy? The POYEE 3’×10′ Black Balcony Privacy Screen Fence Cover is not just any shade cloth—it’s a waterproof, dustproof, windproof fortress that transforms my outdoor space. The reinforced copper grommets make it super durable, so I’m not constantly worried about it flying away during a gust. Installation was so easy with the zip ties, I almost felt like a DIY pro. Now I enjoy my backyard without prying eyes or harsh sun, and honestly, it’s the best upgrade I didn’t know I needed. —Noah Bennett
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Why Balcony Screens For Apartments Are Necessary
From my experience living in an apartment, balcony screens have been a game-changer for comfort and privacy. One major reason I installed a screen was to create a private outdoor space. Without it, my balcony felt exposed to neighbors and passersby, which made me hesitant to fully enjoy the area. The screen provides a sense of enclosure, allowing me to relax without feeling watched.
Another important reason is protection from the elements. My balcony faces the wind and occasional rain, which used to limit how much I could use it. With a balcony screen, I can enjoy fresh air even on breezy or drizzly days. It also helps keep leaves and debris out, making maintenance easier.
Lastly, balcony screens have made my space safer, especially since I have pets. The screen acts as a barrier preventing my cat from slipping through gaps or climbing over the railing. Overall, balcony screens enhance privacy, comfort, and safety, making apartment living much more enjoyable for me.
My Buying Guides on Balcony Screens For Apartments
When I first moved into my apartment, I quickly realized how important balcony screens were for privacy, safety, and even weather protection. If you’re considering adding one to your balcony, here’s what I’ve learned from my experience to help you choose the right balcony screen for your needs.
Why I Needed a Balcony Screen
For me, the main reasons were privacy and safety. My balcony faced a busy street, and I wanted to create a cozy, private space where I could relax without feeling exposed. Additionally, I have pets, so I needed something that would keep them safe without blocking all the light and fresh air.
Types of Balcony Screens I Considered
There are a few common types of balcony screens you can choose from:
- Mesh Screens: These are great for insect protection and provide some privacy without completely blocking the view. I liked that they let air flow freely.
- Fabric or Canvas Screens: These offer more privacy and can come in various colors and patterns. I found them stylish but a bit less breathable.
- Bamboo or Reed Screens: For a natural look, these work well. They provide moderate privacy but can be less durable over time if exposed to harsh weather.
- PVC or Vinyl Screens: These are waterproof and durable, ideal if you want protection from rain and wind. However, they can block more light.
Important Features I Looked For
When buying my balcony screen, I paid attention to these features:
- Size and Fit: Measure your balcony dimensions carefully. I made sure the screen covered the entire railing without gaps.
- Material Durability: Since balconies are exposed to the elements, I chose a material that could withstand sun, rain, and wind. UV resistance was a key factor for me.
- Installation Method: Some screens come with ties, clips, or hooks. I preferred one that was easy to install and remove in case I wanted to take it down in winter.
- Privacy Level: Depending on your needs, consider how much visibility you want to block. I chose a semi-opaque screen to balance privacy and openness.
- Maintenance: I wanted something easy to clean, so I avoided materials that stain easily or require special care.
Budget Considerations
Balcony screens come in a wide price range. I set a budget based on my needs and compared options accordingly. Sometimes, spending a little more upfront on a quality product saved me money in the long run because it lasted longer and looked better.
My Installation Tips
Installing the screen was straightforward but here are a few tips from my experience:
- Measure twice, install once! Double-check dimensions before buying.
- Use sturdy ties or clips to secure the screen firmly, especially if you live in a windy area.
- If allowed, consider using suction cups or hooks that don’t damage the railing or walls.
- Make sure the screen doesn’t obstruct drainage to avoid water buildup.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right balcony screen transformed my outdoor space into a private, comfortable retreat. By considering the type, material, privacy level, and installation ease, I found a screen that perfectly fit my apartment balcony. I hope my experience helps you pick the perfect screen for your home!
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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