How To Build a Privacy Screen for an Outdoor Hot Tub

The cabin's outdoor hot tub is afforded a bit of privacy with a four-panel screen lined with thick mesh fabric.

Time
Weekend
Price Range
$1,000 - $2,500
Difficulty
Moderate

In this Project you will:

Determine the Size of the Screen
Create the Elements for the Inner Frame
Build the Frame
Attach the Fabric and Support Fencing
Complete the Inner Frame
Connect the Panels With Door Hinges

Step 1: Determine the Size of the Screen

The size of a privacy screen will depend on the size and location of the hot tub and the degree of privacy you desire. This example uses four panels, each 8 feet tall and 36 inches wide.

Step 2: Create the Elements for the Inner Frame

Rip cedar 2" x 4" boards in half lengthwise. The resulting 2" x 2" sections will be used as stops inside the panel frames, providing support for the screen fabric and the metal fencing that stabilizes it.

Step 3: Build the Frame

To create the first of the four frames, cut 2' x 6' cedar planks to length to create a frame that's 8 feet high with an interior width of 36 inches. Secure the ends of the frame pieces together using exterior screws. Once the frame is assembled, secure interior-frame stops, using the ripped 2' x 4' sections cut to length, inside the perimeter of the frame. Repeat these steps to create three more identical frames.

Step 4: Attach the Fabric and Support Fencing

Once the frames are assembled, the fabric screen material can be installed. Kennel fencing, cut to 36-inch width to fit inside the frame, is used to provide added support for the screen fabric. First, using a staple gun, secure the weed fabric, stretched tight, to the inner frame (Image 1). Cut away the excess fabric with a utility knife. Cut the fence to the dimensions of the frame interior and secure it on top of the weed fabric, fastening it to the same inner frame with a pneumatic stapler.

Step 5: Complete the Inner Frame

Sandwich the fencing and weed fabric between another set of ripped 2" x 4" lumber, securing the wood stop to the 2' x 6' frame with screws. Repeat the steps for each additional panel.

Step 6: Connect the Panels With Door Hinges

With all four panels completed, link them using exterior door hinges. When linking the frames together, arranging the hinges so that the screen stands in a zigzag pattern helps add stability for the overall structure.