The best retractable privacy screens in the UK 2023

The summer season is the perfect time to relax in your garden or by the pool. If you are part of the 30% of French households that have a garden or a terrace, the installation of a privacy screen is the ideal solution to stay away from prying eyes.

MVPower - Retractable side awning 1
8/10

Best value for money

MVPower - Retractable side awning

The best retractable privacy screen in 2021

With its high blackout power and elegant design, this retractable side awning will effectively protect you from the prying eyes of your neighborhood.

87,20 £ on Amazon

This MVPower retractable privacy screen is the ideal solution to preserve your privacy. This ingenious device is of excellent quality. The supports and roller base are made of aluminum and steel. As for the awning, it is made of waterproof polyester, resistant to tears, but also to ultraviolet rays.

Thanks to its automatic roll-up mechanism, you will be able to place and tighten this awning as you wish. Versatile, this awning with a simple but elegant design can be installed on a terrace, a garden or a balcony. Don't be surprised if the pole is slightly slanted. This is to make the fabric straighter.

CCLIFE - Outdoor retractable awning screen 2
8/10

Best value for money

CCLIFE - Outdoor retractable awning screen

The best entry-level retractable privacy screen

Both discreet and functional, this outdoor screen with retractable awning will keep you from prying eyes of neighbors, passers-by but also from the sun.

60,76 £ on Amazon

Manufactured by CCLIFE, this retractable privacy screen will allow you to enjoy your balcony or part of your garden without being bothered by the outside world. Placed on the edge of a pool, this separation will contribute to create an intimate and friendly space.

As it is made of quality materials, this device can be used during good and bad days. Indeed, the structure made of aluminum, galvanized metal and plastic, as well as the polyester side awning are perfectly resistant to UV rays, wind, rain and pollution. This model is anthracite, but it is available in other colors and sizes.

Songmics GSA205G - Retractable privacy screen 3
9/10

Best value for money

Songmics GSA205G - Retractable privacy screen

The best high-end retractable privacy screen

Thanks to this retractable privacy screen designed by Songmics, you will transform your balcony, garden or pool deck into a comfortable space protected from curious eyes.

143 £ on Amazon

This retractable privacy screen is very popular for its elegant design, but also for its sturdiness. The housing inside which the fabric is rolled up is made of quality aluminum treated against the elements. Whether the climate of the region where you live is mild or not, you can adopt this retractable screen.

Also of high quality, the polyester fabric with PU waterproof film does not let in wind, moisture and even less prying eyes. Of all the comparisons, this is the most practical and easiest to install. You can put the support on the ground and insert the post or install it directly in the ground, it's up to you.

Vounot - Paravent extérieur rétractable 4
9/10

A great choice

Vounot - Paravent extérieur rétractable

An exceptional dual retractable privacy screen

This beautiful Vounot retractable privacy screen will give you the protection and privacy you need when enjoying your garden, patio or balcony.

67,99 £ on Amazon
Buying guide • November 2023

Best privacy screen

Any specific needs?

The best retractable privacy screen in 2021

The best entry-level retractable privacy screen

The best high-end retractable privacy screen

An exceptional dual retractable privacy screen

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best retractable privacy screens

TOP OF THE TOP CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE EXCELLENT
MVPower - Retractable side awning 5
8/10
CCLIFE - Outdoor retractable awning screen 6
8/10
Songmics GSA205G - Retractable privacy screen 7
9/10
Vounot - Paravent extérieur rétractable 8
9/10
OUR SELECTION
MVPower - Retractable side awning
CCLIFE - Outdoor retractable awning screen
Songmics GSA205G - Retractable privacy screen
Vounot - Paravent extérieur rétractable
With its high blackout power and elegant design, this retractable side awning will effectively protect you from the prying eyes of your neighborhood.
Both discreet and functional, this outdoor screen with retractable awning will keep you from prying eyes of neighbors, passers-by but also from the sun.
Thanks to this retractable privacy screen designed by Songmics, you will transform your balcony, garden or pool deck into a comfortable space protected from curious eyes.
This beautiful Vounot retractable privacy screen will give you the protection and privacy you need when enjoying your garden, patio or balcony.
Ease of installation
Dimensions
300 x 180 cm
300 x 300 cm
200 x 350 cm
180 x 300 cm
Frame materials
Galvanized aluminum
Aluminum, plastic and steel
Aluminum
Stainless steel
Canvas material
100% polyester
100% polyester
Polyester and waterproof PU film
Polyester PU
Treatment
Waterproof, ripstop and UV resistant
Anti-UV
Anti-UV and anti-humidity
Anti-humidity

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Buying guide - privacy screen

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How to choose your privacy screen

To enjoy the privacy of your balcony or patio, a retractable privacy screen is the ideal solution. These tips will help you make the right choice.

#1 - The size

The size of the privacy screen is an essential criterion in the choice of your equipment: too short or too long, it may not fulfill the expected use. The length of the models offered on the market varies, from 200 to 600 cm. If you are planning to set up a dining area on the terrace or in the garden, make sure there is enough distance between the garden furniture and the place where the screen will be placed.

The height of the privacy screen depends on how much privacy you want. The standard height is usually 140 cm. If your house is located in a particularly windy area, it may be wise to choose two smaller models, which will better resist the effects of wind.

#2 - The type of material

Canvas, PVC or synthetic privacy screen? Everything will depend of course on your tastes, but also on the constraints related to the place where you live.The synthetic retractable privacy screen is easily integrated into a natural decor. Many models are inspired by the natural beauty of plants and offer an exotic decor. The retractable fabric screen can also be used as a protective screen against the sun's rays.

If you wish to remain completely protected from the eyes of your neighbours, choose a model with total occultation. Stable and sturdy, the PVC retractable privacy screen is held in place by a solid post that ensures great resistance over time. This type of model is recommended if you live in a humid or rainy geographical area.

#3 - The characteristics of the fabric

The durability of your privacy screen will depend largely on the quality of the fabric. Preferably choose a water-repellent and fairly thick fabric, with a weight of at least 220 g/m².There are many models in acrylic or polyethylene fabrics. In all cases, the fabric must be treated against UV rays, to preserve the colors of the screen and ensure the longevity of the screen.

The aesthetic side is equally important. For a balcony or a garden, the retractable screen in printed fabric brings an appreciable aesthetic effect. Make sure that the shade you choose is well suited to your patio's decoration. If you plan to buy a patterned screen, it should be in harmony with the surrounding landscape.

#4 - The product warranty

Choose a well-known brand, to find the accessories needed for assembly more easily. With some models, the screen comes with sockets, clamps and screws. All you have to do is assemble the unit. Ask about the warranty period and the general sales conditions. Many companies offer to take back the product after a certain period of time if it does not suit you.

Take the time to read consumer reviews before you buy. You will certainly find several interesting information: value for money, ease of use, functionality, aesthetic aspect, maintenance method...

#5 - The type of model

To create a space well protected from the wind while preserving privacy, you can choose between a retractable side screen or an adjustable length screen. The functional side screen offers even more protection. It has a double-sided screen and its sides are equipped with handles that make it easy to use. It can be placed at an angle or along its length, as you wish. The adjustable length windbreak is suitable for small spaces as well as large areas of garden. The double-panel model can be extended up to 6 m.

How do I clean a retractable privacy screen?

The retractable privacy screen is made up of a support and a fabric panel. These components can become soiled with dust, moss or leaf debris. It is recommended to clean the screen regularly to preserve its durability and aesthetic appearance.

Maintenance of the support

To clean a stainless steel post, use soapy water to get rid of dust. If the dirt remains, use a sponge soaked in white vinegar and rub the stains until they disappear.

To maintain a wooden surface, use a dry sponge to remove dust and stains.

Maintenance of the panel

To ensure effective cleaning, use a quack brush to remove dust, moss and leaf debris. Then clean the panel with the brush dipped in soapy water.

If you are using a pressure washer, spray from the bottom up and then from the left to the right.

Caution!

Carefully check that the screen is securely fastened before cleaning. Avoid using scouring agents, which could damage the support or the panel of the retractable privacy screen.

The different types of retractable privacy screens

Choosing the right retractable privacy screen for your needs can sometimes be a little complicated, so before you make your purchase, we suggest you take a look at our selection of models available on the market.

The double retractable privacy screen

This sunshade is ideal in a garden or by a pool. It protects from wind and sun, but also acts as a partition.

Advantages:

  • Can be placed in a corner or lengthwise
  • Provides good protection from prying eyes
  • The model is expandable and can be adjusted to the size of the surface
  • Protects from wind
  • Ideal for sunny areas

Disadvantages:

  • Large size can be a disadvantage on windy days
  • Most products must be fixed to the ground
  • Posts must be fixed on a concrete base to resist wind

Who is it for?

This model is suitable for large outdoor spaces, such as poolside or a large terrace.

The side retractable privacy screen

Disposed on a balcony or roof terrace, it creates a corner of privacy.

Advantages:

  • Suitable for small spaces
  • Suitable for outdoor spaces
  • Protects from light breezes
  • Provides a nice aesthetic effect
  • Awning fabric is weather resistant

Disadvantages:

  • Must be positioned on a fixed support
  • The fabric must be anti-UV treated for outdoor use

Who is it for?

Suitable for balcony or terrace designs, for fairly small areas.

The fan-shaped retractable privacy screen

This type of model effectively protects from the sun and unwanted eyes. Its roll-down shape offers an interesting space saving.

Advantages:

  • Protects from wind and sun
  • Occupies little space
  • Stable
  • Discreet and efficient
  • Folds up like an awning when not in use

Disadvantages:

  • Dimensions are not suitable for large areas
  • Must be fixed to the wall

Who is it for?

This model of rolling screen is placed at the corner of a veranda or a terrace.

Tips

An impeccable privacy screen all year round.

Do not wait until the posts are heavily soiled with dust before cleaning them. Wipe the posts regularly with a clean, slightly damp cloth.

The advantage of choosing an adjustable privacy screen.

If

you haven't decided where to put your privacy screen, choose an expandable model. This will allow you to easily adjust it to the area you want to screen.

If your deck is a little dark, choose a retractable privacy screen of light occultation.

To

isolate a dimly lit dining area, choose a screen with a light shading percentage. Leave a foot space between the floor and the screen to preserve light.

The retractable privacy screen to shelter from the wind.

The

screen will protect you from drafts, while creating a pleasant shaded area in case of strong sunlight

.

Choose the best height for my privacy screen.

If

you want a complete blackout, choose a model of at least 2 m. The maximum height of the privacy screen must however respect certain restrictions set by the town planning code. Contact your local city hall to find out what regulations apply in your area.

FAQ

Which retractable privacy screen to choose?

In our opinion, the best retractable sunshade for most people is the Pro.tec brand canopy sunshade. To learn more, read our buying guide.

What type of fabric to choose for a total privacy screen?

To

achieve full blackout, the fabric density should be at least 220g/m². The most opaque models have a density of up to 300g/m², or even more, and offer a blackout rate of at least 95%.

What type of screen to choose to ensure good protection against drafts?

To

effectively protect yourself from the wind, opt for a synthetic windbreak model with a high weave density. You can also choose a model that is fairly high, to increase the blackout capacity.

What material is best suited for outdoor use?

UV-treated models, made of polyethylene or woven PVC, will hold up well over time. The colors of your privacy screen are preserved over time.

Should you choose a stainless steel or wooden support?

If

the privacy screen is to be placed outdoors, it is preferable to choose a model with a stainless steel support. Wooden supports are more suitable for covered areas, sheltered from bad weather.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. Windbreak, canisse and brande : choosing well, conseil.manomano.fr
  2. Windbreak : which model to choose?, femmeactuelle.fr
  3. How to choose your windbreak?, meteorologic.net
  4. How to clean a windbreak?, lesjardinsdailleurs.com
  5. Windbreak that resists to the windGarden terrace balcony : how to choose a windbreak ?, scenolia.com
  6. Choosing a retractable privacy screen for your terrace, habitat-passion.com
  7. Decorating your balcony and terrace, amenager-ma-maison.com
  8. A privacy screen to live out of sight, blog-jardin.fr
  9. Choosing and installing a privacy screen, lamaisonsaintgobain.fr
  10. The best retractable privacy screens, blog-jardin.fr
  11. Sight screen, wind screen, blackout screen, canisse - Privacy Screen.com, brise-vue.com
  12. Bryce and Vue feature comparison - Virtual Lands 3d, virtual-lands-3d.com
  13. Brise Vue - Главная | Facebook, facebook.com
  14. Vue vs Bryce?, renderosity.com
  15. Brise vue, canisse | Leroy Merlin, leroymerlin.fr
  16. TOP 3 : Best Brise-Vue 2021 - YouTube, youtube.com
  17. Costly Brise-Vue for garden and terrace... - IDMarket.com, idmarket.com
  18. Breakaway : Material, Regulation, Installation & Maintenance..., brise-vue.info
  19. Find great deals on eBay for breakaway. Shop with confidence., ebay.ca
  20. 15 ideas for privacy screens in 2021 | brico déco, decoration, brise vue, pinterest.com
  21. Retractable privacy screens - infos, advices and recommendations, brisevueretractable.fr
  22. Plexiglas privacy screens and windscreens : custom made plexiglas protection, brise-vues.com
  23. Windscreens, flowering hedge, blackout panel | Occultation at low cost, cloture-discount.fr
  24. Balcony or terrace privacy screens : custom made fabric, osyla.com
  25. Balcony privacy screens : judgments and rulings | Doctrine, doctrine.fr
  26. Balcony privacy screens to buy? Online privacy screens, brico.be
  27. Garden privacy screens, terrace, balcony | Oviala, oviala.com
  28. Balcony privacy screens: The best deals of November 2021!, jardins-plantes.com
  29. Decorative privacy screens for garden - terrace - balcony - pool, brise-vue-deco.fr
  30. Garden privacy screens and windscreens | eBay, ebay.fr
  31. Opt for a design privacy screen | Blog Racken Métal, blog.racken-metal.fr
  32. Customized privacy screens : Windscreen, cheap balcony privacy screen - Privacy screen..., brise-vue-sur-mesure.com
  33. Balcony privacy screens : buying guide and comparison, portail-design.fr
See more

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

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Our selection
MVPower - Retractable side awning 9
MVPower - Retractable side awning
CCLIFE - Outdoor retractable awning screen 10
CCLIFE - Outdoor retractable awning screen
Songmics GSA205G - Retractable privacy screen 11
Songmics GSA205G - Retractable privacy screen
Vounot - Paravent extérieur rétractable 12
Vounot - Paravent extérieur rétractable

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