Are you getting new windows and doors installed on your home by a contractor like Welty Custom Exteriors, Inc? If so, you are probably wondering what to do with the old windows and doors. Here, you will learn how to transform those old windows and doors into a privacy screen for your back yard.
This project can be completed with just a few supplies. You will need:
Step 1: Plan the Layout
Before you do anything, you want to plan the layout of the privacy screen. To do this, lay the doors and windows that you will be using for the privacy screen flat on the ground. Rearrange the order of the windows and doors until you find an arrangement that is pleasing.
Now that you see the doors and windows arranged as they will stand, think about what you want to do with them. Do you want to paint them? Do you want to frost the glass to provide additional privacy or decoration? If you want to do any painting or frosting, now is the time to do it. It is far easier to finish the paint and frosting while the doors and windows are separated on the ground or against a wall or workbench.
Tip: Consider frosting the glass using stencils to create beautiful patterns. This will help to increase privacy while giving them a more decorative look.
Step 2: Connect the Doors and Windows
Now that the doors and windows look like you want them to, it is time to connect them together to form the privacy screen. This step is fairly easy as long as you take the time to measure twice and drill once.
You must use the measuring tape to measure the distance between each heavy-duty hinge that you will be installing. Use the straight edge of the door or window to run the measuring tape. In most cases, you want to install three hinges on each side of each door and window with the exception of the two windows or doors on the end. The end windows and doors will only need one set of hinges on the inner edge.
Get someone to help you hold the doors and windows on end as you drill the holes for the hinges and attach them. This will expedite the process and make it much easier to do.
Tip: Connect the doors and windows in the general area where it will be placed. After everything is connected, the privacy screen can be quite heavy to pick up and move.
Step 3: Place the Privacy Screen
Now that everything is connected, it is time to place it. Get some help doing this so the entire thing doesn't fall over and hurt you or break. Position the privacy screen so that it zig-zags with enough of an angle to keep it upright when the winds hit it.
Note: If you are placing the privacy screen in an area with heavy winds, you should pound some rebar into the ground and attach the screen to the rebar. If you are using the screen on a surface that is finished, try to secure it using floor brackets. You want the privacy screen to be safe for everyone.
Don't have enough windows and doors to complete the project? Talk with your window and door contractor to learn about purchasing used windows that have been removed from other homes. You may be able to strike a good deal and create something remarkable.
Share24 March 2015
I grew up on a small cattle ranch in the southern United States. My dad has been a cowboy all of my life. He spends most of his time outdoors. For years, he didn’t have anywhere to store his equipment such as hay string, troughs, and other items. One spring, my family members decided to give dad something special, a outdoor shed of his own. Now, he has a place to neatly store all of his ranch related articles. If you’re searching for the perfect Father’s Day gift this year, consider surprising your dad with an outdoor shed. On this blog, you will discover how to work with a general contractor to build your father the shed of his dreams.
