Windbreaks provide protection from strong gusts while simultaneously adding ambiance to your outdoor space. There are various DIY and professional solutions for creating effective windbreakers; installing patio windbreakers, using outdoor curtains or blinds and building wind-blocking walls/barriers may all work effectively.
Select the method that meets your comfort, aesthetic preferences and maintenance requirements best. Here we explore some effective ideas to block wind on patios.
Planting Wind-Resistant Shrubs or Trees
Windbreaks can provide your patio with extra protection from harsh conditions while adding beauty and style. A proper windbreak should attenuate wind gusts by creating an attractive barrier of trees or shrubs to block them; yet still allow airflow within its protected area, while acting as a buffer against sudden gusts. Planting one properly takes careful planning; an attractive barrier made up of evergreens may offer quick yet effective protection while more complex arrangements might include multiple species and heights for enhanced ground level protection.
Some plants, like sand live oak (Quercus germinata) and southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), can withstand the strong winds prevalent in Florida landscapes. Crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) and bald cypress (Taxodium distichum) trees also make an effective windbreak when planted alongside evergreens; providing shade, shelter, as well as birds and wildlife habitat.
Shrubs that make the perfect selections for windy locations tend to be low maintenance, require little pruning, and produce beautiful blooms and berries. Griselinia can be coppiced and stooled each year to your desired height for year-round protection; other popular shrubs include Sabal palmetto (Sabal palmetto), Hibiscus syriacus rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus), fragrant sumac (Rhamnus cathartica). Ground level plants such as wildflowers perennials or grasses can also make excellent options.
Building a Wind-Blocking Wall or Barrier
Wind-blocking walls and barriers provide a substantial, long-term solution that significantly decreases patio wind exposure while simultaneously improving architectural aesthetics. When installed properly, fences also offer added privacy as well as define boundaries within your patio space. When choosing this option, make sure that its material and design match both your personal tastes and the overall ambiance of your outdoor space.
Installing patio blinds or fabric roller awnings is another cost-effective DIY way to reduce wind’s effects on your patio, providing flexible protection tailored to the severity of wind gusts. They can be partially opened up to allow light breezes through while still blocking heat or completely closed for full protection from strong gusts. What’s more, these wind-blocking solutions blend beautifully into existing decor without disrupting its aesthetic design.
Using Outdoor Curtains or Blinds
One of the easiest DIY ways to block wind on patios is with outdoor curtains, as they’re cost-effective and versatile enough for you to adjust how much wind protection you require. They also add an attractive decorative element; just be sure that weather-resistant fabrics can withstand sunlight exposure.
Use curtain tiebacks to keep your curtains in place; they come in various colors and styles that add character to your patio space. An alternative way of stopping curtains from blowing around is adding heavy binder clips along each curtain’s bottom hem; although this solution may not look as appealing, it still works effectively.
Planting wind-resistant shrubs or trees around your patio is an effective way to create a natural windbreak, helping slow the speed and reduce the power of the breeze, making your patio a more comfortable environment for relaxing and dining. Not to mention adding color and greenery that will enhance its aesthetic ambiance!
Establishing a peaceful and inviting patio space is key to providing an enjoyable, rejuvenating and soothing experience. These DIY and professional solutions allow you to fully take advantage of your patio experience without distraction from strong winds.
Consider Professional Solutions
Professional solutions provide greater versatility, durability and aesthetic appeal for wind-blocking on a patio. Such options may include installing retractable patio screens, glass windbreak systems or motorized patio awnings.
When choosing a professional solution, keep your location and wind patterns in mind when making a selection. Assess both the size and layout of the patio as well as aesthetic preferences and budget constraints when making this decision.
One solution is to erect a wind-blocking fence made from wood or metal that encases your patio completely. Keep in mind, however, that solid barriers may not provide as effective protection from strong gusts as lattice-top louvered fences that allow airflow through them and help lessen wind gusts’ force.
Your patio could benefit from planting living wind barriers to block wind gusts. Common choices are north privet (Ligustrum x ibolium; hardy in USDA zones 4 through 7) rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus “Minerva”), and Thuja occidentalis “Emerald,” both hardy within USDA zones 3-7; these trees and shrubs can grow up to 10 feet high making them perfect for blocking wind.