How to determine whether privacy screens are opaque?

[aspruntster]

Hey there. I’ve got to put up privacy screens for a balcony according to the DA. The privacy screens need to be no more than 30% opaque/see through. I really like some of the Bunnings decorative metal pressed screens but I’m wondering if anyone out there has worked out the % or screen to space or if anyone knows which screens are ok? Thanks! Amber 

[EricL]

Hello @aspruntster (Amber)

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about privacy screens.

I suggest asking the relevant authorities/council if there is an approved materials list for the privacy screen. Once you find out what materials can be used, I suspect it will also come with the percentages you're looking for. There is always an inspecting body that will check your work in regards to the privacy screen. If you can get in contact with them odds are they will have the details for the installation of privacy screens as well. The other source of information you can speak to is your builder or a trades person that is very familiar with the privacy screen builds in NSW.   

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1 and @Nailbag for their recommendations.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[Dave-1]

Evening @aspruntster 

I remember finding out about fences for my local council area and there being different levels of opaqueness as well. I think it was 70% max filled in for a front fence. 

All I can think of is print out the picture of the privacy screen, print and then mark the area out on another piece of paper. Cut out the dark areas and then put them over the blank square. You will soon see if the 30% is covered Anything more then 30% or a third of the rectangle and it will off your list. 

Old school but may work until we find a more accurate way.

Dave

[Nailbag]

Hi @aspruntster 

Without knowing the actual % rating of privacy which would vary greatly between designs, I am very confident they wouldn't comply. This is because they have open areas within each design that are 100% see-through. The requirement for the % privacy needs to be consistent across the entire screen size requirement.

However you would get away with using those screens if you were to apply a semi-semi-translucent PVC backing. This would allow light through with being able to actually see through.

Regards, Nailbag