How can I put a big tarp outside, and still have air flow?

Harry Schultz
by Harry Schultz

Have a big tarp that want to put up outside for privacy. How do I do it. But still have air flow

  5 answers
  • How about something other than a tarp? How about 4 x 8 sheets of pre fab lattice? Provides privacy yet still let's air circulate. You could add a fast growing vine to add additional privacy and added color.

  • Lifestyles Homes Lifestyles Homes on Jul 22, 2019

    You’ll have to pull it tight. On all sides.

    What do you have to connect it to?

    Given wind loads, just screwing it into a 1x4 fascia board might not hold, so look for a rafter tail behind the fascia board.

    On the non-house sides consider putting an 8’ 4x4’ into a 5 gallon bucket of wet concrete, if you can dig a 20” deep hole in your yard patio.

    I would use small gauge stainless steel cables with turnbuckles to make long spans to a tree (for example).

    I would use eye hooks and carabiners so that gusts don’t pull it off of cup hooks.


    Keep in mind in’s it needs a 3:12 pitch away from the house for rain.

  • Mogie Mogie on Jul 22, 2019

    If you have any type of frame a plastic tarp would work. You could just drape it over the frame. Just use it as a cover and you will still have air flow. Depending on the size of the frame and the size of the plastic tarp you could either use it just as a roof or if it is long enough cover the roof and let it hand over one side. Just attach with zip ties or rope.

  • 17335038 17335038 on Jul 22, 2019

    A solid tarp is not the best choice if you still want air flow.

    I would suggest a semi-porous or mesh type material instead.


    Depending on how thick your tarp is, the corners or edges may need to be reinforced first to prevent ripping once mounted.


    Purchasing appropriate mounting hardware that is robust enough to ensure that the privacy shield is anchored and wind resistant is important.


    What sort of solid surfaces already exist in the area that you want the privacy? Posting a picture would be helpful to see what the situation is.

  • Harry Schultz Harry Schultz on Jul 30, 2019

    Thank you all for your comments. I have a 6 ft by 24 ft screened in porch. I live in a apartment building. And still need the air flow but can't take the next door neighbors cause of they are being so nosey and disrespectful. But I am appreciating the comments. Thank you all.