# How to Choose the Height of a Screening Kit for Rigid Fencing?

Hauteur kit d’occultation : usages, règles locales et article 663, vent et pente. Méthode pro, tableau décisionnel et options compatibles pour panneaux rigides.
Choosing the right height for a screening kit on a rigid fence impacts privacy, compliance, and wind resistance. Paysapro, the official European distributor of Redcinha®, Delclo®, and elipsun®, leverages over 15 years of composite distribution experience to support professionals in planning, regulatory constraints, and system compatibility. > 📌 **Key Points** — First validate the height allowed by local planning regulations and Article 663 | Aim for 1.73 to 1.93 m for privacy in dense areas | Anticipate wind and elevation changes to size posts, reinforcements, and footings ## Defining the Right Height: Sizing Criteria The choice is not limited to a number. Several structural parameters must be crossed to avoid additional costs and non-compliance. - **Primary use**: simple delimitation, party wall separation, privacy, enhanced security. - **Local regulations**: local planning regulations, subdivision or condominium rules, protected zones. - **Installation environment**: prevailing wind, slope, tight urban context or open space. - **Budget and logistics**: costs rise with height, deadlines and ease of installation. ### Typical Height Ranges by Use - **0.60 to 1.20 m**: light delimitation. - **1.20 to 1.50 m**: party wall separation with partial visibility. - **1.73 to 1.93 m**: residential privacy in urban or dense subdivision areas. - **2.00 to 2.50 m**: enhanced security and deterrence. ### Ground Vigilance Points - **Total height**: this includes panels, posts, screening, and finishing elements. - **Slope**: measure from the **natural ground**. Allow for compensation through a wall or footing. - **Wind**: avoid high heights without reinforcements. Reduce the spacing of posts in windy areas. - **On-site test**: visualize the height with a physical marker and check actual sightlines before ordering. ## Regulations and Validation Method The legal framework combines national rules and local urban planning documents. A prior check secures compliance and the timeline for installation. - **National reference thresholds** (Article 663 of the Civil Code): - Municipalities ** 50,000** inhabitants: **3.20 m max**. - **Local planning regulations and specific rules**: some municipalities impose lower limits (e.g., 1.80 m) and formalities. - **Usual formalities**: preliminary declaration often required **> 2 m** or in protected areas. A permit remains rare but possible for exceptional heights. Recommended Steps: - **Consult the local plan** and the urban planning service to confirm the allowed height and formalities. - **Include the footing** in the total height calculation. - **Document the measurement** in plans and site photos for internal validation or owner control. - **Allow a margin** of 10 to 20 cm in case of elevation changes or installation deviations. ## Depending on Your Situation SituationRecommended MaterialWhyTight BudgetPVCControlled cost, ready-to-install kits, minimal maintenance.Heavy Exposure to WeatherCompositeDimensional stability and resistance to UV and humidity.Short Construction DurationPVCQuick implementation, limited cutting required.Marine EnvironmentCompositeDecay resistance and durability in saline atmospheres.Public EntityCompositeDurability and low maintenance over the lifecycle.Traveling LandscaperPVCLightweight, capable of absorbing site tolerances.Renovation on ExistingCompositeAesthetic correction and improved rigidity of slats. ## Materials, Compatibility, and Solutions with Paysapro From the execution phase, the technical compatibility between **panel mesh** and **screening kit** is crucial. Always check the mesh correspondence (e.g. 50 mm) and the **usable height** of the panel after installation of a footing. - **PVC**: quick implementation, minimal maintenance, suitable for high cadence sites. - **Composite**: decay-resistant, lasting aesthetic, relevant for wet areas and exposed sites. - **Reinforcements**: in windy areas, reduce the spacing of posts to 2 m max (down to 1.5 m if very exposed) and add braces if necessary. - **Installation Detail**: leave about 1 cm between the panel and the ground to facilitate slat insertion. Paysapro Range Solutions: - **Delclo®**: screening slats **composite and PVC** for rigid and custom fencing, high resistance to UV and harsh weather, tailored to the needs of installers and distributors. - **Redcinha®**: co-extruded composite fences with a natural wood aesthetic when aiming for a solid fence rather than a kit for rigid panels. - **elipsun®**: solar fencing for projects incorporating energy production, a niche use case distinct from screening kits on rigid mesh. With over 5000 referenced projects in Europe and dedicated technical support, we optimize planning, quantities, and logistical preparation. > For a rapidly working landscaper: aim for 1.73 m with ready-to-install kits compatible with mesh and reduce cuts to meet deadlines. > For a public entity in coastal areas: prefer composite slats, height 1.50 to 1.73 m per local planning, and check preliminary declaration requirements beyond 2 m. > If your terrain is highly exposed to wind: remain ≤ 1.93 m, post spacing 2 m max (1.5 m if necessary) and add braces. ## FAQ ### What height to choose for urban privacy without oversizing? In practice, **1.73 to 1.93 m** cuts most sightlines in dense areas while remaining manageable for installation. However, confirm the limit in local planning and the formalities beyond **2 m**. ### How is the regulatory height with footing calculated? The considered height includes **the entire structure**: footing, rigid panel, screening slats, caps, and finishes. Measurement is taken from the **natural ground**. ### Is a screening kit compatible with all panel meshes? No. It must correspond to the **mesh** of the rigid fencing. Check the mesh spacing (e.g. 50 mm) and the usable height before ordering to avoid gaps and excess cuts. ### Is a declaration required for 2 m height? A **prior declaration** is frequently required beyond **2 m** or in protected areas. Refer to the local planning and urban service, as municipalities may impose lower limits. ### How to secure the wind resistance of a high screening? Limit height if possible, reduce spacing between posts to **2 m max** (down to **1.5 m** in very exposed sites) and plan for **braces**. Also adjust the anchoring depth according to the support. ### What margin to allow for sloped terrain? Allow **10 to 20 cm** of margin to absorb elevation changes and installation tolerances, or a **compensation wall** to maintain a uniform horizon line.