Even ancient societies built walls designed to ensure safety and protection against enemies. Nowadays, the enemy and the main problem facing the Old Continent, according to research by the European Environment Agency, is noise. As many as 35 million Europeans are constantly exposed to noise, particularly road traffic noise, which has a negative impact on our well-being in the long term. This phenomenon affects us not only during the day, but also at night. That is why, when we are at home or in the garden, we often long for silence, a moment’s respite and peace, because we simply want to relax.
There is a whole range of products available on the market that allow us to screen off our property from the surroundings. It is worth choosing those that are easy to install, versatile and aesthetically pleasing, and which will allow us to maintain our privacy. Fences made of hollow blocks or concrete blocks are a good option.
Define your privacy
boundary If your home is on a busy street, it is advisable to build a solid fence, behind which you can plant a row of trees or coniferous shrubs for better protection. Neo is ideal for this task. These are large-format hollow blocks measuring 20x60 cm and 10 cm high, available in graphite or steel grey with a smooth texture, topped with a flat cap. “Thanks to its colour scheme, ‘Neo’ looks excellent next to modern-style homes, though its versatile grey tone can also be widely used in other designs,” says Wojciech Średniawa, Chief Designer at Polbruk.
A property open to the world
In an area where noise isn’t a major issue, and we simply wish to shield ourselves from the view of neighbours and passers-by, it is worth considering openwork fencing. In this case, we use concrete blocks and hollow blocks only for the foundation and low walls. Between them, we place panels made of wood, metal or other materials. This will allow a little more light into our garden. A good solution is the Neo system, which can be used to create architecturally diverse walls, including fences that protect the property from excessive ambient noise. The blocks Neo are available in two colours: graphite and grey, and blend perfectly with modern architecture. A wonderful effect can also be achieved by combining a wall made of Neo with plants; together, they will create an attractive and partially green wall – adds Wojciech Średniawa.
Behind a green wall
, your own garden is the perfect place to relax and unwind. If it is difficult to find peace and quiet there due to the proximity of busy streets, playgrounds or other residents, it is worth carefully analysing the available options for fencing the property. The choice of fencing should always depend on the location of the property and garden, as well as the noise levels. Let’s also remember the significant role of plants, which can help us ‘quieten’ the garden. The green belt should be at least 1–2 metres wide. A green wall of a dense and wide hedge created along the fence will act as a natural acoustic screen and protect us not only from noise, but also from urban dust and the gaze of neighbours or passers-by.