Thought i'd post something useful being first blog. Here is my solution to streetlights that may affect viewing:
Blackout blind mark 1
Background is live next to a streetlight and this affects viewing. Built a cheap light blackout screen out of commonly available materials which has cut stray light by about 95%. Have researched commercially available option but came to expensive, hence designed my own.
Roughly 4m tall by 3m wide.
Advantages are:
- significantly darkens garden for observing
- cheap
- lightweight
- rolls up and easily stored away
- can be used in light winds
- parts can be bought from diy stores
- came to about £40 total for parts
Materials:
- 2x 50x50mm fence post
- 2x 4m wooden length wood poles
- 2x 200cmx50cmx50cm fence posts for support
- Felt nails
- Staples
- 6x 80cm nuts/bolts
- 2x 12mx1m roll garden weed mat
Steps:
1: lay out the 2 wooden poles to desired width
2: Measure out the weed mat and cut to double length poles are apart - this is to ensure best light block
3: Using felt nails tack the mat to first and second poles, ensuring each end is tacked to poles
4: repeat again for next level down depending on height of block. Since the weed mat is 1m 'high' i used 3x separate lengths cut to size
5: staple the gaps together to ensure light doesnt pass through
6: Match up the fence post to the wooden pole and drill 3x holes equal distance apart using appropriate side drill. Bolt the pole to the fence pole for sturdyness. Repeat for other side
7: site the 2x fence post holders desired width apart and hammer into ground using a driving tool
8: You should be ready to go - test the light block
Finished pictures below.
Hope it's useful!
Jamie
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