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A Hunker report describes a Making Manzanita project that turns three sections of reclaimed wood pallets into a freestanding screen around an outdoor air-conditioning unit. The design is intended to obscure the equipment while leaving its top open for airflow; the report also stresses checking pallet condition, avoiding wood marked “MB” and leaving room for access and service.
Hunker has reported on a Making Manzanita DIY project that uses three sections of old wood pallets to make a freestanding screen around an outdoor air-conditioning unit. The U-shaped surround is designed to conceal the equipment while keeping its top open for airflow, offering homeowners an alternative to a store-bought cover kit.
The project joins three pallet panels with screws to make a three-sided enclosure that can stand without an anchor, according to Hunker’s account. The pallets are largely kept intact so their horizontal boards form a slatted exterior. A circular saw is used to cut each panel to size, and a tape measure, drill and screws are among the listed tools. Optional trim can be made from additional pallet boards and attached along the top edges.
Hunker says measurements should be based on the outdoor unit, with the screen made several inches wider and taller. The report gives a typical unit size of 28 to 48 inches per side and says the original project guidance calls for at least 12 inches of clearance around equipment for service access. Because the surround is not fixed in place, it can be moved for maintenance. The report does not provide a tested dimension for airflow or discuss manufacturer-specific spacing requirements.
Before construction, the source advises inspecting discarded pallets for damage and avoiding those stamped “MB,” which indicates methyl bromide treatment. Suggested finishes include exterior stain or paint. Other optional additions include corner boards, decorative finials, solar lights, low blocks at the corners, and planters attached to the outside. Gravel or mulch can be used around the completed screen.
A Reusable Screen With Access Needs
The project addresses a common outdoor design concern: an AC unit can be visually prominent in a yard, while purpose-built covers may require a purchase. Reusing pallets could reduce material costs if suitable wood is available locally, though Hunker does not report a price comparison or quantify potential savings.
The screen also has to work around equipment that needs ventilation and periodic service. Its open top and removable, three-sided form are central to the design described in the report. Homeowners considering the idea would need to check the spacing guidance for their specific equipment and keep the panel arrangement from obstructing airflow, controls or service access.
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How the Pallet Design Works
Rather than dismantling the pallets into individual boards, the described approach uses the existing slats as panel faces. The builder measures the unit, cuts the pallet sections to suitable widths, then screws the sections together in a U shape. The resulting screen is meant to stand on its own and remain movable.
Hunker notes that pallets may be available from stores, warehouses, construction sites and commercial locations, and that people sometimes list them for free on Facebook Marketplace. Availability does not establish that a pallet is safe or fit for construction: the report recommends checking for structural problems and rejecting pieces marked “MB.”
The source presents staining and painting as ways to alter the finish, while trim, lights and planters are optional decorative choices. These additions do not change the basic design, which depends on three connected panels and an uncovered top.
““Leave the top of the cover open to allow good airflow to the unit.””
— Hunker, reporting on the Making Manzanita project
reclaimed wood pallet outdoor screen
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Project Details Still Unreported
The supplied report does not identify the project’s cost, the age or condition of the pallets used, or whether the screen was assessed for durability over time. It also does not give a specific model of AC unit or manufacturer-approved clearance measurements. The reported 12-inch clearance guidance should not be treated as a substitute for checking the equipment maker’s instructions or local requirements.
It is also unclear how the design performs in different weather conditions, including strong winds, and whether the reported build was tested for stability on uneven ground. Hunker describes construction steps and possible customizations but does not provide test results or a follow-up on long-term use.
slatted wood privacy screen for AC
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Measure Before Building
The next step for anyone adapting the idea is to measure their own unit and check its installation and service guidance before cutting pallet sections. They can then inspect available wood, discard damaged pieces and avoid pallets marked “MB.” After assembly, the screen should remain removable and leave adequate room for airflow and technicians to reach the equipment.
The report names no scheduled follow-up, product launch or wider development. The project remains a do-it-yourself option whose suitability depends on the unit, the available pallets and the conditions at the installation site.
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Key Questions
What does the DIY project build?
It joins three pallet sections with screws to form a freestanding, three-sided screen around an outdoor AC unit, with the top left open.
What tools does the project call for?
The report lists a circular saw, tape measure, drill and screws. Additional pallet wood can be used for optional top trim.
What should builders check before using pallets?
Inspect each pallet for structural damage and avoid pieces stamped “MB,” which indicates methyl bromide treatment, according to Hunker.
How much space should be left around the AC unit?
Hunker cites at least 12 inches of clearance around an outdoor unit for service access and says the surround can be moved. Builders should check the equipment maker’s guidance for their specific unit.
Source: rss
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