Balcony • Terrace • Clamping system • Room divider • Plant wall • Acrylic glass – Can be implemented immediately, removed without leaving residue
You rent your apartment, love your balcony – and yet the wind whistles through. What you need is wind protection. What you're not allowed to do is drill. Millions of tenants in Germany are familiar with this dilemma. The good news: today there are at least nine sophisticated, visually attractive solutions that require no drilling into walls, can be removed without leaving residue – and can be taken with you when you move.
This guide shows you each method in detail: How much does it cost? How well does it really protect? Which railing types are compatible? And what does tenancy law say about it? By the end, you'll know exactly which solution suits your balcony situation – and can order today.
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✅ The most important things at a glance All 9 solutions in this article require no drilling into walls and are uncritical under tenancy law. Clamping systems and cable tie attachments to the railing are generally permitted – even without landlord approval. Mobile room dividers and plant walls require no attachment and can be set up within minutes. Important: Before purchasing, check your railing type and dimensions. Many clamping systems only fit railings with a thickness of 4–8 cm. |
Table of Contents
• 1. Tenancy law: What is permitted for tenants without drilling?
• 2. The decision matrix: Which solution is right for me?
• 3. Solution 1: Privacy screens on the railing (cable ties)
• 4. Solution 2: Clamping system made of acrylic glass / ESG
• 5. Solution 3: Side awning without drilling (clamp attachment)
• 6. Solution 4: Mobile room divider on wheels
• 7. Solution 5: Heavy plant wall / planter wall
• 8. Solution 6: Bamboo or reed plant row
• 9. Solution 7: Erectable windbreak segment with base
• 10. Solution 8: Balcony side blind with railing clamp
• 11. Solution 9: Magnetic system on metal railings
• 12. Comparison table: All 9 solutions at a glance
• 13. Railing compatibility guide
• 14. Storm resistance: Which solution can withstand what?
• 15. FAQ
1. Tenancy law: What is permitted for tenants without drilling?
The legal situation for wind protection on rental balconies is clearer than many tenants think – provided no drilling is involved. Here is an overview:
|
Measure |
Legal Classification |
Landlord permission needed? |
Reason |
|
Privacy screen with cable ties on railing |
Permitted (generally) |
No |
No change to building structure; removable without residue |
|
Clamping system on railing (acrylic glass, fabrics) |
Permitted (generally) |
No |
No structural intervention; reversible |
|
Freestanding room divider on the balcony |
Clearly permitted |
No |
Furniture; no connection to building structure |
|
Plant wall / heavy planters |
Permitted |
No (consider weight!) |
But: Check balcony load-bearing capacity! Max. 300–500 kg/m² |
|
Side awning without wall mounting (clamp) |
Permitted |
No |
Clamp holder on railing = no structural intervention |
|
Side awning WITH wall mounting (drilling) |
Structural alteration |
YES – in writing |
Intervention in facade / wall |
|
Permanently installed glass windbreak (drilling) |
Structural alteration |
YES – in writing |
Intervention in balcony floor or railing |
|
Painting or cladding of the balustrade |
Structural alteration |
YES – in writing |
Changes appearance of the facade |
|
⚖️ Rental Law Rule of Thumb Anything that can be removed without a trace in a few minutes is generally considered "proper use" of the rented property and does not require landlord permission (BGH ruling VIII ZR 10/14). Cable ties, clamps, and freestanding objects fall into this category. When in doubt: a short email to the landlord saves later discussions. |
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⛔ Attention: Visual Change to the Facade Even without drilling, a windbreak can become legally problematic if it significantly alters the external appearance of the building. A large, brightly colored fabric that is visible from the outside can, under certain circumstances, be prohibited by the landlord – even without drilling. Choose colors and materials that match the building facade. |
2. The Decision Matrix: Which solution is right for me?
Answer these three questions, and you'll find the right method:
|
My Situation |
Best Solution(s) |
Section |
|
Small balcony (< 6 m²), metal railing |
Privacy screen mat + clamping system |
3 & 4 |
|
Medium balcony, exposed to wind (city location, higher floor) |
Acrylic glass clamping system or side awning |
4 & 5 |
|
Large balcony or terrace – maximum protection desired |
Folding screen on castors + plant wall combined |
6 & 7 |
|
Ground-floor terrace / garden |
Freestanding segment or plant wall |
7 & 8 |
|
Flexibility important (change direction depending on wind conditions) |
Folding screen on castors |
6 |
|
Metal railing present, maximum transparency desired |
Acrylic glass or ESG with clamping system |
4 |
|
Glass railing or smooth surface |
Magnetic system or freestanding solution |
9 & 6 |
|
Budget under €50 – quick solution |
Privacy screen mat + cable ties |
3 |
|
🧶 Solution 1: Privacy screen on the railing The cheapest and quickest immediate solution How it works: HDPE fabric or bamboo roller blind is attached to the railing with cable ties or bungee cord eyelets Wind reduction: Up to 75% for dense HDPE mats (air permeability approx. 25%) Installation: 10–15 minutes, no tools, no drilling Dimensions: Standard 90 cm high × 300–600 cm wide; can also be made to measure Price: €15–80 depending on quality and size Material options: HDPE fabric (UV-stable, weather-resistant), bamboo mat (natural), reed (rustic look), PVC mesh Lifespan: 3–8 years depending on the UV resistance of the material Railing compatibility: All types (metal, wood, concrete, glass) Tenancy law: No problem – cable ties leave no marks on the railing |
What to look for when buying
|
Criterion |
What to look for |
What to avoid |
|
Material |
HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) or Solution Dyed Acrylic |
Cheap PVC – yellows after 1–2 years |
|
UV resistance |
UV protection UPF 50+ or specified in hours |
No information = no guarantee |
|
Eyelet spacing |
Every 50 cm – tighter fastening = more storm-proof |
Eyelets only at the ends: flaps a lot in the wind |
|
Cable tie quality |
Black (UV-stable); Nylon; 4.8 mm width min. |
White plastic cable ties – break after 6 months |
|
Height |
90–120 cm (depending on railing height) |
Too short: No protection; too high: Aesthetic problem & legal issues |
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💡 Pro Tip: Cord instead of cable ties Instead of cable ties, many tenants use a waxed sisal or polyester cord in the color of the railing. It looks significantly more elegant, can be individually adjusted, and leaves absolutely no marks when removed. Thread the cord through the eyelets and knot it to the railing bars. |
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🔲 Solution 2: Clamping system: Acrylic glass or ESG clear glass The most elegant solution – transparent, wind-resistant and refined How it works: Clear panes (acrylic glass 4–6 mm or ESG 6 mm) are clamped to the railing with stainless steel clamping profiles Wind reduction: Up to 95% – the most effective drill-free method Installation: 30–60 minutes, hex key, no drilling Dimensions: Can be made to measure; typically 80–120 cm high, up to 200 cm wide per segment Price: €80–600 depending on material, size and configurator provider Acrylic glass advantage: Lighter than glass, more shatterproof, easier to handle during assembly ESG advantage: More scratch-resistant, looks higher quality, lasts longer (20+ years) Clamping profile: Rubber-dampened – protects railing from scratches; suitable for railing thicknesses 3–10 cm Railing compatibility: Round tube, flat profile, square tube (adapters available) Tenancy law: Impeccable – no drilling; only clamps |
Acrylic glass vs. ESG glass: A direct comparison
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🔹 Acrylic glass (PMMA / Plexiglas®) Weight: approx. 1.2 kg/m² (at 4 mm) Shatter resistance: Very high – does not splinter Scratch susceptibility: Medium – surface more sensitive UV resistance: Good (GS quality: 15+ years) Light transmission: 92% Price: Affordable – from €30/m² Cleaning: Soft cloth, no abrasive cleaners |
🔸 ESG Single-pane safety glass Weight: approx. 15 kg/m² (at 6 mm) Shatter resistance: Splinters into blunt crumbs Scratch susceptibility: Low – very hard UV resistance: Excellent (decades) Light transmission: 90% Price: More expensive – from €80/m² Cleaning: Glass cleaner, pressure washer possible |
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⚠️ Important purchasing advice: Check UV quality Standard acrylic glass without UV stabilization yellows noticeably within 2–3 years outdoors. Only buy acrylic glass with explicit UV stabilization (e.g., PLEXIGLAS® XT or Perspex® UV-stable). The indication "UV-resistant" on the product sheet is mandatory – without this indication: do not buy. |
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🪟 Solution 3: Side awning with railing clamp Retractable, space-saving and flexible to use Function: Vertically extending roll system made of polyester fabric or PVC; cassette clamps to the railing without drilling Wind reduction: 70–85 % (breathable fabric; prevents wind accumulation) Installation: 20–40 minutes, clamps to the railing, no drilling Dimensions: Height up to 300 cm, width up to 400 cm – can be ordered to measure Price: 80–400 € depending on quality and degree of automation Special feature: When not in use, rolled up in a cassette – minimal volume Variants: Manual (crank drive) or motorized (radio / app-controlled) Fabric: Solution-dyed acrylic (Sunbrella®) – 10+ years UV resistance, waterproof Railing compatibility: Round, square and flat profile (adapter set often included) Tenancy law: Clamp fastening without drilling = permitted |
Important distinction: Order with or without wall mounting
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⛔ Order trap: "Side awning" – two completely different products The keyword "side awning" includes two fundamentally different product types: (1) Side awning WITH wall mounting – requires screws into the wall; not uncritical under tenancy law. (2) Side awning WITH railing clamp – no drilling, clamped to the railing. Pay close attention to this distinction when purchasing. Search term: "side awning clamp fastening" or "side awning without wall bracket". |
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🧱 Solution 4: Mobile screen on castors The all-rounder – no fastening, maximum flexibility Function: Freestanding privacy screen element on castors – positionable depending on wind direction Wind reduction: 60–80 % (depending on material and density) Installation: Zero – simply set up and position Dimensions: Typically 150–200 cm high, 120–200 cm wide; multi-part foldable Price: 50–600 € depending on material and size Material: Polyrattan, FSC wood, fabric on frame, aluminium + glass Special feature Premium model: Flower-Line (Hoklartherm) – 4 stainless steel castors, integrated planter, wind resistance class WWK2 (Beaufort 5) with filled boxes Stability principle: Fill heavy planters at the base = significantly more stormproof; base width min. 120 cm Advantage over clamping systems: No railing compatibility required; fits any terrace shape Tenancy law: Clearly permitted – piece of furniture, no interference with building structure |
Screen: When is it truly storm-proof?
The most common concern with screens is storm resistance. This depends on three factors:
• Base weight: The heavier the screen at the base, the more stable it is. Screens with fillable planter feet or sandbox elements achieve a wind resistance class up to Beaufort 5 (38 km/h).
• Base area: Wide-legged screens (at least 80 cm base area) tip over significantly less than narrow models.
• Windbreak density: Too dense surfaces act like sails – wind load increases. Screens with a maximum of 80% coverage density allow enough wind through to prevent pressure build-up.
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💡 Storm tip for the screen In case of an approaching storm (from Beaufort 6 = 50 km/h): Fold up the screen and store it indoors. This is not a disadvantage – it is the advantage of mobile solutions over fixed systems, which can become a safety risk in a storm. |
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🌿 Solution 5: Heavy plant wall / row of planters The biological windbreak – natural, biophilic and decorative at the same time Function: Densely planted planters arranged in a row; plants filter wind and reduce wind speed Wind reduction: 40–60 % (depending on plant density and height) Installation: No fastening; simply set up Suitable plants (fast-growing, wind-resistant): Bamboo, reeds, Miscanthus, privet, cherry laurel, Phyllostachys (narrow bamboo) Planter weight when full: 15–50 kg per planter – for multiple planters: observe balcony load-bearing capacity! Price: 80–400 € for a 2–3 m wide plant row (plants + planters) Growth time until full protection: 1–2 seasons (bamboo: approx. 1 year with optimal care) Advantage: Noise protection, privacy screen, habitat for insects, aesthetics – much more than just wind protection Care: Water regularly; bamboo needs a lot of water; fertilize once a month during the season Tenancy law: Clearly permitted |
Which plants are best suited as wind protection on the balcony?
|
Plant |
Growth height |
Wind resistance |
Growth speed |
Care requirements |
|
Bamboo (Fargesia) |
150–250 cm |
Excellent – very stable |
Fast: +50–80 cm/year |
Medium – needs a lot of water |
|
Reeds / Phragmites |
150–200 cm |
Good – cushions wind |
Very fast: +80–120 cm/year |
Low – robust |
|
Miscanthus (Chinese silvergrass) |
150–250 cm |
Very good – springy |
Fast: 1 year to full height |
Low – little maintenance |
|
Privet |
Up to 300 cm (container: 150) |
Good – dense foliage |
Medium: 2–3 years |
Medium – pruning necessary |
|
Cherry laurel |
Up to 200 cm |
Very good – compact foliage |
Medium: 1–2 years |
Low – evergreen |
|
Ivy (on trellis) |
Variable |
Good (with trellis) |
Medium |
Low – robust |
|
⚠️ Always check balcony load-bearing capacity! Several large plant pots can quickly weigh 200–500 kg – especially after watering. The statically permissible live load of a balcony is usually 200–400 kg/m² (information available in your rental agreement or from property management). Place heavy pots as close as possible to the outer walls of the balcony (where the load-bearing capacity is highest). |
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🎋 Solution 6: Bamboo or reed privacy screen mat (free-standing) Natural look meets easiest handling How it works: Raw or treated bamboo/reed poles as a roll-up mat – either set up in its own frame or attached to the railing Wind reduction: 50–70% (partially air-permeable – good, prevents wind accumulation) Dimensions: 90–180 cm high, up to 500 cm wide Price: 15–90 € depending on quality and size Attachment to railing: Cable ties, string, or clamping plug-in system on the railing Free-standing: Set up in its own A-frame or box foot element Lifespan: 2–6 years (outdoor bamboo is UV-sensitive; impregnated variants last longer) Maintenance: Rub natural bamboo with bamboo oil once a year, significantly extends lifespan Rental law: Unproblematic; on the railing with cable ties = no material alteration |
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🕳️ Solution 7: Free-standing windbreak segment with base For terraces and ground-floor gardens – free-standing without drilling How it works: Individual windbreak elements made of ESG, aluminum frame or polyrattan with a heavy base – free-standing Wind reduction: 80–95% (depending on material and number of segments) Assembly: Assemble segments – no drilling, no tools Stability principle: Weight base made of concrete or steel (20–50 kg per element) – also wind resistance class 3 (Beaufort 6) in windy conditions Dimensions: Typically 180–200 cm high, 80–120 cm wide per segment; combinable Price: 150–1,200 € for 2–3 segments (depending on material) Material: ESG (transparent, high-quality), polyrattan on frame, aluminum slats Flexibility: Segments can be moved individually; configurable depending on wind direction Ideal for: Terraces without railings, garden areas, large roof terraces Rental law: Clearly permitted – piece of furniture, no interference with the floor |
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🎯 Solution 8: Balcony side blind with railing clamp The most compact format – roll-up, quick to assemble How it works: Narrower blind system (40–80 cm wide) specifically for balcony railing sections – cassette clamps to the railing Wind reduction: 65–80% in the covered area Assembly: 5–10 minutes; clamp on the railing – no drilling Dimensions: Height 80–200 cm, width 40–80 cm per module – multiple modules can be combined Price: 25–120 € per module Particularly suitable: Gap filler between plants; combination solution next to a room divider Material: HDPE, polyester, PVC – UV-stabilized Rental law: Flawless – clamp without drilling |
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🧲 Solution 9: Magnetic system for metal railings The most innovative solution – installed in 60 seconds, removed in 60 seconds Functionality: PVC or PET film / fabrics with integrated neodymium magnet strips – adhere directly to steel railings Wind reduction: 60–75% (depending on film type and coverage) Installation: Simply attach, magnets hold – no accessories needed Dimensions: Width up to 600 cm (rolls), height 80–120 cm Price: 30–120 € (seasonal use; inexpensive replacement) Prerequisite: Metal railing (steel, not aluminum or stainless steel) with sufficient adhesive surface Limitation: Does not hold in wind forces above Beaufort 5 (38 km/h) – seasonal/temporary solution Tenant law: Clearly permitted – no connection, only magnetic adhesion |
12. Comparison Table: All 9 Solutions at a Glance
|
Solution |
Wind Protection |
Installation |
Transparency |
Price |
Mobility |
Ideal for |
|
1. Privacy Screen Mat |
High (75%) |
10 Min. |
No |
15–80 € |
High (on/off) |
Small balconies, budget |
|
2. Acrylic Glass/ESG Clamp |
Very high (95%) |
30–60 Min. |
Yes |
80–600 € |
Medium |
Wind-exposed locations |
|
3. Side Awning |
High (80%) |
20–40 Min. |
No |
80–400 € |
Very high |
Flexible use |
|
4. Rolling Screen |
Medium-high (70%) |
0 Min. |
No |
50–600 € |
Max. |
Terraces, flexible |
|
5. Plant Wall |
Medium (55%) |
0 Min. |
No |
80–400 € |
High |
Natural, long-term |
|
6. Bamboo/Reed |
Medium-High (60%) |
10 Min. |
No |
€15–90 |
High |
Budget, natural look |
|
7. Segment stand |
Very high (90%) |
0 Min. |
Yes (ESG) |
€150–1,200 |
Medium |
Terrace, ground floor garden |
|
8. Side blind clamp |
High (70%) |
5 Min. |
No |
€25–120 |
Very High |
Supplement / Gaps |
|
9. Magnetic system |
Medium (65%) |
1 Min. |
Partial |
€30–120 |
Max. |
Seasonal, metal railing |
13. Railing Compatibility Guide: Which solution fits which railing?
Not every solution works with every railing type. This is the most common buying mistake – here's an overview:
|
Railing Type |
Description |
Best Solutions |
Not Compatible |
|
Round steel tube (50–60 mm) |
Classic round metal tube |
1, 2, 3, 6, 8, 9 |
Only magnet if steel (not aluminum/stainless steel) |
|
Square profile steel |
Modern style, angular |
1, 2, 3, 6, 8 |
Magnetic solution adheres less well to corners |
|
Glass balustrade |
Clear glass, no railing bar |
4, 5, 7 (free-standing) |
Cable ties, clamping systems, magnet |
|
Concrete parapet |
Solid, possibly with upstand |
1 (string), 4, 5, 7 |
Clamping systems mostly not compatible |
|
Wooden railing |
Beams or planks |
1, 3, 6 |
Magnet not compatible |
|
Stainless steel pipe |
Stainless, smooth |
1, 2, 3 |
Magnet does NOT adhere to stainless steel! |
|
Aluminum pipe |
Lightweight, modern, often anodized |
1, 2, 3, 8 |
Magnet does NOT adhere to aluminum! |
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⛔ Magnet trap: Not for stainless steel or aluminum! Neodymium magnets only adhere to ferromagnetic materials – i.e., regular steel and cast iron. Stainless steel (VA steel, "inox") is NOT ferromagnetic and does not conduct magnets. Neither is aluminum. If you are unsure: Before buying, hold a standard refrigerator magnet to the railing. Does it stick? Then the magnet system works. If not? Then it doesn't. |
14. Storm resistance: Which solution can withstand what?
Wind protection on a wind-exposed balcony or roof terrace is a different challenge than on a sheltered courtyard balcony. Here's an honest overview according to the Beaufort scale:
|
Solution |
Beaufort 3 (19 km/h) |
Beaufort 5 (38 km/h) |
Beaufort 7 (61 km/h) |
Beaufort 9+ (> 75 km/h) |
|
Privacy screen mat (well secured) |
Secure |
Secure |
Observe |
Risk – secure or dismantle |
|
Acrylic glass/ESG with clamping system |
Secure |
Secure |
Secure |
Observe manufacturer's instructions |
|
Side awning clamp |
Secure |
Secure |
Retraction recommended |
Store retracted |
|
Screen (empty) |
Secure |
Risk of tipping |
Store indoors |
Store indoors |
|
Screen (filled boxes) |
Safe |
Safe |
Observe |
Store |
|
Plant wall (heavy pots) |
Safe |
Safe |
Safe |
Observe |
|
Segment with base (heavy) |
Safe |
Safe |
Safe (WWK3) |
Observe manufacturer's specifications |
|
Magnetic system |
Safe |
Borderline |
Not recommended |
Do not use |
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🍃 General storm rule for all drill-free solutions Storm warning (from Beaufort 7 = 61 km/h): Bring all mobile and light elements (privacy screens, unweighted screens, magnetic systems) indoors or secure them. No wind protection system should remain unsecured on the balcony during a severe storm – flying elements are a danger to people and other objects. Fixed systems (acrylic glass clamping system, heavy base segments) can remain outdoors according to manufacturer's specifications – but always check product information. |
15. FAQ: Frequently asked questions about drill-free wind protection for tenants
Can I, as a tenant, even install wind protection on the balcony?
Yes – with clear limits. Anything that can be removed without a trace (cable ties, clamps, freestanding elements) is considered permissible and does not require landlord permission. Anything that leaves drill holes or significantly changes the appearance of the building requires approval. In case of doubt, a short email inquiry to the landlord – this creates legal certainty.
Which drill-free wind protection is the most stable in wind?
Most stable without drilling: (1) Erectable segments with concrete base or steel base – up to wind resistance class 3 (Beaufort 6). (2) Heavy plant wall made of several large plant pots – very high mass, hardly movable. (3) Acrylic glass clamping system on the railing – rigid connection, no flapping risk. Least stormproof: Light screens without ballast and magnetic systems.
Can I attach a privacy screen to the balcony railing without damaging it?
Yes. UV-stable nylon cable ties leave no marks on the railing if carefully removed. Even better: Waxed cord or soft polyester cord – absolutely no trace. Clamping systems with rubber inserts are also railing-friendly and leave no scratches.
How much does good drill-free wind protection cost?
The range is wide: From 15 euros for an HDPE mat to over 1,000 euros for a multi-part ESG segment system. For most balconies (up to 12 m²), a budget of 80–250 euros is sufficient for a permanently satisfactory solution. Recommended for standard balconies: Acrylic glass clamping system (120–250 euros) or high-quality side awning with railing clamp (100–200 euros).
How high can the wind protection on the balcony be?
As a rule, wind protection may not exceed the railing height (approx. 90–110 cm) without being classified as a structural alteration. Higher elements are considered a change to the facade's appearance and require approval. Exception: Freestanding elements (screens) that are not connected to the building structure may in some cases be higher – check the rental agreement.
Do I have to remove the wind protection when I move out?
Yes – all elements that you have mounted on or to the balcony must be completely removed when you move out. Cable tie residues, clamp marks on the railing, or faded railing areas due to permanent covering can lead to claims for damages. Document the condition before and after use photographically.
Conclusion: The best solution for your balcony
Drill-free wind protection is no longer a compromise. The range of high-quality, stormproof, and visually appealing products in 2026 is larger than ever. Whether you prefer maximum transparency with acrylic glass, natural elegance with a plant wall, or absolute flexibility with a rolling screen – there is a suitable answer for every balcony situation.
The crucial first step: Determine what type of railing you have. This information alone excludes several options and allows you to choose the right solution specifically.
|
If you… |
Recommendation |
Budget |
|
…want it quick and cheap |
HDPE privacy screen + cable ties (UV-stable) |
€15–60 |
|
…want maximum protection + transparency |
Acrylic glass clamping system (UV-stable, min. 4 mm) |
€150–350 |
|
…want to react flexibly depending on the weather |
Side awning with railing clamp (retractable) |
€120–280 |
|
… want no railing contact |
Folding screen on wheels (with fillable base) |
150–500 € |
|
… want a natural look & longevity |
Row of bamboo/reed plants in pots |
100–300 € |
|
… have a terrace without a railing |
Freestanding ESG segment with base |
300–1,000 € |
Last updated: March 2026 | Tenancy law: Estimates are based on general principles of German tenancy law (BGH VIII ZR 10/14). Not a lawyer; consult a tenants' association if in doubt.
All prices are approximate (as of: Spring 2025). Product features and compatibilities may vary depending on manufacturer and model.
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