How to Hide Your Oil Tank: 15 Creative Solutions for UK Gardens

Transform Your Eyesore into a Garden Feature

That bulky oil tank sitting in your garden doesn't have to be an eyesore. Whether you've just had one installed or you're finally ready to tackle concealment, this guide reveals 15 proven ways to hide your oil tank while maintaining easy access for deliveries and maintenance.

In This Guide:

• 15 creative oil tank concealment ideas for every budget
• Which solutions work best for different garden sizes
• Cost comparisons and installation difficulty ratings
• Expert tips for maintaining delivery access
• UK regulations you need to know

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Why Hide Your Oil Tank?

Beyond the obvious aesthetic benefits, concealing your oil tank offers several advantages:

✓ Increased Property Value: A well-maintained, concealed oil tank appeals to buyers
✓ Enhanced Garden Privacy: Screening solutions often provide dual benefits
✓ Weather Protection: Proper concealment can extend tank lifespan
✓ Neighbour Relations: Reduces visual impact on adjoining properties
✓ Safety: Discourages vandalism and unauthorised access

Before You Start: All oil tank concealment must maintain minimum 3ft clearance for deliveries and comply with OFTEC guidelines. For detailed UK regulations and planning permission requirements, see our complete garden screening guide.

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Solution 1: Aluminium Metal Garden Screens ⭐ Top Pick

Why It's Our #1 Recommendation

Aluminium garden screens are the gold standard for oil tank concealment, offering unmatched durability and zero maintenance.

How It Works: Install powder-coated aluminium panels around your oil tank in various configurations—from simple L-shapes to complete enclosures. Screens come in heights from 6ft to 10ft and various decorative patterns.

Pros:

• 20-30 year lifespan with no maintenance
• Rust and weather-proof
• Modern, sophisticated appearance
• Available in multiple colours and patterns
• Lightweight but incredibly strong
• Quick installation (2-4 hours)

Cons:

• Higher upfront investment than wood or bamboo
• Limited flexibility once installed

Installation Difficulty: ⭐⭐ (Easy-Moderate)

Best For: Homeowners wanting a permanent, low-maintenance solution

Expert Tip: Choose laser-cut decorative patterns to turn your oil tank area into an attractive garden feature rather than just hiding it.

👉 See our step-by-step aluminium screen installation guide for detailed instructions, measurement tips, and the 7 best screening configurations for oil tanks.

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Solution 2: Wooden Fence Panels

Traditional and Versatile

Wooden fencing offers a natural look that suits traditional UK gardens.

How It Works: Install standard fence panels or custom slatted screening around three sides of your oil tank, leaving the front accessible for deliveries.

Pros:

• Natural, traditional appearance
• Readily available at garden centers
• Easy to stain or paint to match existing fences
• Lower initial cost
• DIY-friendly installation

Cons:

• Requires annual staining/treatment
• Susceptible to rot, warping, and insect damage
• 5-10 year lifespan before replacement needed
• Can look dated in modern gardens

Installation Difficulty: ⭐⭐ (Easy-Moderate)

Best For: Traditional gardens with existing wooden fencing

Maintenance: Annual treatment with wood preserver required

💡 Compare this to aluminium screens at £800 with zero maintenance and 20+ year lifespan. See our material comparison guide for detailed cost analysis.

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Solution 3: Strategic Landscaping with Shrubs

Natural Living Concealment

Create a planted screen using evergreen shrubs that provide year-round coverage.

How It Works: Plant fast-growing evergreens like Laurel, Photinia, or Bamboo in a border around your oil tank. Space plants 2-3ft apart for quick coverage.

Recommended Plants:

• Cherry Laurel: Dense, fast-growing (30cm/year), evergreen
• Photinia Red Robin: Colourful new growth, 40cm/year
• Bamboo (clumping varieties): Very fast screening, 1m/year
• Yew: Slower but excellent for formal hedging
• Holly: Spiky deterrent, slow-growing but permanent

Pros:

• Natural, organic appearance
• Improves garden biodiversity
• Softens hard landscaping
• Can increase property value
• Creates wildlife habitat

Cons:

• Takes 2-4 years for full coverage
• Requires regular trimming and maintenance
• Some plants can be invasive (bamboo)
• Initial gap allows tank visibility
• Can trap moisture against tank

Installation Difficulty: ⭐⭐ (Easy-Moderate)

Best For: Patient gardeners who enjoy plant maintenance

Timeline: Expect 50% coverage in year 1, full screening by year 3

⚠️ Important: Leave 18-24 inches between plants and tank for air circulation and maintenance access. For immediate coverage while plants establish, consider combining shrubs with aluminium screens.

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Solution 4: Trellis with Climbing Plants

Vertical Garden Solution

Combine structure with nature using trellis panels and climbing plants.

How It Works: Install wooden or metal trellis panels around your tank, then train fast-growing climbers to cover the structure.

Best Climbing Plants for Oil Tanks:

• Clematis: Beautiful flowers, moderate growth
• Honeysuckle: Fragrant, fast-growing, attracts pollinators
• Ivy: Evergreen, very fast coverage, low maintenance
• Jasmine: Scented flowers, year-round interest
• Virginia Creeper: Rapid growth, stunning autumn colour

Pros:

• Combines instant structure with natural softening
• Cost-effective solution
• Creates attractive garden feature
• Flexible and easily modified
• Can be painted to match garden scheme

Cons:

• Requires plant maintenance (training, pruning)
• Takes 1-2 years for full plant coverage
• Wooden trellis needs treatment every 2-3 years
• Plants may need replacing or become overgrown

Installation Difficulty: ⭐⭐ (Easy-Moderate)

Best For: Gardeners wanting a softer, cottage-garden aesthetic

Maintenance: Moderate—annual pruning, training, and trellis treatment

💡 Pro Tip: Use metal trellis for durability or combine with aluminium screens as the structure for a maintenance-free base with natural decoration.

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Solution 5: Custom-Built Shed or Housing

Complete Enclosure

Build a dedicated structure that completely conceals your oil tank while providing additional storage.

How It Works: Construct a small shed-like structure around your oil tank with removable panels for access. Can double as garden storage.

Pros:

• Complete concealment from all angles
• Can add storage shelves or hooks
• Weather protection for tank
• Increases perceived garden size
• Can match house style perfectly

Cons:

• Most expensive option
• May require planning permission if over 2.5m high
• Time-consuming to build
• Must ensure adequate ventilation
• Can dominate small gardens

Installation Difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Difficult—carpentry skills required)

Best For: Larger gardens where space isn't limited, handy DIYers

Planning: Check if you need permission—structures over 2.5m high typically require approval. See UK garden screening regulations.

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Solution 6: Decorative Stone Wall

Permanent Masonry Solution

Build a low decorative wall to partially screen your oil tank while adding garden structure.

How It Works: Construct a brick, block, or stone wall 3-5ft high around the tank's most visible sides.

Pros:

• Extremely durable and permanent
• Adds property value
• Can support planters on top
• Traditional, high-quality appearance
• No maintenance required

Cons:

• Higher material investment
• Requires masonry skills or professional hire
• Permanent—difficult to modify
• May need building regulations approval
• Heavy—not suitable for all ground conditions

Installation Difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Very Difficult—professional recommended)

Best For: Permanent homes with traditional architecture

Note: Walls over 1m high near boundaries may require planning permission.

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Solution 7: Bamboo Screening Rolls

Budget-Friendly Quick Fix

Install natural or artificial bamboo screening for instant, affordable concealment.

How It Works: Attach bamboo rolls to posts or existing fences around your oil tank using cable ties or wire.

Pros:

• Very affordable
• Instant coverage
• Natural appearance
• Easy DIY installation (1-2 hours)
• No tools required beyond cable ties

Cons:

• Short lifespan (2-3 years natural, 5-7 artificial)
• Can look cheap or temporary
• Natural bamboo fades and degrades quickly
• Limited height options
• Not very durable in wind

Installation Difficulty: ⭐ (Very Easy)

Best For: Renters, temporary solutions, or very tight budgets

Upgrade Path: Use bamboo as temporary screening while establishing permanent solution like aluminium screens or planted hedging.

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Solution 8: Gabion Wall Feature

Contemporary Industrial Look

Create a modern architectural feature using gabion baskets filled with stone.

How It Works: Stack wire mesh gabion baskets filled with decorative stone or slate around your oil tank.

Pros:

• Striking contemporary appearance
• Excellent drainage
• Very durable (20+ years)
• Can incorporate lighting
• Creates wildlife habitat in gaps
• Good sound barrier

Cons:

• Heavy and permanent
• Higher material investment
• Requires substantial base preparation
• Time-consuming to fill
• May be too industrial for traditional gardens

Installation Difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Difficult)

Best For: Modern, contemporary, or industrial-style gardens

Design Tip: Mix stone colors or incorporate lighting between layers for dramatic effect.

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Solution 9: Living Wall System

Vertical Garden Innovation

Install a modular living wall system for instant green coverage.

How It Works: Mount pre-planted modular panels or pocket systems filled with trailing plants around your oil tank.

Pros:

• Instant green coverage
• Modern, innovative appearance
• Improves air quality
• Excellent for small spaces
• Can include herbs or edibles
• Impressive visual impact

Cons:

• Higher initial investment
• Requires irrigation system
• Regular plant maintenance needed
• Plants may need seasonal replacement
• Weight requires strong support structure

Installation Difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐ (Moderate-Difficult)

Best For: Design-conscious homeowners, small gardens, contemporary spaces

Maintenance: Weekly watering, monthly feeding, seasonal replanting

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Solution 10: Pallet Wood Upcycling Project

Sustainable DIY Solution

Repurpose wooden pallets into rustic screening panels.

How It Works: Dismantle pallets, sand rough edges, and reassemble into screening panels. Treat with outdoor wood preserver.

Pros:

• Very budget-friendly (often free pallets)
• Sustainable and eco-friendly
• Satisfying DIY project
• Rustic, cottage-garden aesthetic
• Can paint or stain to preference

Cons:

• Time-consuming to prepare (8-12 hours)
• Variable quality depending on pallet condition
• May look rough or unfinished
• Still requires maintenance like regular wood
• Some pallets chemically treated (avoid these)

Installation Difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐ (Moderate—requires tools and time)

Best For: Eco-conscious DIYers on tight budgets, rustic garden styles

Safety Note: Only use heat-treated pallets (marked "HT"), never chemically treated ("MB").

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Solution 11: Artificial Hedge Panels

Zero-Maintenance Greenery

Install artificial hedge screening for instant, maintenance-free green coverage.

How It Works: Attach realistic artificial hedge panels to a frame or existing fence around your oil tank.

Pros:

• Instant green coverage
• Zero maintenance—no watering or trimming
• Year-round consistent appearance
• UV-resistant modern products
• Perfect for low-light areas
• Ideal for renters (easily removable)

Cons:

• Can look artificial close-up
• Initial plastic smell (dissipates)
• Not environmentally sustainable
• Can fade over 5-10 years
• May be controversial with eco-conscious neighbours

Installation Difficulty: ⭐⭐ (Easy-Moderate)

Best For: Low-maintenance gardens, shady areas where real plants struggle

Quality Matters: Invest in UV-resistant, realistic products—cheap versions look obviously fake.

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Solution 12: Corrugated Metal Sheets

Industrial Chic

Use corrugated metal or Corten steel panels for an industrial-modern aesthetic.

How It Works: Install corrugated metal sheets on a wooden or metal frame around your tank.

Pros:

• Very affordable
• Durable and weather-resistant
• Quick installation
• Contemporary industrial style
• Can achieve weathered rust look with Corten
• Minimal maintenance

Cons:

• Can look too industrial for traditional gardens
• Gets very hot in direct sun
• Can be noisy in heavy rain or wind
• Sharp edges require careful handling
• May not suit all property styles

Installation Difficulty: ⭐⭐ (Easy-Moderate)

Best For: Industrial-style gardens, modern architecture, urban settings

Design Tip: Paint in dark colours to soften industrial appearance or choose pre-rusted Corten for warmth.

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Solution 13: Reed or Willow Screening

Natural Organic Texture

Install natural reed or willow hurdles for traditional cottage-garden concealment.

How It Works: Secure woven reed or willow panels to posts around your oil tank.

Pros:

• Natural, traditional appearance
• Affordable option
• Quick installation
• Suits cottage or rural gardens
• Biodegradable and sustainable
• Good air circulation

Cons:

• 3-5 year lifespan before replacement
• Can look dated
• Degrades in wet conditions
• May attract insects or birds
• Limited height options

Installation Difficulty: ⭐⭐ (Easy-Moderate)

Best For: Traditional cottage gardens, rural properties, temporary solutions

Longevity Tip: Apply wood preserver annually to extend lifespan to 5-7 years.

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Solution 14: Multi-Functional Garden Storage

Hide Tank While Adding Storage

Install a large garden storage unit that positions in front of or around your oil tank.

How It Works: Position a substantial shed, large deck box, or multi-bay storage unit to block views of the tank while providing practical storage.

Pros:

• Dual purpose—concealment and storage
• Widely available off-the-shelf
• Quick installation (delivered pre-built)
• Can relocate if needed
• Adds property functionality

Cons:

• Large storage units can be a significant investment
• May dominate small gardens
• Must ensure tank access remains clear
• Storage unit itself may be unattractive
• Weight and positioning critical

Installation Difficulty: ⭐⭐ (Easy-Moderate)

Best For: Gardens needing both storage and tank concealment

Placement: Position storage at angle to block tank from main viewing positions while maintaining delivery access.

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Solution 15: Painted Camouflage

Budget Minimal Intervention

Paint your oil tank and immediate surroundings to blend with environment.

How It Works: Paint the tank in colors that match surrounding walls, fences, or foliage. Add decorative murals or patterns.

Pros:

• Very affordable
• Quick project (1 day)
• No structural work needed
• Can be creative and fun
• Minimal maintenance

Cons:

• Tank still visible—just less obvious
• Paint requires recoating every 3-5 years
• Limited effectiveness
• Doesn't provide privacy benefits
• Not suitable for rental properties

Installation Difficulty: ⭐ (Very Easy)

Best For: Absolute minimal budgets, creative DIYers, temporary measures

Paint Type: Use outdoor metal paint suitable for oil tanks (check manufacturer guidelines).

Reality Check: This is the least effective solution—only reduces visual impact marginally. Consider saving for a proper screening solution.

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Comparison: Which Solution Is Right for You?

Quick Decision Matrix

Best Overall Solution: Aluminium Metal Screens

• Longest lifespan (20-30 years)
• Zero maintenance
• Professional appearance
• See complete installation guide

Best Budget Solution: Bamboo Screening or Painted Camouflage

• Most affordable options
• Quick installation
• Temporary but effective

Best Natural Solution: Strategic Shrub Planting + Trellis

• Environmentally friendly
• Attractive to wildlife
• Improves garden ecosystem

Best DIY Project: Custom Wooden Enclosure or Pallet Upcycling

• Satisfying to build
• Customizable to your exact needs
• Good for skilled DIYers

Best for Renters: Artificial Hedge Panels or Bamboo Rolls

• Non-permanent
• Easily removable
• No landlord permission typically needed

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Long-Term Value Comparison

Understanding lifetime value helps make smarter decisions:

Solution	Lifespan	Maintenance Required	Replacement Frequency
Aluminium Screens	20-30+ years	None	Rarely/Never
Wooden Panels	5-10 years	Annual treatment	Every 8-10 years
Bamboo Screening	2-4 years	Minimal	Every 3 years
Planted Hedge	20+ years	Regular trimming	Minimal replacement
Trellis + Plants	10-15 years	Moderate	Partial every 10 years

Winner: Aluminium Screens - Despite higher upfront investment, they offer the best long-term value with zero maintenance and exceptional longevity.

👉 See detailed installation instructions and design configurations in our complete garden screening guide.

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UK Regulations You Must Know

Planning Permission Requirements

Most oil tank screening doesn't require planning permission if:

• Height under 2.5m in rear gardens
• Not adjacent to highways (1m limit)
• Freestanding structures within property boundary

Always check local regulations—see our complete UK planning guide**.

OFTEC Guidelines for Oil Tanks

Your concealment must maintain:

• Minimum 3ft (0.9m) clearance for deliveries
• Access to fill pipes, vents, and gauges
• Adequate ventilation to prevent condensation
• 1.8m fire separation from boundaries
• Clear sight of oil level gauge

Non-compliance can void insurance or result in delivery refusal.

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Installation Tips for Success

Before You Start

✓ Measure your oil tank accurately
✓ Check delivery access routes
✓ Confirm ground is level or prepare bases
✓ Verify planning permission requirements
✓ Photograph "before" state for comparison
✓ Notify oil supplier of upcoming changes

During Installation

✓ Maintain 3ft minimum clearance on fill pipe side
✓ Use rust-proof fasteners for longevity
✓ Ensure structures are plumb and level
✓ Create removable panels for maintenance access
✓ Consider future tank replacement access

After Installation

✓ Test delivery access with supplier
✓ Check stability after first major weather event
✓ Take "after" photos for insurance records
✓ Update property documentation if permanent structure
✓ Enjoy your transformed garden!

For detailed, step-by-step installation instructions for the most popular solution, follow our complete aluminium screen installation guide.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest way to hide an oil tank?

The most affordable solutions are bamboo screening rolls or painting the tank to blend in. However, these are temporary fixes with short lifespans. For best value long-term, aluminium screens cost more initially but last 20+ years with zero maintenance.

Can I completely enclose my oil tank?

Yes, but you must maintain access for deliveries (minimum 3ft clearance), ensure adequate ventilation, keep fill pipes and vents accessible, and maintain fire safety distances. Complete enclosures work well with removable panels or gates. 

Do I need planning permission to screen my oil tank?

Usually not if your screening is under 2.5m high in rear gardens and not adjacent to highways. However, rules vary by council and property type. Listed buildings and conservation areas have stricter requirements. Check our UK planning permission guide for details.

How far should screening be from my oil tank?

Leave at least 12 inches (30cm) between screening and tank for air circulation and maintenance access. The fill pipe side needs 3ft (0.9m) minimum clearance for delivery hoses.

What's the best low-maintenance solution?

Aluminium metal garden screens require zero maintenance—no painting, treating, or trimming. They last 20-30 years and simply need occasional rinsing with a hose. See why aluminium screens are our top recommendation.

Can I use plants to hide my oil tank?

Yes, but allow 18-24 inches between plants and tank for air circulation. Choose evergreens for year-round coverage and fast-growers like laurel or photinia. Expect 2-4 years for full coverage. 

Will screening affect my oil deliveries?

Properly designed screening shouldn't affect deliveries. Always maintain clear access to fill pipes (3ft minimum) and ensure delivery drivers can see the tank gauge. Inform your supplier about new screening and verify access before their next delivery.

How much does professional installation cost?

Professional installation typically adds to your project cost depending on complexity:

• Simple screening: Lower additional cost
• Complete enclosures: Moderate additional cost
• Complex landscaping: Higher additional cost

DIY installation is straightforward for most solutions and can save significantly.

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Making Your Decision

Your Action Plan

Week 1: Research & Planning

1. Measure your oil tank
2. Check your budget and long-term costs
3. Verify planning requirements
4. Choose your preferred solution from this list

Week 2: Preparation 5. Order materials or book professionals 6. Prepare the site (level ground, clear debris) 7. Gather tools needed 8. Notify oil supplier of plans

Week 3: Installation 9. Install your chosen screening solution 10. Test delivery access 11. Add finishing touches (paint, plants, etc.) 12. Enjoy your transformed garden!

Still Unsure?

If you're torn between solutions, aluminium metal garden screens offer the best balance of:

• Long-term value (20-30 year lifespan)
• Professional appearance
• Zero maintenance
• Weather resistance
• Installation simplicity

Read our complete aluminium screen guide for detailed installation steps, design configurations, and expert tips.

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Conclusion: Transform Your Garden Today

Your oil tank doesn't have to be a permanent eyesore. With 15 proven solutions to choose from, there's an option for every budget, skill level, and garden style. Whether you opt for budget-friendly bamboo screening or invest in premium aluminium panels, you'll immediately improve your garden's appearance and potentially increase your property value.

Our Top Recommendation: Aluminium metal garden screens provide the best combination of durability, aesthetics, and value. They're the only solution that offers 20+ years of maintenance-free performance while looking professional from day one.

Ready to get started? Choose your solution, check the regulations, and begin transforming your garden this weekend. For detailed installation instructions and expert configuration advice.

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