Outdoor Screen Spacers

thingiverse

I wanted to create a screen utilizing the same material I had for my outdoor deck. The commercial options available didn't quite meet my requirements, and the prices were excessive. So I designed these using Sketchup (files included). The rails on the posts are constructed from C-channel aluminum (25mm x 25mm x 1.6mm), while the spacers fit snugly in place (I had to sand a few down slightly but I resolved an elephant foot issue with my printer). Designed for 19mm boards and providing a 5mm gap between each, these spacers feature a wall at the back allowing them to securely lock into the end of the board. It seemed sturdy even with only 25% infill, but that's entirely up to you. I printed 30 at a time with a brim so they would come out on a sheet and could be easily cut or torn apart. Removing them was a bit time-consuming, there may be a more efficient method, but I didn't know how well they would stick individually. (And yes, I realize I need to paint the top of the post!)