Choosing the right cover for your sliding doors is key for looks and use. We must think about energy saving, privacy, and managing light when picking the best covering for sliding glass doors. Options like vertical blinds, roller shades, and curtains have unique benefits. These can change a room when chosen carefully.
Sliding glass doors connect us to our patios and backyards. So, we need coverings that look good inside and work well. For example, patio door coverings like Duette® Honeycomb Shades are great for saving energy. They’re ideal for places with very hot or cold weather. Also, vertical blinds are a flexible choice that fits many decorating styles.
The best coverings make your room look better and save energy. They also keep it private and let you control the sunlight. From stylish Luminette® Privacy Sheers for big windows to tough Palm Beach™ Polysatin™ Shutters for harsh weather, you can find the perfect option for your needs.
Understanding the Importance of Sliding Glass Door Coverings
Sliding glass door coverings are key for both your home’s look and its function. They make your space look better and help with saving energy, keeping things private, and making your home safer. Picking the right curtains for your sliding doors can change how your rooms feel and work.
Benefits of Covering Your Sliding Glass Doors
Sliding door coverings are great for managing light and keeping things private. Vertical blinds are a popular choice because they let you adjust sunlight and privacy easily. Blinded by Delight, a company many trust in San Antonio, notes that many people prefer plantation shutters. These shutters let you control the light and match any room style.
Learn more about the best coverings for sliding doors and small windows
Impact on Energy Efficiency
Choosing energy-saving shades like cellular ones can cut down your energy bills. These shades have a special design that keeps your home warm in winter and cool in summer. Also, thermal curtains and efficient blinds help keep your home’s temperature just right. This can save you money over time because good drapes last between 5 and 10 years.
Enhancing Privacy and Security
When looking for drapes for sliding glass doors, think about privacy and safety too. There are different options, like blackout curtains that stop all light, or sheer curtains that let some light in. Blackout curtains are great for places where you don’t want anyone to see inside, like bedrooms or movie rooms. They can make these rooms almost 90% darker. Some window treatments also help keep your home safe by stopping people from looking inside.
In the end, the top sliding door coverings balance saving energy, privacy, safety, and looking good. Knowing these benefits helps you pick something that makes your home more comfortable and useful.
Popular Options for Sliding Glass Door Coverings
Choosing the right coverings for your sliding glass doors involves several options. Each one stands out for its style, functionality, and flexibility. Depending on your needs and decor, one may suit you best. Let’s look into some popular choices.
Vertical Blinds: Pros and Cons
Vertical blinds are a classic choice for sliding doors, great for busy spots. They come in colors and materials like PVC, faux wood, and fabric. They’re good at keeping privacy while letting in light through adjustable slats.
However, vertical blinds can be noisy and their slats might break over time. While durable and simple to install, their look might not appeal to everyone.
Roller Shades: A Modern Solution
Roller shades for sliding glass doors bring a modern vibe that matches many decor styles. They’re easy to use and come in varying fabrics for privacy and light needs. Roller shades give clear views and easy door access when up.
But keep in mind, roller shades need to be mounted above the door. This means you must raise them to open the door, which may not always be handy.
Curtains: Versatility and Style
Curtains for sliding glass doors add style and versatility. With lots of fabrics, textures, and colors, they can fit any taste. You can also add blackout or thermal linings for better light and heat control.
Curtains can also be swapped easily to update your space. Yet, be careful with their length to avoid trips, and note that some styles may not slide easily, which isn’t ideal for busy spots.
If you’re thinking about panel track blinds, know they are stylish and versatile. They offer many fabric choices, blending the practicality of vertical blinds with the looks of sheer curtains.
| Feature | Vertical Blinds | Roller Shades | Curtains |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material Options | PVC, Faux Wood, Fabric | Light-Filtering or Blackout Fabrics | Various Textures and Fabrics |
| Privacy and Light Control | Adjustable Slats | Light-Filtering or Blackout | Thermal and Blackout Linings Available |
| Ease of Installation | Easy | Moderate | Easy |
| Maintenance | Durable but Slat Breakage Possible | Requires Full Raising for Door Access | Simple but Requires Management of Length |
| Style and Customization | Functional, Limited Style | Modern, Customizable | Highly Versatile |
Material Choices for Sliding Glass Door Coverings
Picking the right materials for door coverings is crucial for both functionality and style. Different materials have different benefits. It’s important to know what each one offers.
Fabric: Softness and Light Control
Fabric is a top choice for its softness and versatility. It comes in many opacities, balancing light control and natural light. Curtains on rings are easy to move, keeping doors accessible. Using lined curtains can block sunlight. This keeps homes cool and protects furniture from sun damage.
Vinyl: Durability and Easy Maintenance
Vinyl is great for high-traffic areas because it’s durable and simple to clean. It’s also cost-effective while remaining stylish. Vinyl vertical blinds can adjust for precise light control. These stylish sliding door options are ideal for busy homes, offering functionality and style.
Wood: Aesthetic Appeal and Warmth
Wood brings elegance and warmth, making it a sought-after choice for door coverings. It does need more care to keep its look. But, this effort is worth it for its beauty. Wood blinds or shutters add timeless charm and fit many decors. Choosing panel track blinds for sliding doors in wood offers both attractiveness and usefulness.
Measuring Your Sliding Glass Doors for Coverings
Getting the right measurements is key to perfectly fitting sliding glass door coverings. This ensures you don’t end up with coverings that don’t fit, saving you both time and money. Below, learn how to measure correctly and find out which tools you’ll need.
Accurate Measurements for Perfect Fit
To ensure a perfect fit, measure your sliding glass doors’ width and height at three points: top, middle, and bottom. This helps account for any unevenness. Measure the width using the frame’s top, middle, and bottom. For height, do the same on each side.
For inside-mounted blinds, don’t include the frame in your measurement to get the opening’s size. For outside-mounted blinds, add three inches to each window measurement for better coverage.
Tools You Will Need
The right tools make measuring easier and more precise. You will need:
- A metal measuring tape, preferably steel, for the most accurate results
- A level to keep your measurements straight
- An extra pair of hands for holding the tape and ensuring accuracy
Having these tools ready makes measuring for sliding door blinds much easier.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making errors while measuring is easy, but these mistakes can lead to a bad fit. Watch out for the following common errors:
- Incorrect Measurements: Always double-check your measurements to prevent mistakes. Measure height and width in three places.
- Not Considering Mounting Depth: For inside mounts, ensure you measure the window recess’s depth so the blinds fit well.
- Ignoring Overlap for Curtains: When measuring for curtains, add two inches on each side for proper coverage and overlap.
- Forgetting Brackets for Outside Mounts: Add four inches on each side for brackets when measuring for shutters or other outside mounts.
By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll get a better fit for your coverings. Correct measurements help avoid problems and make installation easier. For more information and tips on installation, visit our detailed guide.
Installation Tips for Sliding Glass Door Coverings
Deciding to install sliding door coverings yourself or get professional help needs careful thought. Both choices have benefits and downsides. Think about what suits your situation best.
DIY Installation vs. Professional Help
DIY installing sliding door coverings can be fun if you like working on home projects. But doing it yourself means being very careful to get everything right. Going with a pro ensures everything fits and works perfectly, which makes life easier.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
For DIY success, follow a step-by-step guide. Start by measuring your doors’ height and width. Use a good tape measure. Then, mark where the brackets will go.
Drill holes for the brackets. Make sure they’re secure. Attach the blinds or shades to the brackets. Check they open and close smoothly.
Safety Precautions to Consider
Remember, safety is top priority when installing. Use a stable ladder and have someone help if needed. Wear safety glasses and gloves. Make sure everything is mounted well.
- Use a stable ladder for elevated work.
- Wear protective eyewear and gloves.
- Secure brackets firmly to handle frequent use.
- Double-check measurements before mounting.
- Test the final setup for smooth operation.
Choosing DIY or professional help, these tips will make sure your door coverings look great and work well in your home.
Maintaining Your Sliding Glass Door Coverings
Door coverings need regular care to stay in good shape. Each type needs its own cleaning method. Keeping them clean and knowing when to get new ones ensures they last longer.
Cleaning Techniques for Different Materials
How to clean your blinds or curtains depends on what they’re made of. Fabric ones need vacuuming or dry-cleaning to stay dust-free. Vinyl ones are easy; just wipe them with a damp cloth. And for wood, use a dry cloth to keep them from getting damaged. Clean regularly to keep them looking and working well.
Preventing Wear and Tear
Be gentle with your sliding door coverings to avoid damage. Choose strong hardware that can handle daily use. Products like vertical cellular shades and Graber blinds are designed to last longer. Checking their parts often can help avoid surprise breaks.
When to Replace Your Coverings
Eventually, you’ll need new door coverings. Signs like frayed edges, faded colors, or failing parts mean it’s time. If your blinds don’t work right or curtains look old, consider an upgrade. Some brands offer long warranties, but all coverings wear out. Replacing them on time keeps your home looking nice and efficient.
Hey there, I’m Alex Hanson and I’m passionate about all things covers! Whether you’re looking for a car seat cover to protect your vehicle or an oven cover to keep your kitchen clean, I’m here to help. With years of experience in the industry, I have plenty of knowledge and insights to share with my readers. So, if you care about protecting your belongings and making them look their best, you’re encouraged to read my blog as I explore the perfect cover for every need.