Getting a New Patio Door? Change up your patio door window treatment for a fresh new look.
When it comes to deciding on a treatment for your new sliding glass patio doors, there may be more choices than you realize. We’ve put together the pros and cons of some common patio door window treatment options you should consider.
Vertical Blinds
Since the 90s, the go-to sliding door covering has been vertical blinds. Vertical blinds lend themselves to modern or contemporary interior design styles. Unlike standard horizontal blinds, these blinds hang and operate vertically. The blinds are most often operated by pulling on side mounted cords or chains.
PROS: 
- No longer limited to white or beige, the hanging louvered panels now come in a variety of colors, patterns, and sizes.
- This popular treatment is versatile for light control because it allows the user to open or close the blinds entirely, or adjust the light filtered into the home by positioning the hanging panel on an angle.
- Furthermore, vertical blinds are relatively easy to clean. Most can be wiped down or vacuumed without taking them down
CONS:
- Vertical blinds are an investment, so if you’re someone who likes to change their décor often, it could become expensive.
- Because they often operate with cables, ropes, or chains, they may not be ideal in a home with small children or rumbustious pets. If you are considering vertical blinds, be sure to talk to your supplier about any safety issues you may have.
- If you enjoy opening your screened patio doors for fresh air and circulation, even a gentle breeze can cause unpleasant clacking noises.
Built-In-Blinds
We are sometimes asked if we offer between-the-glass blinds for our sliding glass patio doors. While we understand the appeal of built in blinds, we have opted to preserve the superior energy efficiency of our patio door product line.
PROS:
- They stay clean. Because the blinds are encapsulated between the panes of glass, they stay cleaner than standard window blinds.
- Kid and pet friendly. Because the mechanics are behind glass, they are safer than window treatments with cables and pulley systems.
- Unlike exposed window blinds, wind will not cause the blinds to rattle and clack.
CONS:
- Be sure to research the warranty. Broken blinds or service for built in blinds can be very expensive.
- Because a patio door inherently has a large expanse of glass, making sure that they save your energy dollars should be a high priority. Built-in blinds that operate with a cable system don’t allow for an air-tight seal.
- If the blinds operate on a cable system and the cable stretches, they can become inoperable. While the cable can be fixed or replaced by taking it apart, plan or paying someone to repair it if you’re not handy.
Curtains
Tried and true, curtains are a solid choice for most people. Relatively inexpensive compared to other options, there is a vast variety of colors, textures, and insulation values to choose from. Lastly, curtains are relatively easy to make.
PROS:
- Because curtains cost effective, changing the color or style won’t break the bank.
- Curtains vary from light filtering sheers to thermal block out.
- Curtains can be layered.
- Block out curtains offer excellent privacy.
- Thermal curtains can increase the R-value of your patio door.
CONS:
- They can difficult or expensive to keep clean.
- Curtains are prone to collecting dust or allergens.
- Heavy drapes or curtains can be difficult to operate for someone with limited capabilities.
Roman Shades
Roman shades have been around for ages and are becoming a popular choice for a sliding patio door treatment. Typical installation will consist of two units, hung side-by-side. Privacy and light is controlled by raising or lowering the shade. Variations for operating these include a side mounted cord and pulley system, cordless pull, or by remote control.
PROS:
- Like curtains, roman shades be found in wide variety of colors and textures.
- They are easy to install and require no special hardware.
- Motorized shades are more popular than ever. Opening or closing your roman shades can be as easy as pushing a button.
CONS:
- Because roman shades fold up and onto themselves, the fabric used cannot be as heavy or as insulative as curtain fabric.
- Cleaning roman shades is not easy. They are limited to spot cleaning, so think twice before using them in areas were food spills or splashes will likely occur.
Need a patio door quote? Our online TeleEstimate form allows you to get a hassle-free, same-day quote without a sales visit.
