Finding an Attractive Sliding Door

Although sliding glass doors are a staple on many homes, they are not often attractive. A recent Realty Times article discusses how to turn your eyesore into an asset.

You may love the convenience your sliding glass door provides. It’s easy to open, gives you a good view and is relatively low-maintenance. Many homeowners, however, feel that their sliding glass doors detract from their home’s appearance rather than adding to it. The key to turning your sliding glass door into an attractive feature of your home is finding the right type of window treatment.

When considering window treatments for your sliding glass door, be sure to consider the functionality of the door. If you use the door regularly, you will want something that won’t turn into a barrier to accessing the door. Also, if you enjoy the view from your sliding glass door, you want to frame the outside world with your window treatment. Alternatively, if your sliding glass door’s view is the next house over or the street, you may want to use décor to minimize it.

There are always vertical blinds and draperies to choose from, but you now have many more choices in window treatments, such as Japanese wood and rice paper screens, called shoji, which can conceal a boring sliding glass door and add to the flavor of the room. Shoji, however, are meant to be used inside the home, as they cannot withstand the outside environment. Check out this option at orientalfurniture.com.

Another option for jazzing up your sliding glass door is a stained glass kit or wallpaper for windows. You can choose from a variety of options, including options that hide the view completely or just accent it. Check out wallpaperforwindows.com for ideas. A more classic look is achieved by installing plantation shutters. There are also plenty of options in this area, including shutters that slide behind each other if you have limited space (a bi-pass or sliding system) and so you can access the door. Keep in mind with the bi-pass system, that the louvers typically have to be closed before the shutters can slide over each other, which can limit light and the outside view.

Motorized vertical blinds or soft shades are also good choices for a sliding glass door, achieving privacy without claustrophobia. If your door handle will be in the way of this arrangement, you can use an outside mount instead of an inside mount. One-way pleated drapery is also a trend right now, as well as woven wood shades, which bring a unique look to your glass door. For a more decorative touch without overwhelming the room, try out different swags, valances and sheers.

Choosing a window treatment for your sliding glass door can add privacy and beauty to a room. Be sure to always keep in mind the functionality of your door, or you could end up with a bigger, but more stylish, frustration!

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