How Should I Cover My Patio Doors?

Explore the many window treatment options for large expanses.

While vertical blinds used to be the most common way to cover large windows and patio doors, they’re no longer your only option. From cellular shades and sheers to sliding panels and interior shutters, there are a variety of window treatments that can fit your needs and personal style.

Vertical cellular shades: If you live in a particularly hot or cold climate, vertical cellular shades are ideal because they offer superior energy efficiency. And what’s nice is that when you open them, the pleated fabric contracts almost completely, so you have plenty of view-through.

Sheer vertical shades: With soft, sheer fabric facings attached to soft rotating fabric vanes, sheer shades beautifully diffuse natural light while offering the functionality of vertical blinds.
Panel track blinds: Made of flat, fabric panels that slide on a track, panel track blinds are a sleek, contemporary alternative to vertical blinds. When open, they stack tightly to optimize your view, and when closed, you can enjoy their gorgeous texture and style.
Interior shutters: Shutters are also a great choice because they’re as durable as they are beautiful. But before choosing an operating system, check how much clearance you have around your door or window. As long as you have a couple feet of space, you could get an operating system that enables the panels to fold like a fan when opened, revealing your patio door completely.

Keep in mind that if you’re covering a door, choose a window treatment that traverses side to side. If not, every time you want to use your door, you may have to open the shade above the window. Fortunately, with so many styles these days, finding a solution is easy!