Black out our bedroom

Linda
by Linda
We have a set of metal patio door in our bedroom with a 28" x 72" window in each door. I've tried black out drapes but they don't sit close enough to the windows to prevent lots of light coming in. Does anyone have an idea for putting something directly over these windows that won't damage the doors and that doesn't cost a fortune?
  6 answers
  • Swan Road Designs Swan Road Designs on Jun 05, 2015
    You say your doors are metal-faced so...consider using something that would be magnetized to secure room-darkening panels to the glass areas. You'd have to test the doors first to be sure that magnets would hold. That's simple enough. Nearly everyone has a magnet gadget on their refrigerator. If, in fact, you can use magnets it would then be simple enough to make panels of blackout lining/fabric and create a small channel along all four edges to insert button magnets. Sew around the magnets so they don't slide around in the channel and, when needed, simply press your panels on the doors and enjoy it as dark as you wish. Doing this would be easy to install when needed and could be folded up and put out of the way when you want your glass to be clear. Check out neodymium magnets. They are quite strong and not terribly costly. Here's what I'm referring to: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001KUURP2?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_search_detailpage.
  • Debi53 Debi53 on Jun 05, 2015
    I wish I had more information. Do you need to be able to see out the windows? Are you OK with the windows always being dark or do you need daylight sometimes? Will curtains cover what ever you do to block out light or will your solution be seen? If you could answer these questions, I think people would be able to give you some specific suggestions.
    • Linda Linda on Jun 05, 2015
      @Debi53 I need to remove the window coverings every morning so something that I can do easily and quickly is important. There are drapes that can cover the black out solution when they are necessary. Thanks for the help.
  • Make a panel that fits over glass windows. In the hems around the panel insert small magnetic pieces...can be purchased at Michaels, Loees, etc. PUT up each night and take down each morning. I used material to match my decor and attached heavy lining to the back with iron hemming tape. I also used iron on hemming tape for my 4 hems. I used low heat glue gun to attach the magnets before ironing the hems. I've had mine for 2 yrs now. It works perfect, looks great but most importantly it keeps the light out! Hope this helps.
  • Carol Baker Carol Baker on Jun 06, 2015
    Lowe's sells an encased mini-blind overlay that snaps onto the inside of those patio doors. Simple to install and you can open/close as needed. They've worked well for us!
    • Gayle Gayle on Jun 06, 2015
      @Carol Baker I had this kind of blinds on a patio French door only the doors were made that way. LOVED THEM. Your suggestion is the perfect solution.
  • Carole Carole on Jun 07, 2015
    Can you use an expandable curtain rod in the window recess and hang your curtains from that so they sit closer to the window?
    • Linda Linda on Jun 08, 2015
      @Carole I wish I could but, no, the windows are flush with the door so there's no place for an expandable curtain rod. Good idea, though, Thanks for the suggestion.
  • Debbie Debbie on Jun 10, 2015
    Linda,I don't know if this will work for you, but works great for me.At my sliding glass doors (we don't use). I have hung heavy fabric shower curtains.Helps keep out the hot sun here in the south