I need ideas for window treatments for privacy/security, please

Question

My front door is comprised of 2 sliding glass doors that meet in the middle. On either side is a fixed sidelight. similar to the ones below.

I need ideas for window treatments for privacy/security, that will hold up well and close easily when exiting. I currently have grommet curtain panels, and do not want blinds or panels because they are not practical when leaving. Shutters are not in the budget. I cannot use frosted film (with/without adhesive , including static cling types), sprays or paints, the manufacturer will not allow it. I called them to double-check. Thank you!

q high traffic patio door treatment, doors, window treatments

source: HD community

Shira · Answer

@Moxie, do you have any creative solutions for b.enne?

Ginger Murphy · Answer

Maybe try semi-sheer panels in a color that matches or complements your existing panels. Try 4 panels on clip rings on a small ro behind your existing rod. You can show part of the sheer, tuck it behind when you want full light, or pull completely when you need privacy. I do this in my bedroom when I need the room darker because I have migraines. Works really well and adds interest to your window treatments as well.

Ginger Murphy · Answer

this also works with rod pocket panels....

Workerbee · Answer

I am sure they are beautiful. I would suggest frosting the glass. I used a spray frost on my bathroom doors that have glass panels but the frost cracked, I still like it but not on a front door. I would look in to a film product. The doors are to beautiful to cover up but the frost would give you privacy. Just my opinion.

Moxie · Answer

I'm with Shira; you may want to look a the decorative films that are available that simply are applied with water and a squeegee as they are not permanent, reasonably priced and depending on pattern selected can offer privacy but still allow some light to come through. Home depot stocks some nice ones but I think the standard stock may not offer the widths you would need without seams unless you combine in some type of patterned way (which could also be very cool). The films that actually adhere to the glass can cause breakage in thermal glass units..so caution there. They also have these films that have like square designs in them that allow more light (no color in them) but they obscure the glass and I have seen these place from the bottom up to above eye level with no application up higher to allow plenty of natural light above the needed privacy zone which looked great. Google window film and you will find all kinds of great options, patterns, colors, designs and you can order sizes you need. If budget is tight i have perhaps you could play with the 'stained glass' look they make on glass with tissue paper if your are artsy/crafty. Good luck in whatever you do but I can't help but think the best window treatment that will not be in the way will be something to make the glass surface provide the security and design you want. i used this one on my upstairs bedroom windows with a perimeter of frosted film due to stock widths available locally to me http://www.target.com/p/magnolia-window-film. Good luck!

B. Enne · Answer

I'm still using the grommet curtains. The manufacturer wouldn't allow decorative film, and the enclosed blind kits don't fit, since the trim around the windows is not deep enough. I'm still open to alternatives not mentioned. In the meantime, I will keeping using the curtains.

Jessica Cossin · Answer

I have sliding doors and live in cold NE. I have bamboo curtains, you can buy liners that will keep out the cold too if you live in a colder environment. I bought mine from Country Curtains. They look beautiful, and are very durable! Not very expensive, and came in 2 different 'finishes'. They also sell them at Pier One without the liner availability! Good luck!

B. Enne · Answer

Thanks Jessica. I do like the curtains I have as well, but will check it out.

Debbie Turner · Answer

I have no idea whether you'll go for this or not but enamel paint comes off so easily when you want it to. Painting a nice scene on your doors, could be something as easy as a sky, could even leave clouds with peep holes so you can see who's at your door. You can change it out whenever you want.

Lynn · Answer

I'd suggest removable static cling film. It's easily removed, doesn't leave a residue and will provide privacy without voiding the warranty.

http://www.decorativefilm.com/static-cling-non-adhesive.

B. Enne · Answer

Thank you for everyone's input. Unfortunately, I cannot put anything on the glass directly, and the between glass, inset blinds are too thick to fit our frames on the doors.

I guess I will continue using my curtains for now, they look nice and are lightweight.

Thanks again.

Lynn · Answer

Oh rats! The company that manufactured my dual pane windows forbid any 'affixed' film, but was ok with the static cling. Sounds like your mfg is a stickler. Best of luck 😊

Pam · Answer

Here is an idea. Swing arm rods. They are only affixed to the wall on one end and swivel or pivot 90degress like a gate opening and closing. Overstock.com has some. I don't know your door size but these might work for you. If the rods are too short, maybe use two on each side. Just a thought.

Lindcurt · Answer

There is a Japanese screen made of rice paper and thin wood frames. Could these be hung on a track? Something similar to a sliding barn door. Maybe too much sliding going on but it would open more easily than a curtain.

Claude · Answer

There are metal magnet curtain rods. They make sheer panels that have a casing on the top and bottom. You use 2 rods. You could probably sew a stright stitch along the bottom of the curtains you already have. It looks very nice and keeps the curtains from catching in the door.

Sharon · Answer

Is there room to put a tension rod inside the window casing? If so put one on top and one on the bottom of each window. Then cut down your curtains to fit. Make a hem in the top and bottom to put the rods through. They will stay in place and can be opened and shut as needed.

Margie · Answer

Hi, I see it's been almost two years since your first post. Ask the professionals at https://www.americanblinds.com/ .

Funnygirl · Answer

Years ago,I saw a project with lace panels dropped into a bucket of liquid starch.keep them in long enough to absorb the liquid starch,squeeze them out and apply to any type of window.the starch adheres the lace to the window without any adhesive.when you want to change them,peel them off window,wash starch off of Windows with. A warm damp cloth.should work with other fabrics.Think I would try using a credit card to smooth out the fabric to get a uniform result.have seen liquid starch at Walmart .

Betty · Answer

Have you looked into decals? Not sure if sizes but they are not permanent

Tarah · Answer

try a privacy screen that you set up in the room that is easy to walk around . this could be a great place to hang pictures.

Pot28065744 · Answer

I bet you've already tried, but I'll say it just the same. Did you call AND write to the manufacturer of the doors, stating your frustration with the privacy issue . Let them know that you have been on a quest to find a solution to their doors, without voiding the warranty, and you need input from them. You are very disappointed with their lack of assistance. I would send this letter to the manufacturer, the place where you bought the doors, the BBB and Dept of Consumer affairs. At this point, you have nothing to loose

2dogal · Answer

i'd go to Home Depot or Lowe's and get their vinyl window coverings. They attach to the window itself with water sprayed on the glass. They come in various frosted designs or stained glass. They let the light through, but are very private , depending upon the design and can be cut to the size you need. I have them on my kitchen door to keep the neighbor kids from looking in my kitchen.

Agnes Chrzanowska · Answer

https://www.pinterest.com/search/pins/?q=how%20how%20to%20replace%20door%20locks&rs=filter

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