Need suggestions to block afternoon sun
by
Katie
+6
The 'transom' above my west-facing patio slider admits direct (Texas) sun onto furniture, and TV screen. I need to block it (still need the light) with something visually pleasing that won't offend the neighbors or the HOA :-) Transom is approx 12"x60" Film will be longterm solution, but need short term.
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https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/product/redi-shade-light-filtering-cordless-paper-window-shade/3295552?skuId=10849217&mcid=PS_googlepla_nonbrand_windowtreatments_online&product_id=10849217&adtype=pla&product_channel=online&adpos=1o1&creative=224484706062&device=t&matchtype=&network=g&mrkgadid=558437219&mrkgcl=609&rkg_id=h-be98b6b966e54436565f964baf802173_t-1528583379&gclid=CjwKCAjw9e3YBRBcEiwAzjCJuuDO4gZ90pbEjQ7ofhYQPZmpacKk44K_nCzkurqHOih5N3yLFoPL1BoCO1QQAvD_BwE
Lowe’s has this in black as well. Make some holes in top to secure with several small Command hooks. Trim to fit.
Alternately get a 70-72” spring rod and secure window film to the rod (duct tape?) and install at the very top and edge of the window trim.
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Window-Tint-Film/40009465?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=566&adid=22222222227028371758&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=t&wl3=61183764969&wl4=pla-64744837207&wl5=9003860&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=111840067&wl11=online&wl12=40009465&wl13=&veh=sem
Couple of sets of miniblinds was long turner’s will allow you to open and close as necessary. Walmart, Big Lots , & Tuesday Morning often will carry inexpensive set that can be hung until you decide to put film in.
The best long term solution would be to install a Sun Screen on the outside of the window... it keeps the sun from reaching the window glass and helps with the transmission of heat into the house.... but if you have an HOA... it probably would not be acceptable to them... even though it would look like a window screen (if professionally done)
Short term.... Lowe's and Home Depot carry a product that is applied on the inside of the window... like a window cling... some look just like frosted glass.. or etched glass or even stained glass... you can apply it yourself, cut it to size and it would do the job nicely
Hi Katie,
You can buy window film that will stop the sun rays from coming in but still allow in the light. We did that in our upper south facing windows because that's where the sun came in the strongest. We got ours at Home Depot. It's also mostly available at places like Lowes & Menards. It's also available on Amazon.com. Wishing you the best.
Hang a curtain rod and use a total block-out curtain panel. You can move it all the way to the side when you don't need it so it doesn't show from the outside (and upset your HOA!)
Katie, do you need the sun coming through the transom in the winter?
If yes, if opt for an adjustable solution like a curtain, whatever fits your decor. One that uses tension rods at the top and bottom hems would allow you to open the transom if needed.
If no, I'd opt for a permanent solution like a plastic that sticks on the glass. There are various kinds depending on your priorities-privacy, light, even noise reduction are options. Blocking sun and heat would be my first votes. A handy person on a ladder, a bucket of water, a squeegee to set it without bubbles and a razor blade along a straight edge to cut a perfect line. Have you ever put up wallpaper? If not watch a couple of videos. The important part is to leave the razor in contact with the edge and reposition the straight edge. Let us know if you have any other questions!
Venetian Blinds or Shutters.........I had the same problem myself......