The Timeless Window Treatment That Adds Privacy And Charm To Sliding Glass Doors

Sliding glass doors create a seamless flow between your indoor and outdoor living spaces. While they provide ample natural light in your home, they can be a problem when it comes to privacy. There are lots of ways to cover sliding glass doors to add privacy to your space that fit any budget and modification limitations. But if you can swing a more permanent solution, plantation shutters are a great way to add sophisticated charm to your sliding glass doors while also providing plenty of privacy.

Plantation shutters, also called estate shutters, are wooden (or faux wood) window treatments that have adjustable slats, called louvers, that can be tilted to control the amount light allowed through. Often thought of as a timeless window treatment for smaller windows, plantation shutters can also be fitted for sliding glass doors. They use either a bypass track to slide open and closed with the doors or they have a bifold design that stacks the panels to the side as they open. 

The adjustable wooden or composite blinds can add just the right amount of light for your desired ambiance while turning your space into a secluded sanctuary. You can order plantation shutters for sliding glass doors in various stains and colors while also customizing the look of the adjustable louvers so they seamlessly blend in with your style. They'll continue looking great in your space as trends come and go, making them a sustainable decor choice that's worth the investment.

Of course, plantation shutters are a popular design trend in their own right, but they are just as functional as they are elegant. The ability for total privacy is a clear advantage, while the adjustability of the louvers also provides greater control over light exposure compared to other glass door treatments like curtains or roller shades. They can even be fitted with motorized shutters that can be set to automatically adjust to the day's light and invisible tilts that hide the tilt rod for a minimalist look.

Plantation shutters also boast benefits you might not realize. Their sturdy materials help them last longer than fabric coverings or conventional blinds as they are more resistant to the effects of sun exposure. In fact, many brands offer a lifetime warranty for their plantation shutters. They also add a layer of insulation to your sliding glass doors. This will help your home's energy efficiency while also providing a built-in sound barrier from the outside. Plus, they're easy to maintain, requiring only a quick wipe down to clean (but don't make the mistake of cleaning wooden plantation shutters with a wet cloth — use a wood cleaner instead.) Perhaps best of all, custom-made plantation shutters add value to your home. Fitting shutters to your sliding doors with the style and customization features you want will allow you to enjoy their functionality while making them an asset for your property, not to mention enhancing its curb appeal.

While there are definite advantages to covering your sliding glass doors with plantation shutters, they do come at a price. Plantation shutters are one of the most expensive window treatments on the market. The cost will vary depending on the shutter material, customization features, size of the doors, and labor required, but materials and installation average between $800 and $1,000 for covering sliding glass doors. Wood shutters are going to be the most expensive option, so opting for composite or vinyl can cut down the cost considerably.

Plantation shutters are also a more complex window treatment, often requiring professional installation to properly fit the frame around the doors. This is particularly true for custom builds and specialty features like motorized louvers. However, there are steps you can take to DIY your plantation shutter installation to save money. One option is to source the shutters yourself by using premade shutters or ordering custom sizes online. Still, because plantation shutters are an investment in your home, letting a professional handle the job may be worth the extra cost.