How To Treat Your Sidelight Door Panels To Add More Privacy But Still Let In Light

Sidelight door panels — vertical glass windows installed on either side of an entry door — are a gorgeous way to make your front door look more grand, let in more light, increase curb appeal, and give you a good view of anyone knocking at your front door. Unfortunately, however, two of those four benefits are the same reason some people avoid sidelight panels. The presence of two large, clear windows gives anyone passing by or knocking on your door a fantastic peek into your home, especially if you have an open-concept design that allows you to see the front door from nearly anywhere in the house. If you are tired of this major privacy issue, then it might be time to invest in a window treatment that will enhance your home's privacy and maybe even upgrade the look and functionality of your sidelight panels.

When it comes to window privacy treatments, there are a few options. Some of the easiest and most aesthetically pleasing include adding curtains, applying window clings, and using a frosted glass spray. Each of these options has pros and cons and varies in price, but all three can be effective and even stylish ways to make your home more private. So, if you do not want to cave and hang up blinds, one of a few once-popular window treatments that can now date your home, then learn more about these trendy window treatment options, choose the best one for your house, and enjoy your beautiful home upgrade in peace and privacy.

The first and most classic option is to hang some curtains. This simple solution provides privacy and a breezy or traditional look, depending on your choice of curtain. Heavy curtains, especially in dark colors and thick materials will block more light and give your entryway a more stately feel, while lightweight curtains in pale colors like white will be nice and airy. (If you're interested in decorating in an environmentally conscious way, consider exploring the most sustainable fabric options for curtains.) Curtains made specifically for sidelight panels are also available, meaning you do not need to purchase a full-size curtain and spend time trying to measure and cut it if you don't wish to. Once you have your curtains, there are a few ways to hang them. Screw rods, tension rods, and magnetic rods are all good options for sidelight panels, though the best one for you depends on the material around your panels.

If curtains seem to take up too much space or do not give you the aesthetic you want, then window clings are a good alternative. They come in a wide variety of options, including ones that are designed for privacy. For instance, there are window films you can apply that give your sidelight panels a one-way glass effect. Even decorative geometric patterns or colorful stained glass clings can help distort the view for anyone trying to peek inside. Plus, window clings can filter ultraviolet A (UVA) rays and potentially reduce heating and cooling bills in your home by helping to regulate the temperature.

Window clings come in frosted glass designs, but you can also choose to use a frosted glass spray. This spray adds a translucent film to glass that makes it more difficult to see through. Between the two, sprays might be a better choice for you because you can customize the opacity based on the number of layers you apply. This is good for those who are a bit reluctant to cover their windows, as they can start with minimal coverage and decrease visibility until they are satisfied. Additionally, for anyone with art skills, frosted glass spray can be used to create specific designs on the glass. If you are considering a spray treatment, remember that although the effect is more permanent than a window cling or film, the effect may wear off over time. It is also worth noting that the chemicals used in the sprays are not very eco-friendly and need to be disposed of properly to prevent environmental harm.

Privacy is an understandable concern when it comes to your home, but you do not have to sacrifice your aesthetic vision to feel safe. You can implement a window treatment that will increase your privacy level. If you are still worried about your home's privacy, though, check out the top tips to create more privacy in your home (and the common issues to avoid).