How To Measure Your Sliding Glass Door for Blinds

With any window treatment, it’s crucial to have accurate measurements – especially for large pieces like sliding glass doors. Whether you’re looking to install blinds, curtains, or shades on a sliding glass door, having the right measurements is key. Getting the wrong size can lead to an ill-fitting product, and a waste of time and money when it has to be returned. 

To make sure your window treatment fits properly, here’s our guide on how to measure sliding glass doors (including French doors). We'll cover everything from how to prepare to the right measurements to take and what treatment options are available. 

Homeowners, let’s dive in!

Measuring a Sliding Glass Door

You may be wondering – what could be so difficult about measuring sliding patio doors? Isn't it just a case of measuring the width and height? While this is true, there are some other factors to consider. Let's take a look.

How to Prepare Your Door

Before you get to measuring, it’s important to prepare your specific door for the task. First, make sure the door is closed and locked in place. This will give you accurate door measurements and help avoid any mistakes due to a gap between the two doors. Also, ensure that there are no obstacles or furniture blocking access to any part of the sliding glass door. 

Since you are just measuring for window treatments and not preparing to replace the door, you don’t need to worry about removing seals or trims.

How to Measure Your Door

Once you have the door properly prepared, it’s time to start taking measurements. Here are some key elements to take into account when measuring a sliding glass door: 

• Measure the width of the entire frame (including both sides). To do this, measure from one side of the frame to the other at three points – top, middle, and bottom. Take note of any irregularities in these points as they will need to be considered when ordering your window treatment. 
• Measure the height of each side separately – again at three points - top, middle, and bottom. Note any irregularities here too. 
• For inside-mounted blinds, measure the width and height of the opening (not including the frame). 
• For outside-mounted blinds, you’ll need to add three inches to each side of the window. This will help ensure that your blinds fit properly around the entire frame. 
• If you are installing multiple blinds rather than one long one, measure each individual panel rather than dividing the window measurement into equal sections.

The best tool for taking measurements is a steel measuring tape, as this will give you the most accurate results. Record everything clearly, and remember – too many measurements is better than not taking enough!

Measuring for Different Types of Window Treatments

Keep in mind that your measuring requirements will change depending on the type of window treatment you choose. For instance, if you’re installing vertical blinds, you may need to measure the height of the track down to the door sill. 

Here are the main differences to look out for when measuring your sliding glass doors:

• Curtains – measure from the top of your curtain rod or track (not including any finials) down to where you want the curtains to hang, then add an extra 2 inches on either side for overlap. 
• Shutters and mini blinds – measure each panel separately, and make sure that any corner panels are measured correctly, as this can be tricky. 
• Roller shades – measure the width of each panel separately. 
• Venetian blinds – make sure you’re measuring the exact size of the slats and not forgetting to add extra inches on either side for mounting brackets. 
• Roman shades – measure from where you want your shade to hang down to where you want it to finish. Any overlap should be added on top of this measurement. 

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Here's how you can remove roller shades:

If you are unsure about the best way to approach your measurements, don't forget to reach out! We're always happy to lend some friendly advice where it's needed. 

How to Measure French Doors

French doors are a great way to bring natural light into your home, but they can be tricky when it comes to measuring. The main issue is the two door panels that open in the middle. Here’s how we suggest you approach this: 

• It's best to install separate blinds or shades on each panel, as this way, you can open the doors without having to worry about the blinds getting in the way. 
• Decide whether you want to cover the entire door, or just the glass part. This will depend on the type of window treatment you choose and how much coverage you need. 
• Measure each panel separately, including the width of any mullions (the vertical bars that divide up your French doors). 
• If you are installing inside-mounted blinds or shades, measure from the top to bottom of each door panel, then add an extra two inches either side for overlap. 
• For outside-mounted window treatments like shutters or awnings, make sure to add four inches either side for brackets. 

Sliding Glass Door Window Treatment Options 

When it comes to decking your sliding doors out with window treatments, there are plenty of options to choose from. Your choice will depend on the aesthetic you're going for as well as the level of privacy and light control you need. 

Curtains

One of the most popular choices for sliding doors, curtains offer a great way to add some colour and texture to your space. They hang from a track or rod and can be opened and closed for privacy. Since curtains hang over the frame of your sliding doors, they don't interfere with their opening and closing. 

Panels

Panels, also known as vertical blinds, are great for large windows and doors. They can be adjusted to let in more or less light depending on your needs. These window treatments hang from a track at the top of your sliding door and open like an accordion when you need to move them out of the way. 

Shades

Shades are a convenient way to control the amount of light that comes into your room. Hotel balcony doors often have large roller shades, as it can stay rolled up and out of the way during the day, then rolled down for complete privacy at night.  

Blinds

Venetian blinds offer the most control over the amount of natural light coming into your room, while Roman shades provide a softer look with some sheer fabric layered on top. These aren't the most typical choices for sliding doors, but they can work with the right design. 

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No matter what window treatment you choose for your standard sliding glass doors, make sure to measure accurately and reach out if you need help!

Inside vs Outside Mounting

When installing DIY window treatments, there is a distinction between inside and outside mounting. Inside mounting means that the window treatment is installed within the frame of your sliding door, while outside mounting means it's mounted to the wall above or around the door. 

Curtains are typically installed with an outside mount, while blinds and shades are usually installed with an inside mount. This is because curtains need a bit of extra space to hang properly, while blinds and shades take up less room when they're tucked away in the door frame. 

How to Measure Sliding Glass Doors FAQs

How do you measure sliding glass doors for curtains?

To measure for curtains, you'll need to take the width and height of your door frame. Make sure to measure both sides of the frame, as they may differ slightly due to differences in wall thickness or other irregularities. If you are installing separate panels on each door, you'll need to measure them individually rather than dividing the total width.

How do you measure a patio door for a door replacement?

To measure for a replacement patio door, start by measuring the height and width of the existing frame. You'll also need to measure from the center of the hinges. Finally, take note of any other features such as handles or locks that will need to be replaced as part of the installation.

Are sliding glass doors a standard size?

Sliding glass doors come in a wide range of door sizes, both standard and custom. If you need to replace your existing sliding door, it's important to measure accurately before you purchase a new one – even if you suspect it may be a standard size. This will help ensure that the door fits properly in the frame and allows for proper operation.

Do you measure a door from the inside or outside?

The answer to this question depends on the type of window treatment you are installing. Curtains and other treatments that hang from a track or rod should be measured from the outside, while blinds and shades should be measured from the inside for an accurate fit.

What is the rough opening for a 72 inch sliding door?

For a normal double door, the door opening is roughly two times the width of the door plus a couple of inches, so a 72 inch sliding door would need an opening of approximately 156 inches. 

High-Quality Custom Sliding Glass Door Blinds and Shades

Here at Factory Direct Blinds, we offer a wide selection of custom sliding glass door blinds and shades. Our products are designed to fit perfectly with any size or shape of door, so you can be sure that your window treatments will look great and work well for years to come. 

Reach out today if you need help measuring or selecting the perfect window treatments for your sliding glass doors. We'll be happy to help you find the perfect solution!