Door Blinds Buying Guide: Top Tips to Choose the Perfect Style

Are you tired of peeking out of your front door and feeling like a goldfish in a bowl? If so, it's time to consider installing door blinds in your interior design.

Door blinds aren't just practical – they're stylish too. They can add a whole lot of personality to any room but are also used to filter natural light, provide insulation, and enhance privacy in your home. Whether you're looking for blinds with a sleek and modern look or a more traditional feel, there's a door blind out there for you.

According to Houzz, window treatments are one of the top three home improvements homeowners make to their properties. It's clear that many homeowners understand the value of investing in quality blinds for windows, and door blinds are no exception.

In this guide, we'll provide you with top tips on how to choose the perfect style of door blinds for your needs and preferences. From the different types available to the factors to consider and the type of door, we've got you covered.

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Understanding Different Types of Door Blinds

Door blinds are versatile window treatments that come in a wide range of styles and materials and can transform the look and feel of any room. So, are you looking to upgrade your space but unsure of what to choose?

It can be overwhelming to select the right door blind, so let's go over the different types of door blinds so you can pick the right one.

• Vertical blinds - These are a popular choice for sliding glass doors as they provide easy control over light and privacy. Vertical blinds are easy to maintain and come in a variety of materials, including PVC, fabric, and aluminum. However, they may not provide the best insulation, so keep that in mind if you live in an area with extreme temperatures.
• Horizontal blinds - Also commonly referred to as Venetian blinds because of their horizontal slats, and are suitable for smaller, narrower, and taller windows. Despite this, they may not provide the best insulation, and they may be difficult to operate if they are installed in hard-to-reach locations.
• Roller blinds - They are extremely lightweight and easy to adjust, providing a great balance between privacy and natural light. Roller shades can even be motorized for maximum control. Although they provide adequate insulation, they can be difficult to clean.
• Roman blinds - From neutrals to bold colours, Roman blinds are a common choice for adding colour and texture to your space. Easily customizable to a variety of patterns, fold, and control styles, custom Roman shades are often made of fabric and woven wood and can be easily adjusted to control light and privacy levels. However, they require moderate maintenance and may not provide the best insulation.
• Cellular shades - Typically only made of fabric, cellular shades provide the highest level of privacy and insulation. They come in a variety of colours and styles and are easy to maintain. That being said, they may be more expensive than the other types of blinds.
• Panel track blinds - A popular option for covering patio doors, sliding glass doors, and larger windows. They are mounted to the wall or ceiling and feature large fabric panels that slide back and forth on a track for easy operation. They have the ability to stack completely clear of the door or window when in the open position, but may not offer the best insulation.

Here's a quick rundown of each door blind type:

The door blind you choose will depend on your personal preferences, the level of privacy and insulation you need, and the size and location of your door or window. Whatever variety of blinds, shades, and shutters you go for, there's a style out there that will suit your needs and add some style to your space.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Door Blinds

Picture this: You're standing in front of your door or window, trying to decide which type of blind to choose and what colour and material to choose.

Choosing blinds for doors can be overwhelming, but it's an important decision that can have a big impact on the look and feel of your space.

Let's walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing door blinds to help you make the right choice for your home.

Material

When choosing door blinds, the material is a key factor to consider. Door blinds are usually made of wood, faux wood, fabric, vinyl, and aluminum. Each material has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

For example, faux wood blinds, much like aluminum blinds, are a popular choice for bathrooms and other humid spaces because they are made from PVC. This material is durable and does not scratch easily. Natural wood, as a natural insulator, is great for controlling the temperature in your home and is a preferred choice for bedrooms for the dramatic touch they offer.

Meanwhile, while vinyl blinds possess remarkable traits such as high durability and easy maintenance, fabric blinds offer a unique blend of light control like a blind while being able to filter light like a window shade.

Light Control and Privacy

Some blinds are great for controlling the amount of light that enters a room, while others offer better privacy levels than others. Most blinds offer adjustable light control, but cellular shades can offer the most privacy.

Custom shades are also available if you want total privacy that also blocks light effectively, such as blackout blinds.

Energy Efficiency

Door blinds can contribute to reducing the energy consumption of your home. The energy efficiency of door blinds varies depending on their style.

Cellular shades, for instance, provide the highest level of insulation. In fact, well-fitting cellular shades can drastically reduce heat loss through windows, saving about 10% on heating costs. The honeycomb construction traps air inside the shades, which helps to insulate your home. During the summer, blinds will reduce heat gain by reflecting it back out of the window.

Ease of Maintenance

You may want to choose low-maintenance door blinds for long-term convenience. Keep your shades dust-free by dusting them every week. While a feather duster does the trick for most blinds, some blinds pose more of a challenge and can be a deal breaker for others.

Vertical blinds are among the easiest to maintain for almost every window, while cellular shades are harder to maintain because of their construction and may require special cleaning tools, such as a can of compressed air.

Cost

Cost is also an important factor to consider when choosing door blinds. Prices for door blinds also vary depending on their style. Custom blinds designed to fit your room perfectly, carefully considering the window shape, home decor, and function, will undoubtedly cost more upfront.

Roller shades can be a cost-effective and functional option to consider, while the natural material offered by wooden blinds makes them a more upscale and fashionable choice at a higher price point.

That being said, it's important to keep in mind that cost doesn't always correlate with quality. With some research, you can find affordable options that meet your needs without sacrificing quality.

Installation & Ease of Use

Some styles, such as vertical and horizontal blinds, are easy to install and adjust, while others may require professional installation or are more challenging to adjust. Be sure to choose a style that works best for you that fits your needs.

Selecting the perfect door blinds for your home requires careful consideration of various factors. That being said, still keep in mind your personal preferences and needs to make the most of your space while still enjoying your choice.

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Choosing Door Blinds Based on Door Types

Not all doors are created equal, and different types of doors require different types of window treatments. Choosing the right blinds for your door type ensures a perfect fit, maximum functionality, and a great aesthetic.

Sliding Glass Doors

If you have a sliding door, consider using vertical blinds or panel track blinds. Vertical blinds are an affordable and practical option, providing easy operation and better light control. Panel track blinds, on the other hand, are a more modern option and can add a touch of sophistication to your space.

When choosing a material and colour for your sliding door, consider matching the blinds to the room's design. For example, faux wood blinds can create a cozy and rustic feel to a humid space, while aluminum panel track blinds can provide a sleek and modern look.

French Doors

The blind type matters a lot for a French door. Roman shades, cellular shades, and roller shades are popular choices for French door blinds because these styles offer an elegant appearance and good insulation, making them both visually appealing and practical.

When measuring and installing French door blinds, be sure to do so carefully to ensure a seamless look. You may want to consider hiring a professional to assist with installation.

Patio Doors

Vertical blinds and solar shades are common blind styles for patio doors. Vertical blinds provide durability and privacy, while solar shades offer UV protection and a clear view of the outdoors. When selecting materials for patio door blinds, be sure to choose weather-resistant options that can withstand the elements.

Bi-fold Doors

If you have bi-fold doors, consider using pleated blinds or honeycomb shades. Always opt for blinds for bi-fold doors that can be folded and unfolded easily. These styles are often compact and easy to operate, making them ideal for this type of door.

Door Windows

For door windows, mini blinds, enclosed blinds, or magnetic blinds can be an ideal option. These styles are easy to install and offer increased privacy. When choosing door window blinds, be sure to select options that fit snugly and securely to ensure they don't rattle or move with the door. This will help to prevent damage and ensure they remain in place.

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Factory Blinds Direct: A Stylish Upgrade for Your Doors

Choosing the right door blinds can greatly enhance the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your home. When selecting door shades, it's important to consider factors such as material, light control and privacy, energy efficiency, ease of maintenance, cost, and installation. Also, be sure to choose blinds that are suitable for your specific door type.

If you're still having a hard time deciding on which door blinds to go for, you can always reach out to Factory Direct Blinds.

At Factory Direct Blinds, we offer a wide range of high-quality products that can fit any budget and style, so you don't have to worry about spending a fortune to achieve the look you desire.

Our team of experts is always ready to help you find the perfect match for your home. Don't hesitate to get in touch and take the first step in transforming your home!

FAQs

What kind of blinds are good for doors?

There are several types of blinds that are good for doors, and the choice ultimately depends on the type of door you have and your personal preferences.

Vertical blinds or panel track blinds are often chosen for sliding glass doors, while cellular shades or Roman shades are frequently used for French doors. Vertical blinds or solar shades are commonly used for patio doors, and pleated blinds or honeycomb shades are often used for bi-fold doors. Mini blinds, enclosed blinds, or magnetic blinds are the go-to choices for door windows.

How do I know which blinds to get?

Choosing the right blinds depends on several factors, such as the type of door or window you have, your budget, your desired level of light control and privacy, and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve in your home. It's important to consider the functionality and style of different types of blinds before making a decision.

It can also be helpful to consult with a professional or browse through samples and swatches to get a better idea of what would work best for your space.

How do you measure for door blinds?

Measuring for door blinds ensures a proper fit and desired look.

For sliding glass doors and patio doors, measure the width and height of the glass panel and add a few inches on each side for the blinds to overlap and cover the frame. French doors, on the other hand, require you to measure the width and height of the glass pane and add a few inches on each side and the bottom for the blinds to fully cover the glass and frame.

With bi-fold doors, measure the width and height of each individual panel and add a few inches on each side and the top for the blinds to fully cover the panel. A door window blind can be measured through the width and height of the glass pane while making sure that the chosen blind style will fit within the depth of the window frame.

Regardless of the door type, it's always best to double-check your measurements before placing an order to avoid any errors and ensure a proper fit. 

What's the best blinds for patio doors?

The best blinds for patio doors are typically vertical blinds or solar shades. Vertical blinds are a popular choice for their ability to control light and provide privacy, as well as their durability and ease of use. 

Solar shades are another great option for patio doors, as they offer UV protection, privacy, and the ability to reduce glare and heat from the sun. They are available in various openness levels, which determine how much light is let in and can be motorized for added convenience.