There are a few important considerations when deciding what to put on a back door window. The main goals are usually to allow natural light in, maintain some privacy, keep out the elements, and enhance security. The best options will balance all of these factors. Some quick things to think about are whether you want transparent, translucent, or opaque window treatments, if you need them to be insulating, whether they should open and close or be fixed, and your budget. Read on for more in-depth information about the most common back door window treatment options.
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Quick Answer: Blinds, Shades, Shutters, or Curtains
The most popular window treatments for back doors are blinds, shades, shutters, or curtains. Here’s a quick overview:
Blinds – Made of slats of vinyl, wood, faux wood, or aluminum that adjust to control light and privacy. Good options for security and insulation.
Shades – Use a single piece of opaque, translucent, or semi-transparent fabric to block light and views. Easy to operate and insulate well.
Shutters – Hinged panels made of wood, composite, or vinyl that fully cover the window. Very customizable for control and security.
Curtains – Fabric window treatments on a rod for a soft, elegant look. Sheer curtains provide some privacy while allowing light in.
Important Factors to Consider
When choosing window treatments for a back door, here are some key factors to keep in mind:
Privacy
Back doors often look out onto private yard or patio areas. Opaque shades or shutters provide the most privacy. Sheer curtains allow light in while obscuring views. Adjustable blinds or shutters can be closed tightly when needed.
Security
Window coverings that lock or latch provide an extra layer of security on vulnerable back doors. Shutters, impact-resistant blinds, and security screens can help deter intruders. Avoid coverings that could be easily removed from the outside.
Insulation
Energy efficient window treatments will help reduce heat loss in winter and block the sun’s rays in summer. Cellular shades, shutters, and thermal blinds with double layers help insulate windows. Low emissivity window films also help reduce heat transfer.
Natural Light
Due to their southern exposure, back doors require window treatments that allow warm natural light in when desired. Sheer shades, adjustable blinds, and curtain panels allow the most light flow. Reflective cellular shades can also brighten rooms.
Visibility
While privacy is often desired, visibility can also be important for security, monitoring pets or kids in the yard, etc. Adjustable covers like shutters and blinds allow you to control visibility and open sight lines when needed.
Moisture Resistance
Back doors often endure a lot of moisture from rain, humidity, snow, and irrigation systems. Look for window treatments made of moisture-resistant materials like vinyl, composite wood, or aluminum to prevent warping, discoloration, and damage.
Top Options for Back Door Windows
Vinyl or Composite Shutters
Vinyl and composite shutters are durable, moisture-resistant options perfect for back doors exposed to the elements. They provide excellent privacy, security, and insulation. Composite shutters offer realistic wood texture. Panels tilt or swing open for adjustable light and airflow.
Pros:
- Very durable and moisture-resistant
- Provide security, privacy, and insulation
- Low-maintenance
- Customizable colors and shapes
Cons:
- More expensive than some other options
- Do not allow much visibility
- Can sustain damage if impacted
Cellular Shades
Cellular shades are made of pleated, honeycomb-shaped fabric layers that trap air to insulate. Light filtering and room darkening opacities available. Cordless and motorized versions make them easy to use.
Pros:
- Provide excellent insulation
- Fabric is durable and moisture-resistant
- Light filtering options still allow visibility
- Cordless operation safe for kids and pets
Cons:
- Do not provide as much security as shutters
- Fabric can sustain water damage if weeping occurs
- Cordless shades harder to operate on larger windows
Smart Blinds
Smart blinds connect to home automation systems like Alexa or Google Home for voice or app control. Remote operation is helpful for hard-to-reach back door windows. Smart glass options like electrochromics provide electronic privacy control.
Pros:
- Convenient control from anywhere
- Automation features like scheduling, timers, grouping
- Smart glass options do not block light when open
- Alexa, Google Home, or app compatibility
Cons:
- More expensive than regular blinds
- Require power source and WiFi connection
- App connectivity issues can occur
- Do not provide insulation benefits
Exterior Roller Shutters
Exterior roller shutters provide a layer of weatherproofing and security right on the exterior of windows. They roll down and latch in place to completely cover and protect the window. Manual or electric operation available.
Pros:
- Maximum protection from weather and security threats
- Completely black out light when closed
- Provide excellent insulation
- Durable aluminum and steel construction
Cons:
- More expensive than interior options
- Can sustain damage from wind, hail, etc.
- Require professional installation
- May require upkeep over time
Compare Back Door Window Treatment Options
| Type | Privacy | Security | Light Control | Insulation | Visibility | Moisture Resistance | Initial Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl or Composite Shutters | Excellent | Excellent | Total blackout | Excellent | Very little when closed | Excellent | $$$ |
| Cellular Shades | Good | Minimal | Adjustable | Excellent | Light filtering visibility | Good | $$ |
| Smart Blinds | Adjustable | Minimal | Adjustable | Minimal | When open | Fair | $$$$ |
| Exterior Roller Shutters | Total blackout | Excellent | Total blackout | Excellent | None when closed | Excellent | $$$$$ |
Conclusion
For back door windows, the key is finding the right balance of light control, visibility, privacy, insulation, security, and moisture resistance based on your needs and budget. Cellular shades offer an affordable way to get good insulation and light control. Composite shutters are very durable, secure options when fully closed. Smart blinds add high-tech convenience. Exterior roller shutters provide the ultimate protection. Take the time to carefully evaluate your priorities to select the optimal back door window solutions for your home. With some smart choices, you can keep your back entryway bright, cozy, private, and secure.