Covering Home Office Glass Doors: Options And Ideas

Glass doors are a great way to let natural light into your home or office, but sometimes you might want more privacy. There are many ways to cover glass doors, from installing curtains or blinds to applying window film or frosting the glass.

Window film is a popular option as it's easy to install, comes in a variety of privacy levels and finishes, and can be removed if your style changes or you move house. You can also buy custom films with elements of your logo or branding.

If you're looking for a more permanent solution, you could consider etching the glass or installing built-in blinds.

Curtains and drapes

Choosing the Right Curtains or Drapes

When selecting curtains or drapes for your home office glass doors, consider the following:

• Functionality: Do you want curtains that can be easily drawn back to access the door, or do you prefer a more stationary option? If privacy is a priority, choose opaque or blackout curtains. For a balance of privacy and natural light, consider sheer curtains.
• Style: Select a colour and pattern that complements the aesthetic of your home office. You can match the curtains to your wall colour for a seamless look or choose a contrasting colour to make a bold statement.
• Size: Ensure that the curtains are long enough to cover the entire glass door. Standard sliding doors are typically 80 inches tall, so opt for curtains that are at least 84 inches long. You can also go for longer curtains and hang them closer to the ceiling to make the room appear taller.

Installing the Curtains or Drapes

• Measure and Mark: Determine the height and width of your glass doors, and mark the spots where you will install the curtain rod brackets. A good rule of thumb is to place the brackets 4-6 inches above the door's top, and leave a distance of 4 to 10 inches on each side of the frame.
• Install Curtain Brackets: If you can't find studs to screw into, you may need to drill drywall anchors into the wall first. Use a power drill to create pilot holes, then screw the brackets into place.
• Check Alignment: Use a carpenter's level to ensure that the brackets are aligned and balanced. Adjust as needed and tighten the screws.
• Add the Curtains: Attach the curtains to the rod, then place the rod onto the installed brackets.

Maintaining and Styling Tips

Once you have installed your curtains or drapes, here are some tips to keep them looking their best:

• Choose curtains made from lightweight and breathable fabrics to allow for proper air circulation and prevent stuffiness in your home office.
• Regularly dust and clean your curtains to prevent the build-up of dirt and grime. Follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer for washing and drying.
• Consider using tiebacks to cinch the curtains to the side, especially if they are in a high-traffic area or near the door handle. This will help keep them off the floor and make it easier to access the door.
• If you have sliding glass doors, opt for curtains on short rods that extend just beyond the doors. This will add style without hindering the functionality of the doors.
• For a more formal look, consider using draperies with valances or cornices. This can enhance the elegance of the room while still providing privacy and light control.

Frosted glass spray paint

Preparation:

Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary materials, including the frosted glass spray paint of your choice, painter's tape, a stencil (optional), and gloves and a mask for protection. It is also important to work in a well-ventilated area to minimise the impact of the spray paint fumes.

Cleaning:

Thoroughly clean the glass surface you will be spraying to ensure that no dust or residue interferes with the coating. You can use a glass cleaner or rubbing alcohol for this step.

Masking:

Use painter's tape to mask off any areas that you do not want to be coated, such as the window frame. If you want to create a pattern or design with your frosted glass, you can also add a stencil at this stage.

Spraying:

Once you have prepared and cleaned the surface, it is time to start spraying! Shake the can of frosted glass spray paint for about a minute, and then apply the coating. Hold the can about 10 to 12 inches away from the surface and apply two or more wet coats a few minutes apart. It is important to keep the can moving during application, using a sweeping back-and-forth motion, to avoid splotches and ensure an even coat.

Drying:

Maintenance:

Once the coating is fully cured, you can clean the glass as you normally would, using standard glass cleaners. Avoid putting the glass in the dishwasher.

Tips and Tricks:

• Practice on a scrap piece of glass or plexiglass before spraying your actual doors to get a feel for the application technique.
• If you are not satisfied with the level of frosted effect after the first coat, you can always add more coats until you achieve the desired look.
• Be mindful of the temperature and humidity conditions when applying the spray paint, as these factors can impact the finish. The ideal temperature range is between 55° F and 75° F, with humidity below 60%.

By following these steps and tips, you can easily transform your home office glass doors with frosted glass spray paint, adding both privacy and style to your space.

Window film

There are a variety of window film options to choose from, including frosted glass, stained glass, and window tint film. Frosted window film gives privacy during the day and at night, and can also be used as a beautiful decorative feature. Stained glass window film turns an ordinary window into a work of art, providing privacy and visual interest. Window tint film, meanwhile, is a great way to add style to your glass doors while also reducing your energy bills in the summer months.

To apply window film, first, thoroughly clean the window with a water-based spray and a sponge to ensure it is free of dirt and debris. Then, measure the window and cut the window film accordingly. If the film has an adhesive back, peel off the protective backing and stick the film to the window. Some films, however, rely solely on static cling. Use a flat edge, such as a credit card, to smooth out any bubbles.

Blinds

Types of Blinds

• Faux wood blinds: These blinds are a great option for a traditional, country, or rustic-style home office. They complement modern or contemporary décor as well and come in a variety of stains and paints to match your style. Faux wood blinds are affordable, durable, and resemble real wood blinds.
• Aluminum blinds: These are lightweight, durable, and easy to clean, making them suitable for high-traffic areas. They come in various colours and widths, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your door.
• Wood blinds: Wood blinds are available in different slat sizes, such as 1" and 2 1/2" widths, and can be purchased with a faux wood finish to resist warping. They enhance the beauty of your doors and match other window treatments in the room.
• Cellular shades: These shades provide energy efficiency for larger windows and have a slim, modern appearance. They come in single or double cells with light-filtering, room-darkening, or blackout options.
• Roman shades: Roman shades offer a sleek and elegant look. They can be installed within the door frame, allowing individual control over each shade. Hold-down brackets can be used to prevent the shades from slapping against the glass when the door is opened or closed.
• Roller shades: Roller shades are perfect for blocking or filtering light and come in various fabrics, including blackout options. They are slim-fitting and can be easily mounted behind door handles.

Considerations for Installation

When installing blinds on home office glass doors, consider the following:

• Mounting options: Blinds for doors will typically be mounted on the outside of the window due to the lack of depth in the door window. Look for blinds that are suitable for outside mounting.
• Door handles: Ensure that the blinds you choose will fit comfortably between the door and any decorative handles. Shallow blinds are a good option to avoid interference with door handles.
• Direction of door opening: For sliding glass doors, it is recommended that the blinds open in the same direction as the door to avoid obstruction.
• Durability: If your home office has high foot traffic, choose a durable blind that can withstand daily use.
• Light control: Consider the amount of light you want to let into your home office. If you prefer complete darkness, opt for blackout roller shades or honeycomb shades. If you want to allow some natural light in, choose light-filtering shades.
• Privacy: Blinds can enhance privacy in your home office, especially if you choose options with one-way visibility, allowing you to see out while preventing others from seeing in.
• Aesthetic: Blinds come in various colours, fabrics, and patterns, allowing you to add colour, texture, and personality to your space. Choose a style that complements the overall aesthetic of your home office.

Shades

Roller Shades

Roller shades are a popular alternative to vertical and horizontal blinds. They provide privacy while adding dimension and texture to windows. Roller shades consist of alternating bands of sheer and opaque or solid fabric attached to a roller, allowing you to control the amount of light entering the room.

Roman Shades

Roman shades are a classic option for standard window blinds. They are made from synthetic fibres or fabrics, such as polyester or cotton, and can be crafted in various colours and styles to match any interior design. Roman shades can be installed inside or outside the window frame and are typically cordless, making them a safe choice for homes with children or pets. They can be raised or lowered by pulling on the bottom rail, allowing for easy adjustability.

Blackout Shades

Blackout shades are designed to block out light completely, making them perfect for rooms where light control is essential, such as bedrooms or media rooms. They are usually made from synthetic fibres or fabrics and can be crafted in various colours and styles to match the room's aesthetic.

Cellular Shades

Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, are a modern and practical alternative to standard window blinds. They are made from recycled materials and offer light-filtering or room-darkening options while still providing privacy. The honeycomb construction creates air chambers that insulate and shield the room from outside heat or cold, helping to lower energy costs. Like Roman shades, cellular shades can be installed inside or outside the window frame.

Sheer Shades

Sheer shades are an excellent option for those who want to maintain the natural light flowing through their glass doors while still adding a layer of privacy. They are light, dainty, and feminine, working beautifully with masculine details or creating a whimsical, romantic feel. Sheer shades also help showcase the beautiful architecture of the doors.

Frequently asked questions