Roll-Up Treatments for French Door Windows

Cellular Shades

• Cellular or honeycomb shades are ideal coverings for French doors. These fabric window treatments are sewn with empty pockets of air running parallel to their seams, resembling a honeycomb. Constructed of a minimum of two fabric layers, cellular shades are energy efficient. When your shades are pulled down, pockets of air are created between the layers of fabric, helping insulate the room. The number and size of the cells as well as the fabric thickness and weave determine their insulation and privacy level. Cellular shades also help in reducing outside noise.

Roman Shades

• Roman shades installed on a French door can be fully rolled up in the daytime and lowered at night. These fabric shades can also partially cover the glass, pulling the top half of the shade down or raising the bottom of the shade halfway up. Roman shades are available in assorted fabric colors, patterns and textures. The shades have an attractive, pleated look, adding a modern touch to any décor. Room darkening, privacy liners are available for many Roman shades.

Natural Blinds

• Natural blinds help bring the outdoors inside. Manufactured from natural materials, such as bamboo, rattan, grasses and reeds, these blinds impart a tranquil ambiance. A light-filtering or blackout liner is an additional option. Color choices range from browns, blacks, tans, reds and greens, depending on the plant's natural pigment and grain. Fold-over valances provide a decorative addition, giving blinds a more polished appearance. These blinds roll up from the bottom, covering as much of the glass door as desired.

Considerations

• Safety is a top priority when installing roll-up window treatments for your French doors. Keep blind and shade cords out of the reach of children and pets. Cordless or remote-controlled blinds and shades are available options. The street view of your window treatments is also a consideration before making your color and fabric selection. Blue shades may look great on the inside of the room but consider how well they would complement your home's exterior.