How to Cover Glass Doors For Privacy [6 Awesome Ideas]

Do you have beautiful glass doors but need some privacy from the outside world? Or, maybe you have some French doors into your bedroom and would like more privacy there. We have researched and have many options to help you achieve your goal!

Using a privacy film on glass doors will allow the privacy you need and can also add some beauty. The film comes in many different designs and can also include one that allows you to see out but not in. There is also a multitude of different curtains and window treatments you may want to use on your glass doors.

  • One Way Privacy Film
  • Stained Glass or Frosted Window Film
  • Glass Paint
  • Etching Cream
  • Curtains 
  • Blinds

Keep reading to find out what different ideas you can use to keep your glass doors beautiful and private. We will discuss the different films and great window treatments available to you!

A gorgeous empty living room with a black mantel fireplace, wooden flooring, glass sliding doors and windows, How to Cover Glass Doors For Privacy [6 Awesome Ideas]

Window Film

A modern small house with a glass door with frost for privacy

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Let's discuss different types of window films, how to install them, and what they look like when finished.

One Way Privacy Film

One way privacy film not only provides great privacy, but it also has a lot of other great benefits. In the summer it blocks UV rays which help prevent the fading of furniture and also reduces harm to the skin. While blocking out sun rays, this film creates a more cool and comfortable room temperature, as well. This particular film, shown above, has no adhesive and clings by static only. This means less mess, easier to install, and can be removed easily. All you need are a ruler and scissors to measure and cut the film.

Stained Glass or Frosted Film

A glass French door with cool designs on the glass

Who doesn't love a beautiful stained-glass window! Many window films come in different designs and textures. Perhaps you would like beautiful flowers with the color of stained-glass windows. Or you could do a plain frosted glass with no design. These types of film can be put on the window with adhesive or they can also be static cling. It is all in your preference or the look of the room.

Steps for Applying Window Film

  1. Thoroughly Clean the window free of dirt and debris.
  2. Make sure the window is completely dry.
  3. Measure the pieces of film to the window and cut accordingly.
  4. Peel off the backing to stick to the window if the film has an adhesive back. Static cling film may also have a backing but no adhesive.
  5. Line up the film to the window and push down to smooth out. Use a squeegee to smooth out any bubbles.

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Glass Paint

Glass paint adheres directly to the class and is a permanent privacy solution. It also has the ability to block harmful UV rays just as certain films may be able to do. This paint still allows natural lighting through the windows. Using glass paint is very simple. Thoroughly clean the window and make sure it is dry. Paint or spray on one even coat of the paint and allow to dry. If you chose, you can add another layer for a darker window. Each coat takes about 2 hours to fully dry. This paint comes in different colors as well as just a regular frost.

Watch the above video on YouTube.com to see how you can use frosted glass paint on your glass doors for additional privacy.

Etching Cream

Etching cream can also be known as acid cream. It is fairly cheap for a bottle, however, you do need a good bit to do windows. This would be a great cream to use if you are only doing a small area of a window or door. You can apply it to stencil as well to add a bit more character to your glass doors. After applying the cream with a sponge, cloth, or brush, wait about twenty minutes for it to dry. Wipe the glass clean with a clean dry cloth and look how beautiful it turned out!

Curtains

A glass door etched with a floral pattern

If you want to avoid the mess by applying window film or even paint, curtains are the best bet for privacy on glass doors. This keeps the glass clear to look out of when you would like. All you need to do is pick out your curtain rods, curtains, and put them up! You can choose to have on single curtain hanging from a rod, a rod at the top and bottom, or have 2 separate rods for a pair of curtains. You could even add a valance to the top for a more proper look. Curtains also allow you to block out light and UV rays as well.

Blinds

Wooden window shutter blind with light from sun

Blinds are another good way to keep your privacy. You can get them in wood, cloth, or plastic. Cloth blinds are also known as Roman shades. There are ones that block out light as well if you would like. With easy installation, you can have them up in minutes with some brackets, screws, and a drill. After installation, all you need to do is pull them up to see out of the glass and let them down for more privacy in your home. Plastic and wood are easier to clean while they remain hanging. However, the cloth can be wiped down or even completely washed in a washing machine.

Can you frost a glass door?

Glass frosted door with a metal handle

Yes, you can frost a glass door. You can use an etching cream or a special glass paint to create the frosted effect. If you do not want to use those two options, you can use a frosted window film for the same look.

What can I put on my windows so I can see out, but no one can see in?

Installing window film in the office

One way privacy film, as listed above, is the best choice. You can see outside, and the people outside cannot see in. It can be an adhesive film or static film. Just measure it, cut it to the size of your window or door, and instant privacy!

How can I keep light in but gain privacy?

Frosted window film application

We highly recommend using a frosted window film or glass paint. This is a great way to allow natural light to flow through the windows but also block out people from seeing into your home or specific room.

Does it matter which way you turn your blinds?

Usually, this is a personal preference. However, if you want more privacy, it is suggested to turn them up so that people outside cannot see in. You also have better light control when they are up. In the winter keep the blind's rounded side out. This allows heat to come in from the sun. In the summer, do the opposite to allow heat to disperse.

What window coverings are best for sliding glass doors?

There are a few options for sliding glass doors. Given that they open in the same direction as sliding doors, vertical blinds are a classic choice for sliding doors.  In addition, they are sturdy and simple to clean. Or you can use a curtain rod above the door and have curtain panels hanging from it. These curtains would just be pulled to the side when you want to open the door or allow sunlight to come through.

Do French doors need curtains?

If you want privacy at any point in time, then yes, we suggest curtains. You can also use window film or glass paint if you would like. Some people have glass doors in their home and only use a valance at the top of the door. It depends on what you would like the aesthetic to be in the room and if you want others looking into your home or room from outside.

In Closing

There are many different ways to cover glass doors to allow for privacy. Curtains can be a great idea for privacy. They are not permanent. You can also use a variety of window films from stained glass to just a plain frosty look. These allow light in and provide some privacy to you and your family. Blinds are also another great, easy option for your glass doors!

Do you have more questions about glass doors in your home? Check out these great articles below!

How to Fix MisAligned French Doors?

What is the Best Door For a House Interior?

FAQs

How can I cover my glass window?

You can use privacy films and frosted spray paint. These are affordable options to cover a window without blocking light. Curtains and blinds are a better option when you want more control over your windows.

How can I cover my windows cheaply?

The following are some options you can use to cover your windows cheaply:

- Curtains or drapes that you can find at a discount store or second-hand shop.

- Install roller shades, which are easy to install and relatively inexpensive.

- Find adhesive window films. These can be purchased for a fraction of the cost of replacing windows.

- Use fabric to make your own window treatments, such as valances, shades, or curtains.

How do you make glass windows private?

Frostbrite frosted window film remains an incredibly popular choice for making clear glass into privacy glass. Once applied, the film gives glazing the appearance of acid etched glass or frosted glass, blocking the view from both sides of the glass without blocking natural light.

What can I put on my windows so I can see out but no one can see in?

Blackout window film.

Just like it sounds, it's black and efficiently blocks the light coming in through your windows.

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