Plantation Shutters for Sliding Glass Doors: Pros, Cons, and Cost Comparison

Sliding glass doors are a great way to bring natural light and outdoor views into your home. However, they can also pose some challenges when choosing the right window treatments. You want something that can provide privacy, light control, insulation, and style but also allow easy access to the door. One option that can meet all these criteria is plantation shutters.

Plantation shutters are window coverings with horizontal louvers mounted on a frame. They can be opened or closed by tilting the louvers or sliding or folding the panels. Plantation shutters can be made from various materials, such as wood, faux wood, vinyl, or PVC. They can also be customized to fit any size and shape of windows, including sliding glass doors.

But are plantation shutters the best choice for your sliding glass doors? What are the pros and cons of this option? And how much do they cost compared to other alternatives? This article will answer these questions and help you decide if plantation shutters are right for you.

Pros of Plantation Shutters for Sliding Glass Doors

Here are some of the benefits of installing plantation shutters on your sliding glass doors:

• Enhances the value of your home: Plantation shutters are considered a permanent fixture that can increase the resale value of your home. They are also attractive and elegant, adding a touch of sophistication and class to your interior design.
• You can choose your preferred aesthetic quality: Plantation shutters come in various colors, finishes, styles, and sizes. You can choose the one that matches your taste and complements your décor. Depending on how much light and view you want to let in, you can opt for different louver sizes, ranging from 2.5 inches to 4.5 inches.
• Wooden plantation shutters provide insulation: Wood is a natural insulator that can help reduce heat loss or gain through your sliding glass doors. This can lower your energy bills and make your home more comfortable in summer and winter. Wood also absorbs sound, creating a quieter and more peaceful environment.
• Hardwood plantation shutters are built to last: Hardwood is a durable and strong material that can withstand wear and tear over time. Unlike other materials that may warp, crack, fade, or peel, hardwood plantation shutters can maintain their shape and appearance for years with proper care and maintenance.
• Faux wood plantation shutters resist fading from UV light and moisture: If you prefer a more affordable option than hardwood, faux wood plantation shutters are a good alternative. Faux wood is made from composite materials that mimic the look and feel of real wood but have some advantages over it. Faux wood plantation shutters resist fading from UV light and moisture, making them ideal for humid or sunny areas. They are also easier to clean and maintain than real wood.

Cons of Plantation Shutters for Sliding Glass Doors

Here are some of the drawbacks of installing plantation shutters on your sliding glass doors:

• They can be expensive: Plantation shutters are one of the most costly window treatments. The cost depends on several factors, such as the shutters’ material, size, style, and installation. On average, you can expect to pay between $20 to $45 per square foot for plantation shutters. A standard sliding glass door measuring 72 inches by 80 inches would cost $720 to $1,620 for the shutters alone.
• They can block some views: Plantation shutters offer great light control and privacy, but they also block some views when closed or partially open. Even when fully open, the panels or frames may obstruct some of the scenery outside. If you want to enjoy an unobstructed view of your backyard or patio, there may be better options than plantation shutters.
• They can be difficult to operate: Depending on the style and size of your plantation shutters, they can be challenging to open and close. There are two main options for sliding glass doors for plantation shutters: bi-fold or bypass. Bi-fold shutters fold in half like a closet door and open to one side of the opening. Bypass shutters slide on a track behind or in front of each other and open to both sides of the opening. Both options require effort and space, which may need to be more convenient and comfortable for some people.

Cost Comparison of Plantation Shutters for Sliding Glass Doors

To give you an idea of how much plantation shutters cost compared to other window treatments for sliding glass doors, here are some estimates based on the average prices of different products:

• Plantation shutters: $720 to $1,620 for a 72-inch by 80-inch sliding glass door
• Vertical blinds: $250 to $400 for a 72-inch by 80-inch sliding glass door
• Cellular shades: $300 to $600 for a 72-inch by 80-inch sliding glass door
• Roller shades: $200 to $400 for a 72-inch by 80-inch sliding glass door
• Curtains: $100 to $300 for a 72-inch by 80-inch sliding glass door

As you can see, plantation shutters are significantly more expensive than other window treatments for sliding glass doors. However, they also offer more value, quality, and functionality benefits. Ultimately, the choice depends on your budget, preference, and needs.

Conclusion

Plantation shutters are a versatile and attractive option for sliding glass doors. They can provide your home privacy, light control, insulation, and style. However, they can also be costly, obstructive, and difficult to operate. Before installing plantation shutters on your sliding glass doors, weigh the pros and cons and compare the costs with other alternatives. This way, you can make an informed decision that suits your home and lifestyle.