Are Shutters a Good Choice for Patio Doors?
Shutters are a great window furnishing option, known for their clean lines, durability, and versatility. They suit everything from classic to contemporary interiors, which makes them an all-time favourite. But while most homeowners picture shutters on windows, the bigger question is: are shutters a good choice for patio doors?
Patio and sliding glass doors come with unique challenges. They’re wide, high-traffic entryways that need coverings balancing style, practicality, and functionality. This is where shutters shine, offering durability, insulation, and light control. Still, the right choice depends on the type of shutter and how it’s installed.
Can You Install Shutters on a Sliding Glass Door?
Absolutely. Shutters can be installed on sliding glass doors, and when designed with the right system, they become a seamless and practical feature in your home. Unlike curtains or vertical blinds, shutters are built to withstand daily use in high-traffic areas like patios.
However, professional installation is essential.
Sliding glass doors require precision to ensure shutters operate smoothly without obstructing access. When properly mounted on track systems, shutters glide effortlessly, offering both convenience and elegance.
In terms of investment, shutters cost more upfront compared to blinds or curtains, but their longevity, energy efficiency, and timeless appeal make them a smart choice for homeowners seeking lasting value.
Plantation Shutters for Sliding Glass Doors
Plantation shutters are the most popular style for patio doors thanks to their classic look and versatility. Unlike standard hinged shutters, plantation shutters for sliding doors are typically mounted on a track system, which allows them to operate without interfering with the door’s function.
There are three main configurations to choose from:
- Bypass Shutters – Panels slide past one another on parallel tracks.
- Bi-fold Shutters – Panels fold open accordion-style, stacking neatly to the side.
- Glideshift Shutters – Panels glide smoothly along a track but can also tilt independently, offering flexible light and privacy control without having to move the whole panel.
These styles bring unique advantages, depending on the space and access you need.
Motorised Shutters for Patio Doors
Motorised shutters are a modern option designed for homeowners who want maximum convenience, accessibility, and smart-home compatibility. Available in both plantation and roller designs, they allow you to control your shutters with the push of a button, a wall switch, a remote, or even an app.
- Ease of Use: Perfect for tall, wide, or hard-to-reach sliding doors.
- Smart Control: Can be integrated into home automation systems, enabling scheduling or voice commands.
- Reduced Wear: Smooth, automated operation helps minimise strain on shutters, extending their lifespan.
- Accessibility: An excellent solution for people with mobility challenges.
While motorised shutters involve a higher upfront cost and require a power source, they add undeniable comfort and a touch of luxury to everyday living.
Space & Access
- Bypass Shutters: Ideal for smaller spaces or where furniture placement is close to the doors. Panels glide along tracks and stay aligned with the wall, but you can only open half of the doorway at a time.
- Bi-fold Shutters: Perfect for wide openings, they fold back to expose the full doorway, maximising access and airflow.
- Glideshift Shutters: Offer a hybrid advantage—you can slide panels to access the door while still adjusting the louvres independently. This makes them especially practical for homeowners who want both flexibility and convenience.
Durability & Longevity
One of the strongest selling points of plantation shutters is their durability. Whether crafted from hardwood timber or composite materials, shutters are built to withstand daily use, making them especially suitable for high-traffic doors.
- Timber shutters add natural warmth and a premium look but require careful maintenance in humid or sunny areas.
- Poly shutters are engineered to resist fading, warping, and moisture damage, making them virtually maintenance-free.
Compared to blinds that may bend or curtains that fade and fray, shutters are a long-term solution, often lasting decades with minimal upkeep.
Light & Privacy Control
Another major advantage of plantation shutters is the level of control they offer. Adjustable slats (or louvres) allow you to fine-tune natural light and privacy throughout the day.
- Tilt them open for filtered sunlight.
- Close them completely for privacy and darkness.
- Angle them to block UV rays while keeping airflow.
Shutters also contribute to energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer through glass doors, helping keep interiors cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Their ability to minimise UV exposure also protects flooring and furniture from fading.
Can Roller Shutters Go Over Sliding Doors?
Yes, roller shutters can be fitted over sliding doors, but they serve a very different purpose compared to plantation shutters. Roller shutters are mounted externally and roll down over the glass, creating a barrier that enhances:
- Security: Acting as a physical shield against intruders.
- Energy Efficiency: Insulating your doors against heat, cold, and noise.
- Light & Privacy Control: Offering complete blackout when lowered.
While roller shutters are less decorative and don’t provide the same interior design statement as plantation shutters, they are highly functional. For homeowners prioritising energy savings, noise reduction, and security, outdoor roller shutters are worth considering.
Choose the Right Shutters for Sliding Glass Doors
| Shutter Type | Best For | Light & Privacy Control | Space & Access | Key Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bypass Plantation | Small or compact spaces | Adjustable slats for precise control | Panels slide past each other; half-door access | Space-saving, neat look, durable | Only one side can be opened at a time |
| Bi-fold Plantation | Wide openings, entertaining spaces | Adjustable slats, full light management | Panels fold back fully; maximises doorway access | Excellent airflow, great for indoor-outdoor flow | Needs space for panels to stack |
| Glideshift Plantation | Versatility and convenience | Independent louvre tilt with sliding | Panels glide smoothly while louvers tilt separately | Hybrid flexibility: easy access + light control | More complex mechanism; higher cost |
| Roller Shutters | Security, insulation, maximum privacy | Full blackout when lowered | External mount; rolls up and down | Energy-efficient, noise reduction, security | Less decorative; mainly functional |
| Motorised Shutters | Modern homes, convenience, accessibility | Remote/app-controlled louvre adjustment | Can be combined with bypass, bi-fold, or roller systems | Effortless operation, smart-home compatible | Higher upfront cost; requires power source |
Before committing to shutters, weigh these important factors to ensure you pick the best style for your home:
Privacy & Light Control
Plantation shutters with adjustable slats allow fine-tuned control, while roller shutters provide complete blackout. Consider your lifestyle—do you want natural light filtered in, or maximum privacy?
Energy Efficiency & Insulation
Both plantation and roller shutters improve insulation. Plantation shutters reduce heat and UV exposure indoors, while roller shutters add an extra layer of external protection, cutting down on energy bills.
Material Choice
- Timber: Timeless and elegant, best for controlled indoor climates.
- Composite: Resistant to moisture, heat, and fading—ideal for busy households and outdoor-facing doors.
Style & Functionality
- pass Plantation Shutters: Best for compact spaces.
- Bi-fold Plantation Shutters: Perfect for wide openings and entertaining.
- Glideshift Plantation Shutters: A versatile hybrid option that allows sliding access and independent louvre control, giving the best of both worlds.
- Roller Shutters: Functional, secure, and energy-efficient, though less decorative.
Transform Your Patio Doors with Aurora:
The Shutter Experts in Canberra
Looking to upgrade your sliding or French doors with shutters that combine style, durability, and functionality? At Aurora, we specialise in custom plantation and roller shutters designed to fit your home perfectly. Our team will help you choose the right style—whether bypass, bi-fold, glideshift, or roller—and handle the installation with precision.
