gliding glass doors offer beautiful panoramic views and seamless indoor-out flow. But dressing these large swaths of glass can be a decor dilemma. Enter: grommet curtains. With their modern aesthetic and flexible hanging options, grommet curtains are a chic solution for stylishly showcasing sliding glass doors while still allowing customized control over light, views, and privacy.
Below we’ll unpack everything you need to know to pick, hang, and style on-trend grommet curtains that complement both your sliders and your personal decor taste.
What Are Grommet Curtains?
Unlike traditional rod pocket curtains, grommet curtains feature a series of metal grommets or eyelets along the top edge instead of rod pockets. The grommets allow the curtains to be easily hung using decorative hooks that slide through the holes to connect the curtain to a rod or track system.
Benefits of Grommet Curtains
There are several advantages that make grommets an ideal pick for window treatments:
- Sleek, Modern Look – Grommets lend a clean, contemporary style.
- Ease of Hanging – No need to thread rods through pockets.
- Accommodate Different Mounting Types – Work with various rods and track systems.
Common Grommet Curtain Fabrics
Grommet curtains are available in a spectrum of fabrics like:
- Cotton
- Linen
- Faux Silk
- Velvet
- Blackout
- Thermal
Why Grommets For Sliding Glass Doors?
Several specific advantages make grommets an optimal pick for dressing sliding glass doors:
Smooth Movement
As sliders are opened and closed, grommet curtains elegantly glide along the rods or curtain tracks mounted above or alongside the doors. This allows for an unencumbered passageway without struggling with curtains caught in the door path.
Flexible Hanging
Grommets accommodate diverse hanging configurations, making them versatile for the unique span of sliding glass doors. Extendable traverse rods or ceiling mounts allow the curtains to be drawn open fully when the sliders are open.
Light & Privacy Control
Layering grommet curtain panels allows customized control over both privacy and light filtration. Sheers let daylight stream in while thicker opaque liners block direct sun and views when closed.
Hanging Grommet Curtains on Sliders
Specialized extendable curtain rods and ceiling-mounted track systems are made specifically for spanning the width of sliding glass doors. Here’s how to pick the right system and get your grommets hung.
Measure Carefully
Precisely measuring the height and width of your sliding glass door opening is crucial for proper installation. Keep the doors in the closed position when measuring for the most accurate opening width. Account for height adjustments to hang curtains above the door frame or extend all the way to the floor.
Rods vs Tracks for Sliding Doors
Both curtain rods and ceiling-mounted tracks allow grommet curtains to glide smoothly along sliding door openings. Rods may provide quicker DIY installation but tracks hide hardware for a cleaner aesthetic once mounted.
Installation Tips
Follow manufacturer instructions for seamless mounting. For rods, securely install supporting brackets evenly across the top before laying the rod. With tracks, pre-drill guide holes before fastening the track ends and scroll brackets into ceiling studs for sturdy support.
Styling Grommet Curtains on Sliders
Once your grommet curtains are hung, it’s time for the fun part–choose complementary styles and accessories to showcase your doors and tie together your decor.
Curtain Style Options
Consider floor length panels for dramatic flair or cafe length for more light. Or try layering sheer and opaque liners for the best of both worlds. For wide door openings, hang two panels in the center with decorative mid-wall brackets.
Color Pairings
Choose curtain colors that coordinate with or match your door frames and surrounding room decor. Contrasting hues can make the doors pop while monochromatic palettes lend visual continuity.
Accent With Additional Decor
Weave in complementary window treatments like side panels or valances. Incorporate pillows, area rugs and artwork featuring curtain fabric colors and patterns to pull the whole space together.
Keeping Grommets Closed Over Sliding Glass
Specialty hardware keeps grommet curtains in place while allowing slider functionality.
Door Stops & Holds
Grommet curtain holdbacks like decorative tiebacks keep the curtains pulled away from the door opening. Door stops and magnetic curtain catches also prevent curtains from drifting back over open sliders.
Connecting Set Panels
Connect overlapping two-panel grommet curtain sets using velcro, ties, or snaps at the middle to temporarily keep them centered in place over closed sliding doors.
Grommet Curtain Considerations
Here are a few additional factors when selecting and caring for your sliding door grommet curtains:
Durability
Look for thick, high-quality fabrics like canvas, linen, or velvet that resist sun damage and everyday wear-and-tear. Take care not to pull curtains askew to preserve grommet holes over time.
Cleaning
Check fabric tags for washing instructions. Most can be gently machine washed and line dried. Touch up wrinkles by steaming or pressing inside out with medium heat.
Cost Comparison
Price varies by fabric and quality. Panel sets range from $20 – $150 with rods/tracks as separate purchases. Still an affordable option compared to custom treatments.
With benefits like smooth gliding functionality, light filtering layers and chic metal grommet details, it’s easy to see why grommet curtain style offers form and function as a sliding glass door treatment. Their clean lines complement both modern and traditional spaces while allowing those stunning views to still take center stage when the sliders are open.
Bring your indoor-outdoor aesthetic together by pairing easy-sliding grommet curtains with gorgeous glass walls to frame your unique living space.
Energy Efficiency
Grommet curtains can also have thermal properties that make them energy-efficient. These curtains can help regulate the temperature in a room, reducing the need for air conditioning or heating during extreme weather conditions. This feature can save homeowners money on their energy bills over time.
Durability
Grommet curtains are made with high-quality materials that ensure their durability. They can withstand frequent use and washing without losing their shape or color. This feature is especially important for sliding glass doors, which may require more frequent cleaning and maintenance than traditional windows.
Versatility
Grommet curtains come in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and materials, making them a versatile choice for any decor style. They can complement the design of a room and add a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Easy Maintenance
Grommet curtains are easy to maintain as they can be machine-washed and dried. This feature eliminates the need for dry cleaning or professional cleaning services, saving homeowners time and money.
Noise Reduction
Grommet curtains can also help reduce noise levels in a room, making them an ideal choice for homes located in busy or noisy areas. They can effectively block out external noise, providing a peaceful and quiet living environment.
Customizable
Grommet curtains offer customizable options, including different lengths, widths, and hardware finishes. Homeowners can choose the perfect length and width for their sliding glass doors, ensuring a perfect fit. Additionally, the hardware finishes, such as grommets, can be customized to match the decor style of a room.
Light Control
Grommet curtains offer excellent light control, allowing homeowners to choose between sheer, opaque, or semi-opaque options. This feature provides the flexibility to adjust the amount of light entering a room, depending on personal preference.
Easy Installation
Grommet curtains are easy to install, requiring only a few simple steps. Homeowners can install them themselves, saving money on professional installation services.
Grommet curtains can also enhance the security of a home. When drawn closed, they provide an additional layer of privacy and security, deterring unwanted intruders.
