Patio doors provide a beautiful connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, letting in natural light while offering easy access to gardens, balconies, or terraces. However, choosing the right window covering for patio doors can be challenging. Shutters are a stylish, durable, and practical solution that enhances privacy, insulation, and aesthetics.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best shutter styles for patio doors, their benefits, and a detailed cost breakdown to help you make an informed choice.
1. Why Choose Shutters for Patio Doors?
Shutters are a premium alternative to blinds and curtains for patio doors. Here’s why they stand out:
✅ Superior Light Control – Adjustable slats allow you to control the amount of light entering the room.
✅ Enhanced Privacy – Unlike sheer curtains, shutters offer complete privacy when closed.
✅ Energy Efficiency – Acts as an insulator, keeping your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
✅ Durability – Shutters are long-lasting and less prone to damage compared to fabric blinds.
✅ Low Maintenance – Easy to clean with a simple wipe-down, making them ideal for busy households.
2. Best Shutter Styles for Patio Doors
a) Full-Height Plantation Shutters
???? Best for: French patio doors, sliding doors
???? Features: Covers the entire door for maximum privacy and light control
???? Pros: Stylish, durable, and excellent for insulation
???? Cons: Requires space to fully open
Full-height shutters are one of the most popular choices for patio doors. They provide a sophisticated look and work well in both modern and traditional interiors.
b) Bi-Fold Shutters
???? Best for: Wide patio doors, sliding doors
???? Features: Folds neatly to the side, offering full access to the doorway
???? Pros: Saves space, stylish, allows full door exposure
???? Cons: Can be more expensive due to additional hardware
Bi-fold shutters are ideal if you frequently open your patio doors and need an unobstructed view when they’re fully folded back.
c) Track System Shutters
???? Best for: Large patio doors, sliding glass doors
???? Features: Moves along a track for smooth operation
???? Pros: Perfect for covering wide doors, easy to operate
???? Cons: Requires a track installation, limiting some design flexibility
Track shutters glide effortlessly, making internal shutters them an excellent solution for large, floor-to-ceiling patio doors.
d) Café-Style Shutters
???? Best for: French doors, patio doors that require partial privacy
???? Features: Covers only the lower half of the door, leaving the top exposed
???? Pros: Allows natural light while maintaining privacy
???? Cons: Limited light control compared to full-height shutters
Café-style shutters are a charming and budget-friendly choice, ideal for homes where natural light is a priority.
3. Cost Breakdown of Patio Door Shutters (UK Prices)
The price of shutters varies depending on the style, material, size, and installation method. Below is an estimated cost range per square metre:
Shutter Type Cost per m² (UK) Best for
Full-Height Plantation £250 – £600 French & sliding patio doors
Bi-Fold Shutters £350 – £800 Wide patio doors
Track System Shutters £400 – £900 Large sliding glass doors
Café-Style Shutters £150 – £400 Partial privacy needs
Material Cost Comparison
Material Price per m² Pros Cons
MDF (Medium-Density Fibreboard) £150 – £350 Budget-friendly, durable Heavier, fewer colour options
Hardwood (Basswood, Cedar, Oak) £300 – £700 Natural look, premium finish More expensive, needs maintenance
PVC / Vinyl £200 – £500 Water-resistant, great for humid areas Less premium appearance
Installation Costs
DIY Installation: Some suppliers offer self-installation kits, saving on labour costs.
Professional Installation: Costs between £150 – £300 per door, ensuring a perfect fit.
???? Tip: Many companies offer free consultations, so it's worth getting a few quotes before making a decision.
4. Are Patio Door Shutters Worth the Investment?
✅ Pros:
✔ Increases Home Value – Shutters are a long-term investment that adds aesthetic appeal.
✔ Better Insulation – Helps lower energy bills by reducing heat loss in winter.
✔ Enhanced Privacy & Security – More effective than blinds or curtains.
❌ Cons:
✖ Higher Upfront Cost – Shutters are pricier than curtains or blinds.
✖ Permanent Fixture – Unlike blinds, shutters are a more fixed design choice.
Final Thoughts: Should You Get Shutters for Your Patio Doors?
If you’re looking for a stylish, long-lasting, and functional window treatment, shutters are an excellent choice for patio doors. They provide unmatched light control, privacy, and insulation benefits, making them a worthwhile investment.
Whether you opt for full-height, bi-fold, or track shutters, ensure you choose a material and style that suits your home’s decor and budget.