How to Cover Front Door Windows: Stylish and Practical Solutions

Your front door is one of the first things visitors see when they come to your home, and while the windows in your front door can be an attractive feature, they often raise concerns about privacy, security, and even energy efficiency. Whether you’re looking for a way to boost privacy, reduce glare, or add a touch of style, this guide will walk you through some effective and aesthetically pleasing options for covering front door windows.

Why Cover Front Door Windows?

Before diving into the “how,” let’s first talk about the “why.” Covering windows on your front door can be essential for:

• Privacy: You don’t want passersby to see directly into your home. This is one of the main reasons 
• Security: Uncovered windows make it easier for potential intruders to assess what’s inside.
• Energy Efficiency: Heat loss through glass can drive up energy costs.
• Aesthetics: Covering front door windows can give your entryway a fresh, polished look.

The good news? There are solutions for all these concerns that are simple to install and don’t compromise your home’s curb appeal.

How to Cover Front Door Windows

Option 1: Decorative Window Film

One of the easiest and most versatile solutions for covering your front door windows is decorative window film. This option has become increasingly popular among DIY homeowners due to its affordability, ease of installation, and broad range of designs.

Why Choose Decorative Window Film?

• Privacy: Frosted or patterned window film offers excellent privacy while still allowing natural light to filter in. Decorative films are typically opaque, so they will provide both day and nighttime privacy.
• Easy DIY Installation: Most films are simple to install. With good instructions, a squeegee, and a steady hand, you can achieve professional-looking results.
• UV Protection: Quality decorative films, such as Concord Window Film’s Matte White Privacy Film block 99% of harmful UV rays in the 300-380nm spectrum.
• Cost-Effective: It’s a budget-friendly option compared to other treatments, like custom glass or blinds.

Pro Tip: For front door windows, consider our Matte White Privacy Film for a sleek, modern look, or a subtle frosted film if you want a classic, timeless style. Our Matte White Privacy film is light and bright allowing 68% of visible light to pass through. See more Matte White Privacy Film ideas.

Shop for Matte White Privacy Film now.

Option 2: Transparent Privacy Film

If you’re looking for privacy without losing visibility or natural light, transparent privacy film is an excellent choice. These films allow you to see out of your front door windows while preventing others from seeing inside during the day, thanks to a unique reflective coating. It’s an ideal balance of security, privacy, and maintaining a clear view of your porch or driveway.

Why Choose Transparent Privacy Film?

• Daytime Privacy: The reflective layer works best during the day, ensuring people outside can’t see in while you can still enjoy the view.
• Natural Light: Unlike frosted or matte films, transparent privacy film keeps your space bright by allowing maximum light transmission.
• UV Protection: Many transparent privacy films also offer protection from harmful UV rays, which can reduce fading of your furniture and flooring.
• Energy Efficiency: By blocking heat from entering, transparent privacy film can help lower cooling costs in the summer, making it an energy-efficient option.

Pro Tip: Check out our ComforTech Ceramic 25, 15, or 05 shades or our Silver Reflective Window Film for transparent privacy options that also enhance energy efficiency by reflecting sunlight and keeping your home cooler. Learn more about how privacy window film works.

Shop ComforTech Ceramic Series Film. 

Shop Silver 15 Reflective Film.

Option 3: Curtains or Drapes

Another classic way to cover front door windows is by using curtains or drapes. Available in a wide variety of fabrics, colors, and patterns, curtains offer an elegant solution that can easily be customized to suit your home’s style.

Why Choose Curtains?

• Easy to Install: Simply attach a curtain rod above your door or along the sides of the windows.
• Customizable Look: With so many fabrics and styles available, it’s easy to match curtains to your home decor.
• Adjustable Privacy: You can pull curtains closed when you want privacy or open them to let natural light flood in.

For a more contemporary look, consider lightweight sheer curtains that diffuse light but still provide privacy, or opt for heavier blackout curtains if you’re more concerned about blocking light and increasing energy efficiency.

Option 4: Blinds or Shades

If you’re looking for something that offers more control over light and privacy, blinds or shades are an excellent option for front door windows.

Why Choose Blinds or Shades?

• Light Control: Blinds or shades allow you to adjust how much light comes in.
• Variety of Styles: You can choose from roller shades, Roman shades, or even mini blinds depending on your aesthetic preference.
• Custom Fit: Many companies offer custom sizing to fit unique window shapes on front doors.

One thing to consider is that blinds and shades can sometimes make your front entryway look bulkier or cluttered, so consider whether this style complements your door’s design. In addition, if you need custom-sized blinds or shades, cost becomes a consideration.

Option 5: Stained or Textured Glass

For homeowners looking for something a bit more artistic and permanent, stained or textured glass is an option worth considering. This choice not only adds a decorative element to your front door but also provides a layer of privacy.

Why Choose Stained or Textured Glass?

• Unique Aesthetic Appeal: Stained or textured glass can be a true statement piece for your entryway, adding color and texture that elevates the entire look of your home.
• Privacy with Style: Textured glass obscures the view from the outside while still allowing some light to filter through.

Keep in mind, that while stained or textured glass is an attractive and permanent solution, it’s one of the more expensive options and typically requires professional installation. This option is also very taste-specific. So if you aren’t planning on staying in your home for more than five years, this option may not be the best for resale. 

Option 6: Shutters

Interior or exterior shutters offer a stylish and functional way to cover front door windows. These hinged panels can be opened or closed as needed, giving you full control over privacy and light.

Why Choose Shutters?

• Timeless Style: Shutters provide a classic look that works well in both traditional and modern homes.
• Durability: Shutters are long-lasting and can be painted or stained to match your home’s decor.
• Adjustable Privacy: Louvers can be tilted to allow light in while maintaining privacy.

Interior shutters are installed on the inside of the door, while exterior shutters can give your home a distinctive curb appeal.

How to Cover Front Door Windows Final Thoughts

When it comes to covering your front door windows, there are plenty of options available to suit your style, budget, and functional needs. Whether you want the flexibility of window film, the elegance of curtains, or the timeless appeal of shutters, each solution offers its own unique benefits.

If you’re leaning towards window film as a cost-effective and easy DIY option, check out Concord Window Film’s privacy window film options to find the perfect solution for your home. Not only will it add privacy, but it will also improve energy efficiency and enhance the appearance of your entryway.

Covering your front door windows doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little planning, you can find a solution that fits your home’s needs and adds a touch of style to your entryway.