I put panels to either side of my bedroom sliding door. We very seldom open the door as well; however, we did extend the rod about 15" to either side so that the panels stacked back to either side of trim so on those rare occasions when we do want to access the sliding door, the panels were not in front. The suggestion of a tie back is a good one if you do require more frequent access since I noticed if there is any wind, then the drapes will blow out the open sliding door and I have to be mindful of that when I close it. All and all, though, I much prefer the more balanced, symmetrical look of two panels; whether formal or informal.

I called the local Milgard rep and the woman who answered the phone didn't even want to talk to me about sliding glass doors. She said no one puts them in anymore. She said to put in French doors that open outward. I know nothing about that type. Any thoughts on those?

I am having the same problem as I only bought the expensive Hunter Douglas Soft Vertical Blinds due to being afraid my dogs would ruin the Luminettes that I really wanted. Now I am thinking of using Sheers on a rod that can easily be washed and if that doesn't work out, I I will see what others suggest. I really hate how the curved vertical blinds I bought in 2006 that block the light on the sides so light from that window does not go into my open family room. They do not insulate and are only pretty when closed. I love the Luminettes and if I did not have little dogs, that is what I would have gone with as they are very expensive to clean. My kitchen and family room would be so much brighter if I removed the expensive blinds that match the wall color so well and are really pretty but they were not the right choice.

I was never a fan of slider doors and agree that going back with a swinging door is best. Two 36" doors would be my first choice. If swinging at either end won't work,one can be swung from center. Alternatly,you can install two fixed plus one swinging door. You can choose single pane glass with or without deviders in 1-2 or all three positions. Two 24" slabs fixed at each end plus one pre-hung 32" hinged at center position equal's 80" of door,leaving 16" for jambs and trim. The configurations are endless if you hire a good carpenter.