Our office has a wide sliding glass door, and instead of using draperies or vertical blinds we chose panel track shades as an attractive alternative. This window treatment, also called panel track blinds, is versatile and works nicely with most any decor.

The individual 27-inch-wide panels glide on a wheeled carrier in a track concealed by a valance and open and close easily with a cord. Sewn-in weights at the bottom of each panel create a streamlined drape, giving the shades structure. You'll find them in an assortment of fabrics and woven wood with complimentary yarns, with colors ranging from white to mahogany. We chose a solar material that blocks direct light through the weave of the material, but maintains a view to the outside.

A retailer specializing in window treatments will charge $1,380 to install six panel track shades with a valance in a 151-inches opening. You can buy the window covering for $1,155 and do it yourself, saving 16 percent. If you do it yourself, you'll need a ladder, tape measure, level, wrench, screwdriver, nut driver, an electric drill with bits, and wall anchors.

To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com and m.diyornot.com on smartphones.

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