Outdoor Curtains for Your Balcony: Choosing the Right Privacy, Sun, and Wind Protection

An outdoor curtain can protect a balcony from prying eyes, reduce direct sunlight, and make the outdoor area more inviting. However, for the curtain to function effectively in everyday use, the fabric, size, and fastening must match the actual balcony situation.

A completely opaque fabric is not necessary for every balcony. Similarly, a heavy curtain alone is not sufficient if it is regularly exposed to strong winds. Before ordering, therefore, the desired privacy, sun direction, wind exposure, and existing fastening options should be considered together.

This guide shows you how to choose the right outdoor curtain for your balcony and which BTTO models are suitable for different requirements.

Key Takeaways

• For complete privacy, an opaque or multi-layered blackout curtain is suitable.
• For a bright and open atmosphere, a semi-transparent outdoor curtain is usually more appropriate.
• For open or windy balconies, the curtain should be secured not only at the top but also at the bottom.
• A weighted hem reduces slight flapping but does not replace a firm fixation in stronger winds.
• The curtain width should be based on the actual coverage area and the desired drapery.
• For high, slanted, or asymmetrical balcony openings, custom-made solutions are particularly useful.

Discover BTTO's made-to-measure outdoor curtains.

1. What task should the balcony curtain fulfill?

Before choosing a fabric, you should determine what problem the curtain should primarily solve. A curtain that serves only as a light decoration requires different properties than a curtain for complete privacy or strong afternoon sun.

Privacy screen from neighbors and opposing buildings

On densely built balconies, privacy is often the most important reason for an outdoor curtain. How opaque the fabric needs to be depends on the distance to neighbors and the use of the balcony.

A semi-transparent fabric can reduce views during the day but still allows light to pass through. As soon as it is dark outside and bright on the balcony, visibility from the outside becomes stronger.

For the most reliable privacy during the day and in the evening, an opaque or multi-layered blackout fabric should therefore be chosen.

Protection from direct sun

On south or west-facing balconies, direct sun can heat up the seating area considerably. A dense outdoor curtain reduces direct radiation and creates shade.

How much the balcony should be darkened depends on its use:

• For a bright seating area, a light-filtering outdoor curtain is often sufficient.
• For strong afternoon sun, a dense blackout fabric is more suitable.
• For the strongest possible light reduction, a multi-layered blackout fabric can be chosen.

Lateral protection from light wind

An outdoor curtain can reduce lateral air movements and make a balcony feel more sheltered. However, it should not be considered a solid windbreak.

The fastening is particularly important. A curtain that is only hung at the top can flap strongly in the wind, wrap around furniture, or hit the balcony railing.

For open-air balconies, therefore, a lower or side fixation should be planned when ordering.

Light and decorative demarcation

On a sheltered balcony, a semi-transparent curtain can primarily serve decorative purposes. It moves gently in the wind, allows daylight to pass through, and creates a cozy atmosphere.

This solution is particularly suitable for customers who do not want complete darkening and wish to preserve the open character of the balcony.

2. Open, covered, or glazed balcony?

The structural situation influences which fabric and fastening are appropriate.

Covered balcony

A covered balcony is better protected from direct rain. Depending on the open side, lateral wind or driving rain can still occur.

Both blackout curtains and light outdoor curtains are suitable for a covered balcony. The decision mainly depends on privacy, sun direction, and desired light effect.

Partially covered balcony

On a partially covered balcony, individual curtain areas may be more exposed to the weather. This often applies to the outer sides or the corner of the balcony.

Here, it makes sense to use several individual panels. This way, only the area where sun or wind is currently occurring can be closed.

Completely open balcony

A completely open balcony places higher demands on the fastening. The fabric can catch wind from different directions and thus be subjected to greater stress.

For such balconies, the following should be checked:

• Is there a stable upper attachment point?
• Can the curtain be fixed at the bottom edge?
• Can additional straps be attached to the railing?
• Can the curtain be quickly opened or removed in strong winds?

In storms or extreme weather conditions, a textile balcony curtain should generally not remain completely closed.

Glazed balcony or conservatory

On a glazed balcony, sun and privacy protection are usually the main focus. Since the curtain is less exposed to direct rain and wind, the selection can be made more based on light effect, color, and heat reduction.

3. Opaque, blackout, or transparent?

Light transmission is one of the most important differences between various balcony curtains.

Blackout curtain for maximum privacy

A multi-layered blackout curtain is suitable for balconies where as little light and as few insights as possible should be allowed.

The Lunvoro outdoor blackout curtain has a three-layer fabric structure with an integrated blackout layer. The linen-look fabric weighs approximately 260 g/m² and is suitable for customers who want a stronger, opaque fabric.

Lunvoro is particularly interesting for:

• Balconies with direct afternoon sun
• Balconies facing other apartments
• Seating areas with a high need for privacy
• Customers who prefer a natural linen look

Light blackout curtain

The Corluno outdoor blackout curtain also offers strong darkening, but has a lower fabric weight of approximately 150 g/m².

The lighter fabric is easier to move sideways and is suitable for balconies where the curtain is regularly opened and closed.

However, the lower fabric weight does not automatically mean that the curtain will remain stable in the wind without additional fastening. On open balconies, Corluno should also be fixed at the bottom.

Strong light reduction with a wider color selection

The Torvexa outdoor curtain is suitable for customers who want to combine strong light reduction with a wider selection of neutral and dark colors.

Torvexa is available in white-grey, beige, light grey, dark grey, green, brown, and black, among other colors. Various top and bottom fastening types allow adaptation to different balcony constructions.

Sun and heat protection without complete darkening

The Norvanto outdoor thermal curtain reduces sunlight and glare and is suitable for customers who primarily want to create a more pleasant shaded area.

A thermal curtain is particularly interesting for sunny balconies but does not have to offer the same complete darkening as a fabric explicitly designated as blackout.

Semi-transparent outdoor curtain

The Selvara outdoor voile curtain lets daylight through and creates a bright, airy atmosphere.

The lightweight voile fabric with linen structure is suitable for sheltered balconies where a decorative demarcation and light privacy are desired.

For complete privacy in the evening, a transparent or semi-transparent fabric is not suitable.

Curtain with mosquito net

The Solmara outdoor curtain with mosquito net combines a light curtain layer with a mesh layer.

It is suitable for balconies where light and air circulation should be maintained, and additional insect protection is desired.

4. Which balcony curtain suits which need?

5. How to secure a balcony curtain against wind?

A balcony curtain is not stable against wind solely due to its fabric weight. The decisive factor is how the fabric is fastened at the top, bottom, and possibly at the sides.

Weighted hem

With a weighted hem, an additional weight is incorporated into the bottom edge. This makes the curtain hang straighter and move less in light wind.

A weighted hem is particularly suitable for:

• covered balconies
• partially enclosed loggias
• areas with light air movement
• customers who do not want a visible bottom fastening

In stronger winds, this solution alone is often not sufficient.

Metal eyelets at the bottom edge

Bottom metal eyelets allow direct fixation with ropes, hooks, carabiners, or suitable attachment points on the balcony railing.

This solution is suitable for open balconies if the curtain needs to be held securely at the bottom.

The fastening should remain sufficiently flexible. A permanently extremely taut curtain can be subjected to greater stress from sudden gusts of wind.

Velcro at the bottom edge

A bottom Velcro strip is suitable if a corresponding counterpart can be attached to the railing or a frame.

The advantage is that the curtain can be quickly attached and just as quickly released.

Rod pocket at the bottom

A bottom rod pocket allows for the insertion of a rod, rope, or other suitable guide.

This allows the bottom edge to be stabilized more evenly over a larger width.

Side or middle fastening straps

For very tall curtains, fixation only at the top and bottom edge may be insufficient. Additional straps at the sides or in the middle can prevent the fabric from bulging significantly outwards.

BTTO can customize fastening straps, loops, and Velcro fasteners according to the balcony construction and the customer's specific requirements.

Important: In storms, heavy thunderstorms, or extreme wind conditions, a balcony curtain should be opened, securely tied together, or removed.

6. Which top hanging method is suitable for a balcony?

Metal eyelets

Metal eyelets are a practical solution for a permanently installed curtain rod.

The metal eyelets used by BTTO have:

• an inner diameter of 4 cm
• an outer diameter of 5.3 cm
• a stainless steel finish

Standardly, shiny silver-colored stainless steel eyelets are used. Seven other eyelet colors can be selected upon explicit customer request.

Before ordering, it should be checked whether the existing curtain rod fits through the 4 cm inner opening.

Fabric loops

Fabric loops create a softer look and are suitable for curtain rods that can be disassembled for installation.

Loops with Velcro fastener

Loops with Velcro fasteners can be opened. This allows the curtain to be installed without dismantling the entire curtain rod.

The length of the loops can be adjusted to the diameter or shape of the existing rod for a custom order.

Velcro tape

An upper Velcro tape is suitable for fixed balcony frames, beams, or constructions where a stable counterpart can be attached.

Curtain hooks for a curtain track

BTTO can also produce outdoor curtains for hanging with curtain hooks on a curtain track.

For coordination, the following information is preferably required:

• a photo of the curtain track
• a photo or the dimensions of the existing gliders
• the width of the track channel
• the desired finished curtain height

Contact BTTO customer service before ordering at sales@btto.com.

7. How to correctly measure an outdoor curtain for the balcony?

Since a custom-made curtain is manufactured according to the specified order data, all measurements should be carefully checked before ordering.

Determine the coverage area

First, measure the entire area that needs to be enclosed.

This could be, for example:

• the entire open balcony side
• only the side facing the neighboring balcony
• the area above the balcony railing
• a single corner with strong sun exposure

Measure the width

Measure the width between the actual attachment points. Then decide whether the curtain should hang flat or with visible folds.

For a width that is almost equal to the area to be covered, the curtain hangs relatively flat. For more drapery, additional fabric width must be planned.

Please also note that BTTO curtains are generally sold per panel. If you order two curtain panels, the desired total width will be distributed across both panels.

Measure the height

The height is measured from the actual top hanging point to the desired bottom finish.

Depending on the balcony construction, the height can be measured:

• from the curtain rod to just above the floor
• from the curtain track to just above the floor
• from the top balcony frame to the railing
• from a top attachment point to a bottom fixation point

The curtain should not permanently rest on the floor in outdoor areas. A small gap facilitates opening, reduces dirt, and allows for better drying after moisture.

Consider metal eyelets when measuring height

With metal eyelets, the curtain rod passes through the fabric. A small fabric area of approximately 1.5 to 2 cm remains above the metal eyelet.

The position of the rod must therefore be taken into account when determining the finished curtain height.

Consider the lower fastening system

If the curtain is to be secured at the bottom with eyelets, Velcro, or ties, the height must be measured to the actual lower fastening point.

Too much tension should be avoided. The curtain needs sufficient slack so that it can be opened and closed and is not constantly under extreme tensile stress in windy conditions.

8. One large curtain or two individual panels?

For a wide balcony opening, a single wide curtain or several narrower panels can be chosen.

Advantages of a single panel

• continuous closed surface
• fewer visible seams
• calm and clear aesthetic

Advantages of multiple panels

• easier to open and close
• lower weight per curtain section
• flexible shading of individual balcony sides
• better adaptation to posts and railing sections
• easier cleaning and storage

For a balcony used daily, two panels are often more practical. They can be opened to the left and right like classic curtains.

9. Which color is suitable for the balcony?

The color influences not only the design but also the perceived brightness of the balcony.

Light colors

White, cream white, beige, and light gray appear light and friendly. They are suitable for small balconies or areas that should appear bright despite the curtain.

On very sunny balconies, light fabrics can create a more pleasant visual effect. However, dirt may become visible more quickly depending on the environment.

Dark colors

Dark gray, brown, green, or black create a stronger visual closure and can appear particularly modern.

On small balconies, a very dark color can make the area appear optically narrower.

Check color before ordering

Colors can appear different on screens than in natural daylight. Screen brightness, ambient light, wall color, and flooring influence perception.

For a larger custom-made item, it is therefore advisable to view a fabric sample beforehand.

10. Special shapes for unusual balconies

Not every balcony has a rectangular opening. Roof balconies, old buildings, and laterally sloped constructions may require special dimensions.

BTTO supports, among other things:

• asymmetrical curtain shapes
• different heights on the left and right sides
• slanted top edges
• slanted bottom edges
• trapezoidal curtains
• special positions for Velcro or fastening loops
• manufacturing according to customer sketch

For a custom order, you should prepare a sketch with all side lengths and photos of the balcony construction.

Please send the documents to sales@btto.com before ordering.

11. Cleaning and care on the balcony

Precise care depends on the chosen fabric. Therefore, always check the care instructions on the respective product page.

In general, you should observe the following instructions:

• regularly remove light dust and loose dirt
• let wet curtains dry completely open
• do not permanently tie or fold damp fabric
• avoid contact with standing water on the balcony floor
• do not use aggressive bleaches
• protect metal eyelets and fasteners during cleaning
• clean and dry curtains completely before prolonged storage
• open, secure, or remove during storms and extreme weather conditions

Conclusion: Fabric and fastening must match the balcony

A good balcony curtain is not chosen based solely on color or fabric weight. What matters is the desired privacy and light effect, and how much the balcony is exposed to sun, rain, and wind.

For complete blackout and high privacy, Lunvoro or Corluno are suitable. Torvexa offers strong light reduction and a wider color selection. Norvanto is designed for sun and heat reduction. For a bright atmosphere, Selvara or Solmara are options.

On an open or windy balcony, suitable lower or side fastening should be provided in addition to the upper hanging.

Discover BTTO's custom-made outdoor curtains now or send photos, measurements, and a sketch of your balcony to sales@btto.com.

Frequently Asked Questions about Outdoor Curtains for Balconies

Which outdoor curtain is suitable for complete privacy?

For the most complete privacy possible, an opaque or multi-layered blackout curtain should be chosen. Semi-transparent outdoor curtains offer only light privacy, mainly during the day.

How do I secure a balcony curtain in the wind?

In addition to the upper hanging, the curtain can be secured with lower metal eyelets, Velcro, a rod pocket, or fastening ties. A weighted hem reduces slight flapping, but does not replace firm fastening in stronger winds.

Which color is suitable for a small balcony?

Light colors such as cream white, beige, or light gray usually make a small balcony appear more open and friendly. Dark colors create a stronger visual boundary, but can make the area appear more compact.

Should a balcony curtain reach the floor?

The curtain can reach just above the floor, but should not rest permanently on the floor. A small gap reduces dirt and facilitates drying after rain or high humidity.

Is a heavy curtain automatically windproof?

No. A higher fabric weight can reduce flapping in light winds. However, for more reliable positioning, the upper, lower, and if necessary, side fastenings are crucial.

Can BTTO make a slanted balcony curtain?

Yes. Asymmetrical dimensions, slanted edges, and other special shapes can be made according to a customer sketch. Please send all measurements and photos of the construction to sales@btto.com.

Can the balcony curtain be hung on a curtain track?

Yes. Custom processing for curtain hooks and curtain tracks can be made. Before ordering, a photo of the track and information about the existing gliders should be sent to customer service.