Don’t worry; we’re going to clear that up for you. This article will define what a door sidelight is, discuss the different styles, and discuss the many benefits they offer.
What are sidelights, and what are they used for?
A door sidelight is a window located on the side of a door. They are often used to provide natural light into a room and provide ventilation. Sidelights can also be used as an entryway for security purposes and add architectural interest to a front door.
Sidelights are commonly found on both sides of a front door but can also be placed on just one side. They are typically made of glass and are sometimes frosted or stained to provide privacy.
The benefits of having sidelights.
There are a few benefits to having sidelights on your door.
First, they’re exceptionally beautiful. They add an element of design to give your home an elegant and beautiful touch. You can find the perfect look to compliment your home’s style with the various options. It’s a great way to set your home apart from the rest of your neighborhood.
Second, they provide natural light. This is a great way to brighten any space, especially if you don’t have large windows. Many front doors don’t have windows, and if they do, they tend to be smaller. Of course, you can find doors with a half or three-quarter window, but they’re not as common. Adding in a sidelight window is the perfect addition if you’re trying to lighten up the area.
Lastly, they’re great for security. If you want to see who’s at the door before opening it, sidelights are a great way to do that. You can add window treatments or frost the windows for your privacy, but you’ll still be able to see that someone is at your door.
How to choose the right sidelights for your home.
If you’ve conducted even a brief search for sidelights, then you know that there are hundreds of styles and designs. But which is right for you? We’ll help you out by narrowing down some of the features.
Let’s start with the total size. Do you want a full sidelight? These start at the top of the door and go down to the ground. This is an excellent option if you’re looking for something tall and elegant. Another size option is what’s called a half sidelight. These are just what they sound like, half the height of a full sidelight.
As for the glass, do you want a modern or classic look? A solid window with no grids will give your front porch a more modern appearance while adding in grids will provide it with a classic feel.
Regardless of what style you go with (full height, half-height, single panel, or grids), you can choose the type of glass that goes with it. Many homeowners like the idea of frosted or stained glass for privacy, but others like the clean look of clear glass as they’re going for a modern touch.
Finally, do you want vented or fixed sidelights? Vented is more expensive, but it allows you to open the sidelight like a door and allow airflow through your home.
These are just a few things to think about when trying to choose the right sidelights for your home. By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be on your way to finding the perfect option for you and your family.
Installation tips.
Installing a door sidelight is no easy task. If you don’t already have sidelights, you’ll need to pull permits and make structural changes to your door frame. This is a job for a professional.
If you’re looking to install sidelights on an existing door, the process is easier, but you’ll still need some knowledge of carpentry. We recommend
Care and maintenance of sidelights.
The care and maintenance of sidelights are minimal. You’ll just need to keep them clean as the rest of your windows for the most part. If you have stained or frosted glass, you’ll want to be careful when cleaning them, so you don’t damage the glass.
If you have a vented sidelight, you’ll want to clean the area between the sidelight and the jamb to ensure they open and close easily. Over time you might notice the hinges begin to creak and squeak. For a short-term solution, apply a small amount of WD-40 or PB Blaster and let it soak in and penetrate the hinge. Be sure to clean up any excess as it could damage the door or the jamb.
The addition of a sidelight to your home’s facade is one of the best ways to add elegance and beauty to it. Undoubtedly your home will stand out in the neighborhood.
If you’re interested in adding sidelights to your home, we recommend discussing the options with a professional to see if you have the structural space to install them and what options would be best for your needs.