Your front door is a key component in creating a lasting first impression. However, sidelights are a sometimes disregarded design feature that may significantly improve the appearance of your entryway. Placed on each side of your front entrance, these thin glass panels do much more than just frame it. They may improve the security and curb appeal of your house, allow in natural light, and add architectural flair.
Everything you need to know about selecting sidelights that precisely match the design of your front door will be covered in this comprehensive guide, from materials and glass options to security features and energy efficiency. Regardless of the style of your house—traditional, modern, or rustic—you'll discover how to choose the best option for both aesthetics and functionality.
1. What Are Sidelights and Why Do They Matter?
Narrow vertical windows that are positioned on one or both sides of a door are called sidelights. They usually match or complement the style of your main door and are fixed (non-opening).
Why they’re worth considering:
-
Natural Light: They brighten up your hallway, creating a more welcoming entrance.
-
Visual Impact: They add symmetry, elegance, and architectural detail.
-
Increased Kerb Appeal: They make your entranceway look more luxurious and well-designed.
Pro Tip: Pairing sidelights with a matching transom window above the door can further elevate your entryway design.
2. Matching Sidelights to Your Front Door Style
The key to choosing sidelights is ensuring they harmonise with your front door’s design. Here are popular door styles and sidelight pairings:
a. Traditional Timber Doors
-
Best sidelight style: Timber frames with decorative, frosted, or leaded glass.
-
Why it works: It complements the classic look of solid wood doors and preserves privacy.
b. Contemporary Composite Doors
-
Best sidelight style: Sleek aluminium or uPVC frames with clear or patterned glass.
-
Why it works: The clean lines enhance the modern aesthetic while allowing light flow.
c. Cottage & Rustic Doors
-
Best sidelight style: Wood-effect frames with bevelled or tinted glazing.
-
Why it works: Adds charm and warmth, matching the rural character of the home.
d. Minimalist Aluminium Doors
-
Best sidelight style: Frameless or ultra-thin aluminium frames with full-height clear glass.
-
Why it works: Keeps the look sleek, bold, and architectural.
3. Choosing the Right Glass for Your Sidelights
Glass is a major part of sidelights, so it’s worth considering carefully.
a. Clear Glass
-
Pros: Maximum light, modern look, ideal for showcasing front garden views.
-
Cons: Minimal privacy unless paired with blinds or curtains.
b. Frosted or Obscure Glass
-
Pros: Allows light while keeping interiors private.
-
Cons: Slightly less visibility to the outside.
c. Decorative & Stained Glass
-
Pros: Adds a unique, artistic touch and matches period homes.
-
Cons: Can be more expensive.
d. Double or Triple Glazing
-
Pros: Better thermal efficiency, reduced noise, and added security.
-
Cons: Slightly higher upfront cost, but pays off in energy savings.
4. Frame Materials for Sidelights
Your sidelight frame should complement your front door material:
-
Timber: Timeless, warm, and customisable with stains and paints.
-
uPVC: Affordable, low-maintenance, and available in many colours.
-
Aluminium: Strong, slim-profile, modern-looking, and highly durable.
-
Composite: Weather-resistant and colour-stable, perfect for matching composite doors.
5. Security Considerations
Since sidelights are glass near to a lock, one question is if they jeopardise security. The good news is that sidelights nowadays may be very safe.
Security tips for sidelights:
-
Choose laminated or toughened safety glass.
-
Install multi-point locking systems for your door.
-
Position locks further from the glass to prevent easy reach.
-
Consider internal security grilles or decorative ironwork.
6. Energy Efficiency
Since sidelights are mostly glass, it’s important to choose energy-efficient options to prevent heat loss.
Look for:
-
Low-E (low emissivity) glass to reflect heat back into your home.
-
Double or triple glazing for thermal insulation.
-
Frames with thermal breaks to reduce heat transfer.
7. Styling Tips for Sidelights
-
Match the height of the door for a cohesive look.
-
Frame with plants or outdoor lighting to highlight the entrance.
-
Coordinate colours so the sidelight frame matches the door or contrasts stylishly.
-
Add decorative panels for an extra design element.
8. Cost Considerations
The cost of sidelights varies depending on material, glass type, and whether you’re installing one or two panels.
Average UK price range:
-
Basic uPVC sidelight: £150–£300 each.
-
Timber sidelight: £250–£500 each.
-
Aluminium sidelight: £300–£600 each.
9. Installation Process
Professional installation is highly recommended, especially if your door frame needs adjusting.
Typical installation steps:
-
Remove the existing door and frame.
-
Prepare the new frame with sidelight housing.
-
Install sidelights securely.
-
Fit the front door.
-
Seal and weatherproof.
10. Maintenance Tips
-
Clean glass regularly with a mild glass cleaner.
-
Inspect seals and frames to ensure no draughts or leaks.
-
Repaint or restain timber frames every few years to protect against the elements.
Advantages & Benefits of Sidelights
-
More natural light without compromising security.
-
Enhances kerb appeal instantly.
-
Adds a sense of scale and grandeur to the front door.
-
Customisable designs to suit any home style.
-
Can increase property value by improving the entrance aesthetics.
Conclusion
Finding the ideal sidelights to go with your front door style requires striking a balance between security, use, and beauty. The correct sidelight selection may turn your entryway into a light-filled, inviting, and fashionable main point of your house, regardless of whether you choose frosted glass for privacy, stained glass for character, or minimalist clear glass for contemporary appeal.
Sidelights may be a long-lasting, useful home enhancement as well as a stunning style statement with careful selection and expert installation.
FAQs About Sidelights for Front Doors
1. Do sidelights make my home less secure?
Not if you choose toughened or laminated glass and a door with secure locking mechanisms.
2. Can I add sidelights to an existing front door?
Yes, but it usually requires replacing the entire door frame to accommodate them.
3. Do sidelights help with energy efficiency?
Yes — modern double or triple-glazed sidelights can improve insulation and reduce draughts.
4. Can I get sidelights in a different colour from my door?
Absolutely. You can match or contrast the frame colour for a personalised look.
5. How much do sidelights cost in the UK?
Basic models start at around £150 each, with premium designs costing £500 or more.
For more information about our interior or exterior doors or door accessories, give us a call at 01603 622261 and speak to a member of our expert team today, or email us at sales@doorsuppliesonline.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.