Complement both your facade and interior with sidelights matching your new door. Whether single or double, they let extra natural light inside, accent your home and are also an excellent solution for those with a particularly large entrance area. They can be combined with upper transoms as well for an inviting entryway and brighter home. Neuffer offers bespoke solutions with the aesthetic, security and energy-saving features required for your project.
How to Choose a Front Door with Sidelights
Choosing the right sidelights, also known as side panels, for your front door is first and foremost a question of space. If building a new home, this has already been taken into account. For renovations, homeowners are typically working with a fixed opening and thus have little wiggle room. Luckily, even those short on space can design a sidelight to match their entry door be it narrow or wide.
The added sunlight creates a warmer living atmosphere indoors and can even allow for ventilation should you choose operable casements instead of a fixed glazing. The four important areas to consider when planning the side panels are:
- Appearance: the sidelights and doors should match each other as well as the facade
- Energy: choosing the right glazing helps ensure your beautiful new glass isn't costing you in terms of energy loss
- Sound: facing the street, it is important to consider whether there is enough noise to warrant soundproofing
- Security: large glazed surfaces should be secured with laminated safety glass or impact resistant glass.
Depending on the size of your side panels and the interior entryway, you may also consider opting for frosted glass to enjoy natural light while still preventing passers-by from being able to see inside. This is also helps deter burglars.