What is a Sidelite?

Sidelites, or sometimes referred to as sidelights, appear most often with front doors in entryways. But what are sidelites and do you need them for your home?

You’ve assuredly seen sidelites, but maybe you didn’t realize that’s what they’re called. It is easy to overlook them. So, here’s a primer: A sidelite is a narrow, vertical window that sits to the side of an entry door, sometimes on just one side, but they can be included on both sides, too.

As far as their design and construction, sidelites are often built into the same frame assembly as the door, meaning you would order your sidelites as part of an entryway door system. Though they typically serve an exclusively decorative purpose, including a sidelite or two in your project is also a good way to add natural light to a home.

Sidelite Benefits 

Add more natural light: As you’d expect, adding a vertical window or two to your door system is going to allow for more natural light in the home. And for even more light, consider pairing your sidelites with an above-the-door transom window.
Add personal style: Sidelites offer design flexibility, meaning you can style them to fit the era and look of your home. For example, adding details like divided lites can heighten the architectural appeal in more traditional-style homes. Also, deciding on having a sidelite on one side of an entry door or both sides can bring curb appeal and interest. Lastly, sidelites blend in with both contemporary and traditional homes to make entryways more of a focal point.
Make your entry seem larger: Seems simple enough, but sidelites extend your front door to make it feel more expansive. The additional daylight that enters through the windows can create the impression of a bigger space, too, by illuminating the entry.
Bringing in natural light: Providing warmth, making a space feel more welcoming, and lowering the reliance on artificial lights are just some of a sidelite’s more biophilic design benefits.
Better view: Not only do sidelites bring natural light, they also extend outdoor views. Sidelites can also help with practical tasks, like peeking outside to see if a package has arrived or to see who is approaching the front door.
Privacy: Maintaining privacy with sidelites is easy by choosing options like frosted or textured glass. Decorative glass still allows daylight to fill a space, while limiting or preventing views into the home.
Improved aesthetics: Sidelites often appear on historic and traditional style homes because they add a timeless appeal. They also pair well in contemporary style homes for extra style and flair. A sidelite next to a large front door helps with symmetry, while providing a view outside.
Energy efficiency: Sidelites can also contribute to a home’s energy efficiency* thanks to their insulated glass and glazing options. TruStile, a Marvin brand, front doors have a selection of low emissivity glass options, as well as decorative glass options that achieve privacy while appearing stylish.

Sidelite Style

There’s a bit of a debate as to whether sidelites should match the color of the door or the color of the trim. As with most things, the decision comes down to personal taste and how it looks to you and your project partners.

As a rule of thumb, sidelites that have the same color as the front door work well with bigger entryways, while smaller homes often have the sidelites painted white or the same color as the trim. But again, like with some much of home design, what looks right to you is the most important.

Marvin proudly offers TruStile front doors with multiple sidelite configurations in both complementary or matching door styles.

Direct-Set Sidelites

TruStile’s direct-set sidelites maximize the available natural light.

One-Lite In-Sash Sidelites

One-lite in-sash sidelites offer a classic look that pairs well with more traditional-looking doors.

Complementary Sidelites

Complementary sidelites pair well with matching front doors for style continuity.

Matching Door Sidelites

Matching sidelites, as you’d guess, match the front door, taking the guesswork out of figuring out sidelite styling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the standard size of a sidelite?

The standard size of a sidelite typically ranges between 12 to 14 inches wide, but you can find a variety of sidelite options. Some homes feature narrow sidelites, while others will extend wider. The sizes also depend on whether you have one or two sidelites. For example, doors with flanking sidelites often have narrower sidelites than those with just one. And lastly, sidelites usually match the height of a front door.  

Can I add sidelites to my existing door?

Yes, adding sidelites to an existing door is possible. One great way to get help: the Marvin at 7 Tide brand ambassadors. These brand experience center consultants conduct both virtual and in-person consultations and will be able to help evaluate your entryway to determine if it’s possible to add a sidelite to your existing door. In addition to 7 Tide, other experts include Marvin dealers, as well as architects and builders.

_{* Savings reflects installing ENERGY STAR certified products compared to non-certified when replacing single pane windows based on the average savings among homes in modeled cities. Actual savings will vary by product type, location, method of installation, individual home characteristics, local climate and conditions, utility rates, and other factors.}

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