How a Double Sidelight Can Transform Your Front Door
Adding a sidelight to your front door can be a great way to add style, light, and security to the entrance of your home. A sidelight is a window that is installed alongside the front door, typically in pairs. It can come in different types of glass such as clear, stained, tempered, or insulated glass, and can be customized in size and style to fit the overall home design.
Installing a sidelight can be a complex process but with proper preparation and research, it can be done in a relatively short time. In this blog, we are going to discuss the different elements of installing a sidelight and how it can transform your front door.
What is a Sidelight?
A sidelight is a window that is installed alongside the front door, typically in pairs. It adds an extra layer of light and style to the entrance of your home. Sidelights come in different types of glass such as clear, stained, tempered or insulated glass and can be customized in size and style to fit the overall home design. When selecting a sidelight, there are several considerations to keep in mind such as size and style that fits the overall home design, durability and security, whether to install one or two, etc.
Aesthetic Impact of Double Sidelights
One of the main benefits of a sidelight is that it allows natural light to flood into your home. This can make your front entrance feel more welcoming and open, and can also help to reduce your energy costs by eliminating the need for artificial lighting during the day.
Another benefit of a sidelight is that it can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your front door. A well-designed sidelight can be a beautiful focal point that will draw the eye and make a lasting impression on visitors.
There are many different styles of sidelights available, from traditional to modern, so it's easy to find one that will complement the overall design of your home. For example, if you have a traditional home with a lot of architectural details, a sidelight with a decorative or leaded glass design might be a perfect choice. On the other hand, if you have a modern home with clean lines, a sidelight with a simple, minimalist design would be a great option.
Another thing to consider when choosing a sidelight is the size and placement. Sidelights are typically available in a variety of sizes, so you can choose one that will fit well with your front door. You can also choose to place the sidelight on one side of the door, or on both sides. This will depend on the look you want to achieve and the amount of natural light you want to let in.
In addition to the aesthetic benefits, sidelights can also add security to your home. A sidelight allows you to see who is at the door before you open it, which can be a great way to increase your home's safety and security.
One thing to keep in mind when installing a sidelight is that it will need to be properly sealed to prevent drafts and leaks. This can be done by using high-quality weatherstripping and caulking around the edges of the window.
Sidelights can be made from a variety of materials such as wood, fiberglass, or steel. Wood sidelights are a great option for traditional homes, while fiberglass and steel are more suitable for modern homes.
Installations & Maintenance
Installing a sidelight can be a complex process but with proper preparation and research, it can be done in a relatively short time. The steps for installing a sidelight include measuring the space for the sidelight, purchasing the materials such as frames and windows, preparing the door frame and jamb, inserting and fitting the sidelight, caulking, and painting. If you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself, you can hire a contractor for installation.
When choosing a contractor for installation, you should get quotes from multiple contractors, look for reviews online, verify credentials and licenses, etc. If you decide to do it yourself, here are some tips for DIY installation: read up on installation instructions beforehand, take precise measurements, use appropriate tools for cutting and drilling, and use silicone caulk for sealing the edges.
Conclusion
A sidelight is a simple yet powerful design feature that can make a significant impact on the overall appearance of your home. It can provide natural light, add elegance and security, and can be customized to complement the style of your home. With the variety of styles, materials, and sizes available, it's easy to find a sidelight that will transform your front door and take your home's exterior to the next level. Upgrade your front door with a sidelight and see the difference it can make!