What better way to make a front entry bright and inviting than to flood the space with natural light? That's what a sidelight does. A tall, narrow window that stands at one or both sides of a door, a sidelight admits light, lets you see who is at the door and helps create the feel of an elegant, expansive entry.

Sidelights are produced by both window and door manufacturers. Window types are usually fixed and--like other types of windows-- have wood, vinyl or metal frames.

Sidelights made by door manufacturers are often sold as part of an "entry system" where a front door (or two) and matching sidelights fit into a large single frame. The sidelights are typically built exactly like narrow versions of the doors they flank, but they have a glazed-panel insert. Glazed inserts are usually leaded or decorative glass in rectangular, arched-top or oval shapes.