What better way to make a front entry bright and inviting than to flood the space with natural light? That’s what sidelites do. Tall, narrow windows that usually stand at both sides of a door (though there may be only one), sidelites admit light, let you see who is at the door, and help create the feel of an elegant, expansive entry.

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

Sidelites made by door manufacturers are often sold as part of an “entry system” where a front door (or two) and matching sidelites fit into a large, single frame. The sidelites 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, or oval shapes.