There are a few components that are important to think about when considering your entry door, and one of these in many situations is your attached light setup. Sidelights and other light formats are a common addition to entry door setups, ensuring everything from safety to security and aesthetics, and making the right choice here is important.
At Price’s Guaranteed Doors, we’re here to help clients around Boise, Nampa, Meridian and other parts of Idaho with all their entry door installation needs, including help with related elements like sidelights and more. Here are some basic elements to be considering as you think about sidelight style, quantity, mounting and more.
Security Considerations
For many homes, is a top priority when choosing entry door sidelights. These lights provide an additional layer of protection, making it difficult for any potential intruders to break into your home. Sidelights can also be designed with reinforced glass or other materials that are difficult to penetrate, further enhancing the security benefits.
As you’re thinking about sidelight security, it’s also important to consider the placement and size of these lights. Sidelights placed near your home’s entrance should be small enough to prevent someone from squeezing through, but large enough to provide adequate light.
Lighting and Aesthetics
In addition to security, sidelights can also improve the lighting and aesthetics of your entryway. Natural light helps to make your home feel more open and welcoming, and sidelights can provide this light without compromising on security. They can also add a touch of elegance to your entryway, particularly if you choose decorative glass or other design options.
For instance, let’s say you have a traditional home with a classic, wood panel entry door. Adding sidelights with decorative glass in a complementary design can enhance the overall appearance of your home and make it stand out.
Light Styles
You have a huge range of options when it comes to sidelight styles, from traditional rectangular windows to more innovative designs. Some popular styles include round top, arched and custom shapes. You can also choose between fixed or operable sidelights – the latter being a great option for homes that need additional ventilation.
As you’re thinking about which style to go with, there are a few different approaches you can take. Some homeowners prefer to match their sidelights to their entry door, creating a cohesive look. Others opt for contrasting styles, using the sidelights as an accent feature.
Light Size
Down related lines, you should also consider the size of your sidelights. The standard width for a front entry door is 36 inches, but many homeowners go up to 48 or even 60 inches to add more natural light and improve aesthetics. Of course, you need to be sure that your chosen sidelight fits within this space.
This also requires consideration of nearby home elements, such as a nearby window or other entryway features. You don’t want your sidelights to be too close to these elements, as it can affect the overall balance and design of your home’s exterior.
Mounting Options
You’ll also need to decide how you want to mount your sidelights. The most common options are flush mounting – where the sidelight is mounted directly to the door – and offset mounting, where the sidelight is mounted slightly above or below the door. Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks, so be sure to consult with a professional before making a final decision.
Cost
Naturally, like many other home improvement projects, cost will be a factor when choosing sidelights for your entry door. The price of these lights can vary depending on factors such as material, style and size. It’s important to set a budget and work with a reputable company that offers quality products at competitive prices.
One cost element that many homeowners overlook is energy efficiency. If you choose sidelights with energy-efficient glass, you may end up saving money on your heating and cooling bills in the long run.
Efficiency
And speaking of energy efficiency, it’s important to choose sidelights that are well-constructed and properly sealed. Poorly constructed sidelights can let in drafts, leading to energy loss and reduced efficiency. Be sure to work with a company that uses high-quality materials and has experienced professionals who can install your sidelights correctly.
Maintenance
Finally, you should also consider the maintenance requirements for your chosen sidelights. Some materials, such as wood, will require more upkeep than others like vinyl or fiberglass. Think about how much time and effort you’re willing to put into maintaining your sidelights before making a decision.
Entry door sidelights can provide numerous benefits for homeowners, from added security to improved lighting and aesthetics. When choosing the right sidelights for your home, be sure to consider factors like security, style, size, mounting options, cost, efficiency and maintenance. With the right sidelights in place, you can significantly enhance the look and functionality of your entryway.
Be sure to contact Price’s Guaranteed Doors for expert guidance and installation of entry doors and various accessories across Boise, Nampa, Meridian and other parts of Idaho. We’re here to help!