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Transform Your Home: How to Install Front Entry Doors with Sidelights

Transform Your Entryway: Why Front Entry Doors with Sidelights Matter

When you’re ready to lift your home’s entrance, searching for front entry doors with sidelights installation near me is the perfect starting point. The process might seem overwhelming, but it’s actually quite straightforward:

  1. Find a qualified installer – Look for certified contractors with experience installing entry door systems with sidelights
  2. Request an in-home measurement – Professional measurement ensures proper fit and maintains warranty coverage
  3. Choose your door material – Select from fiberglass, steel, or wood based on your climate and maintenance preferences
  4. Select glass type for sidelights – Options range from clear to decorative and privacy glass
  5. Expect installation to take one day – While the entire process from measurement to installation typically takes 3-9 days

Your entryway tells a story about your home before anyone steps inside. It’s that magical space where function meets beauty – where security, style, and that warm “welcome home” feeling all come together. When you add sidelights—those neat vertical windows that flank your door—you’re not just installing a door; you’re creating an architectural statement.

I’ve seen countless Chicago homeowners transform ordinary entrances into breathtaking focal points through front entry doors with sidelights installation near me. The difference is remarkable. Suddenly, natural light pours into previously dim foyers. The home feels more open, more inviting, and distinctly more upscale.

What many homeowners don’t realize is that this beauty comes with practical benefits too. Entry doors with sidelights typically deliver up to a 75% return on investment when selling your home. That’s because potential buyers are immediately drawn to the improved curb appeal and architectural character these door systems provide.

Don’t worry about the installation process being complicated. With the right professional team, your new entry door system can be installed in a single day. The key is finding experienced installers who understand both the structural requirements and design elements that make these systems work beautifully.

I’m Voytek Glab, owner of Perfect Windows and Siding. For over 25 years, I’ve been helping Chicagoland homeowners find the perfect front entry doors with sidelights installation near me. My team and I take pride in changing entryways with beautiful, secure door systems that improve both function and curb appeal.

Front entry door with sidelights installation timeline showing measurement (3-9 days), door selection (up to 1 week), delivery (immediate to 3 weeks for specialty doors), scheduling (up to 1 week), and same-day installation with testing and cleanup - front entry doors with sidelights installation near me infographic

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Why an Entry Upgrade Matters

Your entry door isn’t just a practical necessity—it’s the centerpiece of your home’s exterior and plays several crucial roles in your daily life:

First impression matters more than you might think. When friends, family, or potential buyers approach your home, your entry door is what sets their expectations before they even step inside. A beautiful door with sidelights sends a message that your home is well-maintained and thoughtfully designed.

Home value gets a significant boost from an upgraded entry. Real estate agents consistently point to improved curb appeal as a major factor in quicker sales and better offers. A quality entry door with sidelights can increase your home’s resale value by making that crucial first impression count.

Security remains paramount, which is why today’s entry doors offer superior protection against break-ins through advanced locking systems and durable materials. When properly installed, doors with sidelights don’t compromise on safety—they improve your home’s overall security profile.

Energy efficiency is a hidden benefit that pays dividends year after year. Modern entry door systems provide excellent insulation, helping reduce heating and cooling costs throughout Chicago’s varied seasons.

“A front door is the first impression of your house. Set the tone by making your entry door one that speaks to your style and meets your needs,” notes a recent industry report on home improvement ROI.

When you invest in your entryway, you’re not just changing a door—you’re changing how people experience your home, starting from their very first glance.

What Are Front Entry Doors with Sidelights?

When we talk about front entry doors with sidelights, we’re referring to neat door systems that pair a central entry door with narrow vertical windows positioned alongside it. These sidelights—those slim windows that flank one or both sides of your main door—can transform an ordinary entryway into something truly special for your home.

diagram showing front entry door with labeled components including sidelights and transom - front entry doors with sidelights installation near me

Think of your entry system as having several key parts working together. The main entry door serves as your central focal point, while those sidelights run from floor to ceiling on one or both sides, letting natural light stream into your foyer. Many homeowners also opt for a transom—that horizontal window above the door that adds even more daylight and architectural interest. All of this sits within a sturdy frame, completed with your choice of hardware like handles, locks, and hinges that reflect your personal style.

What makes sidelights so special isn’t just their beauty—they’re incredibly practical too. They flood your entryway with natural light, making small spaces feel more open and welcoming. They let you see who’s at your door before you open it (a real security plus!), and some can even open for extra ventilation on beautiful days. Whether you prefer a Craftsman-style entry for your bungalow or something more contemporary for your modern home, sidelights complement virtually any architectural style.

Benefits Snapshot

The advantages of installing front entry doors with sidelights installation near me go far beyond just curb appeal, though that’s certainly a major perk!

That added visibility means you’ll never wonder who’s knocking again—you can easily see visitors before reaching for the doorknob. The natural light that pours through sidelights transforms dark, cramped entryways into bright, welcoming spaces without sacrificing your privacy (especially when you choose decorative or frosted glass options).

If you select operational sidelights, you’ll enjoy improved ventilation on pleasant days, letting fresh air circulate through your entryway. The architectural interest these systems add makes your home stand out beautifully in the neighborhood, while the expanded views connect your interior more pleasantly with your landscaping and surroundings.

Perhaps most practically, adding sidelights is a smart investment. Entry door replacements typically recoup up to 75% of their cost when you sell your home—making them one of the better home improvement investments you can make.

As one of our Chicago customers recently told us after their installation: “After installing our new front door with sidelights, our entryway feels twice as large because of all the natural light. It’s completely transformed how we feel when entering our home.” We hear comments like this regularly from homeowners who are amazed at how such a focused improvement can make such a dramatic difference in how they experience their home every day.

Front Entry Doors with Sidelights Installation Near Me: Choosing the Perfect Door

When you’re searching for front entry doors with sidelights installation near me, the journey begins with selecting the perfect door system that complements your home’s architecture while meeting your practical needs. Let’s walk through what matters most when making this important decision.

Material Options

Your door material choice impacts everything from how often you’ll need to maintain it to how well it will protect your home from the elements:

Wood Doors with Sidelights bring timeless elegance to any home. There’s something magical about the natural warmth and character of real wood that synthetic materials simply can’t replicate. These doors offer excellent insulation and can be painted or stained to match any design vision. The downside? They do require regular TLC to prevent warping, especially in Chicago’s sometimes unpredictable weather. They’re ideal for traditional homes with protected entryways and homeowners who don’t mind some maintenance to preserve that classic beauty.

Fiberglass Doors with Sidelights have become our most requested option, and for good reason. These workhorses offer remarkable durability without sacrificing style. Today’s fiberglass doors can mimic wood grain so convincingly that even we sometimes have to look twice! They won’t warp, rot, or dent, making them perfect for our Midwest climate swings. While premium options might cost more upfront, their low maintenance requirements and energy efficiency often make them the better long-term investment.

Steel Doors with Sidelights are the champions of security and value. With a solid steel construction and foam core insulation, these doors create a fortress-like barrier while keeping your energy bills in check. The initial price point is often more budget-friendly than other options, though be aware they can dent and may conduct temperature more readily than other materials. Many of our security-conscious Chicago homeowners choose steel for peace of mind.

One of our Chicago customers, Sheila A., shared her experience: “Rob came out to give us a quote and he was great. Really worked to give us the best quality and a great price. The windows and patio door truly transformed my home, thanks to this great company and quality materials.”

When it comes to glass options for sidelights, you’ll need to balance light, privacy, and energy efficiency. Clear glass maximizes natural light but offers minimal privacy. Decorative glass adds personality with patterns and textures while providing moderate privacy. Privacy glass gives you light without transparency – perfect for busy streets. Low-E glass includes special coatings that reduce heat transfer, helping lower energy bills year-round. And for those concerned about security, impact-resistant glass offers additional protection against both intruders and severe weather.

Your hardware choices put the finishing touch on your entry system. Beyond just looking beautiful, your door hardware needs to function flawlessly for decades. Consider finishes like brushed nickel for a contemporary look, oil-rubbed bronze for traditional homes, or trending matte black for a bold statement. Security features like multi-point locking systems and smart locks add convenience and protection. And don’t overlook accessibility – lever handles are easier to operate than knobs, especially important as we age in our homes.

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Design Styles & Sizes

Front entry doors with sidelights come in distinctive architectural styles that should harmonize with your home’s character:

Craftsman Style doors celebrate honest materials and visible craftsmanship. With their clean lines and rectangular glass panels, these doors perfectly complement bungalows and prairie-style homes throughout Chicago’s historic neighborhoods. The sidelights typically feature glass patterns that echo the door’s design, creating a cohesive look that honors architectural tradition.

Modern Style entries accept minimalism and bold statements. Often featuring large glass panels or unique geometric designs, these doors make a contemporary statement. The sidelights usually continue this clean aesthetic with simple glass treatments – either crystal clear or frosted for privacy. These systems look stunning on mid-century modern homes or newly built properties with architectural flair.

Traditional Style doors offer timeless appeal with decorative glass and classic panel designs. The sidelights often feature neat glass patterns that create a sense of formality and welcome. These systems beautifully improve colonial, Victorian, and Tudor-style homes found throughout Chicagoland’s established neighborhoods.

gallery of different front door styles with sidelights including craftsman, modern, and traditional - front entry doors with sidelights installation near me

Most entry door systems with sidelights come in standard width configurations: 60 inches (door with one sidelight), 64 inches (door with one wider sidelight), or 72 inches (door with two sidelights). Don’t worry if your opening is unique – we can create custom sizes to perfectly fit your home’s entryway.

As one delighted Des Plaines customer told us: “I absolutely love my new front door with sidelights. We chose a fiberglass door with a dark stain that looks exactly like real wood but without the maintenance worries. The decorative glass sidelights let in beautiful light patterns throughout the day.”

Finding the Best Front Entry Doors with Sidelights Installation Near Me

When you search for front entry doors with sidelights installation near me in Chicagoland, there are several important factors to consider:

Local Building Codes and Permits matter more than you might think. Most Chicago-area municipalities require permits for entry door replacements, especially when structural changes are involved. Energy efficiency requirements vary by location, and homes in historic districts often have specific guidelines about appropriate door styles. We handle all permitting for you, ensuring your new door meets every local requirement.

Finding qualified installation professionals makes all the difference between a door that performs flawlessly for decades and one that causes headaches. Look for contractors who are certified, licensed, insured, and bonded. At Perfect Windows & Siding, we’re proud of our Pella Platinum Elite Certification – it means we’ve demonstrated exceptional installation quality and customer service.

Be realistic about lead times and scheduling. Standard door systems typically take 1-3 weeks from measurement to installation, while custom configurations might require 3-8 weeks. While the installation itself usually takes just one day, the entire process from consultation to completion typically spans 3-9 days. We’ll provide clear timeline expectations from your first call.

Don’t skip checking reviews and references. Look specifically for installers with experience handling entry doors with sidelights, as these systems require specialized expertise. Ask to see before-and-after photos of similar projects, and read online reviews focusing on installation quality and service. Our team serves the entire Chicagoland area, including Chicago, Des Plaines, and surrounding Illinois communities.

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Questions to Ask Installers about Front Entry Doors with Sidelights Installation Near Me

When researching front entry doors with sidelights installation near me, arm yourself with these essential questions:

Will you take exact measurements before ordering? Professional measurement isn’t just helpful – it’s essential for proper fit and maintaining your warranty coverage. Our team uses precision tools to measure down to the millimeter.

What warranty terms do you offer? Look for companies that stand behind both their products and their labor. We provide lifetime product warranties and comprehensive labor guarantees.

What’s included in your installation service? The answer should cover removal of your old door, proper installation of the new system, thorough testing, and complete cleanup. We leave your home cleaner than we found it.

How will you handle unexpected issues like rot or structural problems? Experienced installers have seen it all and should have clear protocols for addressing hidden damage. We always build a small contingency into our quotes to handle common surprises without unexpected charges.

Do you offer financing options? Quality door systems are an investment, and many reputable companies provide payment plans to make the process more manageable. We partner with trusted financing providers to offer flexible payment options.

Will the same team handle the entire project? Consistency in your installation team ensures accountability and quality. Our dedicated crews handle your project from start to finish – never subcontractors.

How do you ensure energy efficiency and proper sealing? The techniques and materials used for sealing are just as important as the door itself. We use industry-leading weatherstripping and sealants that prevent drafts and water intrusion.

One of our satisfied customers, Brian F. from Chicago, shared: “I feel as if I am getting a much better quality product and install with your company.” That’s exactly the experience we aim to provide for every homeowner who searches for front entry doors with sidelights installation near me.

Step-by-Step Installation Process

When you’re investing in front entry doors with sidelights installation near me, knowing what happens during installation helps set your expectations. While I always recommend professional installation for these complex door systems, let me walk you through what our expert installers do when they arrive at your home.

The installation begins with a thorough site assessment where we protect your flooring and surrounding areas with drop cloths and runners. Our team verifies all measurements one final time and checks for any potential structural issues before we start removing anything. We make sure all materials and tools are ready so there are no delays once we begin.

Next comes the careful removal of your existing door system. We gently take off trim, remove the door, and extract the old frame without damaging your home’s structure. This is when we get our first real look at what’s behind your current door – sometimes revealing hidden issues like water damage or rot that need addressing before we can proceed.

“I always tell homeowners that what we find when we remove the old door is like opening a mystery box,” says Mike, one of our senior installers. “Sometimes everything looks perfect, and sometimes we find issues that have been hidden for years.”

Preparing the rough opening is a crucial step that many inexperienced installers rush through. Our team thoroughly cleans the opening and ensures it’s perfectly square and level. We install proper flashing around the perimeter to prevent future water infiltration and apply a waterproof membrane at the threshold – small details that make a huge difference in the long-term performance of your new door system.

The actual installation of your new door system with sidelights requires precision and patience. We carefully position the pre-hung unit in the opening, temporarily secure it with shims, and carefully check that everything is level and plumb from multiple angles. This careful adjustment process ensures your door will swing properly and seal correctly for years to come.

Once everything is perfectly positioned, we permanently secure the frame to your home’s structure, always fastening through the shims to prevent frame distortion. We install proper weatherstripping and seals, then apply low-expansion foam insulation in the gaps – using the correct type that won’t put pressure on the frame and cause operational problems later.

The exterior finishing touches include installing drip caps and flashing, applying exterior trim, and ensuring a watertight seal around the entire unit. Inside your home, we install interior trim and casing, touch up any paint or finish as needed, and install all hardware before testing everything thoroughly.

Our installation process concludes with a comprehensive final inspection where we test door operation, lock function, and weather sealing. We clean all glass surfaces and surrounding areas, remove all debris and protection materials, and conduct a walkthrough with you to ensure your complete satisfaction.

Infographic showing the 8 steps of professional door installation with sidelights - front entry doors with sidelights installation near me infographic roadmap-5-steps

Rob, one of our installation experts, explains: “When installing front entry doors with sidelights, precision is key. We take extra care with the leveling and shimming because even tiny adjustments make a huge difference in how the door operates. I always come back after the installation is complete to make a final quality check.”

Learn about energy-efficient doors from the Department of Energy

DIY vs Pro Installation

While some homeowners might be tempted to install their own entry door system, front entry doors with sidelights present special challenges that often make professional installation the wiser choice.

If you’re considering the DIY route, you’ll need a comprehensive set of tools including a level, square, drill, circular saw, caulk gun, pry bar, hammer, shims, and various screwdrivers. You’ll also need solid carpentry experience, understanding of weatherproofing techniques, and the ability to troubleshoot unexpected issues. Even experienced DIYers typically need 1-2 full days for installation, and beginners should plan for significantly longer.

The biggest risks with DIY installation include water leaks from improper sealing, structural issues from incorrect mounting, and potentially voided warranties since many manufacturers require professional installation to maintain coverage.

Professional installation brings peace of mind through expertise and efficiency. Our trained installers understand the potential problems that can arise and have solutions ready. We typically complete even complex installations in a single day with minimal disruption to your household. Your manufacturer warranties remain intact, and you can be confident that all building codes and permit requirements are being met.

A customer from Arlington Heights shared with us: “I initially thought about installing my entry door myself to save money, but after seeing the complexity of working with sidelights and ensuring everything was properly weatherproofed, I’m so glad I hired professionals. The installation was flawless, and I have peace of mind knowing it was done right.”

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Costs, Financing, and Warranties

When searching for front entry doors with sidelights installation near me, understanding the full investment picture helps you make the best decision for your home. At Perfect Windows & Siding, we believe in complete transparency about what your new entryway will cost—and the value it brings.

Most homeowners in the Chicagoland area can expect to invest between $2,900 and $4,100 for a complete entry door system with sidelights, including professional installation. This range reflects several important factors that influence your final price.

The material you choose makes a significant difference in both price and performance. Wood doors offer timeless beauty but come with a higher price tag, typically starting around $3,400 installed with sidelights. Fiberglass options provide excellent durability with less maintenance at a mid-range price point of $3,000-$3,800. Steel door systems offer the most budget-friendly starting point around $2,900 while still providing excellent security.

“Many of our customers are surprised to learn that upgrading to decorative glass or adding custom hardware doesn’t increase the price as much as they expected,” shares Voytek from our team. “These small upgrades often make the biggest visual impact for the investment.”

Beyond the door itself, your total investment includes professional installation labor, any required permits (which vary by Chicago suburb), and potential structural modifications if your opening needs adjustment to accommodate sidelights. We’ll always provide a detailed breakdown so there are no surprises.

What makes this investment worthwhile? Entry door replacement consistently ranks among the top home improvements for return on investment, with homeowners typically recouping 65-75% of the project cost when selling their home. More importantly, you’ll enjoy improved energy efficiency, improved security, and that smile-inducing feeling every time you come home to your beautiful new entrance.

At Perfect Windows & Siding, we back every installation with confidence:
– Lifetime product warranties on most door systems we install
– 1-year labor warranty covering our installation craftsmanship
– Manufacturer-backed guarantees on hardware, glass, and finish performance

“We installed a fiberglass entry door with sidelights last winter, and I’ve already noticed a huge difference in our heating bills,” shares Maria from Des Plaines. “The door looks like real wood but doesn’t need the maintenance, and the warranty gives us peace of mind that we made a smart investment.”

Financing Options & Promotions

We understand that upgrading your entryway is an investment, which is why we’ve partnered with trusted financing providers like Synchrony and GreenSky to offer flexible payment options. Many of our customers qualify for 0% APR financing on their entry door projects, allowing you to enjoy your beautiful new entrance now while paying over time.

Throughout the year, we offer seasonal promotions that can make your project even more affordable. Spring and fall installation specials often include discounts on select door styles or free hardware upgrades. We also provide bundle savings when you combine your entry door project with window or siding replacement.

Our customers appreciate that financing their entry door system allows them to choose exactly what they want rather than compromising on quality or style. As Tom from Arlington Heights told us, “The monthly payment fits our budget perfectly, and we were able to get the exact craftsman-style door with sidelights we’d been dreaming about.”

During your in-home consultation, we’ll discuss all available financing options and current promotions to help you maximize your investment. Many homeowners are pleasantly surprised to learn how affordable their dream entryway can be with the right financing plan in place.

Entry Door Installation Near Me

Maintenance, Upgrades, and Replacement Timing

Taking care of your front entry doors with sidelights isn’t complicated, but a little attention goes a long way in keeping them beautiful and functional for years to come. Think of your door system like a car – regular check-ups prevent bigger problems down the road.

Wood doors require the most TLC, with annual inspections to catch any finish wear before it becomes a problem. I always tell homeowners to mark their calendars for spring cleaning to refinish or repaint every 2-5 years, depending on how much sun and weather your entryway gets. The natural beauty of wood is worth the extra care!

Fiberglass doors are the low-maintenance champions. A simple wash with mild soap and water twice a year keeps them looking fresh. If your door faces direct sunlight, applying a UV protectant can prevent that annoying fading that makes your door look tired before its time.

For steel doors, the enemy is rust. I recommend checking for any scratches or dents during your regular cleaning and touching up the paint right away – it’s much easier than dealing with rust later. Don’t forget to give those hinges a little squirt of lubricant once a year to keep everything swinging smoothly.

The glass in your sidelights needs attention too. Use the right cleaner (skip the ammonia on specialty glass) and check those seals annually. One telltale sign of trouble is condensation between glass panes – that means the seal has failed and you’re losing energy efficiency.

maintenance checklist for entry doors with sidelights - front entry doors with sidelights installation near me

When it comes to knowing when it’s time to replace your entry door system, your senses won’t steer you wrong. Feel for drafts around the edges of your door or sidelights. Listen for creaking or sticking when you open and close the door. Look for visible damage, warping, or rot, especially at the bottom corners where water tends to collect.

“When a client calls about drafts around their entry door, I always check the sidelights too,” says our service technician. “Often, the main door gets all the attention while the sidelights develop leaks that go unnoticed.”

Rising energy bills can also signal that your door system isn’t sealing properly anymore. And don’t underestimate the security aspect – older doors often have outdated locking systems that don’t provide the protection modern options do.

Speaking of security, there are some worthwhile upgrades to consider even if you’re not ready for a full replacement. Multi-point locking systems secure the door at several points along the frame, making it much harder to force open. Smart locks offer convenience and the ability to monitor your door remotely. For families in high-traffic neighborhoods, impact-resistant glass options for sidelights provide extra peace of mind.

At Perfect Windows & Siding, we’ve seen Chicago homes with entry doors that have lasted decades with proper care – and others that needed replacement after just a few years due to neglect. The difference? Simple, consistent maintenance that takes just minutes a few times a year.

Frequently Asked Questions about Entry Doors with Sidelights

How long does installation take?

When you’re eager to transform your entryway, timing matters. The actual installation of front entry doors with sidelights typically takes just one day – yes, you’ll have a beautiful new entrance by dinner time! However, the complete journey from first measurement to final handshake follows a more extended timeline.

Professional measurement usually takes 3-9 days to schedule and complete, as we need to ensure precise measurements for a perfect fit. Door selection and ordering might take up to a week as you explore options and finalize your choice. Manufacturing and delivery timeframes vary – in-stock doors can be available immediately, while those gorgeous specialty doors with custom glass might take 1-3 weeks to arrive. Once everything’s ready, we’ll schedule your installation within a week.

“We pride ourselves on efficient, same-day installation,” explains our installation manager with a smile. “Our customers are often surprised at how quickly we transform their entryway with minimal disruption to their daily routine. You’ll leave for work with your old door and come home to a stunning new entrance.”

Do sidelights reduce energy efficiency?

This is a common concern we hear, but rest assured – modern sidelights are engineered with energy efficiency as a priority, not an afterthought. Today’s systems feature Low-E glass options that significantly reduce heat transfer, keeping summer heat out and winter warmth in. Double or triple glazing provides excellent insulation, while proper installation with high-quality weatherstripping prevents those pesky air leaks that drive up energy bills. Many frames even feature foam-core construction for added insulation value.

When professionally installed, contemporary entry door systems with sidelights can be just as energy-efficient as solid doors. The secret isn’t avoiding glass – it’s choosing quality materials and ensuring expert installation with proper sealing around all components.

Energy efficiency studies consistently show that the biggest factor in door system efficiency isn’t actually the presence of glass, but rather the quality of installation and sealing. A perfectly installed door with sidelights often outperforms a poorly installed solid door in terms of energy performance.

Can I add sidelights to an existing doorway?

Yes, you can transform your current entryway by adding sidelights, but this project requires careful structural consideration. It’s not quite as simple as a standard door replacement.

The existing rough opening must be widened to accommodate the sidelights, which often means removing part of the wall. A new, larger header may be needed to properly support the weight of the expanded door system. Sometimes electrical wiring or plumbing hidden in the walls needs relocation. Both exterior and interior trim will require modification to match the new opening size, and depending on your home’s exterior, siding, brick, or stone around the door may need skillful alteration.

“When adding sidelights to an existing opening, we always check the header size and load-bearing capacity first,” explains our lead installer. “Sometimes what seems like a simple addition requires more structural work to ensure safety and proper function. But the change is worth it – we’ve seen homes completely change character with the addition of well-chosen sidelights.”

This type of project is definitely more complex than a straightforward door replacement and should be handled by experienced professionals who can properly assess structural requirements and ensure everything is safely supported.

What are the most popular sidelight configurations?

In our years of installing front entry doors with sidelights installation near me throughout Chicagoland, we’ve seen clear preferences emerge. The most requested configurations include single sidelights (on just one side), which work beautifully for asymmetrical facades or spaces with limited width. Double sidelights flanking both sides of the door create a traditional, balanced appearance that many homeowners love.

Full-length sidelights that extend from floor to the top of the door provide maximum light and visibility, while partial-height sidelights offer more privacy while still welcoming natural light. For those who value fresh air, operational sidelights that open for ventilation add wonderful versatility to your entryway.

In Chicago specifically, we’ve noticed a growing trend toward full-length sidelights with decorative glass patterns. These designs complement the architectural style of the home while providing a measure of privacy – offering the best of both worlds for urban homeowners.

How do I match my new door with sidelights to my home’s style?

Finding the perfect stylistic match improves your home’s overall appearance rather than creating a disconnected focal point. For traditional homes, look for panel designs with divided light patterns and classic hardware finishes like oil-rubbed bronze or antique brass. Modern homes shine with clean lines, minimal detailing, and contemporary hardware in matte black or brushed nickel.

If you have a craftsman or prairie style home, geometric glass patterns and visible woodwork details will complement your architecture beautifully. For transitional homes that blend elements of different styles, consider designs that incorporate both traditional and contemporary elements for a versatile, timeless appeal.

“The right entry door system should feel like it was always meant to be there,” our design consultant often tells clients. “We help homeowners select door and sidelight combinations that improve their home’s architectural character rather than fighting against it. When done right, your new entry should look so natural that visitors might think it’s original to the home – just in perfect condition!”

Conclusion

Changing your entryway with front entry doors with sidelights creates an immediate impact that resonates throughout your entire home. It’s not just about aesthetics – though the visual improvement is undeniable – it’s about creating a more welcoming, light-filled space while enhancing security and energy efficiency at the same time.

When you choose the right materials, style, and installation team, your new entry system becomes the focal point that ties your home’s exterior together. The natural light that filters through your sidelights will brighten your foyer in ways that feel almost magical, especially during Chicago’s long winter months when every bit of sunshine matters.

Here at Perfect Windows & Siding, we’ve spent over 25 years helping families throughout Chicagoland create entryways that make them proud. As a family-owned business ourselves, we understand that your home isn’t just a structure – it’s where your life happens. That’s why we take such care with every installation, treating your home as if it were our own.

We know the unique architectural styles throughout Chicago, Des Plaines, and surrounding communities. Whether you live in a classic bungalow, a mid-century ranch, or a contemporary new build, we’ll help you select an entry door system that complements your home’s character while improving its functionality.

Our team doesn’t just install doors – we create entryways that welcome you home every day. The difference is in the details: the perfect weatherstripping that keeps drafts out, the precise measurements that ensure smooth operation, and the experienced hands that make sure everything is properly sealed and secured.

Our lifetime warranty isn’t just a marketing promise – it’s our commitment to standing behind our work for as long as you own your home. As certified installation experts, we’ve seen how proper installation makes all the difference in how your door performs over time.

When you’re ready to upgrade your entryway, finding quality front entry doors with sidelights installation near me doesn’t have to be complicated. Our team is just a phone call away, ready to guide you through selection, measurement, and installation with the kind of personal attention that’s becoming increasingly rare these days.

Let us help you create an entrance that not only makes a stunning first impression but also improves your home’s security, energy efficiency, and value for years to come. After all, your front door isn’t just an entrance – it’s where you welcome friends, family, and all of life’s possibilities.

More info about our entry door installation services