Sidelites & Transoms
Add light and architectural presence to your entry system. Choose privacy levels, decorative glass, and finishes to perfectly match your door.
Transform Your Entryway
Frame Your Entry
Vertical sidelites and horizontal transoms create a grand entrance
Design Flexibility
Privacy and decorative glass options in multiple styles
Integrated System
Thermal and sealing considerations built into the door system
Best For
Dark entryways needing more natural light
Design upgrades without changing the main door leaf
Understanding Sidelites & Transoms
Sidelites
Vertical glass panels installed on one or both sides of your entry door. They add natural light and create a wider, more impressive entrance.
- Available as single or double (both sides)
- Various widths to fit your opening
- Can be fixed or operable (rare)
- Coordinate glass patterns with door
Transoms
Horizontal glass panels installed above your entry door. They bring in additional light from above and add architectural height.
- Flat or arched configurations
- Sized to match door width
- Always fixed (non-operable)
- Can span door and sidelites
Glass Options & Privacy Levels
Clear Glass
Maximum light and visibility-best for private settings or upper transoms
Textured Glass
Obscures view while allowing light-ideal balance for most entryways
Decorative Glass
Artistic patterns with privacy-adds character and curb appeal
Sizes & Configurations
Door + One Sidelite
Asymmetric look, adds light to one side
Door + Two Sidelites
Balanced, grand entrance with maximum light
Door + Transom
Adds height and light from above
Full Surround
Sidelites + transom for ultimate presence
Sidelite Widths
Typically 10", 12", or 14" (custom available)
Transom Heights
Usually 12"-18" (sized to opening)
Custom Sizes
Available within manufacturing limits
Structural Opening
Must accommodate full system width/height
Thermal & Sealing Considerations
Integrated System
Sidelites and transoms are integrated with your entry system for consistent sealing and thermal performance. Frames connect seamlessly to maintain weathertightness.
Impact on Efficiency
Additional glass increases the overall glazing percentage, which affects U-factor and SHGC ratings. Choose appropriate IGU options for your climate: double or triple pane, Low-E coatings, argon or krypton gas fills, and warm-edge spacers.
Installation & Flashing
Continuous Sealing
Sidelites and transoms seal continuously with the main frame and threshold for weathertightness
Proper Flashing
Critical flashing details prevent water intrusion at all joints and transitions
Precise Shimming
Proper shimming maintains performance and prevents stress on glass units
Warranty & Maintenance
Warranty Coverage
Manufacturer coverage for frames and glass. Finish warranties per manufacturer program. Labour/installation coverage by dealer/installer.
Maintenance
Clean glass and frames with approved products. Inspect sealants and weatherstripping periodically. Check for condensation or seal failure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add a sidelite to my existing door?
It depends on your structural opening and system compatibility. In most cases, adding sidelites requires a full system replacement to ensure proper integration and sealing.
Will sidelites hurt my door's efficiency?
Additional glass impacts U-factor and SHGC ratings. However, with proper IGU selection (Low-E, argon, warm-edge spacers), you can maintain excellent efficiency. We'll help you choose the right glazing for your climate.
Do I need the same glass pattern in my sidelites as my door?
Not necessarily! While matching creates a cohesive look, you can also choose complementary patterns. For example, a decorative door glass with clear or textured sidelites for more light.
Are transoms always arched?
No-transoms can be flat (rectangular) or arched. Arched transoms add traditional elegance, while flat transoms suit modern or contemporary styles.
Brochures & Technical PDFs
Download detailed product information, installation guides, and specifications.
Novatech Style Guide
Entrance doors, door glass, and patio doors.
Trimlite Fiberglass Doors
High-quality fiberglass entry door systems.
ODL Door Glass
Decorative decorative and clear glass options.
Richersons Doors
Entry door collection.
Palma Doorlites
Doorlite collection for entry doors.
Palma Novatech Catalog
Novatech products available through Palma.
Ready to Design Your
Entry System?
Explore sidelite and transom options online, or book a free consultation to see glass samples and discuss configurations.