--- title: "Sidelites & Transoms" description: "Learn how sidelites and transoms add light, privacy options, decorative glass, and architectural presence to your entry door system and home exterior." image: "https://auroradirect.ca/logotype-116x41-10.png" --- Sidelites & Transoms # Sidelites & Transoms Add light and architectural presence to your entry system. Choose privacy levels, decorative glass, and finishes to perfectly match your door. [Design & Price Online](https://auroradirect.ca/design-and-price)[Book a Free Visit](https://auroradirect.ca/book-a-visit) ![Entrance door with sidelites](https://auroradirect.ca/_astro/oso-1-accents-79-0.BDmcEJ-G.jpg) Category Sidelites & Transoms Glass Clear, decorative, privacy Material PVC frame Compatibility All Aurora entry doors Quick Highlights ## 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 Ideal Applications ## 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 ## 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 ## 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 Performance ## 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 ## 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 Protection ## 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. Common Questions ## 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. Resources ## Brochures & Technical PDFs Download detailed product information, installation guides, and specifications. ![Novatech Style Guide](https://auroradirect.ca/_astro/2025_Novatech_Style_Guide.Bz1r7nDF_Z11aOEz.webp) ### Novatech Style Guide Entrance doors, door glass, and patio doors. ![Trimlite Fiberglass Brochure](https://auroradirect.ca/_astro/2025_Trimlite_Fiberglass.Cxd7OxAU_Z2qp6TC.webp) ### Trimlite Fiberglass Doors High-quality fiberglass entry door systems. ![ODL Door Glass Brochure](https://auroradirect.ca/_astro/2025-ODL-Canada-Door-Glass-Brochure.Ce3-rZKx_1OellF.webp) ### ODL Door Glass Decorative decorative and clear glass options. ![Richersons Brochure](https://auroradirect.ca/_astro/2025_Richersons_Brochure.Dyqxq0mi_Z1doTuF.webp) ### Richersons Doors Entry door collection. ### Palma Doorlites Doorlite collection for entry doors. ![Palma Novatech Catalog](https://auroradirect.ca/_astro/2025_Palma_Door_Systems_Novatech_Catalog.DMgH51yI_12fB1s.webp) ### Palma Novatech Catalog Novatech products available through Palma. Learn More ## Related Resources [ ### Entry Door Systems Explore steel and fiberglass doors Read More →](https://auroradirect.ca/products/doors)[ ### Glass Guide See glass styles and privacy levels Read More →](https://auroradirect.ca/education/guides/glass-igu-guide)[ ### ENERGY STAR Canada Learn about efficiency ratings Read More →](https://auroradirect.ca/education/energy-star-canada) Get Started ## Ready to Design Your Entry System? Explore sidelite and transom options online, or book a free consultation to see glass samples and discuss configurations. 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