Can You Buy Sidelights Only? The Surprising Answer Revealed
You have a perfectly good front door, but the sidelight next to it is a wreck. The glass is cracked, the frame is rotting, or the design is hopelessly outdated. This common problem leads to one critical question: can you buy sidelights only, or are you forced into a costly full-door replacement?
The answer is a resounding “yes, but it’s complicated.” While you can’t just walk into a big-box store and grab a single sidelight off the shelf, several paths exist for replacing just the sidelight. Understanding these options can save you a significant amount of money and hassle.
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Why Is Just Replacing a Sidelight So Complicated?
The primary challenge is that most modern entry doors are sold as integrated, pre-hung units. The door, its frame (jambs), and the sidelights are all manufactured and assembled together in a factory. This ensures a perfect, weather-tight seal and structural integrity.
When you try to replace only one component of this system, you run into three main issues. First, finding an exact match in style, size, and finish can be nearly impossible, especially for older doors. Second, separating the old sidelight from the door jamb can compromise the entryway’s weatherproofing. Finally, ensuring the new, standalone sidelight integrates seamlessly and securely requires precision.
The Pre-Hung System vs. The Sidelight Slab
To navigate this challenge, it’s crucial to understand the terminology. A pre-hung unit is the entire assembly: door, jambs, sill, and sidelights. What you are looking for is often called a “sidelight slab”—just the sidelight panel itself, without any of the surrounding frame.
While harder to find, sidelight slabs are available. Success depends on knowing where to look and what to ask for. Armed with the right information, you can confidently pursue a replacement without buying a whole new door system.
Your Actionable Roadmap: 4 Paths to Buying Sidelights Only
If your door is in great shape but your sidelight isn’t, don’t rush to replace the entire unit. Explore these four effective strategies first to find a standalone sidelight that fits your home and your budget.
Path 1: Contact the Original Manufacturer
Your first and best step is to identify the manufacturer of your original door unit. Look for a brand name or logo on the edge of the door (between the hinges), on the hinges themselves, or on the weatherstripping. If you find it, contact their customer service department.
The manufacturer is the most likely source for a perfectly matching sidelight slab. They may have replacement parts in stock or be able to produce a new one based on your door’s model number. This is the surest way to guarantee a perfect match in both style and fit.
Path 2: The “Glass Insert” Solution
Often, the sidelight’s main problem is the glass itself—it’s foggy, broken, or just plain ugly. If the sidelight’s wood or fiberglass frame is still solid, you have a much simpler and more affordable option: replace only the glass insert. This is a fantastic DIY-friendly solution.
The process involves carefully removing the trim that holds the glass in place, taking precise measurements of the glass unit, and ordering a new one. Companies specializing in door glass inserts can provide a replacement that slots right into your existing frame. This not only fixes the problem but also offers a chance to upgrade to a more modern or private glass style.
Path 3: Visit a Specialty Door and Millwork Shop
If the manufacturer is unknown or no longer produces your door model, your next stop should be a local, independent door and millwork shop. Unlike big-box retailers, these specialists have access to a wide variety of suppliers and can often source hard-to-find components like individual sidelight slabs.
Even better, many of these shops have the capability to build a custom sidelight from scratch. They can replicate the style, dimensions, and material of your existing entryway to create a seamless replacement. While this may be more expensive than an off-the-shelf solution, it is almost always more affordable than replacing the entire door unit, a project that can be surprisingly costly as detailed in discussions about why front doors are so expensive.
Path 4: The Custom Build or Salvage Route
For unique, vintage, or highly custom doors, you may need to think outside the box. Hiring a skilled carpenter or woodworker to build a custom sidelight frame is a viable option. This gives you complete control over the design and ensures a perfect fit with your existing door.
Another option is to visit architectural salvage yards. With patience, you might find a vintage sidelight that matches the character of your home. However, be prepared for potential challenges with sizing and condition, as these pieces will almost certainly require some modification to fit your entryway.
Sidelight Replacement Cost: A Realistic Breakdown
The cost to replace a sidelight can vary dramatically based on the approach you take. A full pre-hung door unit replacement is the most expensive path, while a simple DIY glass insert swap is the most budget-friendly. Understanding the potential expenses can help you make an informed decision.
| Replacement Method | Estimated Cost (Materials Only) | Difficulty Level | Best For… |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY Glass Insert Replacement | $150 – $500 | Low | Sidelights with damaged glass but a solid, intact frame. |
| Professional Glass Insert Replacement | $300 – $800 | Low | Those who want a simple glass upgrade without the DIY hassle. |
| Stock Sidelight Slab Purchase | $250 – $700 | Medium | Finding a match through the original manufacturer or a specialty shop. |
| Custom-Made Sidelight Slab | $600 – $1,500+ | High (Professional Install Recommended) | Older, unique, or high-end doors where no stock match exists. |
| Full Pre-Hung Unit Replacement | $1,500 – $5,000+ | High (Professional Install Recommended) | Entryways where the door, sidelight, and frame are all damaged. |
Critical Measurements: The #1 Mistake to Avoid
Whether you are replacing the full sidelight slab or just the glass insert, accuracy is everything. Incorrect measurements are the most common and costly mistake homeowners make. Measure everything at least twice before placing an order.
Use a quality tape measure and record the following dimensions to the nearest 1/8 inch. For a full sidelight slab, measure the height, width, and thickness of the slab itself. For a glass insert, measure the visible glass area (width and height) and the full dimensions of the outer frame that holds the glass.
The Alternative: What If You Can’t Find a Match?
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, finding a suitable sidelight replacement just isn’t possible. Before you give up and order a new pre-hung unit, consider these creative and stylish alternatives that can completely transform your entryway.
One popular modern solution is to remove the old sidelight entirely and reframe the opening. This is a fantastic opportunity to replace sidelights with wood for a solid, high-security, and contemporary look. This approach not only solves the problem of a damaged sidelight but also offers a significant aesthetic upgrade to your home’s curb appeal.
Thinking Beyond Glass
If you have two sidelights and only one is damaged, consider replacing both with a new, matching pair. This creates a balanced, intentional design even if they don’t perfectly match the door style. Another option is to replace the damaged unit with a custom decorative panel made of metal or a composite material, turning the space into a unique architectural feature.
Conclusion: Your Sidelight Solution Awaits
So, can you buy sidelights only? Absolutely. While it requires more diligence than buying a complete door system, the potential savings make it a worthwhile endeavor. Your best options are to contact the original manufacturer, work with a specialty door shop, or simply replace the glass insert if the frame is sound.
By carefully measuring, exploring all your options, and even considering creative alternatives, you can solve your sidelight problem without the shocking expense of a full entryway replacement. Take the time to research your specific situation, and you will find a solution that restores the beauty, security, and integrity of your front door.
Frequently Asked questions
Can I buy sidelights by themselves?
Yes, you can purchase sidelights separately to add to an existing door. This allows you to enhance your entryway without replacing the entire door unit. Sidelights are available in various styles and materials to match your current door.
Is it possible to add sidelights to my existing door?
Adding sidelights to an existing door is possible, but it may require professional assistance. The process involves creating openings in the wall next to your door frame. It’s important to ensure there is enough structural space and to consider any electrical or plumbing that may be in the wall.
Can I replace the glass in my existing sidelights?
Yes, you can replace the glass in your sidelights without replacing the entire unit. This is a good option if the glass is broken, foggy, or you simply want to update the look of your entryway. A professional can help ensure the new glass is installed correctly with proper sealing.
Do I need a professional to install sidelights?
While some experienced DIYers may be able to install sidelights, professional installation is generally recommended. A professional will have the necessary skills to handle structural modifications, ensure proper framing, and create a weather-tight seal. This helps to avoid costly mistakes and ensures the longevity of your installation.
How much do sidelights cost?
The cost of sidelights can vary widely depending on the material, style, and glass options. For example, a fiberglass door with sidelights can range from $1,500 to $3,000, while a solid wood door with sidelights could be between $3,000 and $7,000. Professional installation can add between $300 and $1,500 to the total cost.
