Sidelight Shutters Add Style to Any Front Door

Front doors make a strong first impression and help establish the overall aesthetic of a home. Sidelight windows that flank entry doors are a popular architectural detail. However, sidelights pose privacy concerns and security risks by allowing passersby to peer directly into a home's interior.

Installing sidelight shutters is an effective solution for enhancing privacy and safety while also adding beautiful architectural detail. Shutters can transform plain sidelight windows into an elegant focal point.

Benefits of Sidelight Shutters

Shutters offer numerous advantages for sidelight windows:

• Privacy - Shutters prevent people from seeing directly into the home's entryway and adjacent rooms.
• Security - Closed shutters deter potential intruders and block shattered glass.
• Light control - Adjustable louvers moderate sunlight entering the home.
• Noise reduction - Shutters absorb sound and dampen loud exterior noises when closed.
• Energy efficiency - Shutters insulate windows and reduce heating/cooling costs.
• Curb appeal - Stylish shutters complement a home's architecture and landscaping.

Unlike curtains that leave window edges exposed, shutters fully cover sidelights to maximize privacy and security. Shutters also provide insulation and UV protection that sheer curtains lack.

Custom vs Off-the-Shelf Shutters

Custom-built shutters are tailored specifically for each unique sidelight window. Though more expensive than off-the-shelf options, custom shutters provide an exact fit and allow design flexibility for unusual window shapes and sizes.

Off-the-shelf shutters offer cost savings, but finding the right size can prove challenging with narrow sidelight dimensions. Small size gaps may remain around the shutters. Off-the-shelf options also limit material and design choices.

Interior vs Exterior Mounting

Interior mounted shutters attach directly to the window frame on the inside of the home. They don't require exterior drilling into siding or masonry.

Exterior mounted shutters attach to the home's siding or facade around the sidelights. They make a bolder architectural statement but require more complex installation.

Popular Shutter Materials

Sidelight shutters come in a range of materials to fit any style and budget:

Wood Shutters

The most traditional choice, wood offers a classic, timeless look. Basswood is an economical option. More durable hardwoods like poplar and red oak withstand weathering. Expect to pay more for exotic wood species.

Faux Wood

Faux wood shutters mimic the look of real wood but resist moisture and rotting. Composites like silicone-impregnated fiberglass cost less than natural wood. Cellular PVC shutters offer greater durability.

Vinyl

Inexpensive vinyl shutters are lightweight and easy to install. Choose thicker vinyl for greater stability. Vinyl resists moisture, rot, and termites but can become brittle in extreme cold.

Aluminum

Lightweight aluminum shutters are durable and maintenance-free. Specialty finishes like anodized aluminum offer color options. Aluminum easily dents, limiting longevity in active households.

Composite

Composite shutters blend materials like wood, plastics, and recycled fibers. They offer durability, customization, and a natural look for lower costs than wood. Premium composites mimic wood grain with great realism.

Popular Shutter Styles

From classic to contemporary, numerous shutter styles suit sidelight windows:

Louvered

The most common style, louvered shutters feature adjustable horizontal slats to control light and privacy. They bring airy elegance to a home's facade.

Raised Panel

Featuring a decorative raised center panel set into frames, these elegant shutters complement traditional home styles like Craftsman and Colonial.

Board and Batten

These rustic shutters have the look of overlapping vertical boards attached with accent battens. They pair beautifully with farmhouse, cottage, or coastal design themes.

Bahama

Bahama shutters are hinged at the top and can tilt open to provide shade while still allowing air to flow through. This style is ideal for blocking harsh sun.

Cafe

Cafe style shutters only cover the lower half of a window. They provide privacy while still letting light in through the top portion.

Measuring for the Perfect Fit

Taking accurate measurements ensures custom sidelight shutters fit precisely within the window opening:

• Measure window height from the very top of the frame to the sill in three places, recording the smallest dimension.
• For width, measure across the top, center, and bottom of the frame. Use the narrowest width.
• Account for obstructions like door knobs, locks, and overlapping trim.

Experienced shutter vendors can assist with measurements. They may recommend allowing a 1/4-inch clearance gap for easy operation. Take photos of your sidelights when measuring for helpful visual references.

Optimal Installation

Proper installation positions shutters for both aesthetics and performance:

• Determine ideal placement based on sunlight angles and privacy needs.
• Align shutters evenly with door frames and hardware.
• Allow room for hinges and hardware to fully open and close.
• For exterior mounting, utilize diagonal braces for support in high winds.
• Seal exterior shutters well to prevent air and moisture infiltration.

Consider hiring a professional for installation, especially for exterior mounting. Precise alignment and reinforced anchoring are crucial.

Potential Challenges

Some factors can complicate sidelight shutter installation:

• Obstructing door knobs or handles when opening shutters
• Limited depth for exterior mounting in brick or stone facades
• Uneven walls that prevent flush mounting
• Presence of wires, cables, or alarms near the window

Experienced installers know how to overcome these hurdles through careful measurement, creative hardware solutions, and strategic positioning.

shutter Color and Finish Ideas

An endless array of colors and finishes lets homeowners complement their home's existing look or make a bold statement. Consider the following:

• Select a color that matches or complements your front door for a cohesive style.
• Soft neutral painted shutters blend well with varied architectural styles.
• White or black shutters make a dramatic pop against bold exterior colors.
• Natural wood stains highlight the beauty of wood grain.
• Distressed, antique finishes add rustic cottage charm.
• Glossy lacquered shutters bring luxurious polish, while matte finishes soften the look.

Look to other exterior elements like trim, accent siding, and the roof for inspiring color pairing ideas. Landscape plants and flowers also provide cues for attractive shutter colors.

Costs and Where to Buy

Standard height sidelight shutters measuring around 36 to 72 inches high and 12 to 18 inches wide typically range from $100-$500 per shutter panel.Exact costs depend on:

• Material: Natural woods cost more than composites or vinyl.
• Customization: Made-to-order is pricier than pre-fabricated standard sizes.
• Quality and durability: Lifetime warranties and weather-resistant materials add cost.

Local home improvement stores like Lowe's or Home Depot offer affordable off-the-shelf vinyl and composite shutters in limited sizes and colors. Custom shutter vendors provide the precision sizing, materials, and designs sidelight windows require for proper fit and function.

Alternatives to Shutters

Homeowners have several other options to provide privacy, light control, and elegance for sidelight windows:

Drapes and Curtains

Fabric window treatments complement both traditional and contemporary rooms. Curtains diffuse incoming light beautifully, but do not insulate or fully block light when drawn.

Blinds and Shades

Adjustable slats or pleated shades allow variable privacy and light control. Consider durable aluminum mini-blinds sized specifically for narrow sidelights.

Frosted Glass Film

Etched vinyl films produce an opaque, frosted glass look. This upgrades sidelights with privacy but diminishes visibility.

Glass Block Sidelights

For a unique contemporary look, glass block sidelights transmit diffused light while obscuring views. The expense can be prohibitive.

FAQs

Do sidelight shutters come pre-made or require custom sizing?

Stock shutters only fit standard window sizes. For precise fit, custom-made shutters are recommended for the odd dimensions of most sidelights.

How difficult is DIY shutter installation for sidelights?

Exterior mounting with secure bracing is challenging. Hiring a professional ensures proper installation. Interior mounting has fewer complications for DIYers.

Can you add shutters to existing sidelights?

Yes, shutters can be added. Measure carefully and pick unobtrusive hardware if drilling into siding. Interior mounting is simplest.

How should homeowners clean and maintain sidelight shutters?

Use mild detergent and soft brush for surface cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals or pressure washing. Seal finishes regularly, and inspect hinges and hardware periodically.

Installing sidelight shutters makes an impressive upgrade to enhance any entryway's beauty, privacy, and security. With custom sizing and diverse materials, colors, and louver patterns available, shutters offer a flexible and elegant solution for sidelight windows.

Thoughtfully chosen shutters complement your home's architecture and interior aesthetics. By following accurate measurement and professional installation methods, sidelight shutters can become a focal point that elegantly invites visitors inside.