Aluminium, Doors, Glass, Interior Design, Windows
Guide to Aluminium Sliding Doors with Side Windows
Aug
Aluminium Sliding Doors with Sidelights & Side Windows in South Africa
Aluminium sliding doors with side windows are becoming increasingly popular in modern home design. They offer a perfect blend of style, functionality, and practicality, making them a top choice for homeowners looking to enhance their living spaces. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about aluminium sliding doors with side windows, from their benefits and design ideas to installation and maintenance.
A sidelight — also commonly called a side window — is a narrow glazed aluminium section installed next to a door. It can be positioned on one side or on both sides to create a balanced door-and-window combination.
At Sigmadoors, standard sidelights are typically 600mm or 900mm wide × 2100mm high. A narrower 300 × 2100mm sidelight can also be used and is usually manufactured as a fixed pane.
Popular sidelights incorporate two top-hung opening sashes with a fixed pane below. Alternatively, the entire sidelight can be a single fixed glazed pane.
Sidelights are commonly paired with Icon and Palace sliding doors, but they can also complement aluminium hinged doors, Vistafold folding doors and doors manufactured using the Clipp 44 system.
What Are Aluminium Sliding Doors with Side Windows?
A sidelight is a narrow aluminium-framed glazed panel installed immediately alongside a door.
Instead of:
WALL | SLIDING DOOR | WALL
a wider opening could become:
WALL | SLIDING DOOR | SIDELIGHT | WALL
or:
WALL | SIDELIGHT | SLIDING DOOR | SIDELIGHT | WALL
The door remains the main access point while the sidelights extend the glazed area.
Sidelights are particularly useful when a standard aluminium door does not completely fill an architectural opening. They can also improve daylight, ventilation and the overall proportions of the elevation.
Although this guide focuses primarily on aluminium sliding doors with sidelights, the same design principle can be used alongside several aluminium door systems.
Popular Sliding Door and Sidelight Configurations
The right combination depends on the opening width, the amount of access required and whether the sidelights need to provide ventilation.
Sliding Door with One Sidelight
The simplest arrangement uses one sidelight:
SLIDING DOOR | SIDELIGHT
or:
SIDELIGHT | SLIDING DOOR
This works well when the opening is wider than the selected sliding door but does not require two side windows.
A 300mm, 600mm or 900mm sidelight can be considered depending on the available space.
Sliding Door with Sidelights on Both Sides
For a symmetrical elevation:
SIDELIGHT | SLIDING DOOR | SIDELIGHT
This arrangement centres the sliding door between two glazed sections and can make a wide opening feel much more balanced.
If opening sidelights are used, ventilation can also be provided from both sides while the main sliding door remains closed.
OX Sliding Door with Sidelights
An OX sliding door has one fixed panel and one sliding panel.
It can be combined with one sidelight or positioned between two matching sidelights. This is particularly suitable for patios, lounges, kitchens and bedrooms where a conventional two-panel door provides enough access but additional glazing is desirable.
OXXO Sliding Door with Sidelights
Larger openings can use an OXXO sliding door, with two fixed outer panels and two centre panels that slide away from the centre.
Adding sidelights creates an even broader glazed elevation, making this configuration particularly suitable for large lounges, patios and entertainment areas.
Opening vs Fixed Aluminium Sidelights
Sidelights can either provide ventilation or remain completely fixed.
Opening Sidelights
A popular Sigmadoors configuration consists of:
two top-hung opening sashes + fixed lower pane.
The upper sashes open outward and can provide everyday ventilation without requiring the main door to remain open.
This makes opening sidelights particularly useful in kitchens, bedrooms, lounges and other spaces where fresh air is important.
Fixed Sidelights
A fixed sidelight consists of a single glazed pane with no opening sashes.
It provides a cleaner, simpler appearance and works well where the main purpose is additional daylight, views or filling the available opening.
85mm Bottom Kicker Rail
Sigmadoors sidelights are fitted with an 85mm kicker rail at the bottom of the frame.
This creates a defined aluminium section at floor level and helps the sidelight coordinate visually with the adjoining aluminium door.
The kicker rail is used with both opening and fixed sidelight configurations.
Opening vs Fixed Sidelights
| Feature | Opening Sidelight | Fixed Sidelight |
| Typical design | 2 top-hung sashes + fixed lower pane | Single fixed pane |
| Natural light | Excellent | Excellent |
| Ventilation | Yes | No |
| Hardware | Hinges and handles | Minimal |
| Bottom kicker rail | 85mm | 85mm |
| Best for | Light + ventilation | Light + views |
Standard Aluminium Sidelight Sizes
Sigmadoors commonly uses 600mm and 900mm-wide sidelights, typically at 2100mm high.
A 300mm-wide option can also be used for narrower spaces.
600 × 2100mm Sidelight
The 600 × 2100mm sidelight is one of the standard sizes.
It provides a good balance between glazing area and overall width and can be manufactured as either an opening or fixed sidelight.
Two 600mm sidelights also work particularly well on opposite sides of a sliding or hinged door.
900 × 2100mm Sidelight
The 900 × 2100mm sidelight provides a larger glazed area.
It is useful where more natural light or ventilation is required and can create a stronger architectural feature alongside a sliding door.
300 × 2100mm Fixed Sidelight
A 300 × 2100mm sidelight is useful where only a narrow strip of additional glazing is required.
Because of its limited width, the 300mm sidelight is usually manufactured as a fixed pane rather than with opening sashes.
It can also be used on both sides of a door to create symmetry without adding substantial overall width.
Popular Sliding Door + Sidelight Sizes
Customers often know the overall width of their opening before they know exactly how it should be divided.
Sidelights provide another way to use that space.
One Sidelight
| Sliding Door | Sidelight | Nominal Combined Width |
| 1800mm | 300mm | 2100mm |
| 1800mm | 600mm | 2400mm |
| 1800mm | 900mm | 2700mm |
| 2400mm | 300mm | 2700mm |
| 2400mm | 600mm | 3000mm |
| 2400mm | 900mm | 3300mm |
Two Sidelights
| Left Sidelight | Sliding Door | Right Sidelight | Nominal Combined Width |
| 300mm | 2400mm | 300mm | 3000mm |
| 600mm | 2400mm | 600mm | 3600mm |
| 900mm | 2400mm | 900mm | 4200mm |
These figures illustrate possible combinations. Actual manufacturing dimensions, joining profiles and installation allowances must be confirmed before ordering.
Benefits of Aluminium Sliding Doors with Side Windows
Sidelights aren’t simply decorative extras. Used properly, they can change how the entire opening works.
Bring More Natural Light into the Room
One of the most obvious advantages is daylight.
Extending the glazing beyond the edges of the sliding door allows more natural light into the interior without necessarily increasing the actual door size.
This can make lounges, kitchens and living areas feel brighter and more connected to the garden or patio outside.
Add Ventilation Without Opening the Sliding Door
This is where opening sidelights become particularly useful.
With the two top-hung sash configuration, you can open the smaller windows while leaving the main sliding door closed.
You still get airflow without having to create a full doorway opening.
Make Better Use of Wide Openings
Not every structural opening corresponds neatly with a standard sliding-door width.
Sidelights provide another way of dividing the available space.
Instead of asking:
“How large can we make the sliding door?”
it may be better to ask:
“What combination of door and sidelights will work best in this opening?”
That small change in thinking can produce a much better elevation.
Create a Balanced Architectural Design
A sliding door with matching sidelights on both sides creates strong visual symmetry.
For example:
600 SIDELIGHT | 2400 SLIDING DOOR | 600 SIDELIGHT
creates a very different architectural effect from simply placing a door against one side of a 3600mm opening.
Connect Indoor and Outdoor Spaces
Large areas of glass help visually connect lounges and entertainment spaces with patios, gardens and swimming-pool areas.
Even when the door is closed, the room can retain a strong visual connection with the exterior.
Safety Glass for Aluminium Door Sidelights
Glazing around doors requires particular attention because people regularly walk through and alongside these areas.
South African glazing requirements are addressed through SANS 10400-N, while safety glazing materials are covered by SANS 1263-1.
Safety-glazing requirements apply to relevant doors and sidelights forming part of an entrance, so the glass specification should be determined as part of the complete door-and-sidelight design.
Laminated Safety Glass
One commonly used option is 6.38mm laminated safety glass.
Laminated glass incorporates an interlayer between the glass layers. If breakage occurs, the interlayer helps retain the broken fragments rather than allowing them to fall freely.
The correct glass type and thickness should always be selected according to the pane dimensions, position and applicable glazing requirements.
Glass Options for Doors and Sidelights
The selected glass also affects privacy and appearance.
Clear glass provides maximum transparency and works well where views of a garden, patio or pool are important.
Arctic Snow obscure glass provides additional privacy while still allowing daylight into the room.
Tinted options such as S10 Bronze, S10 Grey and S10 Silver can also be considered depending on the required appearance.
Whatever glass appearance is selected, the glazing must still satisfy the applicable safety requirements for its location.
Sliding Door with Sidelights vs One Large Sliding Door
For a wide opening, making the sliding door as large as possible isn’t always the only solution.
| Door + Sidelights | Larger Sliding Door |
| Can provide opening side windows | Ventilation through sliding panels |
| Fixed or opening sidelights | Door determines operation |
| Flexible overall proportions | More continuous door appearance |
| Excellent for symmetrical layouts | Strong uninterrupted-door effect |
| Useful for unusual opening widths | Ideal where maximum door width is desired |
The right choice depends on the opening dimensions, required access, ventilation and architectural appearance.
Where Do Sliding Doors with Sidelights Work Best?
Sliding-door-and-sidelight combinations can work throughout the home.
Patios and entertainment areas benefit from increased glazing and a stronger connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Lounges and dining rooms gain additional natural light without necessarily requiring a larger operating door.
Kitchens can benefit particularly from opening sidelights because the top-hung sashes provide additional ventilation.
Bedrooms can combine garden or balcony access through the sliding door with everyday ventilation through opening sidelights.
The same principle can also be used at entrances, where hinged aluminium doors and sidelights create a broader glazed entrance feature.
Aluminium Sliding Door and Sidelight Colours
Sigmadoors aluminium doors and sidelights are available in finishes including:
Natural Anodized (Silver) | White | Bronze | Charcoal | Black
The sliding door, sidelights and joining profiles should generally be coordinated in the same finish so the complete opening reads as one architectural feature.
How Much Do Aluminium Sliding Doors with Sidelights Cost?
There is no single price because the final combination can vary considerably.
The main cost factors include:
door size → OX or OXXO configuration → number of sidelights → 300/600/900mm sidelight width → opening or fixed design → glass → aluminium finish → installation.
An opening sidelight generally requires more components than a fixed sidelight because it incorporates separate opening sashes, hinges, handles and additional aluminium profiles.
Similarly, a door with two sidelights requires more aluminium and glass than a door with one.
For accurate pricing, it is best to price the complete door-and-sidelight combination rather than the sliding door in isolation.
Design Ideas for Aluminium Sliding Doors with Side Windows
Full-Height Glass Panels
For a truly dramatic effect, consider full-height glass panels for both the sliding door and the side windows. This design maximizes natural light and provides unobstructed views of the outdoors. Full-height panels are particularly effective in homes with scenic landscapes or urban views, as they create a floor-to-ceiling connection with the outside world.
Frosted or Tinted Glass
If privacy is a concern, frosted or tinted glass can be an excellent option for the side windows. Frosted glass diffuses light while obscuring the view from outside, making it ideal for homes in busy neighborhoods or ground-floor apartments. Tinted glass, on the other hand, reduces glare and heat from the sun while still allowing natural light to enter.
Custom Frame Finishes
Aluminium frames are available in a wide range of finishes, from classic matte black to modern metallics. For a unique look, consider custom frame finishes that complement your home’s interior and exterior design. Powder-coated finishes offer durability and a variety of color options, allowing you to personalize your sliding door and side windows to match your style.
Integrated Blinds or Shades
For added privacy and light control, integrated blinds or shades can be installed within the glass panels of the side windows. These can be easily adjusted to regulate the amount of light entering the room and provide an additional layer of privacy without obstructing the clean lines of the design.
Decorative Mullions
Decorative mullions can add character and a touch of traditional elegance to aluminium sliding doors with side windows. These vertical or horizontal bars divide the glass into smaller panes, creating a grid pattern that can be customized to suit various architectural styles. Mullions can be particularly effective in adding detail and interest to large expanses of glass.
Energy Efficiency of Aluminium Sliding Doors with Side Windows
Thermal Break Technology
One of the key factors contributing to the energy efficiency of aluminium sliding doors with side windows is the use of thermal break technology. A thermal break is a non-conductive material placed between the interior and exterior sections of the aluminium frame, which significantly reduces heat transfer. This technology ensures that the doors and windows maintain a stable indoor temperature, reducing the need for heating and cooling and lowering energy bills.
Double or Triple Glazing
Aluminium sliding doors with side windows can be fitted with double or triple glazing to further enhance energy efficiency. Double glazing consists of two layers of glass separated by a gap filled with air or an inert gas like argon, which acts as an insulator. Triple glazing adds an additional layer of glass, providing even better insulation. These glazing options help reduce heat loss in the winter and prevent overheating in the summer.
Low-E Glass
Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass is another feature that can improve the energy efficiency of aluminium sliding doors with side windows. Low-E glass has a special coating that reflects heat back into the room during the winter and blocks heat from entering during the summer. This helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature year-round, making your home more energy-efficient.
Safety Glass for Aluminium Door Sidelights
Glazing around doors requires particular attention because people regularly walk through and alongside these areas.
South African glazing requirements are addressed through SANS 10400-N, while safety glazing materials are covered by SANS 1263-1.
Safety-glazing requirements apply to relevant doors and sidelights forming part of an entrance, so the glass specification should be determined as part of the complete door-and-sidelight design.
Laminated Safety Glass
One commonly used option is 6.38mm laminated safety glass.
Laminated glass incorporates an interlayer between the glass layers. If breakage occurs, the interlayer helps retain the broken fragments rather than allowing them to fall freely.
The correct glass type and thickness should always be selected according to the pane dimensions, position and applicable glazing requirements.
Glass Options for Doors and Sidelights
The selected glass also affects privacy and appearance.
Clear glass provides maximum transparency and works well where views of a garden, patio or pool are important.
Arctic Snow obscure glass provides additional privacy while still allowing daylight into the room.
Tinted options such as S10 Bronze, S10 Grey and S10 Silver can also be considered depending on the required appearance.
Whatever glass appearance is selected, the glazing must still satisfy the applicable safety requirements for its location.
Sliding Door with Sidelights vs One Large Sliding Door
For a wide opening, making the sliding door as large as possible isn’t always the only solution.
| Door + Sidelights | Larger Sliding Door |
| Can provide opening side windows | Ventilation through sliding panels |
| Fixed or opening sidelights | Door determines operation |
| Flexible overall proportions | More continuous door appearance |
| Excellent for symmetrical layouts | Strong uninterrupted-door effect |
| Useful for unusual opening widths | Ideal where maximum door width is desired |
The right choice depends on the opening dimensions, required access, ventilation and architectural appearance.
Where Do Sliding Doors with Sidelights Work Best?
Sliding-door-and-sidelight combinations can work throughout the home.
Patios and entertainment areas benefit from increased glazing and a stronger connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Lounges and dining rooms gain additional natural light without necessarily requiring a larger operating door.
Kitchens can benefit particularly from opening sidelights because the top-hung sashes provide additional ventilation.
Bedrooms can combine garden or balcony access through the sliding door with everyday ventilation through opening sidelights.
The same principle can also be used at entrances, where hinged aluminium doors and sidelights create a broader glazed entrance feature.
Aluminium Sliding Door and Sidelight Colours
Sigmadoors aluminium doors and sidelights are available in finishes including:
Natural Anodized (Silver) | White | Bronze | Charcoal | Black
The sliding door, sidelights and joining profiles should generally be coordinated in the same finish so the complete opening reads as one architectural feature.
How Much Do Aluminium Sliding Doors with Sidelights Cost?
There is no single price because the final combination can vary considerably.
The main cost factors include:
door size → OX or OXXO configuration → number of sidelights → 300/600/900mm sidelight width → opening or fixed design → glass → aluminium finish → installation.
An opening sidelight generally requires more components than a fixed sidelight because it incorporates separate opening sashes, hinges, handles and additional aluminium profiles.
Similarly, a door with two sidelights requires more aluminium and glass than a door with one.
For accurate pricing, it is best to price the complete door-and-sidelight combination rather than the sliding door in isolation.
How to Measure for a Sliding Door with Sidelights
Start by measuring the complete structural opening, not just the area where you expect the sliding door to fit.
Measure the width at the top, middle and bottom, and measure the height at several points.
Then consider:
- How wide should the sliding door be?
- Do you need one or two sidelights?
- Should the sidelights be 300mm, 600mm or 900mm wide?
- Do you need opening or fixed sidelights?
- Which door configuration best suits the required access?
Remember that structural-opening dimensions should not automatically be treated as manufacturing dimensions. Installation clearances and joining profiles need to be considered before manufacture.
Security Features of Aluminium Sliding Doors with Side Windows
Multi-Point Locking Systems
Security is a top priority when choosing doors and windows for your home. Aluminium sliding doors with side windows can be equipped with multi-point locking systems, which secure the door at multiple points along the frame. This provides enhanced protection against forced entry and ensures that the door is securely locked.
Reinforced Glass
For added security, consider using reinforced or laminated glass for both the sliding door and side windows. Laminated glass consists of two layers of glass with a layer of plastic in between, which holds the glass together if it is broken. This makes it more difficult for intruders to break through the glass, providing an additional layer of security.
Keyless Entry Options
For convenience and security, keyless entry systems can be integrated into aluminium sliding doors. These systems allow you to unlock the door using a keypad, smartphone app, or biometric scanner, eliminating the need for traditional keys. Keyless entry systems are particularly useful for families or homeowners who want to enhance security without compromising convenience.
Maintenance Tips for Aluminium Sliding Doors with Side Windows
Regular Cleaning
Aluminium sliding doors and side windows require minimal maintenance, but regular cleaning is essential to keep them looking and functioning like new. Use a mild detergent and water to clean the glass and frames, avoiding abrasive cleaners that could scratch the surface. Be sure to clean the tracks regularly to remove dirt and debris that could affect the smooth operation of the doors.
Lubricating the Tracks
To ensure that your aluminium sliding doors operate smoothly, it’s important to lubricate the tracks periodically. Use a silicone-based lubricant to prevent dirt and dust from accumulating in the tracks and to reduce friction. This will help the doors glide effortlessly and extend the life of the hardware.
Inspecting Seals and Weatherstripping
Periodically inspect the seals and weatherstripping around the doors and side windows to ensure they are in good condition. Replace any damaged or worn-out seals to maintain the energy efficiency of your doors and prevent drafts from entering your home.
Aluminium Sliding Doors with Side Windows for Indoor-Outdoor Living
Blurring the Lines Between Indoors and Outdoors
Aluminium sliding doors with side windows are ideal for creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Whether you’re looking to open up your living room to a patio or create a flow between your kitchen and garden, these doors provide an unobstructed view and easy access to the outdoors. The addition of side windows enhances this effect by increasing the amount of natural light and expanding the view.
Perfect for Entertaining
If you enjoy entertaining guests, aluminium sliding doors with side windows are a great addition to your home. They allow you to open up your space for parties, barbecues, or family gatherings, creating a welcoming and open atmosphere. The side windows provide additional ventilation, ensuring that your home remains comfortable even with a large group of people.
Enhancing Small Spaces
Even in smaller homes or apartments, aluminium sliding doors with side windows can make a big impact. By bringing in more natural light and creating a visual connection to the outdoors, these doors can make small spaces feel larger and more open. The space-saving design of sliding doors is particularly beneficial in compact areas where swing doors would take up valuable floor space.
Cost Considerations for Aluminium Sliding Doors with Side Windows
Factors Affecting Cost
The cost of aluminium sliding doors with side windows can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the doors, the type of glass used, the finish of the frames, and any additional features such as security enhancements or custom designs. Custom-made doors and high-end finishes will typically cost more than standard options.
Long-Term Value
While aluminium sliding doors with side windows may have a higher upfront cost compared to other materials, they offer excellent long-term value. Their durability, low maintenance requirements, and energy efficiency can lead to significant savings over time. Additionally, the aesthetic appeal and functionality of these doors can increase the value of your home.
Budgeting for Installation
When budgeting for aluminium sliding doors with side windows, it’s important to consider the cost of professional installation. While DIY installation might save money upfront, professional installation ensures that the doors are properly fitted and sealed, maximizing their performance and lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the standard aluminium sidelight sizes?
The main standard sizes are 600 × 2100mm and 900 × 2100mm. A narrower 300 × 2100mm sidelight can also be used.
Can a 300mm sidelight open?
A 300mm sidelight is usually manufactured as a fixed pane because of its narrow width. Wider 600mm and 900mm sidelights are better suited to opening configurations.
How do opening sidelights work?
A popular configuration uses two top-hung opening sashes with a fixed pane below. The top-hung sections provide ventilation while the lower section remains fixed.
Do sidelights have a bottom rail?
Yes. Sigmadoors sidelights are fitted with an 85mm kicker rail at the bottom.
Can a sliding door have sidelights on both sides?
Yes. A common arrangement is:
SIDELIGHT | SLIDING DOOR | SIDELIGHT
This creates a balanced, symmetrical elevation.
Can sidelights be completely fixed?
Yes. A sidelight can consist of a single fixed glazed pane where ventilation isn’t required.
Can sidelights be used with doors other than sliding doors?
Yes. Sidelights can work with aluminium hinged doors, Vistafold folding doors, Icon and Palace sliding doors, and doors manufactured using the Clipp 44 system.
Do aluminium door sidelights require safety glass?
Glazing associated with doors and entrances is subject to applicable South African safety-glazing requirements. The glass specification should therefore be selected according to the location, pane dimensions and relevant requirements.
Is a 600mm or 900mm sidelight better?
A 600mm sidelight is more compact, while a 900mm sidelight provides a larger glazed area and potentially more ventilation when opening sashes are used.
The right size depends on the overall opening and desired proportions.
Can an OXXO sliding door have sidelights?
Yes. Sidelights can be incorporated alongside OXXO sliding doors where the overall opening and system design allow.
How much does a sliding door with sidelights cost?
Price depends on the sliding-door size and system, number and width of sidelights, fixed or opening configuration, glass, finish and installation requirements.
Aluminium sliding doors with side windows are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to enhance their living spaces with modern, functional, and stylish doors. With a wide range of design options, customization features, and energy-efficient technologies, these doors offer both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. Whether you’re looking to create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection, improve natural light, or enhance security, aluminium sliding doors with side windows provide the perfect solution for any home.
Aluminium Sliding Doors with Sidelights in Johannesburg & Gauteng
Sigmadoors manufactures and supplies aluminium sliding doors and sidelight combinations for new homes, renovations and building projects across Gauteng.
Supply and installation are available in areas including Johannesburg, Sandton, Randburg, Fourways, Midrand, Pretoria, Centurion and the East Rand.
Options range from a simple OX sliding door with one fixed sidelight to larger combinations with opening sidelights on both sides.
Order an Aluminium Sliding Door with Sidelights
The best results come from treating the door, sidelights and complete structural opening as one design.
When requesting a quotation from Sigmadoors, provide:
- overall opening width and height;
- a clear photograph of the opening;
- preferred sliding-door or door configuration;
- one or two sidelights;
- preferred 300mm, 600mm or 900mm sidelight width;
- fixed or opening sidelights;
- preferred aluminium colour;
- glass preference; and
- project location.
Not sure whether your opening needs a larger sliding door or sidelights?
Send Sigmadoors the opening dimensions and photographs so that a suitable door-and-sidelight combination can be considered.
You can contact Sigmadoors for:
- Standard and custom aluminium sliding doors with side windows
- Competitive pricing
- Supply and professional installation
📧 info@sigmadoors.co.za
📞 +27 65 841 6248
Image Disclaimer: Images used in this article are for illustration purposes only. Actual aluminium door and sidelight designs, frame profiles, configurations, dimensions, colours, glass, hardware and finishes may vary from the images shown. Please confirm final product specifications with Sigmadoors before ordering or manufacture.
