Wood Edge Steel Sidelite Panel - Flush (14" x 80")

Key Measurements & Sizing Information

This sidelite is sold as a nominal 14" x 80" size, which is also commonly written as 1/2 x 6/8. The actual sidelite slab size is 13-7/8" wide x 79" tall, with a standard exterior thickness of 1-3/4". Sidelites are typically installed alongside a door slab of the same height to create a wider entry system.

If purchasing with jambs to assemble a door and sidelite unit: this sidelite typically pairs with 81-3/4" leg jambs for inswing thresholds and saddle-style outswing thresholds. For bumper-style outswing thresholds, the matching leg jambs are 80-3/4". When assembled with a door slab of the same height, the sidelite and door share the same overall unit height.

If replacing an existing sidelite panel: a 79" sidelite height is the most common size and is often compatible with existing frames even when the original panel measures 79-1/8" or 79-1/4" tall. If your existing sidelite measures taller than 79-1/4", we also offer select oversize trimmable sidelites designed to accommodate slightly larger openings.

Steel Sidelite Panel Construction: Built to Match Your Entry Door

Our steel sidelite panels are built using the same core materials and construction methods as our steel entry doors, ensuring a consistent look, feel, and performance when paired together. Each panel features 24-gauge galvanized steel skins bonded to a polyurethane foam core, providing dent resistance, insulation, and structural rigidity.

A spruce/pine/fir wood perimeter surrounds the panel edges for structural support. The exterior steel surfaces are factory-primed and ready for painting, delivering a smooth finish that protects against corrosion while allowing the sidelite to be finished to match your entry door.

Designed to Pair with Pease Steel Entry Doors

Sidelite panels are designed to be installed adjacent to a compatible entry door as part of a complete entryway system. When paired with matching Pease steel entry doors, the sidelite panels share the same steel skin finish, embossment profiles, and 1-3/4" thickness for a cohesive, unified appearance across the full entry opening.

Sidelite panels do not include hinge or lock preparation and are not designed to swing or operate independently. They are fixed panels intended to add natural light and architectural detail to your entryway.

Surface Texture and Recommended Finish for Steel Doors

Steel doors feature a smooth, factory-primed surface that provides a clean, uniform base ready for painting. The primed steel surface accepts paint evenly and delivers a refined, professional finish suited for a wide range of exterior color choices.

Before painting, lightly sand the primed surface with 120 to 220 grit sandpaper to promote paint adhesion, then wash the door with a mild detergent and water to remove dust, sanding residue, and any oily film from shipping or handling. For heavier cleaning, a TSP (trisodium phosphate) solution can be used. Rinse thoroughly and allow the surface to dry completely before painting. Apply a high-quality exterior-grade acrylic latex paint suitable for metal surfaces according to the paint manufacturer's instructions.

All six sides of the door must be finished, including the front, back, top, bottom, and both edges, to protect the steel from moisture exposure and reduce the risk of corrosion. Steel doors are designed to be painted and are not intended to be stained. When selecting paint colors for doors exposed to direct sunlight, lighter to medium shades are typically recommended, as very dark colors can increase surface temperatures and may affect long-term finish performance.

The factory primer is not designed as a permanent topcoat. Finishing should be completed promptly after installation and before prolonged exposure to weather to ensure proper protection of the door surface.

Installation Readiness for Steel Sidelite Panels

Steel sidelite panels can be used in two ways: as a component when assembling a new door system with sidelite framing, or as a replacement panel for an existing sidelite opening where the surrounding frame is still in good condition. Before installation, verify that the panel dimensions (width, height, and thickness) match the framing or jamb set for new assemblies, or the existing opening for replacements. Our sidelite panels are compatible with most major entry door brands including Stanley, Taylor, Mastercraft, Perma Door, Castlegate, Masonite, Therma-Tru, Jeld-Wen, Plastpro, and many others.

Sidelite panels are fixed in place within the frame using stop trim (stop beads or stop molding) that secures the panel on the interior side of the opening. When replacing an existing panel, carefully remove the interior stop trim to release the old panel, then set the new panel into the opening against the exterior trim, apply a continuous bead of caulk around all four sides, and reinstall the stop trim to hold the panel securely in place.

When installing sidelite panels alongside a threshold, a sidelite adapter (also known as a seat, spacer, or riser) may be needed to bridge the gap between the threshold and the bottom of the sidelite panel. The adapter replaces the threshold rail in the sidelite section and provides a stable, sealed base for the panel to rest on. In general, the adapter should be approximately 1/8" wider than the panel width for proper fit and sealing.

Steel sidelite panels should not be trimmed. Steel panels are manufactured to precise dimensions, and cutting may expose internal materials or compromise the structural integrity and finish of the panel. Handle steel sidelite panels with care during installation to avoid scratches or dents to the primed steel surface, as exposed steel must be properly sealed to prevent corrosion.

Steel sidelite panels ship factory-primed and should be painted promptly after installation to protect the surface and maintain long-term performance.

For complete step-by-step installation instructions, refer to the full installation guide available in the Resources section below.