Window Inserts For Doors

A window insert will allow natural sunlight to filter through a door. If your front door makes you feel confined, consider having a window insert added to the door's design. Assess the type of door that you own, its design, and whether or not a window insert will contain decorative features.

Door Construction

A window insert can consist of an oval, circle, square, or rectangle-shaped piece of glass. A large insert may be installed vertically along the length of a door and a smaller insert may be used to increase visibility along a targeted part of a door, such as along the top of it.

The construction of an original door may interfere with adding a large cutout to the material. For instance, your front entryway may contain a panel door that has protruding square sections. Rails and stiles may surround the square sections. The design of this type of door increases its rigidity.

If you do not want to alter the composition of the door, you may want to choose a small window insert that will require that a small-sized cutout is made along the part of the door that doesn't contain panel details. A slab (flat surface) door may support larger glass inserts.

Types Of Glass

Glass pieces that are installed indoors are usually tempered. This will prevent glass from shattering if a door is slammed shut or a lot of force is applied to a window insert. Standard glass panes are translucent. Tinted glass panels or decorative glass pieces are also commonly used as window inserts.

Decorative inserts may contain stained glass sections or a mixture of metal and glass. The metal components may be arranged in a decorative format that contrasts with the glass pieces. The main materials that will need to be used during an insert installation process are the glass, the framework for the insert, and hardware pieces.

For an insert that is going to require that a cutout is made in an existing door, consult with a service provider who performs upgrades to doors. Most door materials will support the addition of a window insert. Once a design is selected, the door may be removed from its frame. A cutout will be made along the area where a window insert will be installed. Hardware will be used to secure the framework and the insert. The insert will lay flush with the rest of the door's surface.

For more information, contact a company like Pat's Doors Inc.