What is a transom in a window?

Asked by: Gabe Brouillard

In architecture, a transom is a transverse horizontal structural beam or bar, or a crosspiece separating a door from a window above it. This contrasts with a mullion, a vertical structural member. Transom or transom window is also the customary U.S. word used for a transom light, the window over this crosspiece.

What is the purpose of a transom window?

Transoms historically were used to allow passage of air and light between rooms even when doors were shut. They make perfect sense in row houses, which typically have long, narrow floor plans with windows only at the front and back. This house originally had four transom windows; all were painted shut.

Where is the transom on a window?

A transom window is a bar which is found over the top of a window or door, segregating the main glazing panel and decorative ones which are commonly installed above a window. Transom windows originated in 14th Century Europe, and were commonly installed a doorframe to let in fresh air and natural light.

Can a transom window open?

Yes, you can! As we said, transom windows that open are much rarer now since they are no longer needed for ventilation. However, if you want one that opens, it is still possible.

What are transom windows called?

Transom windows (also called transom lights) sit above an entry, patio or interior door, or other windows. Typically non-operating and used to add style and increase natural light, transoms span the width of the opening they top and can be placed above single or double doors and sidelites.

Are transoms outdated?

Transom windows fell out of fashion for several decades, but are making a comeback with the resurgence of other contemporary styles.

What is a transom on a house?

In architecture, a transom is a transverse horizontal structural beam or bar, or a crosspiece separating a door from a window above it. This contrasts with a mullion, a vertical structural member.

What’s another word for transom?

In this page you can discover 16 synonyms, antonyms, idiomatic expressions, and related words for transom, like: rudder, traverse, transom-window, fanlight, bulkhead, keelson, sponson, gunwale, coaming, sill and coachroof.

What is the thing above a window called?

head

The head is the main horizontal part forming the top of the window frame. Jambs are the main vertical parts forming the sides of a window frame.

What is the wood above a window called?

Jamb: The pieces that form the top, sides, and bottom of the window frame (includes the head).

How many types of transom are there?

The above three types represent the topside. In addition to those mentioned above, there are numerous other special forms. Other types of stern include raked (or transom raked), transom flat, sugar scoop, lute stern & bustle stern etc.

Are transom windows good?

They fill in extra space between a window or door and a tall ceiling, creating fullness. They also let in extra light, which makes narrow hallways look better. Transom windows can still be used to facilitate extra airflow in a home, especially if you prefer to leave windows open during mild weather seasons.

What is a window between rooms called?

Transoms or interior windows between rooms can add interest to a wall and share light between the two rooms.

What is the opening between kitchen and living room called?

It is also called a serving hatch. An opening in a wall at window height for the purpose of serving food or other items. The cook passed the dishes through the serving hatch.

What is the window between kitchen and living room called?

Pass-Through Windows

This gallery contains interior pass-through windows between the kitchen and the living room, or kitchen and dining room… as well as exterior pass-through…