What Are Transom Windows?

Also known as transom lights, transom windows are a popular home feature that has gained even more traction in recent years. We’re willing to bet that you've come across dozens of transom windows —especially over front doors—and may still not know them by name. To help us explore this architectural element, window expert Christopher Rohrbach shed some light on this type of window that is not only attractive but can also increase the natural lighting in your entry and around your home.

What Are Transom Windows?

“A transom window is a small window on top of either a door or another window,” Rohrbach explains. “It's not part of the door, but in fact on top of the actual door jamb. For a window, you’d have a smaller window above it, and that would be the transom window.”

Transom windows can be rectangular or a semicircle and adorn any window or door—exterior or interior. However, they’re most commonly found gracing the space above the front door of Southern homes. Don’t mistake transom lights for the windows that can be found on either side of a front door, though. Those are called sidelights, Rohrbach says.

Function of Transom Windows

The function of transom lights is twofold. First of all, they are attractive aesthetically. Transom windows are a pretty addition to decorate the front door or any door or window in the house while adding height and stature to a room. Second, transom lights are an effective method for letting light into a home or room. 

“If you have a solid wood door with no glass on it but you still want light coming into your front entranceway, a transom window is a good way to allow light to come in,” says Rohrbach.

Use transom windows in cased openings to allow more of that light to flood into adjacent rooms. You can even install a transom window high on your bathroom wall to allow more ventilation and ambient light while maintaining privacy. Finally, transom windows are great for maximizing light in a sunroom or three-season porch, especially when it's located on a shadier side of the house.

What Are The Disadvantages Of Transom Windows?

Not all houses can accommodate transom windows. Transom windows go above another door or window, which means you'll need high enough ceilings to accommodate them. Their height also puts them out of reach, making transom windows more challenging to dust or clean.

Do Transom Windows Open?

Most transom windows do not open because they are too high up to open and close, Rohrbach explains. However, homeowners installing transom windows can purchase ones that do open, if they would like to promote a little bit of extra air flow without cracking the door or opening the larger window. In older homes before air conditioning, this was an intentional feature as transom windows improved airflow through the home.

Styles And Cost Of Transom Windows

Transom windows are frequently rectangular, but also come in arches and semicircles. They can be framed in wood, vinyl, fiberglass, or aluminum. They can be single or multi-paned, and some come in historical grille patterns to match the style of your bungalow or Victorian. Transom windows also use different styles of glass, from clear to frosted to patterned. The least expensive vinyl or aluminum transom windows are under $100 and are fixed. Many start around $200 and go up based on customization and materials, and adding features like motorized opening also increases cost.

Will Transom Windows Stay Popular?

According to Rohrbach, transom windows have always been popular, and he reports that they’ve been more prevalent than ever in the last few years. It’s not just a trend though. In fact, we don’t see transom windows going out of style any time soon. The flair and light transom windows bring to any home gives them longevity.

“I would definitely recommend transoms as a perfect way to let light inside your home,” says Rohrbach, “and to just add a little bit of uniqueness.”