Why do old houses have glass above doors?

Author: Mrs. Fannie Schulist DVM  |  Last update: Friday, February 6, 2026

What's the Purpose of a Transom Window? Before homes had electricity and air conditioning, transom windows added natural light and airflow. They sit above the eyeline, helping homeowners maintain privacy. Original transom windows were made to open from the bottom up using metal hinges.

Why did they put windows above doors in old houses?

They served two purposes: For one, in the days before widespread adoption of electricity, they allowed more light into individual rooms while maintaining privacy. For two, they open to allow air to circulate, particularly warm air that rises, while maintaining privacy.

Why are there glass panels above doors?

It lets the light through from above. Imagine a long hallway during the daytime with no windows. This is what helps the light from rooms (that have windows) partially bleed into the hallway. Like someone said, privacy glass or decorative glass panel.

What are the old windows above doors called?

Transom windows (also called transom lights or even just transoms) are windows positioned above interior and exterior doors. They rest horizontally on the top door beam, and this transom crossbar gives the windows their name. Transoms can actually be placed above windows as well as doors.

What is the glass panel above the door called?

3. Transom. A shortened form of transom window, a transom is a glass panel with a frame that is installed above a door.

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What was the purpose of a transom?

A transom can serve two purposes. To better the structural integrity of a building or to serve as an ornamental piece that betters the overall visual appeal of a building's architecture.

What is the glass at the top of a door called?

Transoms. A transom is a fixed glass window installed above the door and sidelights. They allow in plenty of natural light and help to brighten your entry.

Are transom windows outdated?

While transom windows have been used for centuries, they are definitely not outdated. They can be customized in countless ways to enhance the overall design of a home. Plus, they also allow natural light in and serve as an extra entry point for fresh air.

How to remove glass above internal doors?

First, remove the left and right glazing bead with a flat screwdriver. Then press the glass vertically downwards so that the springs are pressed into the frame. The upper glazing bead, which is against the ceiling, will loosen. Tilt the glass forward and take it out.

What does a transom look like?

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.

Does glass above a door need to be tempered?

If a window is located within 24" of a door, is tempered glass required? Answer: Yes, if the glazing is in the same plane as the door and the bottom edge of the glazing is less than 60 inches above the floor.

Why are lights near windows in old houses?

In the 60s I trained in the architects department of my local county borough council. In designing electrical layouts for housing I was taught that the light fittings should be located close to the window to increase privacy.

What is the decorative piece above a door?

Transom. A mounted piece of glass or wood above the door unit. This is a decorative piece and sometimes comes with the door unit.

What is the point of windows above doors?

Standard Installation

Adding a transom above a door allows you to share light between rooms and add distinctive style to the doorway.

Why did old homes have 2 front doors?

Because of those two front rooms, a single front door would have created issues of imbalance. Thus, double entry doors were created so that both front rooms could be easily accessed. This, though, is not the only reason behind the idea of double front doors.

How old are transom windows?

Transom Windows date back to at least the 14th Century and were a popular feature in 19th Century and Victorian (1837-1901) homes. The transom style window is also found in Georgian architecture (1714-1830) and Colonial Revival (1880-1955).

What is the glass above a door called?

Transom or transom window is also the customary U.S. word used for a transom light, the window over this crosspiece. A transom window is a curved, square, balanced, or asymmetrical window that hangs above a transom, and its corresponding doorway.

How much does it cost to replace a transom window?

New Transom Windows Cost: $350 to $850

Transom windows usually cost between $350 and $850 per window. Transom windows are small, rectangular windows typically installed above doors or larger windows. They're a great way to add natural light and ventilation to a space without sacrificing privacy.

How to remove glass from an internal door?

Remove the broken glass panel from the door carefully. Use a screwdriver to remove any screws securing the molding around the glass. You can also use a putty knife to carefully pry off the molding. Take out any glazing points or clips holding the glass in place.

What is the disadvantage of a transom window?

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.

Why do old houses have transom windows?

What's the Purpose of a Transom Window? Before homes had electricity and air conditioning, transom windows added natural light and airflow.

What are the old windows that crank open?

Crank out windows, also known as casement windows, are a popular choice for homeowners due to their excellent ventilation and clear views. However, like any mechanical system, they can experience issues over time.

What is a door lintel?

So, What is a Door Lintel? A lintel is a large block that sits horizontally at the top of an opening, between the vertical supports. So, in a doorway, the door lintel will be found sitting above the two vertical supports of the door frame. For a window, the lintel will sit at the top of the window frame.

What is a French door?

So what is a French door? According to the American Heritage Dictionary, by definition: French door (n.): A door, usually one pair, of light construction with glass panes extending for most of its length. They also can be referred to as French windows.

What is the difference between a jamb and a sill?

Jambs are the main vertical parts forming the sides of a window frame. A sill is the main horizontal part forming the bottom of the frame of a window.

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