Windows Above Doors In Old Houses

Historically operable transom windows above doors played a role in the heating and cooling in a home.

Windows above doors in old houses.

Transom windows those panels of glass you ll still find on old homes are called transom doors. Transom windows are those panels of glass you see above doors in old homes especially those built in. Expert advice from bob vila the most trusted name in home improvement home remodeling home repair. If the room was completely sealed it d be a furnace after a while and having windows only on one side often won t help because of the bernoulli effect.

25 new uses for old windows those old window frames can become picture frames to put right on the wall over photos mirror frames chalkboard frames or a means to store and display jewelry. If you have a vintage door waiting for a new life check out this curated collection of repurposed old doors to spur your imagination. Transom windows the ages old above the door architectural elements are back in a big way. Zimmerman and bock acknowledge that most old houses have not retained their original windows and that much of today s replacement window industry is driven by replacing failed 20 year old windows.

Adding a vintage door to your home design adds character and function. Transoms historically were used to allow passage of air and light between rooms even when doors were shut. 15 old house features we were wrong to abandon dutch doors. Old doors can find new purpose as interior doors freestanding room dividers or even as rebuilt furniture and shelving.

Ventilation is why you ll even see these over interior doors. An open transom window in the winter helped heat from the central fireplace reach bedrooms at night. They make perfect sense in row houses which typically have long narrow floor plans with windows only at the front and back. Operable transoms have sashes that can be opened or closed to help regulate the temperature in a room when the door is closed.

Transom windows over most of the doors in our 1880s row house are important to its authenticity. Today they still allow in natural light but they re more aesthetic than functional. V 4500 series white vinyl awning window with fiberglass mesh screen.