A transom is a window above the door, typically 12″ to 36″ tall. It brings light into a foyer without compromising door security, and it visually raises the ceiling of the entry.
Build approach
- Transom shares the door’s frame so the assembly reads as one unit
- Fixed (non-operable) on most installs for tighter sealing
- Operable transom option available with a cam-operated ring pull
Common sizes
- 36″ × 80″ door + 36″ × 12″ transom (92″ total)
- 42″ × 96″ door + 42″ × 18″ transom (114″ total)
- Pair with sidelites for a four- or five-lite assembly
Glass and grid
Arched and stepped transoms are popular. Divided-lite patterns in the transom look best when they align with the door grid below. Low-E insulated glass is standard; frosted or reeded upgrades give privacy when the transom faces a neighboring window.
When a transom makes sense
Any opening taller than about 86″ benefits from a transom. Rather than building an abnormally tall door (which adds weight and hinge stress), a transom handles the height cleanly and gives you a second glass plane for design interest.
Specifications
| Frame Material | 14-gauge welded steel, shared frame |
|---|---|
| Glass | 1" insulated low-E, tempered |
| Transom Height | 12" – 36" |
| Operable Option | Cam-action with ring pull |
| Finish | Powder-coat, matched door + transom |
| Warranty | 10-year finish, 25-year structural |
| Lead Time | 8–10 weeks |
