When it comes to the aesthetic appeal of your home’s entrance, few elements can make a lasting first impression like transom windows. These decorative window features, typically placed above doors, allow natural light to flood your interior while adding a touch of elegance and architectural interest.
In this post, we’ll explore a few styles of transom windows for custom steel doors and offer tips for selecting the right style for your front entryway. We’ll also share some maintenance advice for transom windows and answer some common questions about them.
Styles of Transom Windows for Custom Front Doors
As home design evolves, so do the styles of doors and their features. Transoms are no different and come in a variety of types to suit different aesthetics.
Rectangular Transoms
Rectangular transom windows are commonly found atop modern or contemporary door designs. Their clean lines and simple designs complement the sleek look of modern designs like those in our Cosmopolitan collection. They can be customized to suit a variety of door types and are a very versatile transom style.
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Arched Transoms
Arched transoms feature a slight arch atop a typically flat bottom. They add a subtle element of visual interest that is slightly more detailed than that of a rectangular transom. Many have other custom features and metal components added to them to suit more traditional door designs, but they are easy to customize to suit any door style.
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Fanlight Transoms
Fanlight transoms feature a semi-circular shape and typically have radiating bars, resembling a fan. This style is often associated with traditional and detailed architecture, but it can be simplified and adapted to fit more modern home designs.
Custom-shaped Transoms
For a truly unique look, some may opt for a completely custom transom shape. Although uncommon, custom transoms can be made into any shape given that the design of the home can accommodate it.
Decorative Grid Transoms
Decorative grid transoms feature multiple panes of glass divided by muntins. This style can range from simple, symmetrical patterns to more elaborate designs that add texture and interest to your entryway. Many decorative grid transoms in modern homes continue the pattern of added door sidelights, creating a sleek and uniform look.
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Tips for Choosing a Transom Type
- Consider your home’s architectural style: When choosing a type of transom, it is essential to consider the style of your home. Choose a design that complements the features of your home and creates a cohesive look.
- Think about natural light: Transoms are an excellent way to let lots of natural light into your home, but they can allow too much light depending on the direction your door faces. Take this into consideration!
- Match the style of your door: Ideally, you should choose the design of your custom door and transom simultaneously to get the perfect look. Your transom should complement the style of your door, not overpower it.
- Consider energy efficiency: The type of glass you choose for your transom affects its energy-efficiency capabilities. Other factors that influence this include the size and shape of your transom, how much sunlight it gets, and the materials used to construct your transom like the type of metal you use.
- Privacy consideration: Depending on what faces your house, you may be concerned about privacy. Frosted or textured glass is a great way to allow in natural light while still obscuring the view from outside, keeping your entryway private.
Tips for Keeping Your Door Transom Clean
- Routine cleaning: Incorporate your transom into your regular cleaning routine. You should use a mild glass cleaner and a soft cloth to wipe down the glass surfaces. Be sure to regularly dust your transom as well.
- Addressing hard-to-reach areas: Transom windows, especially those placed atop taller doors and entryways, can be challenging to reach and effectively clean. You can use an extendable duster and window cleaning tool or hire a professional for occasional cleaning.
- Checking for damage: Your transom windows should be plenty durable if fabricated and installed by a reputable company, but accidents can happen! Periodically check your transom for any signs of damage, such as cracks or chips in the glass. If you find any issues, be sure to contact your door company to check with your warranty and get it repaired.
Door Transom Windows FAQ
What is the Purpose of a Transom Window?
Transom windows serve both decorative and functional purposes. They enhance the visual appeal of many entryway designs and allow natural light into your home, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere.
Can Transom Windows Be Opened?
Some are designed to be operable, allowing for ventilation. However, most are fixed and not designed to be opened. For custom iron and steel doors like those offered by us at Mirabella Doors, you can expect most transom designs to be fixed, however we do accommodate custom requests.
How Do I Choose the Right Size Transom?
The size of your transom window should be proportional to your door and any surrounding sidelights. It must also be compatible with the size and shape of your entryway. Your door designer will help you determine the proper sizing and shape for your transom and ensure you choose a design that complements your door.
Conclusion: Transom Windows for Your Luxury Custom Mirabella Doors
Transom windows are a beautiful addition to any home, offering both aesthetic and practical benefits. By selecting the right style and maintaining it properly, you can enhance the charm and functionality of your custom metal doors for years to come.
Mirabella Doors specializes in custom metal doors for luxury homes in the greater Houston area. Take a look at our collections, Traditional and Cosmopolitan, to find the style perfect for your home. Learn more about us and our capabilities, and send us a message on our contact page to get started.