What Are Clerestory Used For?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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In architecture, a clerestory (/ˈklɪərstɔːri/ KLEER-stor-ee; lit. clear storey, also clearstory, clearstorey, or overstorey) is a high section of wall that contains windows above eye level. The purpose is

to admit light, fresh air, or both

.

What is the difference between clerestory and dormer?

is that

clerestory

is (architecture) the upper part of a wall containing windows to let in natural light to a building, especially in the nave, transept and choir of a church or cathedral while dormer is (architecture) a room-like, roofed projection from a sloping roof.

Can clerestory windows open?

Clerestories can be used for natural ventilation strategies, in hot climates. They

can be designed to open

and to allow a rapid removal of the inside air, while breezes get in through lower openings on the leeward side of the house.

Where is a clerestory found?

A clerestory is a type of window that is usually found

at or near the roof line

. It often takes the form of a band of windows across the tops of buildings that allow natural light in without compromising privacy or security.

What do you call windows at the top of the wall?


A clerestory window

is a large window or series of small windows along the top of a structure’s wall, usually at or near the roof line. Clerestory windows are a type of “fenestration” or glass window placement found in both residential and commercial construction.

What does a clerestory look like?

Modern clerestories often are defined as

vertical windows

, located on high walls, extending up from the roofline, designed to allow light and breezes into a space, without compromising privacy. Factory buildings often are built with clerestory windows; modern housing designs sometimes include them as well.

What type of window doesn’t open?


Fixed lite

: A window that doesn’t open. Also called fixed window or fixed sash. Folding casement: A casement window that folds together to fit into a smaller space.

What is the difference between a clerestory window and a transom window?

Clerestory Windows vs. Transom Windows: What’s the Difference? Transom windows sit above doorways,

allowing light and sometimes fresh air into a room when

the door is closed, while clerestory windows are often narrow windows installed at or above the roofline in an interior living space.

How do you pronounce clerestory UK?

  1. Break ‘clerestory’ down into sounds: [KLEER] + [STAW] + [REE] – say it out loud and exaggerate the sounds until you can consistently produce them.
  2. Record yourself saying ‘clerestory’ in full sentences, then watch yourself and listen.

What is a clerestory wall?

Clerestory, in architecture,

any fenestrated (windowed) wall of a room that is carried higher than the surrounding roofs to light the interior space

. … The clerestory became most highly developed and widely used in the Romanesque and Gothic periods.

How high should clerestory windows be?


There really are no set rules

when it comes to clerestory window dimensions. Even small windows such as a 2′ x 2′ can let in plenty of natural light while the height of their installation may keep the glare down inside the space.

Which direction should clerestory windows face?

The windows are typically operable windows and best oriented

either south or north

. A south-facing clerestory requires adequate roof overhang to prevent direct solar gain. Operable windows in the clerestory also allow heat to escape from the house during the cooling season.

Who invented the clerestory?

The first clerestory appeared in the temples of ancient Egypt, then were used in the Hellenistic culture, from where it were taken by

the ancient Romans

. Early Christian churches and some Byzantine churches, especially in Italy, based their form on the Roman basilica.

How do clerestory windows work?

Because they are placed high up compared to other windows, clerestories can deliver sunlight far deeper into a living space than normal vertical glazing. Their main function is twofold: they

deliver extra daylighting

and they provide a method of heating thermal mass in north walls which would normally be in shade.

What do you call a row of windows?

The use of

clerestories

—a row of windows well above eye level—stretches all the way back to temples in ancient Egypt. … As for aesthetics, placing windows higher affords more open wall space at eye level for displaying books, curios, or a gallery-style arrangement of artwork.

What are the 4 types of windows?

  • Double-Hung Windows. Double-hung windows are one of the most common types of windows. …
  • Casement Windows. Are perfect for beautiful spring and summer days when you need a little fresh air. …
  • Awning Windows. …
  • Bay or Bow Windows.
David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.