There are six basic arch styles that frame and support doors, windows, porches, and other wall openings in homes.



A Roman arch is a strong, rounded arch that forms a semi-circle. Often made of masonry, Roman arches still stand in the Coliseum.




A Syrian, or segmental, arch forms a partial curve, or eyebrow, over a door or window. This arch has a slight rise and is semi-elliptical across the top.



Tudor arches are often described as "flattened" Gothic arches. They feature a point at the crown, but the span is much wider than the Gothic style.



A Flat arch, also known as jack or straight arch, extends straight across an opening with no curvature, creating a horizontal emphasis.



A narrow, pointed opening is the hallmark of a Gothic arch. The Gothic arch developed as a more sinuous and elegant successor to the Roman arch and was widely used in cathedrals of the Middle Ages such as Notre Dame in Paris.


A Moorish, or horseshoe arch, extends beyond a semi-circle. The top of the arch is rounded and then curves in slightly before descending.