Bow Windows vs Bay Windows - When to Use Each

Picking a new style of window can be exciting!Here's what you need to know when trying to decide between a bow vs bay window.

What is a Bay Window

Bay windows are a classic way to let in extralight and add square footage to your home. Bay windows are usually made ofthree panes of glass set at 90 or 45-degree angles to each other. The centerone is a picture window, with the outer two made from another style than thecentral pane, but matching each other. Because of the angles of the windows, they stick out into the exteriorof the home, creating more interior space for a nook, window seat, or othercozy uses. Since the panes are at angles to each other, they also let in lightfrom three directions, brightening up your room.

What is a Bow Window

Bow windows are another way to extend yourroom and let more sunlight in. Bow windows are usually made from 4 or 5 panesof casement windows that have been set into a rounded-out frame, to bow outinto the exterior space. Since they use 4 or 5 panes of glass, they let in alot of light and provide a nice wall of windows. And, since they are made from casementwindows, the individual panes can be opened to let in the fresh air and increaseventilation.

What is the Difference Between aBay Window and a Bow Window?

When looking at the difference between a baywindow vs a bow window, it really comes down to two big things: the types ofwindows, and the angles of the frames. Because bay windows have a larger angle,they tend to stick out into the exterior space more. This means that theinterior space they create is usually deeper and has more square footage. Bowwindows, on the other hand, usually have a smaller angle, since there are morewindows curved together. This means that the interior space they create isusually more shallow.

Another bow and bay window difference is thetype of windows used. In a bay window, the central pane is usually a picturewindow. This means that it cannot beopened, though the two side windows can, depending on the type installed. Bowwindows, however, are most often made from several casement windows. Thisallows each pane to be opened individually, giving more options forventilation.

When to Use Each Type?

While bay and bow windows may seem fairlysimilar at first glance, the differences between them are pretty big. Thatmeans that you need to consider your preferences before you decide which onewill best fit your needs. If the idea ofa nice breakfast or reading nook is important to you, you'd probably prefer theadded area created by bay windows. But if letting in more fresh air and havinggreater control of the ventilation is what you're looking for, then bow windowsare the way to go.

Pros and Cons of Each?

When choosing between bay and bow windows, alot of it comes down to taste. But there are pros and cons to each type ofwindow that you may want to consider.

Bay window pros:

• Extra space
• Extra light
• Nice curb appeal

Bay window cons:

• They can eat up your exteriorspace if you have a garden or small yard
• The hard angles don't always fitevery style of home

Bow window pros:

• More light
• Softer lines
• The ability to open all thewindows

Bow window cons:

• Not as much interior space createdby them
• They can be expensive anddifficult to install

What are the Costs Involved?

Both bay and bow windows can be expensivebecause of the amount of work that needs to be done to extend them out of theinterior of your home. Because bow windows require a special curved frame thathas to be made so the panes fit in perfectly, they are usually more expensivethan bay windows. The bow windows replacement cost can also be more than thebay window replacement cost, but that really depends on the types of panesused. A large part of that is determined by the size of the windows and thetypes of panes used on the sides of a bay window.

How Expo Home Improvement CanHelp

At the end of the day, the choice between bowwindows vs bay windows comes down to your particular taste, home, and needs.The best way to make your decision is to talk to professionals who can helpguide you through the decision-making process. That's why Expo Home Improvementoffers free consultations to help you make the best choice for your home.Whatever you decide on, our experienced craftsmen will make sure that your newwindows will be everything you dreamed of.