Bay and Bow Windows: A Guide for Homeowners

If you are replacing the windows on your home, it's important to consider style in addition to function. Two particularly stylish window types to consider are bay and bow windows. Even if you do not currently have a bay or bow window in your home, your window installation professionals can modify a current window opening to accommodate one.

Beyond being beautiful, bay and bow windows offer several other benefits to homeowners. Read on to learn the difference between these two window styles, the benefits of each and where to use each one.

People often use the terms bay window and bow window interchangeably. Both of these window styles consist of several, side-by-side window panes, arranged at an angle that projects outward from the home's exterior wall. However, their exact structure differs a bit.

Bay windows usually consist of three side-by-side windows. The center window is usually larger than the other two, and it tends to be a fixed window, whereas the two side windows are either casements or double-hung windows. Bay windows can extend all of the way to the floor, but half-height bay windows, which feature a ledge on the inside, also exist.

Bow windows usually feature four or more side-by-side window panes. Each pane is the same size, and they are all the same style — usually casement or double-hung. Bow windows are arranged in a curve rather than a very angular structure since the greater number of windows results in more open interior angles than seen in a bay window. Bow windows often take up an entire wall, whereas bay windows may be one feature centered on a wall.

Both windows styles instantly become the focal point of your design, both inside and out. They also allow more sunlight to come into the room, and they capture the sunlight all throughout the day, thanks to the varied angles of the window panes. Bow windows do let in slightly more sunshine than bay windows because they have more panes and tend to be larger. Many homeowners grow houseplants inside their bay or bow windows.

Bay and bow windows also make it easy to capture breezes from all directions. Bow windows are somewhat more effective in this regard since all of their window panes open.

Bay and bow windows are difficult to fit with window treatments. The way the window frames come together at the top of the window arrangement makes it difficult to hang hardware. You may have to buy specialized window treatments made just for bay or bow windows.

When poorly installed, bay and bow windows can be drafty and inefficient, so it's important to hire a reputable window company with a lot of experience working with these window styles.

Many people like to use a bay or bow window in their living room or dining room. If you currently have a picture window, your window installation expert can modify the opening to accommodate the bay or bow window instead. A bow window could also make for a very stunning master bedroom design. Use the space inside the window as a reading nook or lounge area.

Half-height bay windows are common over kitchen counter tops. The ledge they create is perfect for growing herbs.

If you are interested in having a bay or bow window added to your home, or if you need a bay or bow window replaced, contact the experts at Mid-South Exteriors. We've been in business since 1958 and have the expertise to handle all of your installation needs.