A great way to beautify and update your home is by adding bay or bow windows. Even if you already have a bay or bow window, replacing them can further improve the curb appeal of your home and highlight its character. Here is how to review bay window replacement.
Or, if you’re looking to open up or even add space to your home, these window options are the perfect way to do that. If you’re not sure what the difference between bay and bow window styles is, this guide can help answer your questions.
There are bay window replacement ideas for every kind of home and every kind of preference, so keep reading to learn about all the possibilities with these 10 tips.
Table of Contents
Know the Differences
While bay and bow windows may look similar from the outside, there are some notable differences. If you need more guidance deciding on the best option, you can search for “bay windows near me” to learn more.
1. Bay Window
Bay windows tend to be smaller than bow window setups. Typically, they are constructed in a polygonal frame and have three windows. One window is in the center, and the other two are angled on either side.
2. Bow Window
A bow window is built with more curve, and can even represent a semicircle shape. These types of windows usually have a higher count of small windows included throughout because of the circular shape.
The semicircle shape also allows for more options and flexibility if you want to add space or a seating area in front of the window.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Bay Window Replacement
Every home renovation project will have its advantages and disadvantages, including replacement windows. Keep these points in mind when discussing the pros and cons of different window options.
3. Home Value
Both bay and bow windows add undeniable character to any home. Small accents of character like this make a home stand out to home buyers.
By replacing standard double-hung windows or renovating a current bay window, you can almost undoubtedly increase your home value.
4. Energy Efficiency
Modern window innovation is constantly improving the energy efficiency of different window treatments. But adding more or larger windows could decrease energy efficiency.
Still, if you have a bay or bow window that was installed a long time ago, replacing it with a new window can help combat heat loss issues that may have been occurring previously.
Style Options for Bay Window Replacement
When it comes to the outdoor and indoor appearance of your window, there are some basic style outlines to draw inspiration from. These are just a few options to consider when determining which style window would better fit your home.
5. Canted Window
The canted style window is a classic bay window look with a half-hexagonal shape and three windows.
All three windows can be the same size and shape, or you may want the center window to be more of a picture window. This larger, centered window is typically fixed and won’t open and close, but it provides a beautiful, clear view.
Or, all three windows could be fixed picture windows for more of a panoramic view. A possible downside to this option is a smaller potential for breezes and airflow through the house when the windows can’t be opened.
6. Box Window
A boxed window extends from the frame of your house perpendicularly.
So two smaller windows will face left and right, and then a center window, which is typically bigger, will face straight out from your house. This style can provide space for a straight bench along the window sill.
7. Oriel Window
If you live in an old house with Victorian character, or if you are always looking for ways to include unique details in your home, oriel windows are a wonderful option.
These windows extend out from the main wall but are supported and designed in a way that they do not touch the ground. They are a popular option for bay and bow windows installed on a level above the ground floor.
8. Circle Window
Circle windows are another great option if you’re searching for that panoramic kind of view. In order to achieve the semicircle shape, you have to use a larger amount of smaller windows.
Bow windows, in particular, are built in this style and create a beautiful statement piece for your home.
9. Casement Windows
If you can’t imagine not having windows that don’t open, you’ll want to consider including casement windows in your bay window design.
You don’t have to sacrifice style with casement windows. They open out, as a door would, by turning a handle.
If you’re attached to having a picture window in the center of your bay window, include casement windows on either side. This will help maintain the airflow, as well as the appealing symmetry.
10. Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows are another option to consider if you want to be able to open the windows in your bay or bow window setup.
These windows are slated to slide next to each other, so you can push the lower panel up or the upper panel down to let the fresh air in.
Bay Window Replacement Ideas
While there are limitations to some of these window designs, there are also many possibilities for combinations and incorporating your own home design aesthetic.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different layouts and figure out what works best before committing to a certain type of window. There are tons of bow or bay window replacement ideas, which means there’s one to meet every unique style preference.
If you have other home projects that you’re tackling, head to our website for all the best tips and tricks to create a beautiful end-product.
