Can you tell the difference between a bay and bow window? When it comes to window replacement, homeowners often get confused between Bay and Bow Windows. This happens because both these windows sound and look very similar. In fact, at first glance, it might get tricky to tell if it’s a bay or bow window.
If you’re looking for a beautiful new replacement window for your home, bay and bow windows are an excellent option. They can give you more interior space and provide a gorgeous landscape or street view. But before you install these windows in your home, it’s important to understand the difference between a bay and bow window.
When you install a sparkling new bay or bow window, it completely transforms both the interior and the exterior of the home. These are in fact, projection windows as they both project outwards from the inside of the home to reflect outside view through their angled panes. This means if you’re looking to increase the flow of natural light and get spectacular outside views while increasing your home value, bay and bow windows are for you. However, when it comes to installing bay and bow windows, it is necessary to understand the difference between the two. So, to clear your confusion, here in this post, we will explain the difference between bay and bow windows.
Bay Windows
Bay windows can be installed in a small or medium sized room or in the kitchen. This type of window project at sharp angles and typically comprises three window panels of varying sizes. It has a large window in the center with a slightly smaller window on either side which is angled away from the wall at around 25 to 45 degrees. Bay windows extend outwards from the exterior wall. The smaller windows, also known as flankers are usually double hung and are installed at varying degree angles, depending on how far the bay window protrudes from the house. The large center window is intended to offer an unobstructed view of the outside and can become the centerpiece of a room with a properly designed window seat on the inside. It gives you the option to either fix or vent the other two smaller windows to get proper ventilation. You may also choose between different glass, roof, and color options, as well as consider designing a custom bay window to fit your home.
Bow Windows
A bow window comprises three to six equally sized windows which project from the side of the home in a curved shape. Similar to bay style, the window sections in bow type, known as “lites” extend outside the home but here it forms an arched shape, instead of sharply angled sides. This means bow windows are perfect to have a wide outside view because the same size windows give it a curve look, allowing for more viewing angles. Moreover, a bow window also allows more light and gives the illusion of being one large window. In case of bow windows also, there are options to choose between different window styles such as single hung, double hung and casement. Also, there is an option to custom design bow windows to match your personal taste and preferences.
Bay Windows Vs Bow Windows
As mentioned above, both bay and bow windows protrude outward from the home and are a great option to add more light and style in any room by providing a great view of the surroundings. However, to choose the best option for your home, it’s necessary to know the advantages and disadvantages of both types.
In order to pick the right window option, you need to consider a few things such as the floor space, functionality, light, ventilation, size, and price of both types.
If you want to make the room appear bigger and brighter, a bow window which consists of a series of glasses is a better choice. As far as size is concerned, bow windows are bigger and create a rounded appearance. However, this doesn’t mean it offers more floor space. Bay windows can provide you more floor space on the interior because it protrudes further out from the wall out into the exterior space.
When it comes to ventilation, you can expect similar performance because it usually depends on how many opening windowpanes you choose. As compared to bay windows, bow windows offer more flexibility to open windowpanes but such windows are usually more expensive.