Bow & Bay Window Replacement

You need to replace your home’s windows, including your bow and bay windows, every 10 to 15 years. A bow or bay window replacement helps improve your home’s security and energy efficiency. However, you may need more information about bay windows. It’s time to find out more about a bay window vs. a bow window to make smart choices.

What Is a Bay Window?

A bay window is a window space that extends from a main window outward. This window configuration adds a bay area to the room where it’s placed. The bay area is commonly used for a kitchen table, reading nook, or relaxation space. Most bay windows have a single central window pane, also called a fixed sash.

On either side of the central window are windows made up of two or more smaller windows. These smaller windows are also known as casement or double-hung windows. When it’s time for a bay window replacement, you need to replace the central window along with the smaller ones on either side of the main window.

Installing Bay Windows

When it’s time for a bay window replacement, you might wonder about the process of installing new ones. Here’s a look at the steps:

1. Get quotes from a couple of reputable window contractors.
2. Hire a contractor.
3. The contractor measures your windows to ensure you get the right ones.
4. Choose the windows you want. 
5. Remove the old windows.
6. Frame the windows
7.  Lift the new windows into the space.
8. Level and fasten the windows into place.
9. Install the window roof.
10. Replace any siding or roofing material that needed to be removed with the old windows.

If the windows you want are in stock, replacing each window takes between two and four hours. You should expect your new windows to take no more than two days to install. Windows that need to be ordered can take four to six weeks to arrive. 

Bay Windows vs. Bow Windows

While you might be using the term bay and bow window interchangeably, there is a difference between the two. Here’s what you need to know:

• The window size on a bow window is greater. While both windows are placed on exterior walls, a bay window is around 40 inches, while a bow window is about 80 inches.
• A bay window consists of three windows with sharp angles, but a bow window consists of four windows with a gentle curve. 
• Due to size and number, bay windows are generally less expensive than bow windows.
• Bay windows are generally found on transitional and contemporary floor plans, while bow windows are popular in traditional and Victorian house plans. 

If you’re building a home, you can choose the look that’s right for you. 

Find Your Ideal Bay and Bow Window Style

You’ll find that a bay window comes in various styles and colors to support your home’s unique aesthetics. Some common styles include Victorian, Circle Bay, Box Bay, and Canted. You can opt to have the frame of your bay windows almost any color. You might want your windows to blend seamlessly into the color of the siding or opt for a brighter color that complements the siding to make a bold statement. 

Trust Chicago Windows Solutions for Quality Bow and Bay Windows

At Chicago Windows Solutions, we’re ready to help you with a bow or bay window replacement. We offer our services throughout the Chicago suburbs including Wheaton, Naperville, Warrenville, Lisle, Downers Grove, Glen Ellyn, Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates, West Chicago, Bolingbrook, Plainfield, Joliet and beyond. We’ll answer all your questions about a bay window vs a bow window and provide high-quality materials. Contact us now. 

Image Source: Douglass Cliff / Shutterstock