Bay and bow windows are two distinct styles of energy-efficient windows that provide big benefits for your home. While many people initially assume bay and bow windows are the same thing, they do in fact have some slight differences. Bay windows are boxier, using three glass panels to create a more angular look. Bow windows feature a gentle curve, using three or more window panels to create the unit.
Both styles curve out from the wall, creating a panoramic view. Additionally, these windows provide extra space on the inside of your home which can be used for seating, shelving, or an architectural feature.
Both windows are good options if you want to add more natural light into a room or to expand your space without a full renovation. While both provide wide-angle views, here’s a rundown of the key differences between these two styles:
Bay Windows:
- Are one large picture window with two smaller panes on either side (usually three window panes)
- Protrude from the house structure
- Add square footage to your home
- Have a modern look and feel
- Are less expensive and easier to install than bow windows because they have fewer panes than a bow window
- Protrude further than a bow window allowing you to add more interior floor space to your home
- Are not as wide as bow windows, creating more limited views
- Provide less natural light than bow windows
Bow Windows:
- Have three or more panes of the same size arranged in a rounded shape
- Can be used to create a turret effect on a corner of the home for wide-angle views
- Are most often associated with Victorian-style homes and have a traditional look and feel
- Give you views from two sides of your home
- Allow more light into the home than bay windows because they have more window panes
- Provide uninterrupted panoramic views
- Have a narrow exterior profile
Bay window vs bow window cost differences
Bow windows are generally more expensive than bay windows because they include at least three panes compared to a standard three-pane bay window.
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Thinking about a bay window or a bow window for your home?
Check out our selection of energy-efficient bay and bow windows. Both styles will transform the inside and outside of your home & make you feel like you’ve invested in a major renovation for a fraction of the cost.
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