A bay window is a window which extends outward from the wall of a home or building. The “bay” formed is typically either square or polygonal in shape. Bay windows are common in Victorian architecture and have been around for hundreds of years.
They add a unique design element to a room and actually make it look bigger because they actually add cubit feet to a room and additional wall or window space. Bay windows can either extend to the floor or start a couple feet above the floor with the base is often being used a bench window seat. Bay windows can also extend from floor to ceiling and be multiple stories tall.
An ordinary sized bay window can add over 100 cubic feet of space to a room. Depending on the size of the room, this may not be a significant increase however because of the windows and other detail and style elements it is much more noticeable and adds much more visual appeal and value than adding the same amount of space by pushing a wall out a few inches.
Bay windows add a dramatic design element to the exterior of a home. Many historic buildings feature very ornate exterior bays that are the focal point of the building. The most common interior angles of bay windows are 30, 45, 60 or 90 degrees but there is no rule that those are the only angles that can be used.
Design
Bay windows are available in a variety of configurations. The most common combination is a picture window in the middle with smaller, picture, double hung, casement or another window design on either side. Installations with several smaller windows instead of one large picture window in the middle are often referred to as “bow windows” because they form more of a gradual curve, or bow. The advantage of using operable windows such as double hung or casement windows with a picture window is that they open and allow for ventilation.
Bay windows installation
Bay windows can be installed in new construction or in a remodel. However, installing bay windows to replace other types of windows involves significantly more construction than typical replacement windows. The foundation and wall of structure must be extended and roofing must be added and tied into the exterior of the building.
Bay windows are a common spot of air and water leaks. Installing a bay window is beyond the skill set of many replacement window contractors. If you want to add a bay window be sure window contractor is experienced with the construction necessary or hire a separate contractor to perform the carpentry and construction portion of the project.
Price
Bay windows designs can range from the simple to the extreme and everywhere in between so estimating cost is difficult. More than half of the cost of adding a bay window is the construction required to prepare the space and the factors affecting the constructions is endless. The cost of the windows used will vary based on the size, style, material, glazing and other energy efficient elements.
Sizes
Some manufactures sell bay window “kits” but the majority are custom and are only limited by your imagination and the room and home you have to work with. If you don’t have room for a bay window, garden windows add a similar feel to a room, are smaller, less expensive and easier to install.
Bay windows – applications
If you are looking for more than just new windows and all the benefits they offer. If you want to also change the look of your home and add significant architectural interest, just replacing your windows generally won’t achieve what you are looking for. Most windows do not make a big visual impact to the inside and exterior of your home. To add space and lots of light to a room and to create a stunning focal point from the exterior, bay windows are fit the bill. Read more about the history and styles of bay windows.