Which Are Best for You?
- Bay windows are a more budget-friendly way to create a unique focal point in a room.
- Bow windows maximize views and natural light, though at a higher average cost.
- Bay windows meet many homeowner needs, but bow windows offer the most light and a subtle architectural statement.
If you want to increase your home’s curb appeal with bold and functional windows, bay and bow are both styles worth considering. The terms bay window and bow window refer to window sets that extend out from the exterior walls of a home. Bay windows are a more angular set of three windows, while bow windows are a rounder set of at least four.
Homeowners who want a striking focal point or to create a reading nook or other dedicated space will benefit from the lower cost of a bay window, which can run between $2,000 and $4,000. Bow window installations are ideal for those who want to maximize views and natural light, but you should expect higher costs of $3,900 on average or up to $15,000 on the high end.
When choosing between these two window types, you’ll also want to consider factors such as style, ventilation, and energy efficiency.
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Bay Vs. Bow Windows: What’s the Difference?
Bay windows and bow windows are very similar in appearance and function, but a few key differences set them apart.
The most obvious difference is the number of windows. A bay window consists of three glass panels: one large picture window in the center and a smaller panel on each side. A bow window consists of four to six panels on a wall or corner of the home, each angled to maximize a panoramic view.
To choose the right window for your home, see how bay and bow windows stack up across factors such as style, cost, and ventilation.
| Factors | Bay Windows | Bow Windows |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | 3 glass panels, angular design | 4 to 6 glass panels, rounded design |
| Style | Modern/contemporary | Victorian/traditional |
| Cost | $2,000–$4,000 | $1,500–$15,000 |
| Natural light and ventilation | Better ventilation | Better views and more light |
| Installation | Professional recommended | Professional recommended |
Appearance
Bay windows always have three panels. They tend to have a more angular design and make a more dramatic architectural statement — often considered modern or contemporary. The center window is the largest and most prominent, projecting the furthest from the home. They can be large enough to accommodate a reading nook or small enough to serve as a shelf or window box.
Bow windows offer a smoother appearance and can even wrap around corners, so their aesthetic is softer overall and typically associated with Victorian or traditional architecture. Bow windows tend to have four to six panels, so they take up more wall space than bay windows. Both types can add extra space in terms of square footage.
Cost
Bay windows cost an average of $2,000 to $4,000 to install, depending on the size and materials used. Glass is the most expensive part of a window, so the additional panels in a bow window naturally make it more expensive. Bow windows cost more at $3,900 on average or up to $15,000 at the high end. Costs are sourced from contractor estimates used by Angi.
“Bays and bows can be made from any type of window material,” said Alex Vinet, client services specialist for Custom Exteriors in Berthoud, Colorado. “Aluminum clad will be the heaviest and will need to be a lot more structurally secured. Fiberglass and vinyl will be the lightest. These are more cost-friendly and have a less difficult installation.”
Today’s Homeowner Tip
When replacing a bay or bow window, try to keep the new window the same size. Resizing an opening or creating a new window where there wasn’t one previously are both projects with dramatically higher costs than replacing windows with same-sized ones.
Natural Light and Ventilation
Bay and bow windows both increase natural light and fresh air in a home due to their large glass surface areas and angled panels. Both options can also incorporate operable windows for ventilation in the form of casement windows.
Bay windows with sharper angles may allow for better ventilation options, while the additional angles of a bow window can be better for light.
Energy Efficiency
Bay and bow windows are comparable when it comes to energy efficiency, although the larger glass surface area of bow windows may lead to slightly higher heating and cooling costs on average. You can mitigate these issues with efficient, high-quality glass and proper insulation.
Today’s Homeowner Tip
The biggest factors in window efficiency are the materials used. The most efficient windows are fiberglass, followed by vinyl, then aluminum-clad frames. Pure aluminum windows are not efficient and are difficult to find.
Installation
Because both bay and bow windows extend beyond the exterior wall of a home, they each require additional structural support from below and a roof or soffit above. Professional installation is recommended.
“The key to a good bay or bow window is structural integrity and proper installation,” Vinet said. “If the structure of the home cannot support the weight, or if the bay or bow is not properly secured, this will lead to sagging.”
Advantages and Disadvantages of Bay Vs. Bow Windows
Bay and bow windows each have benefits and drawbacks that make them suited to certain situations.
Bay Windows
Pros
- Cost less at an average of $2,500
- Protrude further for more floor space or additional seating
- Angled side windows offer more focused ventilation
Cons
- More focused central window provides a narrower field of view
- Smaller glass surface offers less natural light
Bow Windows
Pros
- Wider panoramic view
- Larger glass surface allows for more natural light
- Can wrap around corners
Cons
- Cost more at $3,900 on average and up to $15,000
- Require more wall space for installation
Are Bay or Bow Windows Best for You?
Bay and bow windows serve similar functions, so choosing the right one for you will come down to some very specific factors.
A bay window is the more budget-friendly choice and is likely the better option for homeowners who simply want to create an intentional, expanded interior space with extra lighting and ventilation. Some examples include:
- A breakfast nook in a kitchen or dining room
- An alcove that provides a cozy window seat for reading
- A dedicated space for a desk or craft table
- Any space in a home with a traditional or modern architectural style
A bow window is more costly, so this option is better for homeowners who specifically want to do one of the following:
- Maximize the amount of natural light and potential views
- Create a softer, more subtle architectural statement that doesn’t jut out as much
- Add a feature that curves around the corner of a home
Next Steps
Whether you’re considering bay or bow windows for your home, contact a local window supplier or general contractor specializing in home exteriors. They can walk you through the best window brands for your needs and assist with assessing your home for either style.
When talking to contractors, gather multiple quotes so you can compare prices, services, and reputations.
If you’re considering adding a window to your home but bay and bow window styles are out of your budget, consider other window types and talk to your contractor or window supplier about buying windows on a budget.
FAQs About Bay Vs. Bow Windows
Can you replace a bay window with a bow window?
Yes, you can replace a bay window with a bow window, but it won’t be an exact fit in many situations. You may need to make some structural modifications and change the size of the window opening to fit the new style, both of which can increase overall installation costs.
Consult with a window contractor to determine whether a bay-to-bow replacement is possible in your space and to get an accurate cost estimate.
Do bay and bow windows increase home value?
Bay and bow windows can increase home value through added curb appeal and square footage. Both window styles create an interesting visual aesthetic that can be seen from both the exterior and interior of the home.
Functionally, both styles increase the amount of natural light in a home’s interior. Windows that feature operable panels can also offer better airflow options than a standard double-hung window.
Finally, both styles extend beyond the exterior wall of the house, creating additional floor space in some cases. All of these factors can increase a home’s resale value, but the impact depends on the home’s condition, local real estate trends, and the quality of the installation.
Do I need permission for a bay window?
Whether you need permission for a bay window depends on whether you’re replacing a window or building a new one. You generally do not need permission to replace a bay window. However, you may need to obtain a permit when adding a new bay window, since this project often involves making structural changes to the home to support and protect the window.
Building codes vary by area, so you should always contact your local building office or relevant municipal authority to confirm what permits are needed before you start a project. If you’re working with a contractor or other industry professional, they should be familiar with the local codes and gather the necessary permits for you.
Can a regular window be turned into a bay window?
Yes, a regular window can be turned into a bay window. To convert a standard window style into a bay window, you’ll need to add structural elements to extend your space past your existing exterior wall, support the added space, and cover it. This includes adding roofing on the exterior above the window. The same factors apply if you want to convert your window to a bow window.
