If you’re looking to give your home a unique feature, widen a room, or improve the lighting, installing a bay or bow window is a perfect project to pursue. Both of these styles join together three or more panes so that they curve out away from the wall and protrude into the exterior. However, while each of these solutions achieves a similar effect, they each offer unique characteristics that should be considered. Before you take on this home remodeling project, here’s an in-depth look at how bow and bay windows work.

What Do They Look Like?

A bay configuration consists of three panes—a large picture window with smaller casement or double-hung panes on each side. The sides extend diagonally from the wall and attach to the middle pane at a wide-angle, providing a spacious alcove in the wall. If it’s wide and deep enough, these windows usually feature a seating area within the frame.

Bow windows have four to six adjoined panes that extend similarly. However, these panes are typically narrower and shorter in size than bay windows. This configuration also features shallower angles, so it won’t extend out as far from the wall.

Where Are They Placed?

Each style can be placed within a single wall. However, the added panes also make it possible for bow windows to be positioned on the corner of a house. This corner configuration can create a distinctive turret design, as well as provide two views into the interior.

Bow windows can be any height, but are typically taller and may take up more space within the wall.  Bay windows, particularly those with seats, are generally placed lower to the floor.

How Much Room Is Needed on the Exterior?

As you work with a contractor to plan your home remodeling project, make sure that the exterior of the house is large enough to accommodate the outward angles of the window. You should also be able to fully extend any panes that open outward. If you have limited space on the exterior, the bow style may be a better fit as it doesn’t need to extend out as far as a bay window.

Whether you’re planning a home remodeling project or building new property from scratch, Greg Gavin Construction has the resources to make your dream house a reality. Specializing in custom home construction and remodeling in the Cincinnati, OH, area for more than 40 years, this architect is known for delivering unique floor plans and design features with a high degree of precision—especially when it comes to bay and bow window installation. Visit this homebuilder online to learn more about these capabilities or call the Lawrenceburg, IN, office at (812) 637-5202 to schedule a consultation.