Bay windows are often a home’s signature feature, providing a dramatic effect on the exterior and creating a unique interior space. Given the size and importance of a bay window, you should take extra care that a bay window replacement suits your home perfectly and provides all the natural light, energy efficiency, and style that you want.
We have helped many homeowners in the Bay Area select and install a beautiful bay window replacement for both antique and newer homes. Here’s what you should consider when selecting a new bay window:
Bay Window or Bow Window?
If you would prefer the curved effect of more than three windows, you might consider a bow window for your bay window replacement. Bay windows and bow windows are similar options that can usually work in the same window openings. The choice is largely a matter of personal style.
The key considerations for bow window or bay window replacement:
- A true bay window has three windows, with two smaller windows flanking a larger center window. Bow windows have three or more windows of equal size, arranged at even angles to create a rounded look.
- Bay windows extend further out from the home and create more space for bench seating or storage. Bow windows create less added space, but can also provide a seating area. Bow windows also make great sense for exceptionally large window openings.
- Depending on the style and width of the frames, you can let more or less natural light in with either option.
- Choosing a bow window as a bay window replacement may or may not create the need for more renovations; talk to your window specialist to see what options you have.
The Best Bay Window Replacement for Your Home’s Architecture
Bay windows became popular hundreds of years ago, but the classic look works well with all sorts of home styles from Victorian to Craftsman to Spanish Revival. For your bay window replacement, you might be interested in changing the look of your windows with a new or different style.
Our experts can help you find the right bay windows that refresh your curb appeal while still flowing seamlessly with the exterior architecture of the home.
- Consider double-hung and casement bay windows, with or without grids.
- Wider frames often suit more traditional homes, while thinner frames work best for modern or Mediterranean styles.
- Wood frames can be painted any color, but you can also find a vinyl bay window replacement in dozens of color options.
Bay Windows and Energy Efficiency
Modern options for bay windows provide at least as much energy efficiency as your typical double-hung window. Since bay windows let in so much light, the glazing, coating, and gas-fill options play a pivotal role in the efficiency of a bay window replacement. The key with selecting bay window glass is to find a premium option that lets in light while blocking the rays that would overheat your home during the summer.
Bay window frames should also be selected carefully for maximum energy efficiency. Operable windows provide excellent ventilation options that reduce energy bills in the spring and fall. Non-opening bay windows are very common, of course, in which case your installation must include proper weatherstripping.
If it’s time to renovate with a bay window replacement, contact us to discuss your options. We install Andersen, Simonton, and other top brands of standard and custom bay windows for homes in Santa Rosa and throughout Marin and Sonoma Counties.