Are bay and bow windows different? This is a common question because bay and bow windows look so similar. At first glance, the differences are not apparent, especially if you don’t know what to look for. This blog answers a generally asked question, what is the difference between bay window and bow window?
Although they are both beautiful architectural features to your home, there are some important differences to note between bay and bow windows.
About Bow Windows
Number of window panels
Bow windows usually have four or five window panels, referred to as a “four-lite” or “five-lite” bow.
Overall structure
Because bow windows have four or five window panels a bow window structure is actually wider than a bay window and curved, which gives the home’s exterior a rounded look.
Home Style
Bow windows give a circular appearance, which tends to match older, century homes, which have a number of semi-circular exterior structural elements.
Light
For homeowners looking to maximize the amount of light in a room, the subtle differences between a bay and bow window become important. Since a bow window has more window panels, it lets in more light. So if maximizing light is an important factor and you’re choosing between the two window types, you may prefer to go with a bow window.
View
Although both bay and bow windows afford spectacular views, only a bow window can give a view from two sides of your home. How is this possible? Bow windows can wrap around the corner of the home, which creates a cozy nook on the home’s interior and a unique turret shape on the home’s exterior.
Cost
Bow windows are slightly more complicated to install than a bay window because they require a soffit tie-in to properly seal out air and water along the window’s seal and between the top of the window and the roof. As a result, you can expect to spend three times more on a bow window than a standard flat window.
About Bay Windows
Number of window panels
A bay window has three window panels.
Overall structure
Bay windows have a main window (called the picture window) with two other windows on either side. These side windows are usually smaller than the main window in the middle.
Interior space
Both bay and bow windows provide homeowners with additional interior space, but because bay windows jut out farther from the wall, they add slightly more interior space than a bow window.
Home style
Modern homes usually have bay windows because they match the angular and flat architectural style of contemporary homes.
Cost
Bay windows are more expensive than your standard flat window because they aren’t single windows. Expect to spend between two to three times more on a bay window than a standard flat window. However; despite the added cost, homeowners can enjoy the additional space, beauty and light afforded by bay and bow windows.
Considering new windows? Contact EcoTech Windows and Doors today for a free in-home estimate.
