Copyright

Window 'R' Value Video (view fullscreen)

Get the Flash Player to see this video.

Watch more related videos:

Newsletter

View Home Windows RSS feed

Installing a Bay Window: An Overview

You don't have to live by a bay to enjoy having a bay window. This article will teach you about the details of a bay window and how to find out if this stylish window is right for your home.

What are Bay Windows?

Bay window are windows made of three or more window panes that extend outward from a home to make a curve. They often have center window panes that have flanking window panes attached to the sides at an angle. Because these windows are angled, the semicircle looks angular. The number of window panes depends on how large the homeowner would like the bay window to be. If homeowners want smoother curves, they could choose to have bow windows, which are a type of bay window. They have a similar structure, but their curve is more like a semicircle rather than a polygon.

What are the Benefits and Drawbacks of Bay Windows?

Homeowners choose to have a bay window because it helps make a small room feel larger. It also gives expansive views of the landscape and allows for more natural light to fill the room. In some cases, it can improve the selling ability of a home. Even with all of these great benefits, there are some drawbacks. According to the writers at Home Focused, www.homefocused.com, bay windows are more susceptible to harsh weather such as rain and snow. These writers go onto say that rain can seep into the joints and cause the wood to rot. Depending on where the homeowners live, they may need to do some additional maintenance if they choose to have a bay window.

What to Consider when Installing a Bay Window?

As with any home improvement project, homeowners should address several considerations before choosing a bay window. Here are some questions from Joseph Truini of This Old House, www.thisoldhouse.com, that homeowners should ask themselves. These questions are especially pertinent if homeowners are installing the bay window themselves.

  • What size window?
  • What type of sash?
  • How will the window be supported?
  • Will there be an eave above the window?
  • What if there's no eave above it?

Answering these questions can help homeowners decide if bay windows are right for them and plan their projects accordingly.

Related Articles

Discover the Kitchen Bay Window: Why More Home Owners are Choosing Bay and Bow Windows

Do you wish that your kitchen had more expansive views or better natural light? Bay windows and bow windows may be your solution. Read this article to learn more about this current kitchen window remodeling trend.

Replacement Window Types: Bay Windows Overview

Like bow windows, bay windows can provide expansive views and provide large amounts of light for a room. When it's time to replace these windows, finding and installing replacement bay windows can be a challenge. Read this article for a summary of bay window information.

Window Installation: Guide to Buying and Installing Replacement Windows

Are you interested in having replacement windows installed? Do you want to know what you should ask yourself and vendors? Are you thinking about doing the window installing yourself? Read this article to help you figure out the answers to these kinds of replacement window questions.

What is an Obscure Glass Window?

This brief article discusses obscure glass windows and their characteristics.

Popular Window Shapes

While the size, style and number of windows you install dramatically affects both the interior and exterior look of your home, shape is another stylistic characteristic to consider as well. This article discusses some of the most popular window shapes and the characteristics associated with them.

A Glossary of Common Window Terms

Being able to communicate effectively with a home builder or window dealer will help you to get exactly what you want. Learning these common window terms can help.

What are Low E Window Coatings?

Low E window coatings can play a vital role in the energy efficiency of your windows, whatever style you choose. This article explains what Low E coatings are and how they work.

What is a Single Glass Window?

This brief article discusses single glass windows and their characteristics.

What is a Rotating Window?

This brief article discusses the construction and characteristics of rotating windows.