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What Are Bay and Bow Windows?

Bay or bow windows can open up just about any room. This brief article explains what bay and bow windows are and how they are used.

Bay or bow windows can create a bright, open feel. This unique style of window is particularly common in kitchens, breakfast nooks, and living room areas. They can also be built in conjunction with a bench to create a window seat. Here is an explanation of what bay and bow windows are and how they're constructed:

Bay Windows

Bay windows are a decorative type of window that projects outward from the wall. It is composed of one central window parallel to the wall which is flanked by two other windows attached at an angle, usually casement or double-hung styles. Box-style bay windows also project from the wall, but the two flanking windows are attached at a 90-degree angle.

Bow Windows

A bow window projects outward from a wall as well. The primary difference between the two styles is that while a bay window is typically composed of three main sections, bow windows contain several more. These panes join to form a gentle curve, or a bow shape. While center windows are typically fixed, a bow window's side sashes are typically casement windows.

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