Combining Beauty and Function: All About Bay and Bow Windows - PART 1: Differences Between Bay and Bow Windows

New windows improve indoor comfort, enhance ventilation, increase energy efficiency, provide great views and spruce up the overall curb appeal of a home. Since different window styles excel in different areas, however, it can be difficult to decide which style to install in your home. Two of the most popular windows styles today are bay and bow. Both can open up a room and let it breathe, letting in more light and giving the illusion of more space, while adding a splash of elegance too.

Many people get confused about the difference between ba Bay and bow windows are both projection windows, which means they project outwards from the inside, creating a dramatic aesthetic when viewed from the street. The main difference is the way they protrude and the number of glass panels each style has. Read on for more.Bay WindowsBay windows project at sharp angles and are made up of at least three windows. They can project at 45-degree or at 90-degree angles. Typically, bay windows come with a fixed picture window at the center flanked by two operable windows, usually casement or double-hung, angled relative to the wall and picture window. With this construction, the bay window offers an ideal balance of natural light and ventilation. Additionally, the large picture window in the middle offers a scenic view of the surroundings.Bow WindowsUnlike bay windows that protrude at sharp angles, bow windows project subtly from the side of the home in a curved, rounded shape. They can come in a graceful arch of four, five, or six windows. Bow windows are generally bigger than their bay counterparts, thanks to the curve in lieu of corners, which makes way for a larger glass area. Both bay and bow windows are highly popular and commonly found in many American households. However, bay windows tend to work better in smaller homes or apartments, while bow windows are more suitable for larger properties.Now that you understand the differences between a bay and a bow window, it’s time to learn about their various features and benefits. Check out the second part of this three-part blog series for more interesting details about these window styles!