Window replacement can have a significant impact on the appearance of your home and its energy efficiency. It can also add resale value and create a focal point. Bay windows are a great way to do this, as they provide extra space for seating or shelving. They can also improve the natural light and ventilation of your home, and can be made from your choice of fixed or venting windows.
Aesthetics
Bay windows are beautiful additions that can brighten a home and add a feeling of spaciousness. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles to suit any room. They can also be customized to fit a specific window opening. Choosing the right bay window will depend on your needs, budget, and style.
A box bay window looks like half a box, with three glass panes at 90-degree angles. This type of bay window is usually smaller and less expensive than other bay windows. It’s often used in kitchens to bring in natural light and is a popular choice for midcentury modern homes.
A bow or cathedral bay window features a larger center window with your choice of casement or double-hung windows on each side for ventilation. This type of bay window has more of a traditional appearance and can increase resale value. It can be fitted with a reading nook or seating area to make the space feel comfortable and cozy.
Energy Efficiency
Bay windows consist of three window segments, with the center picture window being accompanied by casement or double-hung windows as the “flankers.” They’re an elegant option that dramatically expands the space inside your home and creates a unique focal point from both the interior and exterior.
They also allow natural light to enter a room from multiple angles, brightening the space for longer periods of time. This can make a big difference in spaces like living rooms or nurseries where natural sunlight is preferred.
Additionally, the two end windows often are operable, meaning they can be opened to let in a fresh breeze. This can increase airflow and reduce moisture in your house, which can help to lower dust levels and allergens. This may be especially beneficial for those with allergies.
Ventilation
With their multiple openings, Bay windows allow for increased natural light and ventilation to your home. This increased airflow can aid people who suffer from asthma or other respiratory conditions and is also important in reducing humidity, which can lead to dampness and mould.
Bay and bow windows can be constructed with a large picture window in the center with casement or double-hung windows on either side to create a boxed area that can be used for shelving or seating. This unique design allows more light to enter the room, while providing space for accent furniture and other decoration pieces.
Due to their construction, a bay or bow window should be built with care and attention to detail in order to avoid issues later on. Especially in older homes, these windows can be susceptible to rot around the timber ‘safe lintels’ underneath the corbel stone sections if they are not properly pointed and maintained. This can cause the corbel stones to move and result in damage to the interior plaster cornice area.