Difference Between Bay and Bow Windows

What is a Bay Window?

A bay window is a type of window that protrudes from the exterior wall of a home. They usually consist of 3 windows, with one large central window in the middle along with two angled, smaller windows on either side. Bay windows also usually have a flat front and a slanted roof that angles back toward the house. There are several different types of bay windows, including:

• Oriel windows
• Large bay windows
• Square bay windows
• Small bay windows
• Victorian bay windows
• Corner bay windows
• Curbed bay windows
• Flat bay windows
• Canted bay windows

Benefits of Bay Windows

There are many benefits of opting for a bay window, however, the main ones include:

• Additional space – bay windows are perhaps best known for the nooks they create on the interior of your home. These nooks provide additional space for things such as daybeds, reading nooks, shelving and more.
• Classic look – Bay windows have been around for centuries and are often associated with Victorian-era homes. As such, bay windows can add a touch of timeless elegance but can also be customized to suit modern homes as well.
• Increased natural lighting – due to their angular structure, bay windows can let in lots of natural light, which can help to brighten up a room and create a more inviting atmosphere.
• Versatility – bay windows are extremely versatile as they come in a variety of different styles, colours, and hardware. Bay windows can also be placed alongside other types of windows to create a more unique design.

What is a Bow Window?

Like bay windows, bow windows also protrude from the exterior wall of a home or building (though not as far). However, unlike bay windows, bow windows usually consist of 4 or more windows arranged in a subtle curve, rather than an angular shape. Bow windows are also typically larger in size than bay windows. There are several different styles of bay windows that homeowners can choose from, including:

• Small bow windows
• Large bow windows
• 5-pane bow windows
• Casement bow windows
• Double-glazed bow windows
• Double Hung bow windows

Benefits of Bow Windows

The main benefits of bow windows include:

• Increased natural lighting – when compared to bay windows, bow windows may offer even more natural lighting due to the fact that they are typically comprised of more (and larger) windowpanes.
• Customizable – bow windows can be wrapped around the corner of a building, allowing for views of two different sides of your home. Bow windows also come in a variety of different styles, finishes, and colours.
• Increased curb appeal – the curved shape of a bow window can significantly increase the curb appeal of a home by adding visual interest to a home’s exterior, whether it be traditional or modern.
• Wide-angle views – due to the fact that bow windows can be made up of 4 or more windowpanes, this can create wide-angle or panoramic views with a narrow exterior profile.

Bay vs Bow Windows: Which is Better?

The answer to this depends on your needs and the style you are aiming to achieve with your home. If you are looking for a more classic look that adds more space to the interior of your home, bay windows may be a better option. On the other hand, if you are looking for windows that are a little larger and offer a more expansive view of the outdoors, you may want to install bow windows instead.

Get a Bay or Bow Window Replacement from the Experts Brookstone Windows & Doors

At Brookstone Windows and Doors, our team is committed to providing our clients with high-quality replacement windows and exceptional customer service. If you would like to install a bay or bow window, contact us today for a free quote or visit us at one of our showrooms located throughout Ontario.