A bow or bay window instantly becomes the focal point of any room. By giving the appearance of more space it makes any room seem bigger. What is the difference between the two, and which one is right for your home? The main difference between a bay window and a bow window is the number of sides. A bay window always has 3 sides and typically projects further outdoors giving a deeper window seat than a bow. A bow window has 4 or more side and does not project out as far as a bay. A bow window has the rounded appearance with no sharp angles and a bow typically has 30, 45, or 90 degree angles. The main window in a bay window is typically wider than the side windows (flankers) and is almost always a picture (fixed) window. The flankers can be picture windows, double hungs, or casements. In a bow window, typically all 4, 5, or 6 windows are the same width with all windows being picture windows except the end windows which are usually casements but can be double hungs.
Bow/Bay windows all have their own roof on the exterior which can be shingles or standing seam copper unless the window is close to the soffit above it. When a bay/bow window is too close to the soffit to have its own roof, the sides and front are extended up to meet it, and is usually trimmed out to match the soffit or the siding around the window.
The interior head and seat of most bow/bay windows are normally an unfinished wood veneer of either birch or oak. Some manufacturers offer a wood grain laminate on both the windows and the head and seat to offer a maintenance free finish that looks absolutely amazing! There is also the option on many bay/bow windows to have a Corian or Formica seat board making the window maintenance free and ready to receive your house plants without the worry of any spilled water damaging the seat.
When you consider the “wow!” factor associated with having a bow/bay window in your home, it is well worth the investment. Call today for your free appointment to view our stunning selection and find which one is best for you!
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