Replacing windows is a concept that shouldn't be taken lightly. Putting a lot of thought into what you want and can afford will result in an ideal outcome. After all, windows are an investment that will get you through several decades, if not a lifetime.
When considering what style of windows to look for, two great options are garden windows and bay windows. Both go against the grain of ordinary flat windows and add a chic element of style, grace, and fun to a home.
Timeless, they both will endure the fluctuating designs of contemporary architecture, holding true to the core values of classic ambiance and natural efficiency. However, modern technology gives them a boost that emphasizes resource and cost-saving measures.
Be good to your wallet and the environment by contemplating a cost-effective, energy-efficient window revamp to your home. Garden and bay windows are excellent budget-friendly choices that will maximize the beloved California climate during any season.
US Window & Door will help you make an informed decision on the perfect options to suit your needs. Plus, with a local radius serving the Greater San Diego area as well as Southern Orange County, you can be sure that you'll benefit from regional tax breaks thanks to the energy-efficient product you'll receive.
Benefits of Bump-Out Windows
Before getting into the specifics of garden and bay windows, it's best to have a working knowledge of how they classify. They're part of a style called "bump-out" windows, which entail several different purposes.
If you've ever been to a drive-thru or visited a Russian church with an arched turret of windows, you're familiar with the bump-out style, as it varies greatly. Bump-outs serve a number of purposes, including:
- Increased property values
- Pass-throughs
- Solar exposure
- Cross-ventilation
- Energy efficiency
- Structural expansion
- Curb appeal
- Ample exterior views
When it comes to homes, many of these purposes apply. If you want to add value or even increase the square footage of your house while taking advantage of what nature has to offer, then you can't go wrong with bump-out windows. But it's important to realize that their designs vary.
Bump-out windows come in several forms, garden windows and bay windows being two prolific types. Often interchangeably termed, these distinct styles are not quite the same. Yes, they're both projection windows, as they protrude from a structure. Also, they have some similar intentions. But overall, they have divergent motivations for functionality and aesthetics.
Garden Windows
The best way to describe a garden window is a miniature greenhouse. It's a built-in home feature that extends from the structure. Garden windows are often cantilevered, which means they're anchored on one side and freestanding on the other, just like a diving board or an open drawer. This demonstrates that they don't take up additional room in the home. Rather, they protrude, allowing for extra space.
The space a garden window affords isn't anything overwhelming. Typically located in a kitchen, it's just enough to add a bit of charm and fun to a room, all while performing a few inviting natural functions.
Aside from quaint but pronounced aesthetics and natural advantages, the purpose of a garden window is for plants. Due to structures and placement, garden windows usually have to be custom. However, they're not exceptionally large, so window installation isn't going to cost an excessive amount of money.
Generally, they have a similar makeup, often devoid of mullions, sashes, and other obstructions. All sides are glass, including the top, whether it's sloped or horizontal. This feature is critical for intense solar exposure.
While the front doesn't open, it offers a broad view of the outdoors for indirect lighting as well as a public view. Side glass panes do open or vent, often in a single-hung design, allowing air circulation.
Shelves are also a key characteristic of garden windows, separating them from other bump-out styles. One or more glass panels form a display rack for your favorite herbs or flowers.
Pros and Cons of Garden Windows
Garden windows boast a lot of benefits. Nevertheless, they may not be for everyone, especially due to their smaller size when compared to other bump-out windows. Examining what garden windows can and can't offer your home and lifestyle will help you decide if they're what you're looking for in an upgrade.
Pros
- Airflow: Garden windows add a fresh breath of natural air to your home. Not overpowering, they provide just enough ventilation if you want to rid the house of a stagnant climate on a chilly or rainy day.
- Natural sun: The sun offers a wonderful element of natural lighting, cutting down the need for excessive lamps. Plus, depending on the placement area, it can add direct lighting in the winter that will warm up your house.
- Financial savings: Not only do garden windows help heat and cool a structure, but using the latest in glass technology, their efficiency is state-of-the-art. San Diego also offers tax credits for energy-efficient windows, so installation is a win-win situation.
- Renewed atmosphere: Garden windows contribute to a comfortable sense of home. They provide an area with a pleasant and inviting greenhouse touch.
Cons
- Potential damage to decor: Displaying items aside from plants on the shelves may not be a good idea. Constant exposure to sunlight may damage nicknacks or other items you want to show off, so selecting the right type of glass is crucial.
- Exterior requirements: If you want to add a garden window to your home, you may not have enough exterior room. If the replacement area is near a sidewalk or porch, the bump-out may be too prominent or dangerous due to its protrusion.
- Cleaning: Because the windows and shelves are exposed to the public and will gain attention, cleaning is a must. Every little speck of dust will show on the plant rack, especially when the sun hits.
- Size: Though garden windows can be sizable, they're not as large as some other styles of bump-outs. If you're looking for a massive and grand window, other options are available.
Why Choose Garden Windows?
Adding a garden window to your kitchen is a fun way to give it new life. It will incorporate a sense of picturesque appeal and revitalize the look of your house. Whether you have an old farmhouse, a cottage, or a postmodern work of art, your structure will benefit from this stylish flair of organic adaptability.
For garden windows in San Diego, look no further. If you want to improve and enhance your home's value, energy efficiency, aesthetics, and ambiance, a garden window is a great way to do so. With the many options US Window & Door offers with its custom designs, colors, and sizes of Milgard windows, you can't go wrong. It's the smart choice for a high return on an investment that will reach far beyond its cost.
Bay Windows
Sometimes, people consider garden windows to be miniature bay windows. While they theoretically have a lot of the same qualities, aside from their size contrasts, there are a lot of differences between the two.
Bay windows are a gently commanding focal point of their structures. A set of three windows varying in appearance, they often get confused with bow windows. It's important to distinguish their characteristics to alleviate common misunderstandings and determine what suits your needs.
Both bay and bow windows fall into the projection windows category. Whereas bow windows come in three or more even panels, usually all opening, they have a smooth curve. Bay windows, on the other hand, are more pronounced. They're comprised of three panels, and the middle is typically a picture window, which doesn't open. The two side windows often open horizontally in a casement window style or vertically through a single or double-hung window style. It all depends on your personal preference when it comes to the design you select.
Bow windows have many purposes and usually offer an artistic flair to a home with a slightly cantilevered presence. On the other hand, cantilevered as well, bay windows protrude with prominence. They have an angular arch and afford additional living space for many locations, including dining rooms, family rooms, living rooms, hallways, and master bedrooms.
If you're thinking of adding some area to a room but don't want to go the costly route of building an addition, a bay window is right for you. Not only will it enhance your house's aesthetics, charm, and
value, but this simple change will entirely overhaul the ambiance of your home.
Pros and Cons of Bay Windows
Electing to go with a bay window is a large decision that will revamp your living structure. But is it right for you? It's best to look into what they offer to determine if bay windows are the right choice for your lifestyle and needs.
Pros
- A room within a room: Seating is a wonderful option to include with bay windows. Transform your space by creating a cozy alcove for perhaps a reading nook or window gazing.
- Beneficial aesthetics: Bay windows enhance the style, atmosphere, and attractiveness of any home. They add a magnificent outdoor view, in addition to a homey feel.
- Efficient elements: The structural composition of bay windows heavily considers energy efficiency. Resource conservation is key in this day and age, and these windows are at the apex of technological effectiveness.
- Resale value: Bay windows add curb appeal, making your home more commanding for potential buyers in the event you decide to sell. They gain attention for their charm and allure.
Cons
- Financial expense: Adding bay windows to a home is not cheap. In addition to customization and installation, accessories like window treatments also need to be designed to fit the windows.
- Structural reinforcement: A building will have to be able to support a cantilever, requiring careful engineering, planning, and preparation. And if this can't be done, then a support system underneath the window will have to be constructed.
- Maintenance and upkeep: Window treatments and the area as a whole will attract visible dust over time. As this is a prime spot in the home with a public view, keeping it clean is imperative.
- Placement: Bay windows are a great option if you want to maximize nature through cross-breezes and solar illumination. However, a southern-facing exposure will invite an extreme amount of heat into your home, which is nice for winter but can cause problems during warm California summers.
Why Choose Bay Windows?
Bay windows are an excellent choice for anyone interested in doing anything from minor home remodeling to a major overhaul. Though they're not cheap, they're much more budget-friendly compared to major structural alterations.
A classic design, bay windows fit the iconic style of Victorian architecture, a mid-century ranch, seaside villa, or anything in between. With a number of eclectic options, they're ideal for a homeowner who wants a fresh look to their house that incorporates fashionable sophistication and natural beauty.
US Window & Door offers a wealth of potential when it comes to replacing or adding bay windows. Using Milgard products, quality is a given. Vinyl, fiberglass, and aluminum options cater to an array of budgets and needs. So too do hardware and security.
Glass is state-of-the-art as well. Taking advantage of such features as upgrading with a SunCoat Low-E glass, you can create the epitome of energy efficiency that will pay for itself in no time. Keep your structure cooler in the summer, thanks to UV protection. In the winter, trap heat inside with this durable feature.
Of course, cross-ventilation and solar exposure are also a mainstay of bay windows, taking full advantage of nature with their composition. Couple this concept with the SunCoat Low-E coating, and watch the savings add up on your energy bills. Bay windows, though an initial investment, are a long-term solution for your wallet.
Get Advice From a Window Professional
As Milgard's #1 rated dealer countrywide, US Window & Door is here for all your garden and bay window needs. You know you're in good hands when it comes to unparalleled quality and skilled installation.
If you're considering upgrading your home, windows are a key area of focus. US Window & Door will handle the replacement process from start to finish, so call or send a message for a free estimate* today! We'll provide you with a well-rounded source of knowledge and advice that will help your decision-making process.
Don't put off replacing your windows any longer. Providing San Diego and Southern Orange County with unmatched expert service, your satisfaction is guaranteed with US Window & Door!
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