Windows are an essential part of your home’s design. They can improve your home’s look, your property value, natural lighting, and they can even save energy. If you’re in need of new windows, look no further than types of bay windows!
Bay windows offer a variety of things, from architectural beauty to a perfect window seat to curl up with a good book. There are a few types of bay windows, so picking the perfect ones for your home requires a bit of research. In this article, we’ll explain the different types of bay windows and help you find the ideal option for your home.
Bay Window Types and Styles in San Diego
Bay windows have been around for over five centuries, and, during that time, they have hardly changed, though they have improved in some ways. The first bay windows had a purely decorative purpose and were designed to enhance elegance and complement the architectural details of the house interior, such as the entrance door, kitchen, and the living and dining rooms.
However, over the centuries, architects have realized that bay windows can serve a multitude of other purposes, including creating additional space, increasing the amount of natural light, improving airflow, and delivering unparalleled expansive views.
Today, bay windows do not merely improve the attractiveness of a house. They expand the views of the outside world, increase curb appeal and style, and increase the functionality of the space. To put it short, they provide a great deal of value for your house.
If you are considering replacing your old windows, continue reading to explore the most desirable bay window styles and types throughout San Diego and why they might be the perfect choice.
However, before we discuss the most popular bay window types, we need to dive deeper into what bay windows really are.
What are Bay Windows?
A bay window is a combination of three windows, which angles out and extends away from your home. The center window, also known as a “picture window,” is around 50% larger than the windows on either side, which are known as “flankers.”
From the inside, bay windows offer more natural light and accentuate your view by diving the room into different planes. From the outside, these windows just out, which adds a stylish dimension to your exterior. There are many kinds of bay windows, which can be square, hexagonal, or octagonal.
They also offer homeowners extended views, more significant natural light, and additional space you can use for seating or storage. Now that you have the basic idea about bay windows, we can move on to the bay window types in San Diego.
Why Are Bay Windows Popular in San Diego?
In addition to giving your house a fresh and elegant look, bay windows can also contribute to the coziness and comfort factors. There are many reasons why you should get bay windows. Let us check out the factors that make bay windows such as popular choice throughout San Diego:
They’re as Functional as They are Stylish
Bay windows can attract a lot of eyes to your house and its rooms. You can paint the windows in vibrant colors, add attractive décor, or even throw in a couple of cushions. It is also possible to give them a contemporary touch with a bit of modern flair or use them as individualized desks or for other purposes. Bay windows are great for maximizing lounging spaces for homes with limited room. They can also be turned into things like custom-made desks, and add a cozy element to areas like offices and dining rooms.
Bay Windows are Architecturally Interesting
Bay windows can add a much-needed facelift to your home and give any home an elegant feel. They’re also Victorian-inspired, which means they’ll add some traditional style to your home. Styles like the Canted Bay were the focal points of Victorian homes, making them an artistic inspiration even for modern-day residences.
Bay Windows Let in Better Light
Another major benefit of bay windows is the amount of light they allow in. If your home isn’t angled the right way, you’re probably not able to take advantage of sunlight throughout the seasons. What’s great about bay windows is that they let in the sun from three different directions, meaning that you will be able to enjoy plenty of sun even if your house is not situated in an ideal position.
By providing ample daylight and accentuating the view, a bay window can elevate your room on multiple levels. This feature of bay windows makes them particularly desirable for houses that are not perfectly angled for sunlight.
They Make Great Window Seats
Bay windows can also provide a comfortable window seating area where you can utilize if you have a full-blown party or use the space to curl up quietly with your favorite book. It can be easily transformed into the ideal window seat, also making it a great spot to eat breakfast. The exterior windows add to the style of the exterior while also providing the owner with an extended view of their home, enabling them to use the extra space for seating or storage. You can paint it an exciting color and dress it up with some fun decor and upholstery to make it the focal point of your room.
Types of Bay Windows San Diego
Like most house components, you can find bay windows in a variety of styles and sizes, each offering unique aesthetic and functional values. Your personal preference plays a big factor in your selection of bay windows. By choosing from the various types of arches, arch-windows, or single-hung windows, homeowners can end up with unique bay windows. If you want a larger than normal opening, you can select a casement or sash window type for the bay windows. Now that you know the different structural options you have for windows, it’s time to learn the different types of bay window options are available. To add further variety and flavor, you can experiment with the window styles, angles, and other architectural details. Below are some of the most popular bay window types:
The Oriel Bay
The oldest form of bay windows, the Oriel bay was first used during the English renaissance period. Oriel is derived from the Latin word ‘porch’, and translates to ‘porthole’ or ‘under the porch’. Oriel bay windows are used at the entrance of a building and are supported using brick or stone. They are usually built towards the side of a building or house, and never touch the floor. Oriel bay windows differ from a regular bay window in that they are not on the first level. Oriel bay depicts a Gothic Style which was highly popular during the mid-18th century England. The decorative consoles support the Oriel bay window, and are made up of wood, stone, or masonry.
Fun fact: “Oriel” comes from the Latin word for porch.
The Box Bay
The Box Bay Window is so-called because of its box-like shape. The ‘box’ consists of three windows, each covered with a roof. Structurally, there is no difference between the box anchor and the window edge, apart from the fact that the side windows come together to form the shape of a box. Two smaller windows flank the larger, central window. Box Bay windows are highly popular in modern homes as they allow additional space without requiring the repositioning of walls.
The Circle Bay
This was a particularly popular window choice during the English Victorian era of the 1870s. The main difference between the Circle Bay window and the other three bay windows is the former’s size and greater embellishment.
The Circle Bay windows can be as high as six feet and can extend up to three feet across the building. They can also come with a cone-shaped roof. This window type is not particularly common, but is still popular amidst trendy homeowners.
The Circle Bay window appears as a square-shaped window with a triangular or circular base. In comparison to the other bay window types, the Bow Bay has a gentler curve.
Circle Bay windows are different from the other two types of bay windows because they’re larger and more embellished. They also usually have more windowpanes than a box-bay style window and often come with elaborate, highly-detailed moldings.
Canted Bay Windows
A classic bay window option, the Canted Bay has a flat front and angled side and is only seen on the first level of houses and buildings. Although it is pretty close to a standard bay window in terms of appearance, the standard and timeless appeal still gives it a great deal of traction.
The Bow Bay
The Bow Bay is different from the other bay windows and contains one arch placed at the height of the house and the other inside the bow. They’re usually created by combining four or more casement windows and forming them into an arch. It makes it possible to create a large window with a curved top and a small window on either side. This opens up space in the interior and lets more light in, while simultaneously enhancing the exterior’s optical appeal. Sash panes are attached to a frame on the window side, but in a bay window, these attachments are not.
Bow Bay windows are gently curved unlike the other types of bay windows. These casement panes are attached to a frame on the side of the window. Bow Bay windows can also be located at any level of a home, which makes them different than the other types of bay windows. And they don’t only add visual appeal to the outside of a building, but they also dress up the interior by opening the space up and letting more light in.
If you’re looking to replace your windows, you should consider all these different types of bay windows.
By now, you must have realized the extensive range of bay windows and that a little bit of research will reveal all the options at your disposal. The type of bay window you choose for you will depend on a variety of factors like general architecture, climate, and cost. While there are many different types of bay windows, there are two structural window options: casement and double-hung windows.
Casement Bay Windows
Casement bay windows are designed for both hot and cold climates and can be suited for country or urban homes. They’re durable, weather-resistant, and most options come with Low-E glass. Casement windows, like most bay window types, have low E glass in order to protect the furniture and décor from harmful UV rays. Their durability and weather-resistance make them perfect as office or dining room windows. The window sash is compatible with both hot or cold climates and is equally usable in rural and urban homes.
Casement bay windows usually come with a crank handle, which you can crank open during the window. They come in a variety of patterns, and while the prices range, they often run between $200-$2000 dollars.
Double-Hung Bay Windows
Double-hung bay windows are cheaper than sash windows but are highly traditional. Hence, they do not make a good choice for homeowners wanting a modern, premium design. Unlike casement windows, double-hung bay windows are not ideal for colder climates and aren’t the most energy-efficient option.
They are visually appealing, however, and are also easy to clean and easy to open. They’re also less expensive than casement windows and run between $150-$1000 dollars.
Victorian Bay Windows
Classic angular bay windows defined the Victorian era, but, thanks to the changing codes in the 19th century, they went out of fashion and were replaced by straight fronts and angled sides. Such designs allowed homeowners to extend windows from the outside to the walls. Victorian windows are full of ornate details and were a regular feature in Victorian homes and can even be found in many modern-day houses. San Francisco has been left mesmerized by the beauty of Victorian windows – so much so that these windows have been nicknamed ‘Postcard Row’ for their charming appearance.
Tudor Bay Windows
Tudors were marked by sash windows, often in groups of two and three. Matching window clips are often used to support Tudor Bay windows. While a small bay window featured in only one level of a Tudor house, you could find polished windows on every level. San Francisco has been left mesmerized by the beauty of Victorian windows – so much so that these windows have been nicknamed ‘Postcard Row’ for their charming appearance.
Modern Bay Windows
Picture windows and large window panes were a regular feature of mid-century houses since that was the time around which modern designers warmed up to the clear and minimalist aesthetic. This architectural style is still very much alive in many countries around the world, including the United States. The modern bay’s timelessness is down to its immense flexibility and functionality.
Craftsman Bay Windows
Bay windows were also used in bungalows in an attempt to expand the house space. Thanks to their versatility, these windows offer extra seating, sills, or decoration, thereby improving the functionality of the window space. The wide and open windows highlighted the beauty of the exterior while also underlining the interior’s visual appeal and design.
You can find a number of bay window styles, ranging from traditional to modern. These windows are a crucial aspect of any house, improving not only the quality and picture of your house but also playing an important role in energy conservation. You can even get a customized bay window designed that will blend perfectly with the distinct features and architectural style of your house
What You Need to Know About Bay Windows
Now that you know the benefits of bay windows and the different types of bay windows, it’s time to cover all the info you need to know about them. By doing this, you can decide if getting bay windows is right for you!
How Much Do Bay Windows Cost?
As mentioned above, the price of a bay window depends on the types of bay windows you’re getting. It’s important to know that you’ll most likely need a professional to install your windows, which means you could be spending around $3,500 for your new window.
What’s the Difference Between Bay Windows and Bow Windows?
Upon first glance, these two types of windows seem similar, but they’re very different. Here are some significant differences between bay windows and bow windows:
- Bay windows have three openings; bow windows have four or five.
- Bay windows have a picture window with two smaller windows; a bow doesn’t
- Bay window protrude out further than bow windows
- Bow windows let in more light because they have more glass panes
- Bow windows are wider than bay windows because they have more panels
It’s important to know that a bow window can cost up to 2.5 more than a standard bay window. So make sure you’re looking at different types of bay windows, and not at a mix of the bay windows and box windows.
What Questions Should I Ask a Window Replacement Contractor?
After you choose between the different types of bay windows, you should reach out and schedule an in-home consultation with a window replacement contractor. Here are some questions you should ask to determine if they’re the right contractor for your bay window installation:
- Do you charge for an estimate?
- What is your payment plan?
- Is there a specific brand or type of bay window you recommend?
- Do you use your crew or do you subcontract the work?
- Are you on-site during the window installation?
- How much time will it take you from ordering windows to fully installing them?
- What is your warranty policy for installation?
- Do you have any customer referrals or reviews I can see?
By asking these questions in advance, you’ll be able to vet the contractor and know how legitimate they are.
Final Thoughts on Buying Bay Windows for Your Home
Bay Windows are both a stylish and functional addition to any home. They offer greater natural lighting, open up and widen your space, and provide extra seating areas. They can even increase your property value!
A bay window is a comprehensive solution to many problems regarding modern home designs, such as inadequate sunlight and ventilation. These windows let more sunlight in, increase house space, add comfort, and serve as an additional sitting facility. They are also effective at enhancing the beauty of your house and helping you make a strong style statement.
With four different types of bay window options, you should be able to find one that suits your home and style needs. By following the tips and tricks in this handy guide, you’re sure to find the best replacement bay windows for your home in no time!
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