Bay vs. Bow Windows: What are the Pros and Cons?

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Bay vs. Bow Windows: What are the Pros and Cons?

Windows in your Lake Forest, CA home not only serve a purpose by letting in light and ventilation. They should also compliment the style of your home and make an aesthetic statement. No windows do that as well as bay and bow windows. These larger units are remarkable, and many homeowners ask about them. So here is a breakdown of what you need to know about these window styles:

What is a Bay Window?

A bay window has three openings: a larger picture window usually flanked by two smaller, operable windows. You can determine the configuration. You can use casement, single-hung, or double-hung windows depending on what you need. The unit will protrude outside and literally add extra space to the room. These more contemporary style windows have angular lines and flat planes.

What is a Bow Window?

Bow windows consist of more than three units, all the same size. They can wrap around corners of a building or create a turret. They also extend beyond the exterior wall, but instead of an angular shape, these window contractors Anaheim, CA create a graceful curve. You can have a wide view out both sides of your home.

Advantages of Bay and Bow Windows

Both of these windows units:

1. Open up a Grander View

More glass means more to see. If you have an exceptional view in Lake Forest, CA then you can capitalize on it with bay or bow windows. These will make a great focal point in any living room or bedroom.

2. Let in More Natural Light

A wider window also means you get more natural light. Sunlight can enter the space from a number of angles. This is why so many people choose to use these types of windows for breakfast nooks or a reading library. However, because there is so much glass, you want to make sure you purchase energy efficient windows. These will cut down on heat transfer and keep your space cool in summer and warm in winter.

3. Improve Ventilation

As with light, these windows can also let in air from all different angles. You can create a nice cross breeze and get more natural air flow in and out of your home.

4. Create Additional Space

With these types of windows, you add square footage to your space and not just the appearance of more room. This means you can have more room for a window seat or storage if that is what you are looking for.

5. Increase the Value of Your Home

These eye-catching installations will attract the attention of prospective buyers. Not only that, but bay and bow windows also have an excellent return on your investment and will boost the value of your home if properly installed.

Disadvantages of Bay and Bow Windows

These window units are also:

1. Difficult to Clean

More windows mean more cleaning and more maintenance. Granted, it depends on the types of windows you choose. Double-hung windows will tilt inward, making them easy to clean. But you will have to clean casement and picture windows from both the outside and inside, which can be taxing.

2. Difficult to Dress

Another problem many homeowners have is finding window dressings that will fit bay and bow windows. Curtain rods and drapes will be tricky. Blinds or roman shades are much better options when you can mount them inside the frame.

3. Extremely Heavy

Many homeowners don’t consider this, but large window units come with added weight. You need to be sure the supporting structures of your home can support the windows you choose. The last thing you want is for the foundation to settle once your new windows are in place.

4. More Expensive

More glass, stronger material, more difficult installationall of these add up. This means bay and bow windows are some of the most expensive styles on the market.

Want to see some of our products firsthand and get your questions answered? Come and visit us at California Window & Solar. You can call (949) 284-7483 or visit our showroom at 2915 Red Hill Ave Ste B104 Costa Mesa, CA 92626. Let our experts declutter and simplify the window buying process for you.

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