Windows and Doors | Replacement Windows

An angle bay window or gently arched bow window can make your home feel bigger and brighter. They enhance the interior view of your home by allowing more natural light to enter and can, if properly built and supported, add living space by becoming a reading or relaxation area.

Vinyl retrofit bay and bow windows can be used to replace existing bay or bow windows which may be sagging or rotting or to replace large flat windows in a room. Adding a vinyl bay or bow window is like a quick and easy room addition, at a fraction of the cost.

The design possibilities with vinyl bay and bow windows are endless. Choose double hung windows, casement windows, fixed or even awning style windows for your bay or bow window project. With vinyl replacement windows, the number of combinations are virtually limitless, since most manufacturers are easily able to couple any two window styles together.

Common configurations include a double hung window on either end and a fixed window in the centre or a casement window on either end with a fixed window in the centre. Bay windows are available in four projection angles up to a 90 degree box bay.

Bow windows sweep away from the wall in a graceful arch of four, five or six windows. As with bay windows, bow windows usually have either casement windows or double hung windows on the ends and fixed (non-operating) windows in the centre.

Before you decide to change an existing flat window into a bay or bow window, be sure to measure the available window space. This means measuring not only the width and height of the opening, but also determining how much depth you have available to you. This is referred to as the projection of the window and is simply the distance from the interior of your wall to the point where the inside of the window will reach. Although a large projection is usually desirable, it is important to remember that they will require more structural support and will likely be colder in winter, since they protrude farther into the unheated airspace outside.

As well, if your projection is too large and extends past your roof line, a separate roof for the bay or bow window will need to be built. This can be costly and, if improperly done, can cause leaking and water infiltration issues.

The material of choice for remodeling your home with a bay or bow window is vinyl. Be sure to choose a window style and colour that blend well with the exterior of your house as well as the look of your neighbourhood. Make sure that you order your new windows with low E glass and an argon gas fill. This makes them more energy efficient.

A final factor to consider is window coverings and the finish of the head and seat of your new bay or bow window. Given their size and the fact that they project outside of the house, bays and bows often cost a lot more to finish. Draperies will cost more and the interior trim work that is involved can be costly as well.

Nevertheless, bay and bow windows can be a beautiful focal point in your house and a wonderful place for rest and relaxation.