Best Window Treatments for Bay Windows

Bay Windows: What to Know

Bay windows offer several benefits. They enhance curb appeal, increase natural light and ventilation, and provide expansive views of the outdoors. However, once installed, many homeowners face a common challenge: finding the right window treatments. Their unique size and shape often require customized solutions, which can add to the overall cost.

Here are five of the best window treatment options for bay windows, along with their estimated costs.

Still deciding whether a bay window is the right choice for your home? While they add beauty, architectural interest, and extra space, they also come with a higher price tag.

Bay Windows: Pros, Cons, and Costs

Thinking about installing a bay window? This is the place to start.

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If you already have a bay window, chances are you love the extra light and space it provides. However, covering that glass requires multiple window treatments, which can increase your budget. Since bay windows come in various sizes and shapes, many homeowners opt for custom treatments, an important factor to consider when planning costs.

Best Window Treatments for Bay Windows

The unique angles that make bay windows so visually striking can also make it tricky to find the right window coverings for light control and privacy. While selecting treatments may seem challenging, you still have plenty of great options. Here are some of the best window treatments for bay windows:

Blinds

Bay window blinds are a good option, but you have to be careful about which ones you buy. Horizontal blinds are simple to operate on bay windows. They can be opened and lowered with ease so you can let in or block natural light as you desire. However, thick vertical blinds may not be the best choice. It can be challenging to fit them on bay windows.

Bay window blinds can range between $6 and $190 per set if they are ready made, while custom blinds can cost between $150 and $200. In addition, to have them professionally installed, homeowners pay between $35 and $100 per hour.

Curtains

Bay window curtains are attractive, and you can choose fabrics to complement the décor of a room. But they can also be tricky to get done correctly. Curtains, unlike drapes, are generally cut to fit a window exactly or with only the barest overhang of fabric. 

Your goal with bay window curtains should be to highlight and accentuate the window and view. Toward that end, stay away from busy or elaborate patterns. Otherwise, you may accidentally make the curtains themselves the focal point of the room instead of the bay window. 

Bay window curtains and drapes cost $20 to $300 per panel when ready made and $250 to $1,500 per panel when custom made, with an additional $140 to $400 for labor costs. 

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Drapes

Drapes can be added to accentuate other kinds of window treatments for bay windows, or they can be used on their own. Unlike curtains, drapes generally hang down to the floor. You’ll want to heed the same note of advice we gave for curtains here: stick with a simpler pattern or a solid color. 

Hanging drapes above a bay window makes the windows look taller and larger. This design choice also highlights the window’s straight edges, adding a bold, elegant touch to the space.

If you are using drapes in addition to another window treatment like blinds or shades, you may want to consider a sheerer fabric. That way, the drapes can filter the light that comes from the bay window, which can create a soft, attractive glow that makes it feel more cozy. If you are using drapes on their own, you should consider a thicker fabric that can block light.

There is not much price difference between curtains and drapes. However, drapes will need a few extra feet of fabric, so you should budget slightly higher for drapes than curtains. The price should run from approximately $20 to $300 per panel when ready made, just like with curtains. And you can still expect to pay $250 to $1,500 per panel for custom drapes, with an additional $140 to $400 for labor costs. 

Shades

Shades are one of the most popular bay window treatments, offering a variety of styles to suit different needs. Here are some of the best options:

• Roman shades – Made from various fabrics, these shades provide versatility, noise reduction, and light-blocking benefits.
• Sheer shades – Featuring horizontal slats of transparent fabric, sheer shades add elegance while maximizing natural light. They can be easily adjusted for privacy.
• Cellular (honeycomb) shades – Designed with honeycomb-shaped cells, these shades offer superior insulation and light control, making them one of the most energy-efficient options.
• Roller shades – These shades can be mounted inside or above the window frame and are available in both standard and custom sizes. They come in various colors and opacity levels, offering a sleek, minimalist look. Some models even include remote control operation for added convenience.

Cost Breakdown

• Ready-made shades: $8 to $550 per shade
• Custom shades: $900 to $2,600 per shade
• Professional installation: $35 to $100 per hour

The total cost will depend on the window size, shade type, material, and labor rates in your area. Choosing the right shades can enhance both the functionality and style of your bay windows.

Shutters

Shutters are a versatile window treatment that can be customized to fit bay windows perfectly. Available in a variety of materials, they offer excellent light control, sound reduction, and insulation, making them a great choice for improving energy efficiency.

• Pre-made shutters cost $70 to $1,150 per panel.
• Custom shutters range from $600 to $2,700 per panel.
• Professional installation typically costs $35 to $100 per hour.

The total cost of bay window treatments depends on window size, local labor rates, and material selection. Choosing the right shutters can enhance both the style and efficiency of your home.