Bay Windows Replacement Guide

Are you thinking about ways to increase the value of your home? Do you want to do something different that will enhance your home’s aesthetic? Then bay windows may be a good choice for you. They are a stylish option that increase the size of a room, bring in more natural light and ventilation, and allow you to better enjoy the views around your house. If you already have a bay window, make sure you are keeping it functioning at and looking its best. When it’s time for a bay windows replacement, that’s not a project you should put off.

In this guide, we cover everything from styles to sizes to types of bay windows.

What Are Bay Windows?

Bay windows are made from three angled panels that protrude outward from the exterior of the home. In addition to creating architectural interest on the outside, bay windows also create additional living space on the inside.

The center of a bay window is a picture window that increases the light coming into the house. On either side are operable windows to allow for ventilation. Together, they create a bay of windows that makes for a stunning focal point. A bay windows replacement can also add to your home’s value.

While bay windows typically have a fixed middle panel and operable side panels, that is not a requirement. Each panel in bay windows can be fixed or operable. Homeowners who want an operable bay window typically choose double-hung or casement windows to surround the picture window in the middle.

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What Does a Bay Window Cost?

Your price will vary based on if you are replacing your bay windows or installing a brand new bay window. Frame material, glass types, and local labor rates will also impact your project’s cost.

The national average is $2,551. You can read more about bay window prices, get a low to high range for the project, and break the price down into labor and materials.

Bay Window Types

There are several types of bay windows that you can choose from:

• Angled bay windows are the most common. They jut out from the exterior wall at a 30- to 45-degree angle.
• Boxed bay windows are squared and protrude from the home’s exterior wall at a 90-degree angle. 
• Oriel style bay windows don’t reach the ground, so they can be added to any floor of a home. 
• Circle bay windows are decorative, semi-circle shaped windows that include crown molding. 
• Canted bay windows reach the floor and have a flat middle picture window and two surrounding windows that are angled at 30 or 45 degrees.

You can read more about all the types of bay window designs and see pictures of them. One style that’s missing from this list? A bow window. Bow windows are a distinct style from bay windows, and you can read all about the differences between bay vs bow windows.

Bay Window Sizes

Since these are an expensive window, many homeowners prefer to select a standard size from a trusted manufacturer instead of custom ordering. However, if you want an especially large bay window or have customizations you want to see with your window, then custom sizes are of course available.

On average, bay window are about three to six feet wide and are also about three to six feet tall.

To learn more, you can check out our guide to bay window sizes, which includes the largest bay windows as well as the smallest ones available.

What to Do With the Extra Space From Bay Windows

Homeowners love bay windows not only for the architectural appeal and gorgeous views, but because they add interior space to a home. Here are some of the things homeowners do with that extra space, organized by room.

• Living rooms. Homeowners usually put their couch or a set of conversation chairs here for ultimate coziness.
• Kitchens. A classic window seat, breakfast nook, or built-in storage are popular uses for bay windows here.
• Dining rooms. You can position your dining table in your bay room or add built-in bench seating for a custom look.
• Bedrooms. The extra light and space make for a nice nook for plants or chairs.

There are plenty of bay window ideas to explore. Don’t forget to look into bay window treatments, too.

Other Benefits of Bay Windows Replacement

There are numerous reasons to choose a bay window replacement, and the following are some more benefits you will enjoy when you get them.

1. Design and aesthetic. Bay windows are generally found in older homes — and particularly Victorian homes — and add charm. These windows can become the focal point of a room, and really add a vintage aesthetic if that is the look you’re going for.
2. Natural light. Bay windows can really flood a space with natural light and make it look more attractive. It’s also a great way to cut down on energy costs, since you won’t have to use as much artificial light as you normally would.
3. Makes a room more spacious. If you want a reading or breakfast nook, bay windows can create a little bit of extra space in a room so you can enjoy these areas. But even if you don’t want a functional area, the configuration of bay windows still adds the appearance of space to any room they’re installed in.

Bay Windows Replacement: The Final Word

If you are replacing a bay window, you should choose a frame material, glass type, and frame color that complement your home’s style. It’s important not to put replacement off — any rotting or leaks can damage the external structure of the bay windows and make it a much more expensive and difficult job.

If you’re considering installing bay windows, you should think through how much it would add to your home’s value, what you would do with the additional space, and then get three to four quotes from contractors to find the best price for your project.

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