There are many different window styles to choose from, and understanding the difference between them can help you make the right decision for your home. A bay window is a type of projection window that consists of one large picture window flanked by side windows.
These windows offer several benefits, including adding architectural beauty and providing more natural light to living spaces. In addition, they can increase a home’s resale value and provide excellent ventilation.
They Increase Your Home’s Resale Value
Bay windows elevate a home’s architectural style while amplifying natural light. Our Newberry window installation and replacement ventures reflect this local architectural language, creating home features that straddle the line between historic elegance and modern functionality.
Unlike standard windows, which typically sit atop the home and open up to provide natural ventilation, bay windows project outward to create a cove-like interior space. Many homeowners choose to enclose the lower area and use it for storage or seating, while others opt to leave the space open and decorate it with vases of flowers, vintage glass bottles, and other decorative pieces.
There are a number of options for window frames, including fiberglass, wood, and aluminum. Fiberglass windows are strong and durable, making them a good choice for homes that undergo frequent outdoor activity. They can also be customized with low-E glass, which reduces energy transfer and lowers your home’s heating and cooling costs. Wood windows are another popular option for home buyers, delivering the traditional aesthetic that many homeowners desire. They can also be upgraded with argon or krypton gas fills to increase their insulation value and minimize energy loss.
They Add Natural Light
Bay windows are a classic window design that extends outward and allows natural light to flood in, creating an open, spacious feel. These windows enhance the aesthetic of any home while boosting resale value.
Bay window designs vary and are usually comprised of a central picture window with casement or double-hung windows as “flankers.” You can customize these windows with various frame materials, finishes, and color options to match your existing architecture. You can also choose from different glazing options that provide different benefits. Energy-efficient options include low-E glass coatings that help keep heat inside during winter and out during summer, reducing energy costs.
Sheer shades are a popular option for bay windows, providing privacy without compromising natural light. You can also go with cellular shades, which offer additional insulation and are available in a variety of colors and opacity levels to match your home’s décor. Additionally, you can opt for tinted windows, which reflect the sun’s rays and reduce glare and furniture fade.
They’re Easy to Maintain
Bay windows are a unique architectural element that adds beauty to your home both from the outside and the inside. They create a more open interior space and let in natural light that brightens the room and makes it feel larger.
They’re also easy to maintain since they don’t require as much cleaning as other types of windows. You can simply wipe them down with a damp cloth to keep them clean. The frame is usually made from a material like vinyl that’s affordable and durable. It insulates well against hot summer air and cold winter air, which can save you money on energy bills.
Regular inspections of the seals and weather stripping around the frames can help you avoid leaks and air loss that compromise insulation. Also, keeping the indoor humidity level consistent can minimize condensation and moisture buildup. And don’t forget to lubricate the hardware on bay windows, such as the hinges and locks, to keep them functioning properly.
They’re Affordable
Bay windows increase the size of a room and provide beautiful views. They are also a good option for areas that need more ventilation. These windows can be a focal point of your home and add curb appeal. They can also create a cozy spot where you can read or enjoy the outdoors.
Bay window prices vary depending on the style and materials you choose. Box bay windows with simple 90-degree angles are the least expensive. Other types, such as bow and circle bay windows, have more curved panels and are more expensive. The material of the frame and whether you opt for triple-pane glass will also affect the price.
Invest in energy-efficient bay windows to save money on heating and cooling bills. Look for ones with low U-factors and high VT ratings, which will help keep your house cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. You may also qualify for a tax credit for installing these replacement windows.