Bays and bows are beautiful window styles that make gorgeous features in period properties and contemporary homes alike – enabling homeowners to bring in heaps of natural light, make the room look more spacious, and provide an elaborate frame for the property’s garden views. On first glance, the two window styles seem similar, but, if you look into the designs in more detail, there are many differences. Choosing the option that suits you best is integral to creating an attractive home that achieves your desired effect.
Bay and bow windows share the same overall design elements – e.g. both feature a 180-degree arc formation that enables them to jut outwards from the wall, and have multiple panes of glass to create an angled structure – and this means that many of their benefits are the same. For example, the protruding nature of the window gives the impression that the interior of the home is bigger, which instantly makes it feel brighter and more airy. Many homeowners also like to add window benches to create a cosy nook. We have many homeowners satisfied with our double glazed bay window installations in Carshalton.
If you cannot decide between bay and bow windows for your home, here are just some of the differences.
The number of panes of glass
Bay windows are made up of three panes of glass – usually a main picture window with two smaller windows on either side, which are called flankers. While the centre window might be fixed (though not always!), the two flankers are often double hung to allow for plenty of ventilation in the room. Bow designs, on the other hand, feature four or five windows, all of the same size, which means they are typically wider than bay styles. The windows can be casements, double hung or single hung, depending on the homeowner’s preference.
The shape of the windows
Bay windows have straight edges and sharp angles that create a window box effect. The depth of this box shape depends on the angle at which the window protrudes. The striking design of bay windows makes them ideal for contemporary properties, which are all about enhancing natural light and space. Bow windows, on the other hand, are more curved in style, as a result of their multiple, identically sized glass panes. This means that they perfectly complement Victorian period homes, and make a charming traditional addition to modern houses.
Of course, bay and bow windows can be fully tailored to suit the style, period and needs of your home – whether you want timber, aluminium or uPVC frames. If fitted with high-performance double glazing, they will keep your property warm and bright all year round.
Here at Hamilton Windows, we have a great range of bay and bow windows to suit your home in Surrey. Contact us today to find out more.
