Installing a bay window into your home is like hanging a beautiful, live action painting. From the natural light, to resale value, adding a bay window could be a great idea. You want to ensure the project is right for you and your home though, before investing the time and money. That’s why this article is focusing on the advantages and disadvantages, to help determine if bay windows are right for your home.
WHAT IS A BAY WINDOW?
Before we dig into whether a bay window is right for you, let’s make sure we’re talking about the same window. Baywindows are commonly confused with bow windows. There’s an easy way to tell them apart though. A bay window is a set of three window panes extending from the home. It consists of a picture window, which is the center pane. A bowwindow, however, has four panes of glass and the structure is rounded, like an arch. Check out our Gallery page to see some examples.
ADVANTAGES OF A BAY WINDOW
- ADDED SPACE: Bay windows open up a room, not only does it feel bigger, you can gain actual square footage as well. A bay window in the kitchen, for example, can be a great place to sit and have your morning coffee. It’s also added storage for small appliances or pots and pans.
- NATURAL LIGHT: More windows mean more light. The angle of the 3 windows also lets in more sunlight, brightening the room for longer.
- INCREASED VENTILATION: Just as we learned about natural light, more windows, also means more ventilation. The angles of the three panes of glass and their openings mean bay windows can let more fresh air in, and circulate it better.
- ADDED VALUE: When you add a feature to your home that improves the architectural style and appearance, value is naturally added to your home. The additional space, light, and ventilation are also not lost on experienced realtors here in the London Additionally, the curb appeal of your home is improved, which increases its worth.
- A BETTER VIEW: Bay windows mean you can see more of your yard or neighborhood, whichever you prefer.
- DECREASED ENERGY BILLS: Beaumart Aluminum offers vinyl and custom windows that are EnerStar approved, which means they meet the strictest energy performance guidelines. By adding more light, increasing air flow, and providing a more substantial barrier from the outdoor elements, you’ll definitely see a drop in your energy bills.
DISADVANTAGES OF BAY WINDOWS
- COST: the initial cost of a bay window can be pricey, especially if you’re replacing an existing flat window, or putting a hole in the wall for a new window. There is some minor construction required to build the frame and properly install the window. That’s why this article has been focused on giving you all the facts, so you can make an informed decision.
- TOO MUCH LIGHT: We listed the increased natural light as an advantage above, so it may seem weird to list it as a disadvantage. Something to consider though, is that more light means more solar gain. There could be some solar heat that shines in, warming up your room. Curtains or blinds can help reduce this effect (blinds are usually more suitable for a bay window).
READY TO MAKE THE LEAP?
The natural light and energy savings are a wonderful addition to any home. If you’re ready to learn more, reach out, our experienced technicians are happy to help.