Bay and Bow Windows, How To Tell Them Apart

Question: I'm shopping for a new living room window and I don't know if I want a bay window or a bow window, what is the difference?

Answer: A bay window is a 3 panel window, the front is flat and the sides angle toward your home. A bay window generally projects (sticks out) out from your home more than a bow window. A bow window has 3,4, or 5 panels that split up the projection giving it a curved (bow) look.

If your are shopping for a replacement bay or bow window, with you can request a free in home estimate.  

Replacement Bay Window Cost

Question: How much does a new bay window cost?

Answer: $3000-$8000 depending on a list of factors. If your new bay window is a same size replacement then the cost will be toward the lower end. If the top of the window is being joined with your roof overhang then generally the cost will be less than having to build a roof for it. A major factor in he price is the quality of the window and the quality of the installation. Generally a professional window company that uses a quality replacement window will cost you more than a cheap window installed by some hack. Paying the extra money upfront should ensure that your window will last you several years without any headaches.

Good luck with your bay window project, please let us know if you have any other questions.

Small Window Sizes

Question: I have really small basement windows, how small can I order replacement windows?

Answer: Great question, I answer this question a few times each week.

Slider windows have a minimum size of around 16" high and 24.25" wide.

Awning windows have a minimum size of around 14" high and 18.75" wide.

Casement windows have a minimum size of around 14" high and 15" wide.

Hopper windows have a minimum size of around 10.25" high and 18.5" wide.

Double hung windows have a minimum size of around 23.25" high and 15.75" wide.

Good luck with your project.

Best Window Brand

Question: What is the best brand of replacement windows?

Answer #1: Ask 100 window sales people and you will have 100 different answers.

Answer #2: My honest answer is that the company that sells and installs your new window is more important than the brand name of the window. What is considered a good brand one year might be a bad brand the next year. Some companies cheapen their windows in order to sell them to home centers and discount centers. A best rated window company will keep up on the industry trends in order to provide you with a top quality window. Providing you with a best rated window insures the window company that they will not have headaches down the road.

Question: Are vinyl windows secure?

Answer: It depends on the type of vinyl window. Cheap vinyl windows will generally fall apart long before you home would be at risk of a break in. Best rated vinyl windows have multi-chambered frames that are very strong. I have seen a video of someone driving a large truck over the frame of a vinyl replacement in order to show how strong it is.

Small Windows

Question: What is the best replacement window for a small window opening?

Answer: The best "small window" is an awning or hopper window. Most replacement windows have bulky frames that take away from your "glass space". Awning and hopper windows have only one sashes so you do not loose glass space where the other sashes would meet.

Generally people replace their basement windows with either hopper windows, slider windows or awning windows. Depending on your budget and your taste, one of the three styles will meet your needs.

Awning Windows crank out sort of like a sideways casement window. While they are the most expensive basement window, they have the most features. Awning windows crank out and allow you to ventilate your basement when it is raining since the water will slide off of the glass and away from your home. Awning windows also provide the most light since there is only one sash (piece of glass).

Slider Windows slide back and forth and they make a great option if you have a larger window. With smaller window openings their frame seems bulky compared to the glass size.

Hopper Windows are the "standard basement window" since they are not overly expensive and they come in a wide selection of sizes. Hopper windows tilt in when they are in the venting position.

Replacement bathroom windows are generally needed before your other windows due to rot, mold and mildew issues.  Since your bathroom is a very moist room your replacement bathroom windows should not be made of wood.  There are a wide selection of vinyl replacement windows that will protect your bathroom without the rot, mold or mildew issues.

The first step in picking your new bathroom replacement windows is to pick the style.