Complete Bay Window Replacement Cost Guide

Homeowners looking to improve their home’s curb appeal with a functional upgrade will likely consider bay or bow windows. But how much does bay window replacement cost? There are several factors that determine the average cost range of this home improvement project. The type of bay window, labor costs, and window materials all contribute to bay window installation costs. 

In this guide, we’ll look at each of these factors in depth. If you’re ready to get started on a new window project for your living space, please contact us at Remodel USA today! We’re one of the top window installation companies around and offer free consultations. In the meantime, here’s what you need to know about bay windows.

Benefits of Full Bay Windows

Bay windows offer several practical and aesthetic advantages:

• Increased home value: Bay windows are a desirable feature for most homebuyers, so they usually increase a home’s resale value.
• Energy efficiency: Equipping your bay windows with double-pane or triple-pane window glass, as well as a low-E coating can help keep your home comfortable while using less energy. This energy-efficient glass can save you money on your energy bills.
• More natural light: Bay windows allow more natural light into the home than standard windows.
• Window seating: The recessed bay area is ideal for a breakfast nook or reading nook.

Factors That Affect Bay Window Replacement Cost

The total cost of bay window replacement can be anywhere from under $1000 to over $4000. Your exact price range will depend on your specific situation. Here are some of the biggest factors that go into the total cost of bay window installation:

Bay Window Size

In general, a smaller window will be more expensive to install. Larger bay windows require more materials and involve more labor, which increases the cost range. Be sure to balance the size of your new bay window with your home’s square footage.

Type of Bay Window

There are different bay window styles (we’ll look at these in more detail further down). Some types of bay windows are more expensive to install than others. A standard canted bay window, for example, will be easier to install than a more ornate oriel bay window.

Bay Window Frame Materials

When you get new bay windows, you’ll have to choose the material for the frames. High-end wood bay windows have a luxurious look and feel, but generally cost more than materials like vinyl and fiberglass. However, vinyl windows require less maintenance than wood and provide better insulation. Keep this in mind when choosing the best window material for your home.

Bay Window Location

It’s more common to see bay windows on the lower level of a home in the living room or kitchen. However, oriel windows use a supporting bracket and usually go on the upper level. Installing a bay window on the upper floor will significantly increase the labor costs, so keep that in mind when budgeting for the project costs.

Existing Window Condition

If you already have a bay window installed and you just want to replace the window frames themselves, the project will be much less costly. Installing a completely new bay window requires framing and construction, which comes with additional labor and material costs.

Bay Window vs Bow Window Costs

It’s common to see the terms “bay window” and “bow window” used interchangeably, but they don’t mean exactly the same thing.

What Is a Bow Window?

A bow window is a specific type of bay window. A standard bay window has one large picture window flanked by two smaller panels, usually casement windows or double-hung windows. 

Bow windows, on the other hand, have anywhere from four to more than six panels. The additional panels give bow windows a more curved appearance. However, because the installation process is more complex, bow windows are almost always more expensive than canted bay windows.

Other Types of Bay Windows

In addition to bow windows, there are a few other bay window styles you might consider:

• Box bay windows: Instead of the Victorian look of canted windows, box bay windows have a more contemporary style. With this style, the side window panels meet the center window at a 90-degree angle, creating a box shape. Box bay windows are usually smaller than canted bay windows and have a lower average cost to install.
• Circle bay windows: Circle windows add even more to the curved look of a bow window with additional rounded panes of glass above the main window panels. These bay windows are usually the most complex to install, meaning they have a higher cost.
• Oriel windows: Oriel windows don’t go all the way to the ground. Rather, they project from the home’s exterior wall with a decorative support bracket underneath. While they tend to be smaller, oriel window prices are usually higher due to being more difficult to install.

Get a Free Quote on Bay Window Installation Today

The timeless elegance of bay windows makes them a popular choice for homeowners everywhere. Bay window replacement costs vary by material, size, and other factors.

To get a more precise estimate on bay window prices, including energy-efficient windows, and hear about our customization options, contact Remodel USA today for a free quote on bay window installation! We offer a variety of window brands and styles to fit your area’s climate.