what is a bow window
Jan 07, 2025What Is a Bow Window? What You Need to Know
A bow window is a curved window that extends past the exterior wall of a house. This architectural style adds incredible curb appeal to a home since it becomes a focal point from the outside. From the inside, bow windows bring in natural light and add a cozy atmosphere to your home. They offer a wider view than other types of windows since they cover more square footage, with extra space for seeing the outdoors. Many homeowners place bow windows in living rooms or kitchens, depending on the amount of floor space a room offers.
Wondering whether a bow window is right for your space, style, and budget? Contact us at Remodel USA today for a free consultation. Read on to learn more about bow windows, how they compare to bay windows, and what else you need to know about this style of window.
Bay Windows vs. Bow Windows
Bow windows and bay windows are very similar in style and functionality. They are both considered projection windows because they protrude past a home’s exterior walls. They both offer panoramic views and typically feature at least one picture window in the center of other windows.
Both styles of windows have a long history. In 15th-century Britain, bow and bay windows became mainstream among the rich. As a result, they are a common feature in traditional, Victorian-style homes today. But that’s not the only style of home to have these windows. The beauty and versatility of these windows are so timeless that they also look great in modern-day homes of all styles.
Key Differences of Bow Windows vs. Bay Windows
What is a bow window as opposed to a bay window? While they are similar, bay windows and bow windows have some key differences.
The defining feature of bow windows is their size — they tend to be bigger than bay windows. Both window styles include one center window with other windows on the side, typically following angular lines to add a curve. Bow windows tend to have a higher number of windows, so overall, they are bigger than bay windows and can also feature a more prominent curve.
Although both window types offer panoramic views, bow windows let in more light due to the larger window sizes they include. Your home will benefit from more illumination as the bow gets wider. Bow windows can work well in your living room, bedroom, office, or another space that works for you.
Homeowners love the amount of natural light that these windows let in. Not only do they look great, but they can offer a higher level of energy efficiency than smaller windows. This is because homeowners can rely more on natural light to light the interior space of their home as opposed to keeping electric lights on during the day.
We offer affordable prices as well as several financing options to help with your window installation.
Want to discuss your project and the financing available? Reach out to us today.
Extra Design Features With Bow Windows
Due to the large size and grand design of bow windows, homeowners love making the most of this space by adding cute and cozy features, like a window seat.
A window seat is wonderful for framing a large window and is commonly seen in well-designed modern-style homes. It is an excellent addition to a breakfast nook in the kitchen or a reading nook in the living room.
With Bow Windows, Energy Efficiency Meets Elegant Style
Bow windows bring in more natural light than most window styles, making your home more energy-efficient. We offer a variety of low-maintenance materials to help reduce energy costs further.
When it comes to your bow window replacement, we use Energy Star®-certified windows, which come with energy-saving options. Remodel USA offers windows with numerous energy-reduction options, including:
- Heat-reflective metallic coatings and exterior colors
- Double-paned glass
- Insulating argon-filled chambers
Bow Window Installations
We know that every homeowner has unique style and functionality preferences. Our variety of design and configuration options for bow window installations reflects this. You could opt for single-hung or double-hung windows, casement windows, picture windows, or a combination.
We also offer a variety of grid options, including drop, colonial, and diamond styles, among others.
A popular window option for homes with the space is large and fixed picture windows, since they offer a full view of the home’s surroundings. This makes for a breathtaking aesthetic, but one drawback to picture windows is that they do not open. A great alternative is to have a gorgeous picture window (or multiple) in the middle, with operable windows on the side.
Side windows can be single-hung, double-hung, or casement windows. All of these open for airflow, so you can bring fresh air inside while still enjoying a panoramic view. Each type of window offers its own features, such as the mechanism of the window opening, so you can decide which is best for your space.
We strive to fit any home style and budget. That’s why Remodel USA provides several configuration and customization options. All of our windows feature maximum durability and functionality.
If you’re looking for replacement windows, installing a new bow or bay window could be the ideal option for your home.
Contact Remodel USA Today
Here at Remodel USA, you can get high-quality bow window installation, and at an affordable price, too! We also install other styles of windows as well. Want to learn more? Contact us at Remodel USA today for a free consultation!