What is the difference between Bow and Bay Windows?

Here at Alaskan Windows and Doors, we offer both Bow and Bay Windows for your home renovations. However, choosing between the two window frame types can be challenging when you’re not sure of the difference between the two. 

Bow and Bay Windows Differences 

The main difference between Bow and Bay Windows is the amount of glass panels in the window frame. Bay windows generally have 3 glass panels, allowing for an uninterrupted, front and side facing views. Compared to bay windows, bow windows have a more panoramic view with 4 glass panes in a curved frame.

Both Bow and Bay Windows allow for a traditional style with uPVC modern flair, filling your room with natural light and allowing for a more spacious home design. Our bow and bay windows are also fully customisable to fit your home aesthetic and taste, and also to be in keeping with any period features of the home. 

Our Bow and Bay windows also come in a range of colours and finishes, including woodgrain foils for a more traditional look. You can also customise the style of glass you have within your Bow and Bay Windows, from usual double glazing to decorative glass.

Let’s break down the specifics and discuss the smaller differences between Bow and Bay Windows.

Bow Windows

Bow windows tend to be a wider window frame fit, allowing for more glass panes. Most Bow windows have 4 or more glass panels, which can be fitted with energy efficient glass: a huge benefit for creating a more energy secure home. This also provides better insulation in the winter months. 

Bow windows can also be fitted to provide a purpose (opening and closing) or just as static panels with no functionality. Bow windows are also a great choice for increased airflow around the home, and can be aesthetically appealing for homes with a larger window space or homes looking for a more decorative approach.

Bay Windows

Bay windows are a smaller window style, with just the three glass panels. A great benefit of Bay windows is that the space can be multi-functional, for example the space within the extended window frame can be designed as a window seat with additional storage beneath the seat, which is a great home storage benefit.

This spacious style can also be used as an extension to the room, alternatively from a seating area the space could be used as a work from home station with a desk and a chair or a dining area. This style of window would be a great addition for homes with limited space, and is an aesthetically pleasing space for homeowners and visitors alike.

Maintenance of Bow and Bay Windows

Maintaining your new bow and bay windows could not be easier. Our uPVC bow and bay windows are built with the intention of never warping or fading, and uPVC is much easier to clean than your typical wooden alternatives, as it wipes clean with a damp cloth. Our Bow and Bay Windows are also designed with interior and exterior joint couplings, which help to prevent dust traps forming on your windows, therefore also aiding the cleaning process.

Both Bow and Bay windows are popular choices, despite being of a higher cost to other window style alternatives such as Flush Sash or French windows. The customisable style along with the functionality and space benefits make Bow and Bay windows a great addition to your home. Our Bow and Bay windows are also fitted with energy efficient double glazing, are tailored to fit your home window space and come with a 10 year guarantee, instilling your confidence in us as a window supplier.

Kitchen Bay Windows or Bow Windows

Trends are pointing to homeowners valuing traditional and modern combination styles in their residences, and this is extremely apparent in kitchens. The choice between bow and bay windows largely depends on the homeowners preference. However, we are seeing a rising uptake of kitchen bay windows, featuring a larger middle window pane, flanked by two smaller window frames at a clear angle. This provides an intriguing focal point, but also practically opens up space and light. 

Kitchen bow windows are less popular – however, add a flowing aesthetic into your home and design. Consider bow windows if your lines are curved and sleek, to complement your cohesive design. Combine a traditional style window with modern decor and embrace the fusion. 

What Are Oriel Windows?

Oriel windows are a form of bay window. With an oriel design, the window itself protrudes from the building but doesn’t reach down to the ground. Oriel windows can often be found on architecturally significant stately homes and evoke a sense of traditional luxury.

Modern oriel windows are a fantastic way to maintain privacy whilst still allowing light into your home. They are also often a hot selling point and can increase the value of your property. 

Here at Alaskan Windows and Doors, we can supply and fit your Bow and Bay windows in the London and Surrey areas. Contact us today for more information on our Bow and Bay windows options, alternatively you can get an instant bow and bay windows quote now!