Bay Windows

What are bay windows?

A bay window (also known as a bow window, box bay window, or oriel window) is a window consisting of one large fixed window in the centre and opening sashes on the sides. It extends outward from the exterior wall, creating a distinct and eye-catching design both inside and out.

Vinyl bay windows add both physical and visual space to your room, offering a great way to boost your home’s functionality. Many homeowners love them for the added comfort and charm they bring — something you just don’t get with standard windows.

Pro tip from your trusted window company: Use the extra space created by a bay window for a cozy reading chair, a breakfast nook, or a mini indoor garden to make the most of the added square footage.

How it works

Bay windows are made up of three sections, usually two operable windows set at a 30° or 45° angle (typically casement or double-hung windows) and one large fixed window in the centre. The centre window is always the largest, with the side windows being about four times smaller.

This window type offers a wide, panoramic view and creates clean, angular lines that suit both modern and traditional home designs. Today’s vinyl bay windows are also low-maintenance and easy to clean, with components that can be removed and replaced without hassle.

Ideal location

Bay windows are a great fit for rooms with limited space. Their vintage look also makes them an ideal choice for:

• Living rooms
• Bedrooms
• Recreation rooms
• Guest rooms

They let in plenty of natural light and improve ventilation, while the panoramic view and added depth help open up the space and make the room feel larger.

Design style

Bay windows are a popular option in traditional, Victorian, colonial, craftsman, and farmhouse homes, where they add charm and a touch of elegance to the overall design. The space created by a bay window is perfect for plants, decorative accents, cozy furniture, or even a fish aquarium.

The most common shapes for this window style are polygonal or trapezoidal. But our team can fully customize your bay windows to suit your preferences for hardware, colour, size, and shape.

If you are thinking about bay window replacement, always go with new models that are energy-efficiency certified. No one wants to deal with leaky, drafty windows after investing their hard-earned money. Luckily, the HTR team only supplies and installs bay windows that:

• Let in plenty of natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere;
• Add a vintage touch to your space, enhancing both traditional and modern styles;
• Boost energy efficiency with a tight seal when closed and a multi-chamber design that lets you ventilate your home, even during wet weather, without letting the rain in;
• Are available in a wide range of sizes, colours, and configurations, so you can create a look that’s uniquely yours;
• Offer flexible ventilation, depending on how many windows you choose to open.

Bay windows are a smart investment that can increase your home’s value if you ever decide to sell. And if your current bay windows are showing signs of wear, call a professional window installer like HTR for an inspection and expert advice.