A bay or bow window lets in daylight and creates the illusion of a larger room. Both styles protrude outward from the exterior wall, adding a unique architecture feature, and many have a small window seat indoors, creating a cozy place to admire the view. A bay or bow window can be an esthetically pleasing way to replace a small window with a larger, more panoramic one without appearing out of place on an older home.
Typical costs:
The cost for just the bay or bow window (without installation) starts around $800-$2,000 for a standard version but can run $2,500-$7,000 for a larger or a custom model. The price will depend on the size and the materials used. Vinyl is long-lasting and more economical, but not everyone likes the look of vinyl as compared to the more traditional wood.
With professional installation the average cost can jump to anywhere $1,500-$8,000, depending on the cost of the window and the complexity of the installation. It usually costs more if the installer has to create an opening or enlarge the opening from the pervious window. A New Jersey homeowner[1] received quotes ranging from $2,800-$3,700 for complete installation of a bay window.
A bay window has three windows fastened together ("mulled") at the factory, usually at an angle of either 30 or 45 degrees. The center window is similar to a small picture window, and the two side windows will usually open for ventilation. A bow window has four or more windows -- five is typical -- creating a more circular appearance than the somewhat boxy bay window. A window manufacturer illustrates[2] the two types.
TurtleSoft.com estimates that installation[3] of an 8-foot bay window takes two skilled workers an average of 1.5-2 hours, with a little help from an unskilled worker. Installation requires cutting (or enlarging) an opening, and suspending the window from the wall so it's structurally sound. Most bay or bow windows are made of wood or vinyl, come with insulated double-pane windows, and standard widths range from 3-1/2 to 10-1/2 feet. ThisOldHouse.com provides an overview[4] of the various options and describes the installation of a second-story bay window[5] .
Additional costs:
Adding a copper roof on a bay window looks sharp but can cost another $1,500-$3,500 or more.
Pre-drawn plans[6] for a bay window addition are available online for $40-$50.
Shopping for a bay window:
Major manufacturers of bay or boy windows include Andersen[7] , Jeld-Wen, Milgard[8] and Pella. These companies provide referrals to local suppliers or dealers.
Generally, installing a bay or bow window is not considered an average do-it-yourself project, and most experts recommend hiring someone with experience installing bay windows, especially if the existing window opening needs to be enlarged or if a new opening must be created. If installation is not included in your purchase price, ask for contractor referrals from friends or family, or at the local hardware store.
10 Quick and Inexpensive Home Makeover Projects To Do While At Home You may not be able to host the large family gathering for the holidays, but there are still many ways to pick up items curbside to spruce up your indoor space for your everyday enjoyment and to bring a more festive spirit. || Posted December 30 2020
10 Key Ways to Prepare for Extreme Snow Forecasters are predicting a true nor'easter will hit the eastern and central states with rain, thunderstorms, ice, snow and high winds over the Thanksgiving weekend. It's crucial to plan ahead, before bad weather hits. || Posted November 26 2013
Replacement windows installation is not a task for the average glazier. These projects require superior skills, specialized tools along with advanced training and precision. Our installation specialists understand that the replacement must be accomplished in a manner that ensures the material floats perfectly within its allotted frame. Without a master’s level of precision, the replacements can be installed unevenly. This will, in effect, create a lopsided end product. Material type is the largest cost factor. On the lower end of the spectrum is a vinyl, single-hung, replacement unit.
We had a large bay window installed about 14 years ago. I probably overpaid them due to sales pitch. They said it has a lifetime warranty, but the company went out of business a few years ago. Same thing happened to me on a large-screen TV I bought. Warranties don't mean anything to me anymore because companies go out of business left and right.
I have a 31 x 52 " window. Recieved estimate from re modeler to enlarge window. 3499 for labor , supplies, electric, header, re-bick, plus 580.00 for the Anderson window 72" x 52" high.
We had a professional contractor install a new bow window in our house in Connecticut where no other window existed. He needed to do framing and drywall and put in a new vinyl unit by Earthwise. Total cost was just under $6800.00 Paint was not included.
5-Lite Bow - Interior color Oak, exterior beige, low E glass, argon gas, grids colonial style. remove existing bow, 3 1/4 colonial casing. head and seat board to be laminated. Get a tax gredit of $900.00. Did I get a good deal or not
CostHelper is based in Silicon Valley and provides consumers with unbiased price information about thousands of goods and services. Our writers are experienced journalists who adhere to our strict editorial ethics policy.
CostHelper Community
shoulder mri Paid: 8000.00 Seriously, 8K for an MRI before all the secret insurance kicks in. I was stuck with a 1200 bill and my insurance is pretty good. This is insane for a 20 minute procedure with no nurse assistance... [more]
what should have cost under 100 Paid: 399.67 had my back wheel stuck on someone's driveway and I was pulled out as easily as a tractor could have done... [more]
Why is dental insurance stuck in the 80's? Paid: 55000.00 In 1986, I started my first full time Big Girl job, which came with options for medical insurance that ranged from "Volkswagon to Cadillac, and everything in between" which was up to me to choose based on my needs, what I could af... [more]