Bow and Bay Windows: Similarities and Differences

It’s not instantly clear to the untrained eye, but a bay window and a bow window are not the same thing. They may have plenty of similar elements, but to say they’re interchangeable is a stretch. Each window brings a depth of design and functionality to a home and its overall appeal, and it makes sense to list the similarities and differences between each design.

Similarities

The one thing that these two window styles have in common is that they both jut out from the walls of your home. That’s because regardless of the window type, we will install these windows by creating a frame that will extend outward from the wall. This will create an architectural novelty in the facade of your home, which can improve its curb appeal.

It also should be said that we make sure that each bow and bay window is made with materials that only Renewal by Andersen® can provide. That means our frames are made with Fibrex®. This material lets you make narrower grilles, which means that your window will have more glass panes than frames, which means more light.

We also make our windows with High-Performance™ Low-E4® glass. Even with more glass in your windows, you won’t have to deal with more heat conduction, which our glass prevents.

Differences

These windows differ in shape. Bay windows are more angular, with the part projecting out forming a trapezoid shape. On the other hand, bow windows are more circular, forming a semicircle with the part extending out of your home’s wall.

That’s not the only difference, however. Bay windows generally have three window sections, with a big central window and smaller windows flanking the central unit on each side. This design gives you the benefit of an expansive picture window, making room for ventilation with either a sliding window, casement window or even a double-hung window on either side.

Bow windows, on the other hand, have an array of four to five window sections, usually made up of casement windows or double-hung windows. This continuous array creates a picture window of sorts while giving you the chance to have a set of windows that can improve interior ventilation.

At Renewal by Andersen of New Jersey and New York Metro, all our windows, regardless of style, come with Fibrex frames and our High-Performance Low-E4 glass. Ask us about our windows by calling us at (866) 609-5033 or by filling out our contact form. We serve residents of Toms River and Jackson, New Jersey.