Thinking of adding dimension to the outside of your home while bringing light and additional square footage to the inside? Replacing a traditional window with a bay window just might give you the effect you are looking for.
Choosing a Location for a Bay Window in Your Home
Consider a few things when determining if a bay window is right for your home:
- Front of your home: Installing a bay window in the front of the house can instantly add dimension and curb appeal to your home.
- Rear of the house: Installing a bay window toward the rear of your home can highlight rear gardens and backyards, providing a relaxing, private seating area.
- Side of the house: Installing a bay window on the side of the house also offers architectural interest while increasing the light into the home.
Take a look at the cardinal direction of your home to make the most of sunlight. Take inventory of your property lines. Abutting properties may limit the amount of exterior expansion. Consult with your Homeowners’ Association to determine if there are required approval for exterior changes to your home.
Choosing the Bay Window Size to Install In Your Home
Bay windows come in many sizes and can be custom made to fit any opening. Choosing the size of bay window will ultimately greatly influence the cost of the project:
- Replacing a standard window with the same-size bay window: This swap is the most cost-effective bay window project. Generally standard size windows range from 3 feet, 6 inches to 10 feet , 6 inches with heights ranging from 3 feet to fix feet.
- Increasing the window size: Replacing traditional windows with larger bay windows will require construction associated with increasing the size of the opening and installing a new header.
- Choosing a boxed bay window: These are box shaped windows that protrude from the facade of the home in a box shape. Boxed bay windows are usually found in the kitchen. They can also be called a garden window.
- Installing floor level windows: Some bay windows are installed from the floor level to the ceiling or door to create more floorspace in a room. This is a dramatic look and can include several angled panels.
- Installing a sill-height bay window: This common bay window size allows the homeowner to create a window seat while increasing the amount of light in a room.
- Required support for the window depends on its size: Bay windows can have support from below or from above.
- Required roof for the top of the bay window: Bay windows often are installed with asphalt shingle roofs but you can add individuality if you use a different roofing material such as copper for a polished look.
Bay windows are an excellent way to transform the look of the outside and the feel of the inside of your home. The perfect-sized bay window can capture a gorgeous sunset, offer a quiet spot to read a book and break up a basic exterior facade. Choosing the right size bay window, measuring, designing and installing it expertly will make sure a bay window functions the way you want it to.
The experts at Thompson Creek can help you select the bay windows sized right for your home. Thompson Creek bay windows are made with the highest quality materials and energy efficient glass for maximum durability, comfort and cost savings. Call for your free estimate today.