What's the Different Between Bay Windows and Bow Windows?

There is a subtle difference between a bay window and a bow window. Both bay and bow windows are made up of windows that join together to create a curve that extends beyond the walls of the house. These windows allow more light and greater airflow. The main difference between bay windows and bow windows is the number of each window.

What is a bay window?

A bay window consists of three windows, usually two angled operable windows with a fixed inoperable picture window in the middle. A bay window has more angular lines than bow lines. Because of this, bay windows are more commonly used in transitional and modern home styles, but they can look equally at home in more traditional styles, such as classic cottages or retro Victorian. With only three windows, the bay window is narrower than the bow window. Two operable corner windows in the bay are most commonly of the casement or double-hung type.

What is a bow window?

A bow window, also called a compass window, consists of four or more windows of the same size and shape to create a more subtle curve than a bay window. Bow windows are usually expressed in terms of the number of windows in the bow, such as four, five or six barebow. Bow windows offer a variety of design options and work best in exterior walls or corners with 80 inches or more of space, making them better suited for larger areas than their bay counterparts. The extremely versatile bow windows can even wrap around the corners of your home, creating attractive tower shapes on the outside and charming nooks on the inside.

Where should you use bay or bow windows?

Bay and bow windows can be added to any room in a home. Bow and bay windows vary in size to accommodate many replacement applications. Both window types make a room appear larger by adding extra light and depth. The extra small area can be used for whatever you like - a window seat, reading nook, display stand, indoor garden, bathtub alcove, or anything you can imagine. The bay window kitchen window can be placed in the breakfast nook for more seating space, or add a bench next to the bay window for a window seat. They're also helpful above the kitchen sink to make room for plants and an indoor herb garden.