If you are remodeling and you decide that you want bay windows in your home, and you go out to shop for them, you first need to know a few things about what type of bay window you want. Different types of bay windows will make a difference in the look and feel of the home, so whichever bay window you're considering, review the following five questions before you buy:
What size window? The size of the window will impact the cost. It's easier and cheaper to put in a bay the same size or smaller than the old window. A wider bay that requires a larger opening and a new header typically adds $300 to $500 to the job. However, larger windows have an upside, so if cost is not an issue, think of it this way.a larger window will bring more light into the room and create a greater visual impact inside and outside of the house. So, decide what is important to you when you look at size!What type of sash? Basically do you want casement or double-hung? A bay could have either, there is no rule or stylistic opinion that says one way or the other. Often the only thing considered is whether or not the bay sash will match those on the other windows on the home. Even that is not a big deal though because they don't have to. So, when it comes to sash, pick the style you like best. A good style rule of thumb is: taller, narrower bays usually look better with casement sash; shorter units are most attractive with double-hung sash. Also, the center window of a bay usually is fixed. But it, too, can be ordered with operable casement or double-hung sash in smaller sizes, should you want that.
How is the window supported? In general bay windows must be supported from below with braces or from above with steel cables bolted to the overhead framing. While both systems work well, you need to decide what works for you and your house. There is a difference between the two. For example, support cables are much less obtrusive because they're hidden inside the window frame. Not all manufacturers offer support cables, but they can be bought separately and adapted for use on virtually any bay window. Check with your supplier to see what your options are.
Is there an eave above the window? Because bay windows often are tucked beneath an eave, before choosing a bay window, measure the depth of the eave horizontally. Then order a unit that's shallow enough to fit beneath it if you can. Otherwise you may not have enough space between the window top and underside of the soffit filled with insulation and hidden by trim boards. One thing to note is most 30-degree bay windows are 12 to 14 inches deep; 45-degree bay windows range from about 16 to 22 inches deep. Box bays and 60-degree bays usually are about 18 to 24 inches deep. So know this as you contemplate where to insert a bay.
What if there's no eave above it? A small roof, or skirt, must be built over a bay window if when the bay window is installed there's no roof overhang right above it, such as on a gabled end or in the middle of a wall. Roof skirts must also be built above any window that sticks out beyond an overhanging eave. Otherwise you'll have problems later.
Bay windows are fun to have, but before you rip out your old windows
and try to have bays installed, be sure your remodeling contractor has
experience installing bay windows, especially if the old opening must
be enlarged. Even some window-replacement specialists aren't familiar
with the idiosyncrasies of putting in bays, and for the best results it
should be done right.
