Buyer’s Guide to Bow & Bay Windows: Choosing the Perfect Statement Windows for Your Home

Definitions and Features of Bow and Bay Windows 

Bow and bay windows include multiple windows, some that operate and some that are stationary. These windows project from the side of a house or building creating both a nook inside that can be used as additional space, as well as a focal feature on the exterior of the building. Both bow and bay windows are very popular for adding natural light and showcasing the views of a property. They are a beautiful addition to any home.

Marvin Signature® Ultimate Bay Window

What’s the Difference in Bow and Bay Windows?

While bay and bow windows look similar and share the purpose of letting in more light and extending a room, they have some key differences. Bay windows are traditionally characterized by the formation of three windows that at most project at a 25-45 degree angle from the house. Typically, the center window is a fixed picture window while the side windows are either casement or double-hung windows. However, premium window manufacturers like Marvin offer many custom configurations and designs. As the angles are sharper on bay than bow windows, you will often see bay windows used in contemporary homes.

Marvin Signature® Ultimate Bay Window

Bow windows, on the other hand, take up a wider area of space and are made with four or more symmetrical windows. Bow windows feature the same kind of window throughout, typically casement windows that can be opened.The inside angles of bow windows measure 10 degrees to create a subtle curved appearance. For this reason, bow windows are commonly seen in the dining and living rooms in traditional homes.

Marvin Signature® Ultimate Bow Window

As bow windows take up more space, they naturally let in more light than bay windows. They also create a larger room extension and are often used to wrap around corners or highlight panoramic views. Keep in mind that the larger your windows are, the more difficult window treatments will be to find. Often, you will need custom curtains or shutters made for your bay and bow windows.

Homeowner’s Checklist: Choosing The Best Bay or Bow Windows

When shopping for bay and bow windows, there are a lot of factors to consider. This checklist will help you go over the essentials so you'll be ready to choose the best windows for your home.

Size

Deciding on the size of your bay or bow windows ultimately comes down to your budget and the effect you are trying to achieve. Standard size bay and bow windows will be more cost effective, but custom-sized windows can be tailor-made to give you maximum light and views. The standard width ranges from 3 feet, 6 inches to 10 feet, 6 inches while the standard height ranges from 3 feet to 6 feet, 6 inches.

Configuration Options

With Marvin windows, you can customize almost every detail to suit your home. This includes shape, size, colors, materials, hardware, trim, finishes, divided lites, glass types, screens, shades, and configurations.

When it comes to the layout of your windows, you have complete control over what your completed project will look like. For example, one of the most popular choices is canted windows, which is where the formation resembles a box with angled sides. You can also choose to have your windows supported by a bracket if it is suspended far above ground level. Finally, you have the option to add extra window panes above the main windows for style as well as added light.

Marvin Elevate Bay Window

Materials

Marvin offers bay and bow windows in wood and fiberglass, with a range of benefits for each choice. Wood is typically chosen for aesthetic reasons, while fiberglass is known for its durability. If you prefer a more classic, warm feel with natural wood, then we recommend the Marvin Signature Ultimate collection. However, fiberglass can be stained to resemble wood, so Marvin’s Elevate Bay and Bow windows are another great choice.

Insulation

The type of insulation you’ll need depends on several factors, including the climate in which you live, your budget, and the level of energy efficiency you desire. Bow and bay windows can be made in several types of glass, including dual-pane and triple-pane. Marvin also offers an array of coatings to provide further insulation.

Security

Privacy, security, and safety are of the utmost importance when protecting your home and the ones you love. Be sure to look into the locking mechanism before purchasing bay or bow windows to make sure everything checks out. For example, you’ll find that Marvin has a proprietary Lock Status Sensor on bay and bow windows in their Signature Ultimate collection. Using smart home technology, this sensor is embedded in the window so that it is completely hidden. You can access it at any time from your smart device to make sure your windows are fully closed and locked.

Bay and Bow Windows From Marvin Windows

​​Bay and bow windows make it easy to bring in natural light while expanding the space in your room and adding an attractive architectural detail to the exterior of your home. With their extensive customization options and reputation for high-quality service, Marvin is a leading resource for bay and bow windows. They offer three distinct collections of bay and bow windows, their Signature® Ultimate collection, Elevate® collection and Skycove®. The Signature Ultimate collection is perfect for homeowners who want the classic look of either bow or bay windows as well as the option for bespoke details. Elevate features Marvin’s proprietary fiberglass exteriors that offer heightened performance at an affordable price point.