Bay windows are a great way to add style to your home and create more living space inside of your home. This review discusses the different types of bay windows that are available and the differences, as well as the pros and cons of each option.
What Are Bay Windows?
Bay windows are a strategically designed window style that projects outward to form a bay inside your home. They have been around for more than 500 years, and they are still as popular today as they were when they were first invented. Bay windows consist of three openings in an angled projection. This creates optimal space for an added sitting area, home decor, or for a range of other practical purposes.
What Are The Different Types Of Bay Windows?
You may have a preference for one window style rather than another, and it is beneficial to have an understanding of the different types of bay windows that you can choose between. The most notable types of bay window types are box bay, canted bay, circle bay, and oriel bay windows.
Canted Bay Windows
Canted bay windows are the most common style for bay windows; they are sometimes referred to as classic modern bay windows. They have less than a 90 degree angle, which allows for more coverage area for the window space. However, unlike circle bay windows, they have three distinct straight panels. Canted bay windows are most common for the first floor of homes, especially in living rooms, family rooms, and dens.
Box Bay Windows
Box bay windows involve a main panel that is generally larger than canted bay windows and two side window panels that are at a 90 degree angle to the primary panel, forming a box-style window area. Although box bay windows work well in any room inside your home, they are most commonly used in the kitchen, especially around the sink and counters.
Circle Bay Windows
A circle bay window is a combination between a traditional bay window and a bow window. This unique window design has large panes on each side of the bay and additional panes above the windows. This allows for a more advanced and intriguing design that is different from what you would see with canted or box bay windows, making it an appealing option to consider. Circle bay windows are most ideal for newer homes that feature a modern design.
Oriel Windows
Oriel bay windows are the most traditional style of all bay window types. They were first made popular during the English Renaissance period. They usually have decorative brackets of wood, stone, or masonry that serve as a support for the windows, which are not supported by the ground. This makes oriel windows perfect for second floor window designs, especially for homeowners that desire something bolder than the typically single pane or double pane window style.
What Bay Window Type Is Best For My Home Style?
One bay window type may be a better solution for you based on the type of home you have. The following is a more detailed look at how each bay window type works based upon home style.
Modern
A common misconception is that bay windows are for older, more traditional-style homes. However, some bay window types such as circle bay windows are designed to match the style of newer homes that were built in recent decades.
Victorian
Bay windows are perfect for Victorian homes, which have a more distinct and classic appearance. Specifically, we often recommend oriel windows for Victorian homes as they match the traditional style of the home well, and oriel windows work well on the second and third floors that are more common in Victorian style homes.
Mid-Century
Bay windows also work well for Mid-Century style homes (such as a ranch design). We recommend either box bay or canted bay window styles for Mid-Century style homes, although all options should work well for this home design.
Craftsman
American Craftsman style homes are not generally known for their bay windows, but adding canted bay or box bay windows is a great way to add unique appeal to your home, especially when it comes to decorating the inside of your home and creating more living space.
The Different Types Of Bay Window Configurations
There are also different types of bay window configurations to consider as well. Most notably, bay window panels are usually either double-hung or casement windows; a double hung window has two sashes that open up and down and a casement window opens outward.
The differences in appearance are subtle, but understanding your options and making an informed decision about which configuration is right for you is important.
Get In Touch With The Window Pros At Adelphia Exteriors
Adelphia Exteriors can help you decide on the type of bay windows that are right for your northern Virginia home as well as assist you with the window installation process. To learn more and to start the process, get in touch with us via phone at (703) 386-7357 or message today for a prompt reply.