When to Replace Your Bay or Bow Window
By: Architectural Visions
Bay windows and bow windows add beautiful architectural detail to a home and can completely transform its exterior appearance. They can also make the interior feel significantly larger without adding additional square feet. However, if the bay or bow window has been in your home for several decades, it may show signs that it needs to be replaced. If you’re considering replacing your bay or bow window, read on for additional insight.
Key takeaways for replacing your bay or bow window:
- If a bay or bow window has been in the house for several decades, it may show signs of wear and tear.
- Moisture entering the window and drafty windows can indicate that the bay or bow window needs to be replaced.
- Damage to the existing window, such as rotting window frames or broken crank, signals that the bay or bow window should be replaced.
- The desire to improve your home’s curb appeal is another reason to replace the bay or bow window.
- Existing windows, such as double-hung or casement windows, can be replaced with a bay or bow window to significantly improve your home’s curb appeal and make the interior feel larger, lighter and brighter.
Signs a bay or bow window should be replaced
If the window has been in the house for several decades, it may show signs of wear and tear. Below are some of the most common indications it’s time to invest in a new bay or bow window.
Water is entering
Water that comes into the house through the window can result in condensation or water pooling around the windows. This moisture can result in rotted window frames, floor damage, a compromised foundation and increased heating and cooling bills. Fog accumulating on the windows can also indicate there are issues with the windows. Fog can result from moisture exposure, excessive heat, or a broken seal.
Drafty windows
Drafty windows let the hot air escape, which increases your heating and air conditioning costs. Drafty windows aren’t effective in controlling the amount of heat that enters and exits the house.
Rotting window frames
Broken or rotting window frames can allow moisture to enter your home, resulting in mold. Mold that develops in a home can cause damage to the home, and your health.
Broken cranks
If the bay or bow window has broken cranks that don’t open or the handle has fallen off, it’s time to replace the window.
Lacking curb appeal
Bay or bow windows are one of the best ways to dramatically transform your home’s exterior façade, improving its curb appeal.
Increased energy costs
Ineffective windows can cause energy costs to increase. So if your monthly energy bills are increasing, the windows are essential to check.
Outside noises are increasing
If you notice more outside noise, this may be a sign to replace the windows. New windows can block noise more efficiently and be a sound barrier.
Planning to sell
New windows can increase home values. Since homes with new windows can be critical to homebuyers, a new bay or bow window can help your home sell faster and at a higher sale price.
Replacing existing windows with a bay or bow window
Bay Window from Marvin Windows & Doors
A home’s existing windows, such as double-hung or casement windows, can be replaced with a bay or bow window. This replacement will significantly improve your home’s curb appeal and make the interior feel larger, lighter and brighter. Window seats, seating areas and the opportunity to hang beautiful window treatments are all ways to highlight a bay or bow window’s interior views.
A bay or bow replacement should be assessed and installed by a professional. The window replacement or installation process is complex and shouldn’t be attempted as a DIY project, as it can require significant structural work. For example, the window opening will need to be expanded, and building supports will need to be installed to support the increased weight of the window. Sometimes, a bay window may require a small roof installed overhead.
AVI Windows & Doors
Turn to a professional to help you install and replace a bow or bay window by contacting the experts at AVI. AVI is your one-stop shop for all types of window replacement projects, with in-person and online service options. Please don’t hesitate to contact us online or come by one of our Southeast locations and let us help you!