Adding Bow Windows to Your Home
The addition of bow windows to your home can provide you with a beautiful view of the outside and an impressive focal point inside your house. These windows are ideal for those who wish to grow indoor plants.
Similar to bay windows, bow windows let more light to flood your living spaces. They are usually fixed (non-operational) versus bay windows, which are able to open to let in more air.
Aesthetics
Bow windows are a stunning architectural feature that can be used inside and outside your home. They can be set in a variety decorative elements to create an unique focal point that attracts attention and matches the design of your home.
Bow windows are a beautiful addition to any home. Their style and elegance make them ideal to create an inviting breakfast nook or a window seat. The bow windows can also be framed with a curving curtain rod, which allows you to hang drapes or curtains to create a sense of privacy. You can even use bifold shutters which are a great way to block light without sacrificing the windows' curvature.
A bow window is comprised of up to six windows of similar size that are angled at 10 degrees. They give an appearance that is more rounded and expand your living space by bringing sunlight and stunning views. This kind of window is perfect for homes with plenty of wall space, and who want to create a feature to be a perfect fit with the architectural.
Both bay and bow window are great at letting in natural light. This can brighten your living space, and reduce the need for artificial lighting in the daytime. However, bow windows are the better choice for those who want to incorporate an eating or sitting area in your home's space because they provide more floor space than bay windows.
The frame of your bow windows can be crafted using a variety of materials such as wood, aluminum, vinyl and fibreglass. You can mix features like etchings, internal grids and glass, or oak wood grain finishes using custom paints to create the perfect design for your home.
Natural Light
Bow windows are curved and allow the natural light in from different directions. You can alter the number of windows and their positions to regulate the amount of natural light entering your home. This gives you a wide view and a sense of spaciousness in any space. It is also a unique addition to the exterior of your house. Many homeowners adore the appearance of these windows since they offer a panoramic view of the landscape that attracted them to their homes in the first place.
Bow windows are similar to bay windows in that they let in more light and make your home appear larger. They can be used in dining rooms or kitchen nooks where there is more floor space ideal for tables and chairs. The windows' arcs can be elevated to knee or hip height, creating the perfect seating area with a stunning view.
Bow windows can be found with four to six panes, depending on the area you wish to fill. Shades can be hung over window panes in order to create a unified appearance that allows the sunlight. Shades like flat-fold Roman shades, cellular shades and woven blinds can be used to create this look.
The bow and bay windows allow more natural light than conventional windows, but which is the best choice for your home? It depends on what you want from your home. Bay windows are more costly than bow windows and require a larger installation structure. They can be paired with double-hung picture, casement or double-hung windows and you can decorate them with a variety of options for roofs, grilles and colors to complement the architectural style of your home.
Ventilation
Similar to bay windows, bow windows are an excellent choice to increase the amount of natural light entering your home. They don't extend as far away from the wall as other styles of windows such as casement or double hung windows. They are a great option for homes with limited outdoor space.
Bow windows also allow for ventilation. Because they are made up of between three and six separate window panes, you can decide to open any of them open for air circulation. This gives you a broad range of options for air flow and is especially beneficial during rainy days.
You can also add tilt and turn or side hinged casement windows to your bow window, based on the style. This gives you more options when it comes to how you let in fresh air. This will reduce the requirement for artificial cooling in your home.
You can also hang shades or drapes on your bow windows to further make them look more attractive. For example, you can make use of a curved rod to hang curtains that are in line with the curve of the window. This creates a beautiful traditional style that complements your bow window well. Bifold shutters can be used to cover your bow windows when they aren't in use. They can complement the unique look of bow windows.
It is best to set up a consultation with an experienced professional installer in St. Louis. Thompson Creek's specialists Thompson Creek can walk you through the various options for both window types, as well as the process of installation and cost.
Energy Efficiency
Bow windows provide the same airflow and panoramic view like bay windows, but they don't extend from your home at sharp angles. They're typically composed of three sections, sometimes known as "lites," and can be fully customized to fit your personal style. They are available in composite, vinyl and wood, with each providing distinct advantages.
For instance, vinyl is durable and inexpensive and composite frames are more environmentally friendly than wood. Composite frames can be easily maintained and appear like wood, even though you can't stain or paint vinyl. Bow windows come in a variety of sizes and shapes. You can also choose from a variety of textures and colors that will complement your decor. Wood is, however is a natural appearance and can be customized by adding different styles to match your home's decor.
Regardless of the type you choose regardless of the type you choose, both bow and bay windows improve your home's curb appeal and will increase the value of the home when it is sold. Regular maintenance is essential to make the most of your windows. Cleaning the glass panes and panels and lubricating the moving parts and cleaning the hardware can help to keep them from getting damaged and prolong the life of your windows. It is also recommended to clean your windows and have them inspected annually for indications of wear or damage.
Efficiency in energy is another factor to think about when choosing a bow replacement window. Bow windows are insulated and have multiple panes, as opposed to casement and double-hung windows that hinge and open on the side. They are therefore more energy efficient than other window styles. They're also available in the ENERGY STAR certified versions, which can help reduce your utility costs. commercial windows bow are coated with Low-E on the insulated glass which block harmful UV rays from the sun and unwanted heat in the summer.
Installation
When installed properly Bow windows, when properly installed, can make rooms appear bigger and add to the overall look of your home. A skilled window installer is required to complete the job that could include altering the wall to accommodate bow windows, as well as building an additional header. This requires a lot of framing and drywall, and should be performed only by a window installer who is knowledgeable about building codes and permits.
In contrast to bay windows bow windows typically don't have a central glass pane that's bigger than the frame around them. Each window is sized and arranged to fit into the space, forming a semi-circle of windows that resemble the shape of a bay, but without the protrusion. The curvature of the bow windows creates a flat shelf on the interior, which can be used to seat as well as accentuating the space or storage. The shelf can be elevated to knee or hip height, which is perfect to relax and soak up the outdoors.
The unique arc of the windows also provides ample floor space for chairs as well as tables. Some windows even feature a built-in window seat which can be used to read or chatting with the neighbors. Also, you'll need to cover the top and bottom of the bow window with soffits.
The window frame is typically constructed from composite or vinyl material. The frames are available in a wide range of finishes and colors. You can also select energy-efficient upgrades or customize the size and ornamental details. The contractor will assist you to select the best features that will meet your budget and requirements. He or she can also help you determine whether the project requires structural modifications to accommodate the new window.