Though bay and bow windows are alike in some ways and often people get confused between the two types of windows, they both have certain advantages over one another which are unique and interesting. Before deciding to use between a bay or a bow window, some research should be made to know more about the similarities as well as the differences between the two of them.

The bay and bow windows both offer a much wider view to the outdoors as compared to a flat window. This has become possible because both types of windows are projecting outwards from the walls so that a better arc of visibility is allowed. If a person stands nearby to the bay or bow, he can view a 180 degree arc outside. This is the main reason, to use bays and bows on walls where great views can be seen. As these windows are projecting out from the wall, they usually create an impression so that the room appears larger than it is actually. A big bay or bow window can be projecting out a foot or more from the wall making the whole room appear more spacious.

The bay window is normally made up of three windows: a large picture window in center, parallel to the wall and two smaller windows (called flankers) which are on either side which project out from the walls to create the projection. The angles which are normally used by the flankers are 30 and 45 degrees. These two flankers are double hung or casement windows allowing them to be opened for ventilation, but they have provision to remain fixed. The special thing about the bay window which is the large center picture window is that this large picture window allows a beautiful view to the outside without obstruction, much as a plain picture window, but it also has some additional ventilation options and the two flanker windows on each end are useful to present a wider view.

The bow window is usually made up of three to six of the same-sized windows. Due to the use of more windows the bow is permitted to angle outward from the wall as a gentle curve as compared to the bay. The windows which are used to make a bow window are normally fixed or casement windows. Some companies provide double hung or single hung window combined; however, these combinations are not commonly used the view which you can see from the window can be reduced considerably due to the additional hardware used. If instead of fixed windows casement, double, or single hung windows are used, then the bow gets more advantage over the bay in providing ventilation. This advantage in ventilation is made possible due to more number of windows present in the construction of bow that is helpful in opening and allowing air flow. This advantage of more ventilation is accompanied with the disadvantage of getting a relatively small view to the outside as each window which is used for the construction of the bow is smaller than the large center picture window of the bay.

The differences which are present between the bay and bow window are given below: the bay window has a more angular design allowing a bigger unobstructed view than the bow; the bow is a curving window with a gentle curve which provides better ventilation than the bay window if casement, double, or single hung windows are chosen as an option.

Author Bio: Looking for quality bay or bow windows? You have to check out the following companies: Milgard Windows, Pella Windows, Marvin Windows.

Category: Home Management
Keywords: pella, marvin, vinyl, aluminum, replacement windows