Curved or Square Bay Windows: Which is a Better Upgrade?
Posted on: 3 March 2016
Are you wondering whether you should replace your old windows with bay windows that are curved or those that are square? Check out the points of comparison below between those two varieties of bay windows and pick the kind that will address your needs.
What They Are
Square/angled bay windows have different openings that are angled from one another. The main window opening (picture window) is usually larger than those windows on its side. Curved bay windows have several window openings that are arranged to form a curve (also known as a bow). None of the window openings on a curved bay window is larger than the others are.
Their Cost
Square bay windows may be more affordable when compared to curved bay windows because of the number of windows that each of these options has. Square bay windows usually have fewer window openings than curved bay windows. You will therefore incur a higher cost to buy and install curved bay windows since they require more materials (such as glass and frames). Install square bay windows if cost is a major issue for you.
Impact on Interior Lighting
Curved bay windows are likely to let more light into your home when compared to square bay windows. This is because the curved bay windows offer a wider surface area through which light can flood into the home. Buy curved bay windows if your major reason for replacing your windows was to let more light in.
Impact on Interior Space
Square bay windows create more space inside your home when compared to curved bay windows. This is because the angles made by each window in the bay window configuration make the window jut out from the walls of the house much more than the gentle arch of curved bay windows. This creates plenty of space that can be used to hold potted plants and other decorative items. However, the space created by curved bay windows can also be significant if more windows are added to the set up.
Effect on Air Flow
The wide configuration of curved bay windows allows air to flow gently through the home when those windows are open. This is in sharp contrast to the constricted opening of square bay windows that reduces the amount of air that can flow into the home. Each airflow pattern has its own pros and cons. For example, the limited airflow through square bay windows (when compared to the airflow of curved bay windows) may be ideal for someone who wants to sit by the window as he or she reads a novel. However, that limited airflow may reduce how much fresh air you get inside the home during the hot months of the year.
Discuss the issues above with a window replacements professional so that he or she can help you to choose the best replacement windows for your home.
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