Bay Window Installation Cost by Type
Bay windows 1 come in many different shapes and sizes. Several unique designs set different styles of bay windows apart. The design and structure of the window determine which type of window it is. All types have a different appearance and functionality, so it is important to consider all before making your final decision. Different styles of windows influence if they need to be installed on the ground floor or a higher floor. They are designed to maximize the amount of light entering your home, but they enhance your exterior differently, depending on their configuration. Below are the average costs for the different styles of bay windows and their costs installed.
| Type | Average Cost (Materials Only) | Average Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| Box Bay | $500 - $900 | $950 - $1,400 |
| Full Bay | $800 - $2,100 | $1,200 - $3,500 |
| Oriel | $900 - $2,500 | $1,300 - $3,800 |
| Bow | $1,200 - $3,600 | $1,800 - $5,800 |
| Circle Bay | $2,000 - $3,000 | $2,800 - $6,000 |
Box Bay Window Cost
The cost of a box bay window ranges between $500 and $900 for materials. The cost of this window installed averages $950 to $1,400. This type is where the panels are at 90-degree angles. The three panels together make a box or rectangle. There is usually no curve in this style. This is one of the simpler designs and also one of the most common because they are relatively inexpensive to install. They can be seen in apartment designs and homes alike and are a very popular style.
Full Bay Window Cost
The average cost for a full bay window is between $800 and $2,100 for materials. The cost of this type installed ranges from $1,200 to $3,500. This type, also known as canted, is another term for a window that has three panes: two are angled, and the third one connecting the two is flat. The standard angles are 30 degrees and 45 degrees. These are more expensive than box windows because they tend to be larger in width and height. These windows must be installed on the first floor of the home because of how they are constructed.
Oriel Window Cost
The average cost for an oriel window is $900 to $2,500 for the material. The cost of this type installed averages $1,300 to $3,800. Oriel windows are considered the original form of this type of windows and date back to the English Renaissance. The key to its design is they are built not to touch the ground. Instead, a bracket, usually decorative, is used as a structural support for the windows. Oriel windows give a classic look to a building and can be added to any floor of a home or structure.
Bow Window Price
A bow window ranges between $1,200 and $3,600. The cost of these windows installed is $1,800 to $5,800. Bow windows are slightly different from typical bay windows in that they usually use four to five panels instead of the standard three for this type of window. This gives it a gentler curve. The panels are slimmer than a bay window and are set at wider angles to create more of a gentle curved look. Bow windows can be installed on any level, but some consider them to be a different type than a subtype of bay.
Circle Bay Window
The cost of a circle bay window is on the higher end, between $2,000 and $3,000 for the window. The cost of these windows installed ranges from $2,800 to $6,000. They are on the higher-end for these windows designs. These windows are fully curved to create a half-circle with the panes. They usually have three panes. They tend to be ornamental with intricate details in the molding, such as patterns, carvings, or multiple colors in or on the wood. They also tend to be taller than typical windows, sometimes up to 6-8’ tall.
Bay Window Cost by Material
Like all windows, your bay window’s frame may be constructed with several materials. The type of material a window is constructed from not only impacts the functionality and durability, but also the style, cost, and maintenance.
| Material | Average Cost (Material Only) | Average Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| Aluminum | $400 - $1,200 | $750 - $2,200 |
| Fiberglass | $400 - $2,500 | $750 - $3,500 |
| PVC / Vinyl | $600 - $2,950 | $950 - $4,350 |
| Wood | $800 - $4,000 | $1,125 - $5,600 |
| Clad (Vinyl) | $1,000 - $2,500 | $1,400 - $3,600 |
| Steel | $1,600 - $5,400 | $2,000 - $6,800 |
Aluminum Bay Window
The typical cost for aluminum bay windows ranges from $400 to $1,200. The cost of these windows installed averages $750 to $2,200. Aluminum windows are very functional but not high-end. They are also not as common as most other materials. These windows are usually mid-grade in quality, meaning other materials may be more durable overall, but they can be the top choice in certain situations. Aluminum as a material is very lightweight and strong. It is also durable against salty air, which is present around oceans. These windows are great for warm climates because they do not erode or disintegrate in heat or salty air.
Fiberglass Bay Window
The average range for fiberglass bay windows is $400 to $2,500. The cost of these windows installed ranges from $750 to $3,500. Fiberglass 2 is a mid-range to high-end material used to create durable and long-lasting windows. Fiberglass is one of the strongest materials that windows are constructed out of, even stronger than wood and PVC. They are also quite difficult to damage, dent, and scratch. Because fiberglass is so strong, they are ideal for large windows. Similar to vinyl, fiberglass is energy-efficient and fairly low-maintenance.
PVC / Vinyl Bay Window
The average cost for a PVC or vinyl bay window ranges from $600 to $2,950. The cost of these windows installed averages $950 to $4,350. Vinyl 3, or PVC, is one of the most common materials used for these windows. They are decent quality, low-maintenance, and usually pre-made. There is a bit of flexibility to customize them, but not as much as some other materials allow, such as wood. Vinyl is durable and weather-resistant but can warp in hot weather. It also is one of the more efficient materials for insulation.
Wood Bay Window
Wood bay windows cost between $800 and $4,000. The average cost of this type installed is $1,125 to $5,600. Wood gives a more classic look and feel to these windows. They also tend to be of a generally higher quality. Wood is very durable and can be bought using standard sizes or be custom-built. Wood works well in most climates and is a very common material. There is a wide range of costs for wood windows because there are many types of wood. However, wood requires more cleaning and maintenance than other materials.
Clad Bay Window
A vinyl-clad bay window ranges from $1,000 to $2,500. The cost of these windows installed averages $1,400 to $3,600. Clad windows are sometimes called composite windows. There are two main types of clad windows, vinyl and aluminum. Fiberglass is also used on some occasions. It is simply a window that has a different exterior and interior material. Almost all use wood as the interior core. Both vinyl and aluminum are popular materials for the exterior. It offers the durability and weather-resistance of vinyl or aluminum windows, while still having the classic wood look on the interior. Because of the change in material, clad windows are more likely to have condensation between the panes of glass. These are also much more customized and can be quite expensive.
Steel Bay Window
An average range for bay windows constructed out of steel is $1,600 to $5,400. The cost of these windows installed is $2,000 to $6,800. Steel windows are less common than some other materials. The major benefit of these windows is they can last a lifetime without needing to be replaced. Their durability is unparalleled. Steel is energy-efficient and can be custom designed for nearly any space. The idea of having steel windows may seem cold or unwelcoming. However, steel is a very beautiful and modern material when used in these windows. Because its lifespan is so long, they are more expensive.
New Bay Window Cost by Size
Every home is unique in how a bay window fits in the space. These windows can be installed on any floor and in many styles, impacting the overall size. To meet these needs, they come in hundreds of different sizes. In order to fit any opening, there are many variables to take into account to measure the size of a window - not only the height and width but also the ratio and the projection. This is where style comes into play, with circle and bow windows having different sizing and projection than full or box bay windows. In most cases, these windows are custom made, although they typically range from around 3 feet to 10 feet wide, and in height from around 3 feet to 6 feet. Variations can be found in stock and custom sizes, so you can get a good fit if this is a new window or a replacement. While the total size range is endless, some are more common than others. These are listed below along with their material and installed costs.
| Size (Width x Height) | Average Cost (Material Only) | Average Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| 4’ x 3’ | $300 - $800 | $750 - $1,800 |
| 6’ x 3’ | $400 - $1,800 | $850 - $2,800 |
| 8’ x 3’ | $460 - $2,200 | $910 - $3,200 |
| 10’ x 3’ | $850 - $3,850 | $1,500 - $5,000 |
4’ x 3’ Bay Window
The average cost for a 4’ x 3’ window is between $300 and $800. The cost of these windows installed averages $750 to $1,800. This is on the smaller size for this type of windows. They are usually used in box bay windows, which are set at a 90-degree angle and do not usually have room for a large custom seat. Many individuals use a box bay window for plants or decorative storage. This is the perfect size and is great in apartments, condos, and smaller homes.
6’ x 3’ Bay Window Cost
The cost of a 6’ x 3’ bay window averages $400 to $1,800. The cost of windows this size installed is $850 to $2,800. This is the next standard size up. Six feet wide windows would be ideal for a box or a standard bay window. With the angles cutting out some of the length, it could create a small but comfortable nook to relax in or have house plants. This size can also fit comfortably on many home exteriors.
8’ x 3’ Bay Window Cost
The average cost for an 8’ x 3’ bay window is between $460 and $2,200. The cost of these windows installed averages $910 to $3,200. These windows offer a good amount of space for circle, full bay, or bow windows. It offers a very wide view of the outside, almost panoramic. Windows with an 8-foot wide base provide ample space for a sitting area. At this size, it looks best on larger homes with enough space on the exterior so that it does not dwarf other features.
10’ x 3’ Bay Window
The cost of a 10’ x 3’ window averages $850 to $3,850. The cost of windows this size installed ranges from $1,500 to $5,000. This is one of the largest sizes for standard bay windows and is almost always a circle or full bay design. It offers a significant amount of sitting or open space on the interior. It also could create a large seating nook with ample space for relaxation or storage. Windows of this size also protrude more into the yard, so consider the window depth when planning.
Average Cost of Bay Windows by Brand
Similar to most products, the cost of bay windows varies by brand. Many brands offer several lines of bay windows, which are of different qualities, materials, and sizes. Some brands offer multiple lines in style and material, such as Simonton, Anderson, and Pella. Others may have more limited ranges, such as Alside, which have different options, depending on your location. Harvey windows are only limited to areas in and around New England.
Many brands treat replacement and new windows differently. The one notable exception is Jeld-Wen, which offers windows with both options. However, if you are more concerned about having the most options for material and interior colors, Milgard is the company that provides the most choices.
Each company has a range of costs, depending on the size, material, and installation style. The following costs are the average ranges for some of their more popular styles. Speak with your local retailer for the most accurate costs.
| Brand | Average Cost (Materials Only) | Average Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| Jeld-Wen | $650 - $1,850 | $850 - $2,500 |
| Simonton | $695 - $1,700 | $995 - $2,800 |
| Alside | $795 - $1,500 | $1,100 - $3,000 |
| Pella | $795 - $1,600 | $1,150 - $2,750 |
| Milgard | $895 - $1,800 | $1,200 - $3,000 |
| Harvey | $850 - $1,900 | $1,200 - $3,200 |
| Andersen | $895 - $1,900 | $1,200 - $4,000 |
Bay Window Glass Cost by Type
The size, style, frame, look, and function of your windows make up a large part of the cost. However, the glass inside the window also plays a role in these areas. Glass has a major impact on the window’s efficiency and cost. Glass can have one, two, or three panes in each section. This glass can also be coated to improve efficiency and prevent reflection and UV rays, or the various panes can be filled with gasses like argon or krypton to improve efficiency.
Because these windows are designed to let in the most amount of light possible, this means coatings or gas can have a profound impact on how well your windows insulate and function. If you live in a more extreme climate, you may want to upgrade your glass to keep energy costs down. If you live in a very sunny area, you may want to consider a low-E or spectrally selective coating to keep out excessive glare or UV rays that can fade your furnishings. You can have windows with multiple treatments, such as double-paned glass with argon and a low-E coating. In this case, your costs can differ. Below are the average costs for different glass types for your windows.
| Glass Type | Average Costs (Material Only) | Average Costs (Installed) |
|---|
| Single-Pane | $320 - $1,280 | $520 - $2,280 |
| Double-Pane | $480 - $1,920 | $780 - $2,920 |
| Low-E Coating | $800 - $2,680 | $1,100 - $3,680 |
| Spectrally Selective Coating | $1,120 - $2,720 | $1,520 - $3,720 |
| Argon-Filled | $1,200 - $2,720 | $1,600 - $3,720 |
| Triple-Pane | $1,280 - $3,040 | $1,680 - $4,040 |
| Krypton-Filled | $1,680 - $3,800 | $2,280 - $5,000 |
Labor Cost to Install a Bay Window
Bay windows are a beautiful addition to any home, but they require specialized installation because of their size, shape, and how they extend from your home’s exterior. This means their labor costs are often much higher than other types. There can also be a high range of associated labor costs, depending on the shape, placement, and material. While some of them come in standard sizes, they all must be custom fit to your home. This includes opening the wall, creating supports for the window and its interior seat, installing the window, its frame, and the new siding and roofing surrounding, and finishing it. This means that for the simplest box bay window, installation costs start at around $300, and for more complex jobs, costs can go as high as $2,200 in labor. Most jobs have labor that falls between $400 and $1,000, depending on the size and home structure.
There can sometimes be more costs associated with this project beyond the window and labor. Additional materials are often required to finish the exterior of the windows with siding and roofing to match your home. If a window seat is desired, this is not included in the window installation but is built later as a separate project.
Bay Windows Replacement Cost
If you have an existing bay window and are ready to replace it, this can often be done more easily and less expensively than installing a new one. You do not need to cut into the wall, reframe it, or make other modifications, which is a big part of the labor and cost.
You have additional costs for removing and disposing of the old one and for the new window and other new materials needed. But the labor costs are considerably less, often making this a less expensive project than a new window installation. The average total costs for removal and disposal of the old one and installation of the new window ranges from $200 to $700, depending on the size and placement, making the average cost $800 to $2,000 to replace a window.
Styles of Bay Windows
Bay windows not only add space to your house but also increase the amount of natural light. Depending on your personal style, there are 5 popular styles of bay windows that create a unique and custom look for your home. The style is part of what makes the aesthetic of the windows so valuable and special on both the exterior and interior. Choosing a style can be a fun process that adds both flair and value to your home.
Victorian Bay Window
Victorian bay windows use a straight front window with angled sides. They are usually canted and have a very classic look. Victorian style windows have beautiful and ornate details that make them stand out and catch the eye.
Tudor Bay Window
Tudor bay windows are smaller and commonly found on both levels of Tudor homes. What makes this style unique is they have wood brackets that support them. The wood brackets 4 often match the exterior facade of the home.
Modern Bay Window
Modern bay windows have a distinct design that offers more glass space and less ornamental material between the windows. The frames are slimmer to offer more natural light. Circle bay windows usually fall under this modern style.
Mid-Century Modern Bay Window
Mid-century modern bay windows are the most minimalist of the styles. This style is meant to maximize the view of the outdoors and are usually found on ranch-style or split-level homes. Picture and casement windows are very popular in the mid-century modern bay window design.
Craftsman Bay Window
Craftsman bay windows are typically found in bungalow-style homes. These windows are not necessarily large but offer a small sitting or storage area. The original purpose of this style of windows was to add functional space to smaller homes.
Determining the style of the windows is ultimately the homeowner’s choice. Each brings its own aesthetic and functionality, and all can be great additions to homes.
Bay Window Roof Cost
Bay windows extend outward from your home’s exterior. For this reason, they often need to be covered by their own roof. In some cases your existing roof or eaves can extend to cover the new windows, but if this isn’t possible, you do need to put what’s known as a bay roof over the top of the windows.
Most of the time, you will use the same materials you have on the roof of your home on the roof as well. This helps tie in your bay window to the rest of your home’s appearance and exterior. However, sometimes you may want a different or more decorative material for the roof.
Shingles are the most common material for these roofs, as they are also the most common material for house roofs. In addition, you can choose to use a metal roof, such as a standing seam 5 roof, or a decorative material like copper. Metal roofs of all kinds are popular because they often contrast the siding of your home, and can call more attention to the window. Copper in particular can really stand out in this way, and can add depth to the design. Metal roofs tend to also be longer lasting than shingle 6 roofs, so while shingles are less costly, they will need to be replaced more frequently than a metal roof. Below are the average costs for the different types of roofing you may use on your windows.
| Roof Type | Average Cost per Sq.Ft. (Material Only) |
|---|
| Shingles | $3 - $15 |
| Metal | $4 - $20 |
| Copper | $11 - $30 |
Pros and Cons of Bay Windows
Bay windows make beautiful additions to many homes. They are designed to dramatically increase the amount of light a space gets. Because they are angled, they can capture more light than a standard picture window of a similar size. They also help increase the interior of the room slightly, making it feel more open or giving you the ability to install a window seat or storage. They also offer better views of the outdoors because you have more angles to view them from. They can also increase the exterior’s aesthetic and curb appeal.
However, bay windows are more costly to install than other windows. They also have more areas where things can fail because they extend out of your home. This means they are more likely to fail structurally and develop leaks and other issues than other types. Therefore, you may have higher ongoing expenses with these windows than other types.
Bow Window vs Bay Window Cost
Bow windows are frequently considered a subtype of bay windows, but they are two different types of windows. Both are made of different sections extending outward. While bay windows generally have three separate panels or selections, bow have five. This creates a more shallow extension off the home while still giving you a view from different angles.
Bay windows generally extend outward at 30 to 45-degree angles, while bow windows have a subtle curve to the front with a more shallow angle of under 25 degrees.
In addition, bow windows are stationary, meaning they cannot be opened. Bay windows, however, usually have functional windows on at least the side window sections, if not the center. Bow windows also tend to be more expensive than bay windows because they have more panes of glass. However, those extra panes also help give you a more unobscured view of the outdoors. The more shallow protrusion often means less room inside for a seat or extra storage like with bay windows.
Below are the average costs for installing a bay and a bow window of similar sizes.
| Type | Average Costs (Installed) |
|---|
| Bay | $1,350 - $3,600 |
| Bow | $1,800 - $5,800 |
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Cost to Open Up a Wall
Opening up a wall to install bay windows is a pretty large undertaking and can drive a large part of the costs. Depending on the location, studs and load-bearing walls 7 may need to be moved, although some walls can be opened more easily. Opening up a load-bearing wall averages $500 to $3,000, depending on the wall location.
Energy-Efficient Glass
While most standard window glass is energy-efficient, in cold climates it may be necessary to invest in a special triple-insulated glass with a Low-E coating. This design increases energy efficiency by an average of 15% to 25%. In cold climates, this can save a lot of money in heating costs over time. Unfortunately, this also comes with a cost increase. Windows with energy-efficient glass average $1,100 to $3,680.
Interior Trim Cost and Window Seat
Interior trim is a nice way to finish the interior of a bay window, providing a clean and finished look. The interior trim can include everything from the frame to adding a storage bench or seating area. Depending on the extent of the trim, it could be beneficial to hire a carpenter to finish the job. The cost to trim the interior and build a window seat averages $550 to $1,100.
Additional Considerations and Costs
- Permits. In most areas, making exterior changes to the home requires a permit. Check with your local municipality for more information.
- Space considerations. While installing a bay window can increase your interior living space, it can decrease the space you have outdoors. This may affect your landscaping and, in some cases, may bring your home too close to property lines.
- Window treatments. Bay windows are large and bring in the light from different angles. This means you also have less privacy from different angles. You may need custom treatments to offset this.
- Support. Bay windows can be installed anywhere on the home, but building one on an upper story may increase costs due to support issues. Speak to your installer to find the best place for your window installation.
FAQs
- How much does it cost to install a bay window?
On average, installing a bay window costs between $1,350 and $3,600. There are many factors, such as the material, glass type, size, and design, that go into the cost of installing a bay window. If the addition of a roof or removal of a wall is necessary, this significantly increases costs.
- How much does it cost to replace a bay window?
Replacing a bay window is significantly cheaper than having one installed for the first time. The average cost to replace a bay window is between $800 and $2,000. This can usually be done in a few hours and does not require any special design or permits to finish.
- What is the difference between a bay window and a bow window?
Bay windows usually have three windows with a main picture window in the center and two smaller windows on either side. They usually come in either a 30 or 45-degree angle. Bow windows have 4-5 equally sized windows that move in a curve with a less than 25-degree angle. Bow windows tend to be narrower and do not jut out as far as a bay window does, but they are more expensive.
- Does a bay window add value to a home?
Bay windows often add value to homes. They are aesthetically pleasing on the exterior and have a great curb appeal. Additionally, it adds valuable space to the interior, either as a sitting or storage area. They allow a lot of light into a home and provide a great view of the outside.
- How long does it take to install a bay window?
Installing a bay window typically takes between 2-4 days if you are opening a wall. Replacing a picture window with a bay may take 6-8 hours. Replacing a window only takes a couple of hours. But if extensive construction needs to be completed, such as installing a roof, eaves, structure, or altering a wall, this increases the amount of time needed.
- Can you replace a bow window with a bay window?
Yes, a bow window can be replaced with a bay window. It will most likely not be a direct replacement, however. There may need to be some changes to the walls based on dimensional differences. Additionally, a bay window may need more structural support than a bow window needs.
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