Ever thought what makes bow windows different from bay windows? Why homeowners always have to choose any of them according to Toronto’s climate? They can easily tell differences between casements and awnings or double hung windows and sliders but, when it comes to bay and bow windows, their knowledge gets too limited or insufficient.
Since bow and bay windows Toronto look a lot similar, quite a few people can tell accurate variations. Though, these two window styles are the most loved and preferable options around because they are simple and can easily spruce up any property. They may appear the same from distance but, when people take a closer look, they can start to trace the distinctions.
So, for every person, who is confused about either to have bow or bay windows Toronto, below are some important facts to consider. But, before that, it’s important to know that unlike other window types, bows and bays project out of the home and give a unique character to the entire living space.
- Bay Windows
The first and foremost thing that creates a difference is their composition. Bay windows Toronto are made up of three sashes joined together to create a fully-assembled unit. They protrude outward and give an extra room and depth along with a comfortable seating space to enjoy evening coffee or beautiful views. Bay windows have one larger fixed sash in the middle with two small double-hung or casement windows on both sides.
Bay windows are normally angled to suit all requirements of dining and living rooms. They can even work well for those rooms that need to let in natural light or capture expansive views. Homeowners have to decide the angle for sashes to project outward. They have to remember that 30-degree projection can give 13 inches space while 45-degree projects around 19 inches.
When windows project, they need to have some support in order to avoid sagging. Homeowners can add braces for this purpose or employ steel support cables above the window all the way through the window seat and between the sash.
- Bow Windows
Contrary to bay windows Toronto, bow windows are made of multiple same-sized fixed pane sash and casement that are put together to give a bow or arch shape. They look more like panoramic and move a bit far, not like bay units, to make the interior cozier.
Bow windows are available in myriads of sizes, from 4 feet to 13 feet in width. But, the most famous version contains 4 or 5 sashes. So, homeowners can easily give the right size according to their window openings. Bow windows open outward for at least 4-inch and 24-inch maximum. Bow windows usually find support from an overhanging eave while a roof is also used for this purpose, in case there is no other option.
Conclusion
When it comes to considering bay and bow windows, the rule of thumb is to list down features and expectations from the components so that it would be easy to rank those options. Homeowners have to figure out whether bows or bays would meet their requirements or they have to search for other options like casement, double-hung, awning windows etc.