by John MacGregor
HomeOwnerNet Columnist
When it's time to upgrade your home, one of the best ways to get good results -- for both the interior and exterior -- is to replace conventional flat windows with bay windows. Bay windows can make your home's interior feel more airy and provide a better view. Bay windows also add an element of visual interest to your home's exterior, particularly if it was built with a featureless flat front.
Bay Windows Let Your Home Shine from the Inside Out
With their curved outer face, bay windows seem to radiate light and energy from your home's interior to the outside. In doing so, your home appears more inviting at first glance. From the inside, bay windows provide a panoramic view of the outdoors. If you've wondered about the difference between a bay window and a bow window -- a bay window uses three planes in a polygon, while a bow window uses four or more planes to make more of a semicircle. Both options allow you to put seating or shelving in the extended circular area.
Choose a Professional Installer and the Right Materials
New options for window materials include glass that is low-e, blocks sound and heat, as well as glass tints. Regardless of the quality of materials, your investment is of little value if your bay windows are improperly installed and they leak air or water. Unless you have some experience measuring and installing windows, you may want to get expert advice and installation. With bay windows, you can enjoy a whole new perspective on your home and it will show!
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About the Author
John MacGregor is a freelance writer and real estate investor with degrees from the University of California in Comparative Literature and Law. He has bought and sold several homes for profit.
