If you have always imagined that cozy reading corner in your living room or a perfect dining nook in your kitchen, chances are you had a bay window in mind. Homeowners looking to improve the curb appeal of their homes and bring in more natural light often look to the bay window.
Bay window installation costs will vary depending on a variety of factors; however, the average cost is typically in the $1,800-$2,000 range for a window and installation. Let’s take a more in-depth look into how much a new bay window or replacement window will cost.
Looking to start the installation process? Check out the window contractors below to get a free quote.
How Much Do Bay Windows Cost?
The cost of a new bay window can start as low as $1,000 for a smaller fiberglass window and increase to more than $7,000 for a premium window with energy savings and a long life span. The bay windows will vary in price based on the labor involved and the brand of the window you choose.
Expect the larger windows to cost quite a bit more. In addition, remember that bay window prices don’t always include construction costs, and those can vary depending on where the bay window is being placed.
Bay Window Replacement Cost
The replacement costs of a bay window are typically a bit less than a new bay window, but the savings will likely only be a few hundred dollars. The difference in price is usually seen in labor costs. If your bay window can be replaced without doing any work to the window frame, expect costs to be slightly lower.
In addition, if you had to undergo quite a bit of construction initially to put a bay window in, the replacement is a much smaller home improvement project. Expect these costs for a bay window replacement to range from $900 to $2,500 with a few hundred dollars extra in labor.
What Do Bay Windows Cost by Type?
There are four different types of bay windows that homeowners can choose from. The cost of bay windows will vary depending on the type you choose, but so will the longevity. Remember that the aluminum and vinyl bay windows are almost always the least expensive, but the wood and fiberglass hold up quite well for years to come.
You may also end up choosing the bay window type based on the other windows used in your home’s exterior; finding a match will be a good thing for the aesthetics of the home.
| Type | Bay Window Cost |
| Aluminum | $500 – $2,000+ |
| Fiberglass | $800 – $3,500+ |
| Wood | $900 – $2,300 |
| Vinyl | $700 – $1,800 |
- Aluminum: aluminum windows are lightweight and will hold up well to deterioration; the only major downside of aluminum windows is that the insulation is not nearly as good as other types.
- Fiberglass: fiberglass windows are not cheap, but they are strongest, especially when load-bearing qualities are essential; depending on the construction of your home, this may be the best bet for strength, support, and longevity.
- Wood: wood bay windows will require a lot of maintenance, but they offer many options for custom solutions; the wood windows create a classic look but be prepared to invest a bit more of your time working on this window.
- Vinyl: vinyl bay windows are weather resistant and make the most popular choice for bay window replacement, you won’t have much to do to take care of a vinyl window, but in very warm climates, they don’t hold up quite as well or for as long.
What Do Bay Window Cost by Brand?
Some brands are more expensive than others. Where companies like Andersen will set the national average for windows, Pella and Jeld Wen will often be at the top end of the list. It’s important to get more than one quote on a bay window cost so that you can make the best decision and get a great deal on the window.
When comparing one window brand to another, it’s important to remember that each of these brands has different window series. Some of the high-end series of windows from Anderson may be more expensive than Pella and vice versa.
| Brand | Bay Window Cost |
| Anderson 400 Bay Window | $2,000 |
| Harvey Bay Window | $1,050 |
| Jeld Wed Bay Window | $1,700 |
| Simonton Bay Window | $1,000 |
| Pella Bay Window | $1,900 |
| Alside Bay Window | $1,600 |
What Do Bay Windows Cost by Size?
The bay window cost by size is a pretty simple math equation, the large the window, the more it will cost you. This has to do with both material costs and labor costs. In addition, the standard bay window sizes will be more affordable than custom bay windows, so keep that in mind as you design your space.
You can choose a window anywhere from 3 to 10 feet wide and 3 to 6 feet high, but the additional cost of a 10’x6’ window may put it out of your budget.
Large bay windows can increase your home’s value, which is a consideration for those trying to sell the home in the near future. Standard bay window sizes and costs are as follows (labor would be additional):
| Window Dimensions | Bay Window Cost |
| 4ft x 3ft | $750 – $1,850 |
| 6ft x 3ft | $850 – $2,900 |
| 8ft x 3ft | $900 – $3,250 |
| 10ft x 3ft | $850 – $4,000 |
What’s The Difference Between Bay Windows and Bow Windows?
A bay window is typically made up of a large picture window with two side windows that come out at a 45-degree angle. The angle of the smaller windows must be the same on both sides, and this is something that a qualified professional will have no issues with.
The inside of the bay window area creates a unique space that can work as a window seat or reading corner.
Bow windows, on the other hand, are typically made up of 5 or 6 windows that are put together to create more of a semi-circle shape protruding from the home. With the bow window styles, you will have to install more windows, and the total cost will be higher because of it.
Bay vs. Bow Windows: Which is Cheaper?
The bay window is often cheaper than the bow window simply because of the amount of glass and the ease of installation. However, if you choose a low e energy efficient window for the bow and a cheap vinyl by-window you may see prices come closer together. Although it’s hard to compare exactly, expect bow windows to be about $1000 more than bay windows in most situations.
What Are Different Types of Bay Windows?
Another factor that influences the total price is the type of bay window you choose. Expect the standard bay windows to be the most affordable, and as you get a bit more involved in the style and design of the window, the project cost will go up.
- Full Bay Windows
- Energy-Efficient Bay Windows
- Angled/Circle Bay Windows
- Oriel Bay Windows
- Boxed Bay Windows
Full Bay Windows
A full bay window is large and tall and has 30 or 45-degree side windows installed. The full bay window is the standard type of bay window and will leave your home with much more natural light. The full bay windows will be in the $1800-$2000 range for an average size with reasonable installation fees.
Energy-Efficient Bay Windows
As soon as energy efficiency is included in a window project, expect the window materials to go up by about 25% or more. Window treatments are difficult to install on bay windows, so if you are concerned about energy costs, it’s worth looking into this at the start of the project.
Angled/Circle Bay Windows
The angled or circled bay windows can be the same price as a full bay or slightly more. If you get to the point of a bow window, expect pricing to be closer to $2,000-$3,000 for a standard bow. The panes of glass sometimes have to be custom manufactured in a circular bay window, and therefore the pricing is considerably higher.
Oriel Bay Windows
If you have a historic home, the victorian or oriel bay windows are probably part of your design.
The great thing about oriel bay windows is that you can put them on any level of the home. If you have noticed, the exterior walls of most homes don’t have bay windows on the second floor for construction reasons, but oriel windows work through the home. The most significant difference you see in oriel bay windows is the woodwork done under the windows. These will have similar pricing to a full bay window.
Boxed Bay Windows
The boxed bay windows don’t have the traditional 30 or 45-degree angles you see from other bay windows. With the box window, there are two side windows installed at 90-degree angles and then the large picture window in the front. The great thing about boxed bay windows is that they are typically easier to install and require less work from a design or construction standpoint; therefore, pricing is usually more in the $800-$1,200 range.
Bay Window Replacement vs. Repair Cost
The cost for bay window replacement is higher than that of bay window repair. Sometimes a repair can mean just replacing a piece of glass, which could cost just a few hundred dollars compared to thousands of dollars for the entire window replacement.
When deciding about replacement vs. repair, have both quoted. If your bay window is not that old, then the repair may make more sense; however, repairing an old window knowing that it will soon need to be replaced, may not make as much sense.
What Impacts Bay Window Cost?
The bay window cost is influenced by a large number of factors. This is why we see such a great range in total pricing from one project to the next. Here are some things to be aware of as you shop for bay windows and choose the best one for you.
- Window Size
- Style and Type
- New Installation vs. Replacement
- Window Brand
- Material
- Labor
- Bay Roof
- Structural Work
Window Size
The math here is simple; the larger your window gets, the more it will cost you. If you are taking out double-hung windows and putting in a bay window, try to consider the size of the space and what size bay window will fit in with the least amount of construction.
Expert Tip: stick with standard-size windows to knock a few hundred dollars off the cost of your bay window
Style and Type
Standard bay windows or boxed bay windows are the most inexpensive to install. The bow windows or even renaissance-style Oriel windows will have a bit more of an involved installation process and therefore cost more money.
If you are unsure what style and type you want, consult a home improvement professional and look at sample pictures, or have a 3D rendering made so you can see how the window will impact the look of your home.
New Installation vs. Replacement
Replacement is almost always cheaper than a new installation. The new installation process often requires working with a construction company to properly frame out the bay window. In addition, extras like a bay roof can impact the project’s total cost.
Expert Tip: If you think the glass in the window is all that needs to be replaced, consider talking to a glass repair company as opposed to a window manufacturer, the competing quotes can help you save some money.
Window Brand
Some homeowners have personal preferences regarding window brands. Most of the time, the window material is more important than the window brand, but with names like Pella, Jeld-Wen, and even Andersen, you sometimes pay for the name.
Material
As we mentioned, vinyl and aluminum are the most affordable types of windows, the wood and fiberglass are more expensive. Get a quote for at least two different types of materials so you can compare the positives and negatives of each.
Labor
Total labor costs for bay window installation typically start around $300. However, this can increase significantly depending on where you live and any additional work that the professional will come across during your window installation process.
Bay Roof
Some bay windows have a small roof that protrudes over the bay window itself. If you are installing a new bay window or replacing one, expect that the bay roof will add anywhere from $500 to $1,500 to the total cost of the project.
Structural Work
Some areas of the home are easy-to-install bay windows, and others are load-bearing walls that need extra support. If structural work is needed during the bay window installation process, expect costs to be $500 to $1,000 or more.
Expert Tip: if you have a great handyman, ask them what the structural costs will be and if they can set the home up for an easy install of the bay window, and then do the installation yourself. This takes a bit of construction knowledge but can save some money.
What Are Benefits of Bay Windows?
Although the costs of a bay window may have you wondering if this project is worth the cost, there are some great reasons to enhance your space with a bay window.
- More Floor Space
- Increased Home Value
- More Natural Light
- Better View
- Nook Seating
More Floor Space
The interior space created by the bay window will end up being one of your favorite places in the home. Unlike other windows, the space inside the area that the bay windows create is completely usable space. Many people place chairs, a breakfast nook, or even a piano in this spot.
Increased Home Value
Bay windows can increase the total value of the home. The improvement in value comes as a result of a better design as well as a more impressive indoor space. Expect the increase in home value to be greater than the total cost of your bay window installation.
More Natural Light
The bay window lets light in from several different angles. This means that at any point of the day, you will notice more light being let into the home. If you have a room that was otherwise a bit dark, the bay window installation will completely change the natural lighting.
Better View
For homes that have a view of the water or nice landscaping and green space, the bay window is a great option to consider. The bay windows give a warm and inviting feel more than just a single picture window.
Nook Seating
Bay windows are very common in kitchens and dining spaces as they can be a great place to do some built-in seating. In addition, the seating can be done in a bench style, so there is added storage under the seats. This is another addition to a home that can add value.
DIY vs. Professional Bay Window Installation of Bay Windows
Some people choose to install their own bay windows, and others pay for professional installation. The professional installation is more costly, and although the average price ranges from $150 to $600 per window, we found it hard to find any quotes under $350 for bay window installation.
If you attempt this process on your own, you must ensure you have some knowledge of construction. Bay windows are not quite as simple as installing casement windows or double-hung windows. In addition, the weight of the bay window is quite heavy.
Although DIY installation can save you money, make sure its enough money to make sure it’s worth it for you.
Any of the window contractors below can help you with your window installation. Contact them to get free quotes.
How to Save on Bay Window Installation Projects
One of the best ways to save money on bay window installation projects is to purchase more than one window at once. If you replace all the windows in your home, you will get a larger discount. It’s also easier to save on shipping and labor if you are having a large project done as opposed to just one window.
It also makes sense to consider getting several quotes. If you get just one quote, you won’t have much to compare it to and could overpay for the installation.
Final Verdict: Are Bay Windows Worth the Cost?
Bay windows are worth the cost for the impressive look and design that they can bring to the home. Most bay windows change the look of the home’s exterior and interior; they provide a ton of natural light and can create a new area of your home for reading, eating, or spending time with your family. Get several quotes for bay windows to ensure that you are getting the best deal possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the pros and cons of bay windows?
Bay windows provide natural light, the addition of indoor living space, and a better view of the outside. The downsides of bay windows include trouble with energy efficiency, high installation costs, and the labor and construction involved with putting one in.
Is there another name for a bay window?
Some homeowners will call bay windows bow windows, but they are not exactly the same. Sometimes people call this an alcove.
Can you turn a regular window into a bay window?
Regular window openings can be turned into bay windows with the proper construction and design. This will sometimes require customization of the window or the place where the window is installed.
Do you need planning permission to put in a bay window?
Check with your local ordinance about the bay window and whether or not you will need permission to put it in a bay window. Chances are you are going to need some type of permission as it is a structural change to a home.
Are bay windows out of style?
Bay windows are not out of style and are still used in modern construction. However, the bay window style is changing to allow for a more clean line look.
How far out can a bay window go?
Bay windows typically go about two feet away from the home.
