How Much Does a Bay Window Cost? (2024 Guide)
Typical cost range:
$1,038–$7,911
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The average cost of a bay window is just over $3,600* according to our research, though the cost can vary due to differences in type, size, and material. We looked into what you can expect to pay for bay windows based on these variables, plus the cost of labor. See what your bay window replacement project could end up costing below.
*Costs in this article are sourced from contractor estimates used by Fixr and Angi.
What Are The Benefits of Bay Windows?
Benefits of bay windows include:
- Added seating and storage: Bay windows create additional space indoors. Many homeowners build a window seat, but you can also use this space for extra storage or a bookshelf.
- Curb appeal and home value: These visually stunning windows can upgrade your home’s overall appeal. The added square footage and new windows will also increase your home value.
- Improved natural light and views: Bay windows let more natural light into your home, adding ambiance and warmth to any room. They also provide better views of your surrounding landscape and scenery.
- Increased room size: Bay windows can add 10 feet or more to your living space thanks to their protruding structure. The added footage depends on your bay windows’ size and depth.
What Factors Affect Bay Window Cost?
Bay windows typically cost anywhere from $1,038–$7,911, with an average expense of $3,612. Certain factors can put this price more on the lower end, and others can cause it to rise dramatically.
The most impactful cost variables include:
- Window type: Bay windows come in various subtypes priced differently depending on their design, details, and complexity.
- Size: The larger the window, the higher the price due to the materials used and difficulty during installation.
- Window frame material: Bay windows made from inexpensive materials, such as vinyl, are more budget-friendly than expensive options, such as wood.
Cost by Bay Window Type
Let’s first look at how the type of bay window you choose affects the price. A simple box bay window is the cheapest bay window installation type due to its simple 90-degree angles and lack of curves. It’s relatively simple to install. Types such as bow and circle bay are more complex to install due to their heaviness and curved panels and are, therefore, more costly.
Here’s how each type averages:
| Bay Window Type | Average Cost for Window Type | Average Cost With Installation |
|---|---|---|
|
Box Bay |
$750–$1,200 |
$1,125–$1,350 |
|
Canted Bay |
$1,050–$2,800 |
$1,500–4,200 |
|
Oriel |
$1,125–$3,250 |
$1,600–$4,800 |
|
Circle Bay |
$1,800–$3,200 |
$2,700–$4,800 |
|
Bow |
$1,600–$4,800 |
$2,400–$5,300 |
Bow Windows
Bay windows and bow windows are often confused due to their similar designs. Bow windows are usually picture windows that don’t open, while bay windows are movable. Bay windows are also typically made of three to four separate windows, whereas bow windows use five to seven windows or more. Bay windows have sharper angles than bow windows, which have smooth, curved angles that form their distinctive shape.
Bow windows cost more due to their complicated design. They average $1,600–$4,800 and can range as high as $2,400–$5,300 with installation costs.
Box Bay Windows
Box bay windows, or box windows, are smaller than classic bay windows and form a box shape. The small side windows form a 90-degree angle from the center window, creating a rectangle ideal for displaying plants or decorations on the formed ledge. Box bay windows provide the benefits of a bay window but for less money, starting as low as $750–$1,200 or $1,125–$1,350 with installation.
Canted Bay Windows
Also referred to as full bay windows, canted windows have the most traditional bay window shape. They have three window panes with a larger center window that runs parallel to your home. The two smaller windows are angled at 30 or 45 degrees.
These windows run down to the floor and include a nook for storage space or a sitting area. Canted bay windows are always on a home’s first floor. They cost $1,050–$2,800, or $1,500–4,200 with installation.
Circle Bay Windows
Circle bay windows originate from the English Victorian age. They form a semicircle, making them more pronounced than bow windows. These windows have additional embellishments and crown molding to enhance their decorative appeal. They cost $1,800–$3,200, or $2,700–$4,800 with installation.
Oriel Windows
Oriel bay windows date back to the English Renaissance. They’re ornate and don’t touch the ground, making them an excellent addition to any floor. Although these windows don’t provide much extra space, they elevate your home’s aesthetics. The bottom is typically decorated with carvings, sculptures, and figures. You can expect to pay $1,125–$3,250 for oriel bay windows, or $1,600–$4,800 with installation.
Bay Window Cost by Size
Bay windows are considered quite large, so they cost more than traditional window styles. They’re custom-built and can be as small or big as you want, but they are typically between 3 feet and 10 feet wide and 3 feet and 6 feet high. The larger the window, the more it will cost. We’ve calculated bay window costs based on some typical sizes below.
| Window Size | Average Cost for Window | Average Cost With Installation |
|---|---|---|
|
4-feet-by-3-feet |
$400–$1,000 |
$700–1,800 |
|
6-feet-by-3-feet |
$500–$2,000 |
$900–$3,500 |
|
8-feet-by-3-feet |
$550–2,500 |
$950–$4,000 |
|
10-feet-by-3-feet |
$900–$4,000 |
$1,500–$7,000 |
Cost by Bay Window Frame Material
Whether you choose a low-maintenance vinyl or a rich wood, material costs must be considered when creating your window budget. Here are prices for some of the most popular window frame materials.
| Window Frame Material | Average Cost for Materials |
|---|---|
|
Aluminum |
$500–$2,200 |
|
Vinyl |
$700–$3,500 |
|
Fiberglass |
$900–$4,500 |
|
Wood |
$1,100–$6,000 |
|
Steel |
$1,600–$7,000 |
Aluminum
Aluminum is often the most cost-effective material option for bay windows at around $500–$2,200. It’s durable and lightweight, but it’s best suited for homes in warmer climates since aluminum isn’t a material that insulates well.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass has a midrange cost of $900–$4,500. It’s durable, long-lasting, and energy-efficient. It holds up well in humidity and doesn’t require extra support, so it’s relatively low maintenance.
Steel
Steel is incredibly strong and durable. It’s also not as susceptible to corrosion as some other materials. It’s easy to customize, and its strength allows for a super thin frame that maximizes your window space. These benefits make steel the most expensive frame material option at $1,600–$7,000.
Vinyl
Vinyl is a more affordable option at $700–$3,500. It’s also low-maintenance and durable. However, vinyl may warp in prolonged hot weather, and it’s not easy to customize since it typically comes prefabricated.
Wood
Wooden window frames are expensive, averaging $1,100–$6,000. This is due to their architectural appearance, curb appeal, and ability to be easily customized. Wood windows expand and contract based on humidity and temperature, though, and can crack and peel over time. They may be beautiful, but they can require the most maintenance.p
Window Replacement
Window replacement typically costs $300–$2,000 per window, depending on the window type.
Window Repair
Window repair typically costs $177–$623, but it can vary based on the type of repair.
What Other Factors Affect Bay Window Cost?
Several factors affect bay window costs, including labor, design, brand, and energy efficiency upgrades. Here’s an overview of the key factors affecting your bay window budget.
Bay Window Roof Add-on
If you have a roof that extends out around your home, your bay windows may be protected from heavy rain and snowfall. If not, your windows will be unprotected from the elements and could sustain long-term damage. You may need to install a separate roof for your bay window for added protection. Many homeowners match their bay roofs to their homes to create a unified look. Costs vary by material and design.
Clean-up and Disposal
Window projects can cause some disruption to your home, both inside and out. You’ll likely be left with waste from removing the former window and frame if you’re replacing it and construction materials from performing the installation. Some window contractors include a fee in their labor estimate for cleaning up the jobsite and properly disposing of waste materials. Check with your contractor beforehand to see if they include this and the expected cost. If not, you’ll need to consider expenses associated with handling cleanup and disposal yourself. This may include renting a truck if your vehicle can’t accommodate you or paying a service to take the materials away.
Energy Efficiency Upgrades
Don’t skimp on opportunities to add energy-efficiency upgrades to your windows, such as coatings and extra weatherproofing. The Department of Energy estimates that heat gain and loss through windows are responsible for 25%–30% of residential heating and cooling energy use. Although energy-efficient bay windows cost more, you’ll save more on utility bills in the long run. According to ENERGY STAR, you can save $27–$197 on your energy bills annually by upgrading to ENERGY STAR-certified double-pane windows. Look for multipane windows and efficient window frame materials. You can also use energy-efficient glass with a low-emissivity (low-e) coating and argon gas to improve insulation.
Functionality
It’s important to consider how you want your windows to function. Though most bay windows have a fixed window in the center with two side windows, you can change the design and incorporate functioning windows.
For example, some homeowners use opening casement windows instead of fixed picture windows to allow for better air circulation. Other designs use double-hung windows for each part of the bay window. Adding non-traditional window styles to your bay windows will increase your costs.
Labor and Permits
Installation costs can increase window prices by 40% to 60%. Bay windows are more expensive to install than other window types due to their size and complicated design. Most window installers require additional help for bay window installations, and the installers will need to cut a hole in your exterior wall. Your bay window’s location also impacts labor costs, as installations on higher floors require special equipment and tools.
You may need a permit to complete an external build on your home. Your installers may file the paperwork for you, or you might have to do it yourself. Check your local city and county regulations before starting a bay window project.
New vs. Replacement Bay Windows
Installing new bay windows is more expensive than replacing existing ones, as installation companies charge more to cut a hole for a new window. This could double your individual window costs depending on your project size. Companies such as Renewal by Andersen offer affordable bay and bow window replacement options, though bay replacement window prices are still high.
Structural Work
Sometimes, removing an old window reveals structural issues within your wall. You should complete these repairs before installing a new window. This could run you an extra few hundred dollars for small issues or as much as a few thousands for more major issues to load-bearing walls.
Window Brands
Bay window availability varies between window brands. Pella, for example, offers bay and bow windows in five different product lines. Other companies such as Simonton and Andersen sell bay and bow windows in various materials, sizes, and customization options. Product availability depends on the window manufacturer in your area. You should also consider that more popular, name-brand manufacturers will cost more than local alternatives.
How To Save on Bay Windows
These windows cost more than other window styles due to their size and multi-window design. Below are a few tips for keeping the costs of bay windows on the lower end.
- Compare quotes: Get quotes from multiple companies to find the best deals. Many window manufacturers offer discounts for new customers. You should also compare customization options and warranty coverage.
- Limit your installations: Bay windows are a beautiful addition to any home, but costs can increase quickly with the more windows you install. Limit your bay window installation to rooms with frequent traffic, such as a kitchen, living room, or den. You can also use a bay window as an accent piece for your home’s exterior.
- Low-cost window materials: Wood bay windows are elegant but expensive. Consider cheap window replacements and materials to maintain a reasonable budget.
- Negotiate your final price: Some window companies are open to negotiating installation prices. If your quote price seems too high, negotiate for a lower price. You can also use other quotes as leverage for a better deal.
Can You Install a Bay Window Yourself?
Although you can install many other window types on your own, building a bay window is too complicated. Bay windows are large, hard to maneuver, and require cutting into your walls, so hiring a professional window installation company is best. A window installer will have the necessary tools, experience, and additional hands to complete the installation properly. You’ll also get the added protection of a labor warranty to cover any faulty installations or workmanship issues.
A professional window installer can recommend the best windows for your project and ideal locations for the installation. They’ll provide an itemized quote and a project timeline. It’s important to research your prospective installer, review their previous jobs, and verify their credentials. We don’t recommend working with an unlicensed window installer or contractor.
What Questions Should You Ask Your Window Contractor?
We recommend asking your window installer these questions to ensure a smooth process and quality results from your window project.
- Are you a licensed and insured contractor?
- How long have you installed this type of window?
- Do you have references and project photos I can see?
- Who from your team will be coming to perform the work?
- What experience do your technicians have?
- Do you handle cleanup and disposal?
- What kind of warranty do you offer?
- How will you safeguard my home from damage during the project?
- How long will the project take?
- Can you give me a written estimate before work begins?
- What are your payment terms?
Is the Cost of Installing a Bay Window Worth It?
Bay windows cost more than most other windows to install, but the added curb appeal, improved natural light, and additional space make them worth the investment. Installing new windows also makes your home more energy-efficient, helping you to save money on energy bills.
Your final project costs depend largely on your selected window style, size, and material. We recommend working with a professional window installer to ensure your project is completed efficiently. We suggest getting a quote from at least three companies to compare their services and rates before signing a contract.
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FAQs About Bay Window Cost
Do bay windows increase the value of my home?
Yes, bay windows can add home value. Bay windows improve the view of your surrounding landscapes, increase natural light, and allow for better ventilation.
How many square feet will a bay window add to a house?
Bay windows can add 10 feet or more to your home, depending on their size and style.
Can I negotiate bay window installation prices?
You can negotiate bay window installation prices, depending on which window company you select. Some companies are open to negotiating a lower price if it keeps your business. We recommend doing your research and gathering quotes from various companies to gauge the average price range for bay window installation.
Is a bay window the same as a bow window?
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