How Much Does it Cost to Install a Bay Window?

Reviewed by Carol J Alexander remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

Bay windows are a great way to bring natural light into an otherwise dark space. They also improve the view and curb appeal and increase your home’s value. Replacing an existing bay window with a new, more energy-efficient model typically costs an average of $1,125 to $8,321. 

But, to add a bay window where there wasn’t one would cost considerably more because of the labor involved. In this article, we’ll look at what it costs to add or replace a bay window, the factors determining that cost, and whether this home improvement project is right for you.

Costs to install a bay window

Factors that influence the cost of installing a bay window

Not all bay windows are created equal. They come in many different sizes and are made of various materials, like vinyl, wood, or metal. They can have different types of glass or be of any number of styles to complement the home best. In addition, some brands cost more than others because of the quality of workmanship, customer service, and warranty period. Let’s look at these factors more closely.

Size

Of course, the larger the window size, the more expensive it is. Here are the average prices for a few standard sizes of bay windows. Of course, you’ll need to add the cost of labor and other materials to determine the total cost.

Cost of a bay window by popular sizes

Material

Window materials impact their cost. But it also affects the style, how it complements your home, and how it’s maintained. For instance, vinyl bay windows are a low-maintenance option. In contrast, wood needs regular treatment to stay fresh and new looking. So, here are price ranges for windows only, based on the material they’re made of.

Cost of a bay window by popular materials

Style

Bay windows come in various types to best complement the architectural style of the home’s exterior. Each bay window style is constructed differently, which could affect your choice. This list of the most popular types of bay windows, with illustrations, will help you choose the perfect one for your home.

Box bay window

This type of bay window has three windows at 90-degree angles to each other to form a box shape. This simple design has no curves and is relatively easy to install.

Full bay window

Also known as Canted, this bay window includes three windows that form 30- or 45-degree angles. The center window is a picture window flanked on either side with double-hung or casement windows. Typically more expensive than box windows, a full bay extends to the ground, expanding the room's floor space, and therefore requires first-floor installation.

Oriel bay window

Typically found on Gothic- or Tudor-style homes, the oriel bay juts out from the house without extending to the ground. This style makes it possible to install an oriel on any floor of the home. Some architectural styles include ornate supports, or corbels, on the exterior.

Additional factors

Besides size, style, and material, a few other items can affect the cost of installing a bay window. You can find these factors below.

New vs. replacement

A bay window replacement cost is considerably lower than installing a new bay window where one never existed. This is because when installing a new bay, the wall's roof, floor, and structural integrity all come into play.

Type of glass

With advancements in glass technology, the type of energy-efficient glass you choose for your window could increase the cost. Including low-E coating, argon or krypton gas-filled panes, and triple-paned windows will cost more than the standard glass in a double-paned window.

Bay roof over

Since a bay window juts out from the house's exterior wall, it requires a roof. Of course, the roof is already in place if you’re replacing an existing bay. But repairing or replacing it will increase the cost. And, if you’re installing a new bay window, you must add one to your total project cost.

Window seat and flooring

Many homeowners look forward to the options that come with a bay window. Large bays may increase the home's floor space enough to create a dining nook in the kitchen or additional seating in the living room. But, this type of full bay requires new floor and ceiling covering, which adds to the cost. In smaller bays, adding a built-in window seat is a popular option. But this, too, will increase the overall cost of the project.

The average cost to install a bay window

Typically, bay window installation costs can fall into three pricing categories: budget-friendly, mid-range, and high-end. To help you stay within budget while getting the window of your dreams, we’ve broken down the options you may find in each category.

Budget-friendly bay window installation

Homeowners on a budget, who still want to experience the benefits of a bay window, may start with a small box window over the kitchen sink. These types of windows generally come pre-assembled and are easy to install.

Features and materials you’ll find in a budget-friendly bay window installation

• Smaller size
• Pre-assembled or kit 
• Vinyl construction
• Doesn’t open

Mid-range bay window installation

With a little more money to spend, a larger bay window is in order. Choosing an oriel bay window eliminates the need for added flooring and ceiling material but limits what you can do with the added space. Many homeowners use the inside of an oriel bay for holding plants. However, additional reinforcement will be necessary if you want to use it as a window seat, increasing the cost.

Features and materials you’ll find in a mid-range bay window installation

• Larger size
• Casement or double-hung windows on the sides
• Vinyl or metal construction
• No need for new flooring or ceiling

High-end bay window installation

Oh, the things you can do with a bigger budget and more vision. For this level of bay window installation, you can expect more oversized energy-efficient windows of wood construction and a full bay that includes built-ins, hardwood floors, and more. This category also increases the square footage of the home.

Features and materials you’ll find in a high-end bay window installation

• Largest sizes
• Wood bay windows
• Double-hung or casement-style side windows
• Built-in window seating, storage, or shelving
• Hardwood floors
• A roof over to match or complement the home

Pros and cons of bay windows

Pros

• Increased natural light in the home
• Possibly increased floor space, depending on the size
• Increased home value
• Better views of the outside
• Increased curb appeal
• Improved airflow during temperate seasons

Cons

• Could make the home less energy efficient, a consideration in colder climates
• Challenging to fit window treatments
• High installation costs
• Presents design challenges for the interior of the room
• More likely to fail structurally than a picture window

What are the differences between a bay window, a bow window, and a curved bow window?

Homeowners frequently confuse bay and bow windows. A bay window includes three separate windows. Typically, the center window is larger and doesn’t open. The smaller windows on either side of this picture window open for ventilation. A bow window includes more than three functional windows. They’re installed side-by-side and close together to form a curve outward. Finally, a circle bay window resembles a bow, but the panes are curved glass.

Can I DIY a bay window installation?

The labor costs to install a bay window typically run from $111.24 to $616.40, depending on the scope of work and where you live.

With previous window installation experience, a skilled homeowner can tackle replacing an existing bay window. However, installing a bay window where one never existed requires a professional. A box or oriel window requires proper support to remove stress from the home's exterior wall. The wall frequently needs to be opened up more than the space required for the existing window you’re replacing. And, of course, the new bay must be roofed over properly to prevent leaking from rainwater.

Paying for your bay window installation

Whether replacing an existing bay window or installing a new one, the project can cost a lot of money. However, taking out a home improvement loan for a project that could only cost a few thousand dollars may seem silly. So, if you’re wondering where the money for this home improvement will come from, here are a few short-term options to consider.

• Borrow against a HELOC: If you haven’t opened a home equity line of credit, now might be a good time. Having the account doesn’t cost you anything; when you need it, the money is ready and waiting. Talk with a lender to find out what your options are.
• Use a retailer credit card: The big box stores often give payment options like five percent off or two years with no interest. And, if you don’t already have an account, they may have cash-off incentives for opening one. By taking advantage of one of these offers, you could get the job done, pay less, and take your time paying it off. 

Ways to save money on a bay window installation 

Still don’t think you can afford a bay window? Here are a few ideas that might help you save more on the budget.

• Shop around. Get free quotes from several window installation companies and compare notes.
• If you’re purchasing the window from a major retailer, ask if they offer free installation. 
• Include your bay window with a bigger job. Few professionals will install one window. But, if you’re replacing all the windows in your home, you could save on the total project. 
• Choose less expensive materials. You may have your heart set on oak, but vinyl may fit your budget more.

Other considerations

A few items that could incur additional costs when installing a bay window in your home include

• Location –  Labor and material costs vary by region of the country. For instance, you'll pay more in a large metropolitan area than in a smaller city and rural area. Always check with a local professional when comparing costs.
• Site-prep – If you’re adding a bay window rather than replacing one, the exterior wall of your home may need structural work to reinforce it enough to take the load of the new window. 
• Local codes and fees – From building permits to HOA fees, you may have additional costs you didn’t figure out in your budget. Also, if you live in a restricted community, always check your homeowner's association guidelines before making improvements to the exterior of your home.
• Warranties – Always compare warranties when shopping. Some window brands could offer more attractive product warranties than other brands. Also, always ask your salesperson for a copy of the warranty paperwork for your windows. 

Here comes the sun

According to Today’s Homeowner’s 2023 ROI Remodel Report, window replacement can bring as much as a 95 percent return on your investment, depending on the type and number of windows. Who doesn’t like those odds? Not to mention that even if you pay a bit more for a bay window, you’ll still enjoy letting the sunshine in.