How Much Does It Cost to Install or Replace Bay Windows?

In this guide

Bay Window Cost by Type

Bay windows come in many different shapes and sizes. Several unique designs set different styles of bay windows apart. The design and structure of the bay window determine which type of window it is. All types have a different appearance and functionality, so it is important to consider all before making your final decision.

Box Bay Window Cost

A box bay window is a type of bay window where the panels are at 90-degree angles. The three panels together make a box or rectangle. There is usually no curve in a box bay window. This is one of the simpler designs and also one of the most common. They can be seen in apartment designs and homes alike and are a very popular style of bay window. The cost of a box bay window typically ranges between $500 and $900.

Full Bay Window Cost

A full bay window, also known as a canted bay window, is another term for a bay that has three panes: two are angled, and the third one connecting the two is flat. The standard angles are 30 degrees and 45 degrees. These are more expensive than box bay windows because they tend to be larger in width and height. The average cost for a full bay window is between $800 and $1,100.

Bow Window Price

Bow windows are slightly different from typical bay windows in that they usually use four to five panels instead of the standard three for a bay window. This gives a gentler curve to the window. The panels are slimmer than a bay window and are set at wider angles to create more of a gentle curved look. A bow window typically ranges between $900 and $1,600.

Oriel Window Cost

Oriel windows are considered the original form of bay windows and date back to the English Renaissance. The key to its design is they are built not to touch the ground. Instead, a bracket ², usually decorative, is used as a structural support for the window. Oriel windows give a classic look to a building and can be added to any floor of a home or structure. The average cost for an oriel window is $900 to $1,500, with prices for high-end windows reaching up to $2,300.

Circle Bay Window

Circle bay windows are on the higher-end for bay window designs. These windows are fully curved to create a half-circle with the window panes. Circle bay windows usually have three panes. They tend to be ornamental with intricate details in the molding, such as patterns, carvings, or multiple colors in or on the wood. Circle bay windows also tend to be taller than typical bay windows, sometimes up to 6-8’ tall. The average cost of a circle bay window is on the higher end, usually between $2,000 and $3,000.

Bay Window Price by Material

The type of material a window is constructed from not only impacts the functionality and durability of the window but also the style. There are pros and cons to every material that windows are constructed out of, and each material is suitable for a range of styles. Different materials also range in cost and upkeep:

Aluminum Bay Window

Aluminum windows are very functional but not high-end. These windows are usually mid-grade in quality, meaning other materials may be more durable overall, but they can be the top choice in certain situations. Aluminum as a material is very lightweight and strong. It is also durable against salty air, which is present around oceans. These windows are great for warm climates because they do not erode or disintegrate in heat or salty air. The typical cost for aluminum bay windows ranges from $400 to $1,200.

Fiberglass Bay Window

Fiberglass ³ is a high-end material used to create durable and long-lasting bay windows. Fiberglass is one of the strongest materials that windows are constructed out of, even stronger than wood and PVC. They are also quite difficult to damage, dent, and scratch. Because fiberglass is so strong, they are ideal for large windows. Similar to vinyl, fiberglass is energy-efficient and fairly low-maintenance. The average range for fiberglass bay windows is usually $750 to $2,500.

PVC/Vinyl Bay Window

Vinyl ⁴, or PVC, is another one of the most common materials used for bay windows. Vinyl bay windows are decent quality, low-maintenance, and usually pre-made. There is a bit of flexibility to customize them, but not as much as some other materials allow, such as wood. Vinyl is durable and weather-resistant. It also is one of the more efficient materials for insulation. The average cost for a PVC or vinyl bay window ranges from $775 to $2,950.

Wood Bay Window

Wood gives a more classic look and feel to bay windows. They also tend to be of a generally higher quality. Wood is very durable and can be bought using standard sizes or be custom-built. Wood works well in most climates and is a very common material. There is a wide range of costs for wood windows because there are many types of wood. However, wood requires more cleaning and maintenance and is more likely to allow air into the home. Wood bay windows typically cost anywhere from $800 to $2,700.

Clad Bay Window

There are two main types of clad windows, vinyl and aluminum. Fiberglass is also used on some occasions. A clad window is simply a window that has a different exterior and interior material. Almost all use wood as the interior core. Both vinyl and aluminum are popular materials for the exterior. A clad window offers the durability and weather-resistance of vinyl or aluminum windows, while still having the classic wood look on the interior. Because of the change in material, clad windows are more likely to have condensation between the panes of glass. These are also much more customized and can be quite expensive. A vinyl-clad bay window ranges in cost from $1,500 to $2,100.

Steel Bay Window

The major benefit of steel bay windows is they can last a lifetime without needing to be replaced. Their durability is unparalleled. Steel is energy-efficient and can be custom designed for nearly any space. The idea of having steel windows may seem cold or unwelcoming. However, steel is a very beautiful and modern material when used in bay windows. Because its lifespan is so long, steel bay windows are more expensive. An average range for bay windows constructed out of steel is $1,600 to $5,400.

Cost of Adding a Bay Window by Location

Bay windows are a great addition to nearly any space, including living rooms, bedrooms, dens, libraries, and family rooms. They are a great option to bring more light into a room, allow for more sitting or storage space, or just for aesthetics. Bay windows can also increase a home’s value.

Because bay windows extend from the house, many need additional support underneath. The area where the bay window is installed must have an eave or overhang from the roof directly above it. If you do not have an eave ⁵ or roof, then one must be built, which is an added cost.

The size of the eave has a direct impact on the potential size of the window. For example, an eave that measures 12 to 14 inches can support a 30-degree bay, but for a 45-degree bay, the eave needs to be 16 to 22 inches deep. For larger angles, they must be at least 18 to 24 inches deep.

Installing an eave can add a significant cost to the project. The average cost of installing an eave is around $2,300. But the price can increase to over $5,000, depending on the house size and material used. Similar to the window material, the eaves can be made of wood, cement, or composite on the cheaper end. Vinyl and aluminum are more expensive.

New Bay Window Cost by Size

Bay windows come in hundreds of different sizes. In order to fit any opening, there are many variables to take into account to measure the size of a bay window - not only the height and width but also the ratio and the projection. In most cases, these windows are custom made, although they typically range from around 3 feet to 10 feet wide, and in height from around 3 feet to 6 feet.

4’ x 3’ Bay Window

This is on the smaller size for a bay window. They are usually used in box bay windows, which are set at a 90-degree angle and do not usually have room for a large custom seat. Many individuals use a box bay window for plants or decorative storage. A 4’x3’ window is the perfect size for this and is great in apartments, condos, and smaller homes. The average cost for a window of this size is between $300 and $500.

6’ x 3’ Bay Window Cost

This is the next standard size up. Six feet wide windows would be ideal for a box bay or a standard bay window. With the angles cutting out some of the length, it could create a small but comfortable nook to relax in or have house plants. Expect to pay around $400 to $630.

8’ x 3’ Bay Window Cost

These windows offer a good amount of space for a circle bay, full bay, or bow window. It offers a very wide view of the outside, almost panoramic. For bay windows, an 8-foot wide base provides ample space for a sitting area. The average cost for a window of this size is between $460 and $720.

10’ x 3’ Bay Window

This is one of the largest sizes for a standard bay window and is almost always a circle bay or full bay design. It offers a significant amount of sitting or open space on the interior. It also could create a large seating nook with ample space for relaxation or storage. Costs range from around $550 to $850.

Average Cost of Bay Windows by Brand

Similar to most products, the cost of bay windows varies by brand. Many brands offer several lines of bay windows, which are of different qualities, materials, and sizes. For this section, the costs are based on a standard 4’x3’ vinyl bay window.

Jeld-Wen Bay Window

Jeld-Wen has expanded in recent years from a mid-grade window company to one that now offers both wood and vinyl window series, with a range of cost and quality options. A unique aspect of Jeld-Wen is that each of their window series can be purchased as either a new construction window or a replacement window. Many manufacturers do not offer this option. A standard vinyl bay window from Jeld-Wen ranges on average from $800 to $2,400.

Simonton Bay Window

Simonton is more of a budget-friendly brand and has 9 lines of windows. Simonton specializes in vinyl windows and has window series ranging from low-budget levels to premium. While Simonton may not offer a wide range of materials or colors, the windows they produce are consistent and well-designed. Their specialization in vinyl allows them to offer one of the most versatile series of windows around. Expect to pay $850 to $2,700 for a Simonton bay window.

Alside Bay Window

Alside offers both new construction and replacement window options, specializing in vinyl. Different lines of windows may only be distributed in certain areas of the country, so check their website to ensure you choose the correct series. They only offer a few options for bay windows, and prices typically average $1,000 to $1,500.

Pella Bay Window Price

Pella is one of the largest and most well-known window brands. They offer a wide range of products from standard bay windows to some of the most high-end window options on the market. Pella’s different lines offer customers the ability to find great windows that meet their price-point, quality desires, and material. Pella windows are usually Energy Star rated and designed to thrive in a wide range of climates. Bay windows by Pella usually cost between $1,000 and $3,000.

Milgard Bay Window

Milgard offers a wide array of materials for its windows, including vinyl, fiberglass, and aluminum. They also offer several colors for both the interior and exterior. Each of Milgard’s lines of windows is unique, and several of the lines offer bay window selections. This allows customization of features, colors, and materials. The average cost for a vinyl bay window from Milgard is $1,200 to $2,200.

Harvey Bay Window

Harvey specializes in wood and vinyl windows. They have a simpler line of products that focus on more standard options. Harvey does not have a large distribution network like Pella or Andersen. Their windows are only available in the northeast United States, concentrated in the New England area but delivering as far south as Philadelphia. The cost for a vinyl bay window from Harvey averages between $1,200 and $2,400.

Andersen Bay Window Price

Andersen is another common window brand. While they do not have as wide of a range of products as Pella, they still offer several options for each budget. The company has a very good reputation in the industry, which is largely based on the quality of the products they deliver. Expect to pay between $1,600 and $3,000 for a vinyl bay window by Andersen.

Bay Window Glass Cost by Type

Glass has a major impact on the efficiency of windows, so it is important to look at the advantages and disadvantages of each type of window glass. From the number of panes, the glass used for the panes, and different coatings that can be applied, there are many options. Each type of glass or feature has a purpose and can be used in different ways. For the most part, the intricacies of the glass type have to do with climate.

Bay Window Installation Cost

Bay window installation is specialized. Because of the specific angle, custom design, and structural support necessary with a bay window, a contractor or professional should perform the installation. Bay windows are a beautiful addition to any home. However, the design and installation require different stages. While there are some standard bay windows, all windows need to be fitted to your home. Any current window can be converted into a bay window, but it is not as simple as just purchasing and replacing the current window.

A general contractor typically costs an average of $40 per hour of work. The time for an installation varies based on if the walls need to be cut or re-framed, if an eave or roof needs to be installed, or if the old material needs to be disposed of. Bay windows need a structure for support, so if you do not currently have eaves large enough for a bay window, the roof and eaves may need to be extended. In this case, a roofer, costing between $45 and $75 per hour, needs to be hired to install the new section of roof.

The total average cost for a bay window installation is $2,400. The materials alone cost around $1,800, and the average project takes 15 hours, meaning the labor cost is usually around $600. Extending the roof or eaves during the construction process can significantly impact the total project cost because this can take 2-3 days to complete. A simple bay window replacement, on the other hand, can take as little as 4-6 hours. The average total cost does not necessarily change based on the type of bay window, but larger-sized windows could take more time to install, which would increase the labor price.

If you do not have a bay window currently, then bring in a contractor before the windows are purchased. They help with the entire process, including design, choosing windows, determining if the roof and eaves need to be extended, purchasing, and ultimately installing the windows. Usually, contractors provide the project scope, and sometimes even the estimate, for free.

Bay Windows Replacement Cost

Replacing old windows is cheaper and takes less time than installing new bay windows. While the cost of the window is the same, whether it is being replaced or installed brand new, the installation costs are significantly less for replacement projects. The structure for the existing bay window is already in place, and as such, the eaves and roofing do not usually need to be altered.

If you currently have a bay window and are simply replacing it, the installation can typically be done in 4-6 hours, which costs between $160 and $240 for labor. This does not include the disposal of materials, which is usually a minimum of $50. By the time disposal, travel, and preparation are considered, the cost for a contractor is between $500 and $700.

Replacing a window is fairly simple. It requires purchasing a window and scheduling it to be delivered and installed. The contractor removes the old one, ensures the walls and eaves are in good condition, and installs the new window.

Bay Window Repair Cost

There are typically two different repairs that may be needed for bay windows. The most common is a faulty seal that can occur either between the glass and the window frame or between the window frame and the wood trim. A faulty seal can cause unwanted leaks and airflow through the window. The cost to repair a faulty seal on a bay window is usually around $100 and takes about two hours to complete.

The second most common repair is usually to a damaged sill, eave, or roof. These damages can occur on the exterior during bad weather or just normal wear and tear. The cost to repair a damaged bay window roof runs about $500 and takes 8 hours to complete.

For both repairs, it is best to call a contractor who can identify the issue quickly and repair it efficiently. If the damage is not extensive, the repair should occur quickly and without difficulty. Contractors typically charge the same rate, whether they perform repairs or installation. For repairs, the costs are usually significantly lower, because they are faster, require less equipment, and do not need material disposal.

Side Window Cost by Type

Bay windows usually have two main parts: the large central window and the smaller side windows. Two types of windows can make up the side windows in your bay - either double-hung or casement.

Casement windows are attached to their frame by a hinge. They usually swing out sideways or open horizontally and use a crank to open and close them. Casement windows ⁶ are available in all the same materials as bay windows, with the most popular being vinyl, wood, fiberglass, and clad. The benefits of a casement window design include not having to lift a window to open it, the ability for the window to open completely for maximum airflow, and a complete seal that limits the possibility of air flowing through the window.

The average cost for a casement window is between $250 and $500. Keep in mind that for a bay window, 2 side windows are needed. And for certain designs of bow windows, up to 4 side windows may be needed.

Double-hung windows are also very common and popular. They slide both up and down, which allows the airflow of the window to be customized, depending on the weather, light, and owner preference. This also makes them fairly easy to clean and maintain. The cost range for a double-hung window is between $250 and $3,000, depending on the material, size, and glass design. Double-hung windows are available in various materials, including vinyl, wood, fiberglass, and clad.

Bay Window Roof Cost

If your roof and eaves do not extend far enough, you may need to install them over your bay window. Sometimes called a bay roof, the roof over bay windows generally has three sides, similar to the sides of the bay window itself. Usually, the vertical wall of the home is used to build the bay roof off of. Bay roofs are quite difficult to install due to the precision, angles, and slopes necessary to build them.

The three materials most common in bay roofs are copper, metal, and shingles. Each has benefits, and finding the best option for your home is key to having a beautiful and functional bay window.

Bay Window Shingles Cost

Shingles ⁷ are the most affordable option for bay roofs. Shingles are aesthetically pleasing and fairly durable. While they may not last 50 years, they typically have a lifespan of 20 to 25 years. Additionally, they allow the most versatility in color. Shingles come in nearly any color and are the most easily customizable. Shingles cost between $1.50 and $5.50 per square foot.

Bay Window Metal Roof Cost

Metal roofs are one of the more expensive but still popular choices for bay roofs. The metal contrasts the structure facade well, whether it is brick, stone, or siding. It is also very durable and can last 50 or more years when installed correctly. A metal roof typically costs between $9 and $12 per square foot.

Copper Bay Window Roof Price
Copper roofs have many benefits. It is a lightweight and durable material. Some copper roofs have been known to last over a hundred years. Because it is lightweight, it puts less pressure on the actual structure of the house. Copper gives a rustic look as it ages and complements most types of home sidings. Copper roofs typically cost between $11 and $15 per square foot.

Pros and Cons of Bay Windows

As with any home improvement project, there are pros and cons to installing bay windows. Bay windows tend to add value to homes and offer a nice place to sit, put plants, or create a small nook. They also let in a lot of light and offer a wider view of your yard. Bay windows are also attractive from the exterior. They catch the eye of passers-by and look nice on any home.

One of the cons of bay windows is that they can be expensive to install. The average cost to install bay windows without labor is $2,400. If your eaves and roof do not extend far enough to support the bay window, this is an additional cost. Additionally, if the bay windows are not installed properly, they can cause structural damage to your home.

Styles of Bay Windows

Bay windows not only add space to your house but also increase the amount of natural light. Depending on your personal style, there are 5 popular styles of bay windows that create a unique and custom look for your home. The style of bay window is part of what makes the aesthetic of the window so valuable and special on both the exterior and interior. Choosing a style can be a fun process that adds both flair and value to your home.

Victorian Bay Window

Victorian bay windows use a straight front window with angled sides. They are usually canted and have a very classic look. Victorian bay windows have beautiful and ornate details that make them stand out and catch the eye.

Tudor Bay Window

Tudor bay windows are smaller and commonly found on both levels of Tudor homes. What makes Tudor bay windows unique is they have wood brackets that support them. The wood brackets often match the exterior facade of the home.

Modern Bay Window

Modern bay windows have a distinct design that offers more glass window space and less ornamental material between the windows. The frames of modern bay windows are slimmer to offer more natural light. Circle bay windows usually fall under the modern bay window style.

Mid-Century Modern Bay Window

Mid-century modern bay windows are the most minimalist of the bay window styles. This style of the bay window is meant to maximize the view of the outdoors and are usually found on ranch-style or split-level homes. Picture and casement windows are very popular in the mid-century modern bay window design.

Craftsman Bay Window

The craftsman bay window is typically found in bungalow-style homes. These windows are not necessarily large but offer a small sitting or storage area. The original purpose of a craftsman bay window was to add functional space to smaller homes.

Determining the style of the bay window is ultimately the homeowner’s choice. Each brings its own aesthetic and functionality, and all can be great additions to homes.

Bow Window vs Bay Window Cost

Bay and bow windows may seem very similar. But they each have pros, cons, and cost differences associated with them.

Bay windows offer versatility in design, size, and shape and tend to be cheaper than bow windows. Additionally, they add space to any home, such as a sitting area. They provide less natural light than a bow window and do not offer as wide of a view. An installed bay window constructed of vinyl and measuring 8-feet wide costs about $2,600.

Bow windows have a narrower profile on the exterior, so they can be installed on homes close to streets and sidewalks. Because they have more panels and can be wider than bay windows, they offer more natural light and a wide view of the outdoors. Not all bow windows open, which is a negative for some people. An installed 5-panel bow window constructed of vinyl costs $3,600 on average.

Enhancements and Improvement Costs

Remove Old Windows

When replacing windows, the old ones must first be removed. Some contractors include the removal and disposal of old windows and the associated debris, but many do not. It is important to confirm with the contractor whether removal and disposal are included, and if not, what the costs are. Removing and disposing of the old windows usually takes about an hour and a half and costs between $80 and $130.

Cost to Open Up a Wall

Opening up a wall to install bay windows is a pretty large undertaking. There will be a significant amount of time spent not only on the design and preparation but also on the construction. Depending on the location, studs and load-bearing walls ⁸ may need to be moved. This usually requires several days. Opening up a load-bearing wall averages $1,200 to $3,000 and increases significantly if the wall is not on the ground floor.

Energy-Efficient Glass

While most standard window glass is energy-efficient, in cold climates it may be necessary to invest in a special triple-insulated glass with a Low-E coating. This design increases energy efficiency by an average of 15% to 25%. In cold climates, this can save a lot of money in heating costs over time. Unfortunately, this also comes with a cost increase. A standard vinyl double-hung window ranges from $270 to $800 per window with installation.

Interior Trim Cost and Window Seat

Interior trim is a nice way to finish the interior of a bay window, providing a clean and finished look. The interior trim can include everything from the window frame to adding a storage bench or seating area. Depending on the extent of the trim, it could be beneficial to hire a carpenter to finish the job.

Installing a window frame is a fairly simple project. Trim costs an average of $3 to $4 per linear foot. If you do not want to install the trim yourself, it costs around $350 to hire a carpenter to do the work.

The average cost for a carpenter is $35 per hour. For custom finish jobs, such as a seating area for a bay window, the cost can be as high as $70 per hour. For a carpenter to build a custom window seat for a bay window, expect to pay between $550 and $1,100.

Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet

² Bracket: A support that projects outward from one surface to hold another surface to it, such as attaching a shelf to a wall or piece of furniture. Brackets can also be used to strengthen joins between two materials

³ Fiberglass: Plastic that is reinforced with glass fibers. The fibers may be mixed randomly throughout the plastic, or come in the form of a flat sheet, or be woven into a fabric

⁴ Vinyl: A synthetic plastic made from ethylene and chlorine. Vinyl has many applications in the construction industry and it is widely used in sidings, window frames, roofing and gutters, among others

⁷ Shingles: A smooth, uniform, flat piece of construction material, available in a wide variety of materials and laid in a series of overlapping rows, used to cover the outside of roofs or walls to protect against weather damage and leaks.