If you want a window that pops out and gives you a little extra space in your home, then you more than likely want to install either a garden window, bay window, or bow window. These terms are often confused and used interchangeably; however, each term represents a different type of window arrangement. This guide explains the differences between each of these windows.

The name bay window seems to imply one window; however, a bay window is actually a collection of three windows. The first window is set in the middle of the arrangement and is generally a larger, picture window.

On either side of the middle window are two other windows. These windows are the same height as the center window but are generally not as wide as the center window. These windows usually open and can be single-hung windows, double-hung windows, or even crank windows.

What really sets a bay window apart from other window arrangements is the relationship of the windows to one another and your home.

With a bay window configuration, the windows pop-out from your home's exterior. The center window is set past the walls in your home, and the two windows on either side are set at a 30 to 45-degree angle from the center window.

This creates a trapezoid area of space below the window. This area is often filled with padding and pillows and used as a sitting area. Alternatively, this area can be used as a space to display decorations.

Bay and bow windows are often found in living rooms or bedrooms. Garden windows, on the other hand, are often located in the kitchen, laundry room, or even bathrooms. Garden windows are installed so that they are even with your countertop.

A garden window is made entirely out of glass. A central picture window extends out from the home but generally doesn't extend out of your home as far as a bay or bow window arrangement. At a 90-degree angle on each side, there are two adjacent windows, which typically open and provide ventilation. The top is a slightly sloped window that allows sunlight in from the top.

In a garden window arrangement, there is usually a shelf. The shelf is as deep as the side windows on the window arrangement. This allows any plants you put on the shelf area to get lots of sunlight and fresh air. Sometimes, garden windows have an additional glass shelf or two within the arrangement. This allows you to layer multiple levels of plants on your garden window.

Our window team over at Monterey Glass Specialists Inc. can help you determine if a bay window, bow window, or garden window is what you are looking for and we'll install your new window arrangement for you.