Need to get some sunshine into your living area? Maybe the thought of having some of your garden peeping into your comfortable dining room? Bay windows are the single solution is this is your idea. These wonderful additions to your house is probably one of the better ways to turning your rooms into stylish, spacious and sunny havens. The English Renaissance first saw their popularity increase since a bay window increases the usable living space in a room, brings in more sunlight and adds greater dimension.

Three sections angled at about 30 or 45 degrees which protrude outwards from the main exterior wall of your house or office is what identifies a traditional bay window. A similar alternative is the bow window which comprises four or more plates of glass and this creates a more rounded effect. Square windows protruding outwards will give you a more rectangular shape.

Many different combinations of window designs and styles can be used in a bay unit although the more popular consist of two clear casement windows on the sides bordering with a large, central pane. Decorated glass can add a much sought after effect especially if it is frosted, beveled, leaded or stained. You can gain up to an additional 3 feet in room length with the width being dependent on the angles used as well as the size and number of the windows installed.

Often chosen instead of a porch or balcony, bay windows are relatively easy to install and are very energy efficient. The coatings on the glass should deflect UV and IR rays but this you will need to check with the individual manufaturer’s. They are perfect for use in master bedrooms, living rooms and dining rooms and many owners now choose to make a design statement by replacing existing windows with bay or bow windows especially if the view of the garden is picturesque. Most often, these windows are designed with window seats which are used creatively as a reading corner, breakfast bar or even an indoor garden.

Make sure that you buy your bow or bay windows from a reputable window supplier or manufacturer which is able to provide high european quality which can stand up against UV and IR rays. In countries with difficult climates these units can also include monsoon stoppers and hurricane reinforcing bars.

Although there are Do-It-Yourself units available today, it is always better to trust the work to the window experts since every installation needs a lot of micro planning. If you buy the windows from a reputable supplier they will be durable, longer lasting and also meet industry standards. Special tests would have been performed for physical load exertion on both the inside and outside of the glass.

Make sure that you choose a company that is either the manufacturer themselves or a supply company that is big enough to force the manufacturer to meet the proper standards. These are the only people that will give you the quality you deserve.

Bay windows are easy to clean especially if you have turned the bay into a reading corner which has a bench around the outside. Since most have a uPVC frame (make sure you choose one that does) they can be wiped down with a damp cloth.