Replacement window recommendations (bay or not)

Hello everyone,

Starting with my pic, but just wanted to solicit ideas to either do a full bay window installation or replace all 9 windows individually and keep the framing as is?

These appear to be original windows, that are single pane glass, but the previous owner installed outer storm windows. The 9 way framing is wood.

I've been thinking about going the bay window route, but had a couple conversations with some people and was told it could get very expensive (like close to $10K or more), as well as likely making the opening smaller. I'd like to keep the opening the exact same size, but not sure which option will be best long term. I am in-between costs concerns and on one side, I'd like something quality to give my home nice curb appeal, but also want something energy efficient as well as keeping the project simple and not too costly due to rising prices because of the current state of the economy. The windows do allow heat to escape in the winter, but I used the plastic window insulation kits to help, as well as fully caulked the windows.

Just looking for some advice/ideas.

Thanks in advance!

 

Bay windows are rarely just drop-in easy to install. So there's always more work to be done. But it will add more openness inside as long as they are full sized. Often, people will get standard-sized windows, which limits the size options, but keeps the cost down.

More expensive, but I think a bow window would be really nice in that location. But similar installation challenges to a bay window.

Personally, I wouldn't get the same 9-window format. I'd look at a picture window if you really want to open it up, or maybe three top-to-bottom casement windows. Lots of options along those lines depending on how you want it to look.

 

In either case you have to deal with a "roof" condition at the soffit and a "floor" condition below. I believe bay windows usually have a matching wall/foundation below and bow windows cantilever out over the existing wall. In addition to dealing with the brick, there will be waterproofing and insulation issues to address. The price of $10K or more probably takes all that into account.

I would go with a picture window and two operable side windows. Maybe a planting bed below for added curb appeal.

 

A pic of the inside would be helpful or at least tell us the era of your décor, as it might help dictate what style window.
I wouldn't get what you have now, unless it's just one large pane of glass with small grids. More modern looking. I agree with Zorfdt to a picture window with two smaller windows on each side or just a triple window (I'd prefer over the picture).
While the bay or bow will make your room look larger and are pretty, my neighbor had their picture window replaced with a bay a few years ago, and the company is still coming back every now and then to fix something.

 

Having done windows for a big part of the last 30+ yrs... I'd recommend you tear it ALL out and if you don't ever open them (and it's not a bedroom) replace them with 3 equal sized fixed picture windows. You will love the view once you get rid of all the horizontal.

No I wouldn't do a bay or bow window.

 

Hi Everyone,

Great ideas. Sorry for the delay in responding. Attached are two pics of the inside. I'd say modern decor/furniture. In my 30's and just purchased the home a year ago and still haven't painted yet as I wanted to paint after I did the window replacements.

The picture window or similar seems like a good way to go. I definitely don't want the trouble with insulation and weatherproofing if it could cause long term challenges/issues.

 

Yeah, I think either the picture or the triple window will work there. Hope I'm not stepping on any toes, but hope you're getting rid of that cornice or board on top of the window.

 

Out of curiosity, what's wrong with the cornice board? Dated? I think it looks nice, and appears to be built in with the crown moulding... so not easy to simply remove.

 

Yes dated, but the main problem is, it's too short. It should come down at least 1/6th to 1/5th of the top of the window. Looks like it's too close projection wise too, if hanging curtains under it. The board itself looks too thick too, but maybe it's the pic? I guess it's the curtainmaker in me, lol.

 

I will also say nay to the bow or bay window. I say this because I have heard many stories of people having problems with leakage. If not installed properly they can cause all kinds of problems. 2John post #3 said it best. A roof and a floor can cause problems.

 

Hi everyone.

Thanks again for the ideas. I'll plan to do a picture window. My neighbor across the street has a 4 window setup. I was thinking of something similar. My want (wish) is to have windows that open outward (open horizontally) instead of open vertically like on double hung windows.

For the cornice board, it's under the crown molding and the dining room has one as well. The underside has my curtain rods. I've never had a home with this setup, but I like it and won't be changing it as it works for me and would be too expensive to redo.

Thanks again. After I get the job done, I'll post some pics. Might not be for a while as I need to continue saving some money.

Thanks again.