How Much Does a Bay Window Actually Cost?

Installing a bay window costs about $2,500 on average, though the overall cost may range from $950 to $7,500, depending on several important cost factors. Given the wide cost range, learn more a about bay window cost factors and how much you can expect to spend.

Bay Window Cost Factors

Size

Larger windows require greater material costs, and they may also be more difficult to install, leading to higher labor costs. While there are several standard bay window sizes, some homeowners may choose to have the bay window customized to better suit the home aesthetic.

• Small basic bay window: $800 to $2,500
• Standard midrange bay window: $2,000 to $6,000
• Large or custom bay qindow: $3,500 to $8,000

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Material

You can typically choose from aluminum, fiberglass, steel, vinyl, and wood for your bay window, though you should consult with the installer to determine which material is best for your home.

• Aluminum is the least costly option, ranging from just $500 to $2,200. The lower cost is due to the lightweight nature and poor insulation of this type of metal. For improved long-lasting durability, with the same metal appearance, steel is a better option.
• Fiberglass is a tough, energy-efficient bay window material that doesn’t require a lot of maintenance to keep in good condition. It costs about $900 to $4,500, depending on the size and design of the window.
• Steel is the most expensive material choice for a bay window, though it’s also one of the best options for longevity, strength, and durability. Plan to spend between $1,600 to $7,000 if you want a steel bay window installed.
• Vinyl is another low-cost choice that ranges from $700 to $3,500 for a bay window. This type of material doesn’t have as many customization options as other materials, but it is relatively low maintenance and it’s a better insulator than aluminum.
• Wood offers homeowners the classic bay window look, and tends to be one of the most customizable material options available. A wood bay window is a durable, resilient choice, though it costs between $1,100 to $6,000 to install.

Labor

Bay windows aren’t as easy to work with as standard home windows, so labor costs are typically higher when it comes to a bay window installation.

“Bay windows require specially sized glass panels and window frames to suit the unique shape and dimensions of each opening,” says Kevin McLaughlin, Home Improvement Specialist and Owner of Heritage Exteriors. “The multiple panes of glass also require high-quality spacers, gaskets and sealants to prevent drafts. A typical bay window installation can take six to 12 hours for a three or four window bay.”

You can expect to pay about $500 to $2,500 in labor, depending on the size of the bay window, the number of windows, and the complexity of the job. For instance, if the installers are just replacing an existing bay window, then labor cost will be lower than if they need to cut an opening in the wall for a new bay window.

Permits and Delivery Fees

Before starting a bay window installation project, you or the installer will need a permit from the local permit office.

“Fees are common for structural modifications, siding repair or replacement, and acquiring the proper permits,” McLaughlin says.

Typically, a building permit for a bay window installation ranges from about $50 to $200, depending on the scope of the job.

Some companies may charge a delivery fee to transport the bay window to the home. Take this opportunity to ask if there is an extra fee for delivery, or if this service is included with the price of the job.

Bay Window Roof Addition

In some cases, the new bay window will extend out further than the existing roof. If this occurs, the installers will need to put in a bay window roof addition to help protect the newly installed window. The cost for this addition varies based on the material that is used, including shingles, sheet metal roofing, or copper.

Shingles are the most affordable, ranging from $3 to $15 per square foot, but if you have a metal roof, then paying $4 to $20 per square foot for sheet metal roofing is a better choice for function and appearance. Alternatively, homeowners can take the opportunity to highlight the new bay window by topping it with a copper bay window roof addition, ranging in price from $11 to $30 per square foot.

Bay Window Cost by Type

There are several different styles or bay window types that homeowners can choose from when planning a bay window installation.

• Bow windows typically have four to six glass section of equal size that are arranged in a graceful arch shape that extends beyond the exterior wall. This type of bay window costs between $1,200 to $3,600 per window.
• Box bay windows are an affordable option that looks great in the kitchen. These small bay windows cost about $700 to install.
• Circle bay windows, as the name implies, have a circular shape made up of several windows. They create a unique rounded shape, though each circle bay window cost around $2,500 to install.
• Full bay windows, or canted bay windows, are the most common type of bay window. When most people think of a bay window, it’s full bay windows that they are usually picturing, with a flat front window and two smaller, angled glass panels on the sides. These bay windows cost about $800 to $2,100 per window, depending on the size.
• Oriel bay windows can have a semi-hexagonal or rectangular shape, which sits atop a decorative support, enhancing the exterior of the home. This style costs about $900 to $2,500 per window.
• Tudor bay windows are commonly found on the first or second floor of the home, and typically feature stained bars that form an X or diamond pattern across the windows. Plan to set aside about $1,125 to $3,250 per window.
• Victorian bay windows are generally made up of three windows, with two sides the extend out on an angle to form a trapezoid shape. They typically have decorative supports and ornate window designs, while installation ranges in cost from $1,800 to $3,200 per window.

Cost of Bay Windows vs. Other Windows

Before installing a new bay window, it’s worth it to compare the cost of a bay window to other window options, including single-hung, double-hung, picture, casement, and more.

• Bay window: $910 to $7,100
• Bow window: $1,500 to $6,500
• Casement window: $150 to $1,000
• Double-hung window: $150 to $650
• Folding window: $500 to $900
• Picture window: $65 to $700
• Single-hung window: $100 to $400
• Sliding window: $150 to $800
• Storm window: $90 to $400

Bay Window Maintenance Costs

Maintenance costs for a bay window can include professional cleaning, repairs, and winterizing. While homeowners may be able to handle day-to-day cleaning or even replacing the window stripping, it’s a good idea to have professional cleaning once a year, and to call in a bay window repair specialist to replace a broken seal, patch a cracked pane, or make larger repairs to the window.

• Broken seal replacement: $120
• Fixing bay window hardware: $75
• Major bay window repairs: $600 to $1,100
• Patching a cracked pane: $70
• Professional window cleaning: $200 per visit, or $28 per bay window
• Replace the window glass: $500 to $3,800
• Replace weatherstripping: $20
• Seal wood frames: $20

Is Installing a Bay Window a DIY Project?

It is possible for an experienced DIYer with enough time and the right tools to install a bay window, and it can help save about 10 to 15 percent of the overall cost, though it will still cost between $900 to $7,100 to install the bay window yourself.

Homeowners should consider the size and weight of a bay window before deciding that they want to install it without the pros. It’s important to note that improper installation of a bay window can cause serious damage to the walls and interior of the home if water manages to leak through a gap in the window. 

“The main benefit of a professional installer is their expertise in properly measuring, installing, and sealing custom bay windows to maximize energy efficiency and curb appeal while avoiding issues like leaks or drafts,” McLaughlin says. “Professionals may also handle permitting to ensure compliance with local building codes.”

Cost of Add-Ons

There are a few add-ons to consider when installing a bay window, which will add to the overall price:

• Energy-efficient bay windows panes can be used instead of standard window panes for improve efficiency. These windows feature triple-pane glass or gas-filled glass designs that cost about $800 to $3,700 depending on the size and style.
• Window coating can be used to block UV radiation, while improving the insulation quality of the glass. Adding this type of coating generally costs between $800 to $3,700, depending on the size of the window.
• Window seats can be added to a bay window for about $1,000 to $6,000, giving you an extra place to sit and relax inside the home. These cozy nooks are perfect for reading, relaxing, and cat-napping throughout the day.
• Window trim can be customized to enhance the appearance of the new bay window. This extra feature typically costs between $0.60 to $1.20 per linear foot, making it a relatively affordable choice to add a bit of flair to the finished project.

Best Time of Year to Have a Bay Window Installed

The best time of the year for a bay window installation project is either in spring or fall, when the temperature outside are mild. This makes it easier to complete the installation successfully, while minimizing the impact on the home’s heating and cooling system. However, if you are looking for the best prices, then it’s worth noting that material and installation costs may decrease significantly during the winter months.