The best bay window materials

Bay windows add character, more natural light, and kerb appeal to your home, but what are the best bay window materials for this attractive feature?

Our guide to bay window materials will help you weigh up the best options for your home. Whether you're adding a new bay window feature, or replacing an existing one, we've got you covered.

Bay window materials

There are several options when it comes to bay window materials, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Homeowners typically look at durability, budget, maintenance, and appearance to help choose the best type for their property. Some of the most popular types of bay window materials include:

Wood

A wood bay window offers a charming, characterful feel, suited to both traditional and more modern homes. They are available in various styles and designs and can be stained or painted to suit the style of your home.

While wood bay windows have naturally insulative properties, they need regular maintenance to help them stay looking good and prevent rot.

Vinyl

A bay window made from vinyl (more commonly referred to as uPVC) offers a more affordable choice of frame. Vinyl bay windows are durable and low maintenance with good insulative properties.

Vinyl bay windows generally come in a selection of colours and styles, offering good versatility.

Fibreglass

Fibreglass bay windows are stronger and more durable than vinyl, which allows for thinner frames and more glass area. So if you're keen on a sleeker aesthetic, fibreglass bay windows are one to consider.

They are low maintenance and can be customised, making them a popular choice among UK homeowners.

Aluminium

Aluminium window frames also offer a slim profile, with thinner frames that can be powder-coated in any colour. They are strong, durable, and weather-resistant, with good thermal performance.

Aluminium windows tend to be more expensive than other bay window materials, but they have a long lifespan and low maintenance, making them cost-effective long-term.

Composite

Composite windows are becoming increasingly popular; their makeup offering a series of benefits.

The combination of wood, vinyl, and fibreglass makes the frames strong, durable, and well-insulated. While the outer layer can have the appearance of wood without the upkeep needed for natural timber.

Get help from approved local experts

Choosing the best bay window materials for your home will depend on your needs and budget. For expert help making the right selection, contact an approved bay window installer near you.

Bay window insulation

Bay window insulation is a key consideration for this architectural property feature. After all, a bay window protrudes from the house, therefore special care must be taken to ensure the roof and bottom of the window structure are properly insulated.

Double or triple glazing can be installed to insulate the glazing better, selecting a well-insulated frame, and installing weather-stripping can all help to increase thermal performance.

Our guide to planning for bay windows has plenty more information on the glass options available for bay windows and their benefits.

Bay window exterior siding

A bay window has three (or more) sections. The middle section is fixed (often called the picture window), with two smaller windows on either side.

The external area surrounding the bay window is the exterior siding. There are a number of bay window siding ideas popular with homeowners, including cladding for more modern properties and wood for a more traditional look.

As mentioned earlier, bay window exterior siding will play an important role in how well-insulated this area is. It'll also have a major impact on the appearance of your home and weatherproofing, so it's worth spending a bit of time getting it right.

Contact a local approved bay window installer, who'll be happy to discuss the most suitable option for your home.

Bay window skirting

Bay window skirting can be challenging to install unless you're an experienced professional.

MDF skirting boards are more flexible than hardwood or softwood, making them better suited to curved walls.

However, flexible skirting boards made from a bendable polyurethane material are ideal for a smooth finish with fewer cuts.

Roofing felt for bay windows

Roofing felt is another important bay window material, helping to weatherproof the structure and prolong its lifespan.

But roofing felt isn't the only option for bay window roofing. EPDM, lead, and fibreglass can also be considered.

• Roofing felt is commonly used and looks good but it needs expert installation for proper adhesion

• EPDM is durable and practical. It may not be as visually attractive as felt or lead, but is incredibly robust

• Lead roofs are more popular with traditional homes; they can be as simple or decorative as needed to suit your home's aesthetic

• Fibreglass is a more affordable option than lead (and is therefore less attractive to thieves). It's also available in a wide choice of colours

Take a look at our guide on the cost of bay window roof repairs for more information.

On Checkatrade, you'll only find trades who meet our high standards and pass up to 12 checks.

Find an experienced bay window installer in your area

With many considerations to make when choosing bay window materials, it's best to consult with an experienced local installer.

Finding trusted and reputable experts in your area is easy with Checkatrade. We check and approve all our members, giving you complete confidence in your tradesperson.

Search your postcode, below, to see the bay window installers who come highly rated near you.

FAQs

What is the best window covering for bay windows?

Dressing a bay window often needs a little more thought due to its more unusual shape. However, curtains, blinds, and shutters are all still viable options. The best window covering for bay windows really depends on your needs, style, and budget.

Planning on a beautiful window seat as part of your bay window design? Take a look at our bay window seat cost guide to help you budget.

What material is used for bay windows?

Several materials, including wood, vinyl, fibreglass, aluminium, and composite, are used for bay windows. Homeowners typically weigh durability, budget, maintenance, and appearance to make the right choice for their property.

Why are bay windows expensive?

Bay windows are more expensive due to the increased complexity from a structural point of view and also installation. They generally need more materials and labour than standard windows, including the roofing and siding.

How much does it cost to build a bay window?

The cost to build a bay window in the UK will vary depending on its size, the materials selected, and the complexity of installation.

As a guide, expect to pay, on average:

• £1,200 for a 3-section uPVC bay window

• £1,650for a 4-section uPVC bay window

• £2,150for a 5-section uPVC bay window

Meanwhile, the average cost of replacing an existing bay window is around £2,000.

Our guide to the cost of bay windows has plenty more information.

Do bay windows increase home value?

Generally speaking, bay windows can increase home value. They create more internal space and a more characterful aesthetic. They can make a room feel lighter and brighter and increase your home's kerb appeal to potential buyers.