True Cost Guide Doors & Windows Install Bow Windows

How Much Does a Bow Window Cost?

Typical Range:

$800 - $15,000

Cost data is based on research by HomeAdvisor.

Updated May 27, 2021

Written by HomeAdvisor.

Bow windows cost $3,600 on average or typically between $1,500 and $6,500, including both materials and installation. Custom work can hit $15,000 or more when including framing. Pricing for premade units depends on the type of material you choose, with vinyl the least expensive option and wood the most expensive.

Bow windows differ from bay windows in their designs. Where a bay window has 3 panes, with 2 of equal size set at a 45-degree angle to the main picture window, a bow window has 4 or more panes at equal angles, forming a semi-circle “bow.”

Average Bow Window Prices

Average Cost	$3,600
High Cost	$15,000
Low Cost	$800

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Bow Window Replacement Cost

Replacing a bow window costs $1,000 to $4,500 on average—about twice as much as bay window replacement costs. Generally, bow windows run 1.5 to 2.5 times the price of the equivalent bay size. Replacement prices here reflect using the exact same size opening, so you don’t have the added expense of changing framing, drywall, siding or roofing.

New Bow Window Costs

Installing a new bow window where one doesn’t already exist costs $3,000 to $10,000 or more. Besides the price of the window itself, you’ll need to factor in new framing, drywall and any extra roofing and siding. In some cases, you’ll also need to have electrical rerouted around the frame.

Drywall costs: $1–$3 per sq. ft.
Roofing costs: $45–$75 per hour
Framing repair costs: $500–$1,800 total
Siding costs: $3–$12 per sq. ft.

Bow Window Pricing

Bow window prices range from $500 to $1,500 for pre-hung and standard off-the-shelf varieties from most manufacturers. However, most of that price reflects standard vinyl materials. Custom work and luxury lines of wood can hit $5,000 or more.

Bow Window Costs by Brand

Brand	Material Price per Window
Simonton®	$1,000-$1,400
Andersen™	$1,200-$1,500
Pella®	$500-$1,000
Marvin®	$800-$1,000

Bow Window Installation Cost

Labor costs to install a bow window run $300 to $1,000 per window or about $30 to $50 per hour. Direct replacements in already existing holes don’t take long, generally 1.5 hours. But, if you want the hole expanded or one doesn’t exist, expect to pay $1,000 or more.

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DIY vs. Hire a Bow Window Installer

You’ll almost always want to hire a local window installer to put this type of window in, unless it’s a perfectly sized replacement for what you already have. Putting one in an existing home requires:

Bracing the frame
Cutting a hole
Framing it correctly to bear the load (exterior walls are load bearing)
Installing the window, flashing and siding
Fixing the drywall
Rerouting an existing electrical.

FAQs

Are bow windows outdated?

Bow windows aren’t outdated, especially if you own a Victorian-style home. They don’t fit on every modern home style, but they make an elegant architectural touch in most settings.

Are bow or bay windows cheaper?

Bay windows are cheaper than bow because they have fewer panes.

Do you need planning permission for a bow window?

Planning permission for window installs depends on your location. In many places, you’ll need to get a permit to perform any work to the structure. For a direct replacement, you often don’t need a permit.