Detroit Bay Windows

Popular Local Trends & Styles

• Victorian Style 

  Bay windows are a common feature in Victorian homes, of which greater Detroit has many — the most famous found at 544 Frederick in the Frederick Avenue Historic District. Victorian houses are ornate and finely detailed. Bay windows were often used on two stories to create the look of a tower. They complement the style by giving Victorian homes a multi-dimensional shape on the outside and a sunny glow on the inside.

• Energy-Efficient Windows Being in the northern United States, Detroit experiences its share of shifting temperatures from freezing winters to hot, urban summers. Many homeowners opt for double-pane or triple-pane windows to help reduce energy costs and keep their homes consistently comfortable in all types of weather. With double or triple panes of glass and insulating gas between the panes, energy efficient windows offer more insulation than traditional single-pane windows.
• Bay Window Curtains and Blinds

  The unique shape of a bay window and the addition of a seat or bench can make finding the right window treatment tricky. Curtains are a sought-after solution in Detroit, and there are specific bay window curtain rods that are adjustable and angled to fit your window without completely closing off the extra space. Bay window blinds are also popular because you can install them over each individual window in the combination.

• Window Seats and Benches

  There are many ways to take advantage of the additional square footage that bay windows bring to your home. A bay window seat with cushions or a bench are the most common. Depending on the location of your window — bathroom, kitchen, bedroom or living room — you can design the extra space to your needs. Building seating into your bay window can eliminate the need for bulky furniture and make your room feel larger and more open. You can also incorporate storage under the window seat by adding drawers or creating a bench seat that opens up on a hinge.

Product Lines

• Pella® Lifestyle Series
• Architect Series® - Traditional
• Pella® Reserve™ - Traditional
• Pella 250 Series
• Pella® Impervia®

Recommended Customizations¹

Bay windows offer a lot of room for customization. The large center window is typically combined with operational windows on each side. Casement windows that crank out to open up for ventilation are the most common. Victorian or traditional grille patterns and brass, bronze and rustic hardware add traditional accents that complement the style of historic homes. Find more customizations here.

¹Not all customizations are available in all Pella product lines.

Detroit Climate Recommendations

Detroit sits at the edge of Lake St. Clair but its climate is largely affected by the Great Lakes. Freezing temps, moderate snowfall and spring and summer thunderstorms are the norm. The range of temperatures and variable precipitation make energy efficient products a priority for many homeowners in the region.

Why Choose Pella?

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Frequently Asked Questions

•   What is the difference between a bay window and a bow window?

  • Both bay and bow windows use a combination of windows to protrude from the exterior of a home. Bay windows consist of a set of three angled window panels — one large, fixed window and two flanking windows on the sides. In contrast, bow windows are made of four or more windows that create a curved shape. Learn more about the differences in size, style, light, ventilation and cost.

•   I need new windows. Where do I start?

  • Buying new windows is not something you do every day. Read our comprehensive guide to the window replacement process to get started on your project.

•   What factory-prefinished stain and paint colors are available on Pella products?

  • Wood Windows and Patio Doors – Wood interiors offer more design flexibility — windows and patio doors can be stained or painted to match your decor.  Explore the interior and exterior finish options available for Pella's wood products.

    As part of Pella Corporation’s commitment to environmentally-friendly practices, we use Water-Based Green Chemistry. Our factory-applied stain is water-based, which significantly decreases the amount of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted into the air.

    Fiberglass Windows and Patio Doors – Available in colors offering the quality look of painted wood — including a dual-color option. Explore the interior and exterior finish options available for Pella's fiberglass products.

    Vinyl Windows and Patio Doors – Pella's unique vinyl formula is performance-tested for excellent weathering, durability, and color retention. Solid- and Dual-Color frames are available. Explore the interior and exterior finish options available for Pella's vinyl products.

    Fiberglass and Steel Entry Doors – You'll save time and finishing costs when your entry door arrives prefinished in your choice of paint or stain color that will look beautiful for years. Explore interior and exterior finish options for Pella's fiberglass and steel entry doors.

•   Where can I find current installation instructions for my Pella windows, doors and installation accessories?

  • When installing Pella windows and doors, the instructions need to address each individual wall and/or construction type. Pella's Product Installation Guides and animated installation videos provide specific instructions for multiple installation scenarios. Printed instructions are no longer provided with most Pella products due to the numerous variations in construction types.

    Not able to find the installation instructions you need?  Contact Pella Customer Service at (877) 473-5527 so they can provide the installation instructions you're looking for.

•   How do I apply paint or stain to my Pella wood windows and patio doors?

  • Learn how to paint your wood interior finish, prepare products for finishing, finish removable grilles, select the right paint or stain and more in the Pella Help Library.

•   How can I decorate or design around my bay window?

  • Bay windows are often a main focal point of your room. And their structure can present unique design challenges. These decorating, dressing and furniture placement ideas can help you design around your bay windows.

•   Which window style best fits my home?

  • The architecture of your home can impact your window choice. Find the right windows to fit the architecture of homes in the Colonial, Cape Cod, Craftsman, Bungalow, Victorian, Contemporary, Spanish or Mediterranean style.

•   What general maintenance is required for my Pella windows and patio doors?

  • Pella recommends you inspect your windows and patio doors at least annually as part of a home checkup. Maintenance can prolong the life of your Pella windows and doors and will help ensure maximum warranty coverage.
    
    As needed, clean, repaint or restain your windows and patio doors, and recaulk around them to help maintain optimal performance. Also, be sure to regularly check for leaks and improper drainage above or around vents and sprinkler systems that may subject your windows and patio doors to prolonged water exposure.
    
    Review the Maintenance section of the Pella Window and Patio Door Owner's Manual for additional details about how to properly maintain the interior and exterior of your Pella windows and patio doors.