Why do British houses have bay windows?
British houses have bay windows mainly because Victorian and Edwardian builders used them to bring more daylight and floor space into narrow terraces and semis. Cheaper glass after the 1840s and the repeal of window tax in 1851 made larger windows practical.
What is the difference between a bay and a bow window?
A bay window has angled sides and a flat front, usually three or more panels at 30 or 45 degrees. A bow window curves in a smooth arc. Both project from the wall, but bays are more common on Victorian terraces.
Why did window tax matter?
Window tax, charged from 1696, led owners to block up windows. After its repeal in 1851, builders could fit larger glazed areas and bay fronts became a status feature for streets in places like Walthamstow.
Are bay windows still worth fitting?
Yes. They still give more light and space than a flat window. If yours needs replacing, see our uPVC bay and bow windows. Bays were also fashionable earlier, as Georgian bow fronts show, before terraced builders adopted them in volume.
Thinking about new windows? We supply and fit across Stamford Hill, Haringey, Enfield, Barnet, Ilford and the rest of North and East London, with a 10-year guarantee and FENSA-registered installation. Call 020 8800 1838 or request a quote.