Assessing the Opening Before Anything Is Ordered
Custom units are built to order and usually cannot be returned, so measuring accurately is only half the job. We also check whether the header is adequate for a wider opening, look for water damage or rot in the framing, and note any signs that an existing bay has started to sag. Problems found now are far cheaper to fix than problems found after the new window arrives.
Supporting a Bay or Bow Window Correctly
A bay or bow window projects beyond the wall, so its weight has to be carried by something. Depending on size, that may be a cable support system tied into the framing above, brackets below, or a built-up knee wall. The projection also needs a properly flashed roof or cap above it and insulated head and seat boards so it does not become the coldest or hottest spot in the room. See examples on our bay windows and bow windows pages.
Custom Shapes and Sizes
Arches, circles, trapezoids and extra-wide picture units can be made to fit almost any opening. Shaped windows are usually fixed, so we often pair them with operating units below for airflow. Matching grid patterns and frame colors across standard and custom pieces keeps the elevation looking intentional.
What Drives the Cost of a Custom Project
- Size and shape of the unit, and whether it opens.
- Frame material and color.
- Structural work such as a new header or bay supports.
- Roofing over a projecting bay.
- Interior finishing, including seat boards and trim.
We itemize each of these so you can make informed trade-offs.
Common Questions
Why choose Tekton Exteriors for custom and bay windows?
We handle the structural and roofing details that come with projecting windows, not just the glass. As a licensed and insured exterior contractor, we can manage the whole opening from framing to trim.
How long does a custom or bay window project take?
Custom units take longer to manufacture than standard sizes. Once they arrive, a bay or bow window is often installed in one to two days, depending on any framing or roofing work.
Can a bay window be energy efficient?
Yes, as long as the glass is efficient and the seat, head and roof cap are properly insulated. Those hidden areas are where poorly installed bays lose the most energy.
How do I schedule a consultation in Kearney Park?
Request a free estimate online or call our office, and we will set up a visit to measure and assess the opening.