Do Bay Windows Make Homes Hotter?

Bay windows are a gorgeous addition to any home. They give natural light, more space, they’re comfortable, and they can even help with curb appeal. Las Vegas has lots of sunshine and very long summers, so some homeowners wonder if bay windows make their home hotter or not. The short answer is that it depends. You need to factor in the type of glass, the placement, insulation, and the features for energy efficiency installed. 

Why Bay Windows Can Raise Indoor Heat

Bay windows usually extend outwards and they continue multiple panes of glass. A lot of the time, they are uninsulated too (Is my bay window secretly draining the heat from my home?). This bay window design does increase natural light and a beautiful view, but it also increases the amount of heat that comes into your home. 

Since Las Vegas has strong sunlight and strong UV levels year round, it might get hotter in your home due to these windows. The U.S. The Department of Energy states that about 76% of sunlight that falls onto standard double pane windows becomes heat in your home (Energy Efficient Window Coverings). This can result in high energy bills and discomfort. Especially with older windows, there can be hot spots and sun fading on your furniture or flooring. 

The Kind of Glass Matters

Not all bay windows perform the exact same way. The U.S. The Department of Energy says “Windows with low-e coatings, especially spectrally selective coatings, are effective at reducing summer heat gain and air conditioning costs without significantly impacting visible light ..” Low e-coatings help block UV rays, which can reduce fading on your furniture and floors. The Department of Energy also recommends windows that are specifically a lower number of SHGC so there is less heat transmitted into your home (Purchasing Energy Efficient Residential Windows). 

Bay Window Placement Makes a Difference

If you put a window in a certain direction, that puts you right in the position of having an undesirable amount of heat in your home. Be sure to place most of your windows on the north and south sides of your home. 

When You Need To Replace Your Bay Window

If your bay windows feel hot to the touch, make rooms uncomfortable despite the air conditioning being on, and make your energy bills higher it might be time to replace. Window World has excellent bay windows amongst many other types of windows, which are reliable and will make your home much more comfortable. 

Bay windows don’t immediately make Las Vegas homes hotter, but the older and inefficient windows can contribute to heat gain and higher energy bills. But with the right glass, insulation, and placement, bay windows are an excellent option and provide lots of natural light and aesthetics. For energy efficient windows that make your home comfortable, contact us today at Window World at (702) 622-9399.