Notes

What Experts In The Field Want You To Know
How to Repair a Bow Window

Your home can be made more energy efficient and worth the investment by replacing bow windows. The cost will vary depending on the frame material and glass choices.

Window glazing is available in double and triple-pane designs that can feature Krypton or Argon gas to provide additional insulation. The glass is insulated to help lower cooling and heating costs.

Support Cables

Stained glass windows often rely on stainless steel cables to transfer tensile forces from the window frame to the structure above and below. The cables are designed in a parabolic shape to resist wind loads. In time they can develop the pattern of stress where they bow outwards, often taking over the brace bars which partially prevent inward bowing. This condition can be caused by building settlement or temperature fluctuations, as well as oxidation of the window lead, and the breakage of wire ties that join the window to the brace bars. Out-of-plane bowing relieves the pressure on the framework as well as the stained glass, preventing further damage. The window can also be freed from the lead and become more resistant to weather. It could be extremely dangerous working on these bows if they are not secured properly.

Add a Wrap

A bow window added to your home could provide stunning views of the outdoors, a spacious feel and a unique look. Since these windows are a bit away from the home in time, they could be sagging or distorting. If a bow window becomes saggy, it could cause structural damage to your home, and also affect the structural integrity of both the glass and the roof. There are a variety of ways to fix the bow window until you can replace the glass with professionals.

The first step is to identify the area where the sagging occurred. If the sagging is located in the middle, you can place support cables in an L-shaped shape at the bottom of the frame. This will lift the window a bit and spread the weight evenly. If the sagging is on the top or bottom, you will have to install support brackets.

If the glass is in good shape you can cover it with the wrap. Cut a piece of painter's wooden stir stick to size and then cover it with wax paper to shield the glasses. Wrap the stick around each bridge of the glasses. Crisscross the stick as necessary to make it thicker. Leave a short piece to trim later, and soak the wrap with glue before attaching it to the glasses.

You can buy crash wrap from a variety of auto and hardware stores at a cheap cost. This material is a clear packaging tape that offers a flexibility and sturdy support for your glasses. It's also much simpler to use than duct tape, and it is able to be removed after the repair has been completed.

If you're thinking of installing a bow or bay window, you should always employ an experienced professional to ensure that the work is done properly. These windows could require bigger openings or be affixed to structural components in the home. They also usually involve replacing the flashing on windows and working around electrical wiring, which can be risky for contractors who aren't experienced. Moreover, bow and bay windows are significantly heavier than flat windows and are therefore more difficult to install.

Add an empty

Bow windows are a sought-after home improvement, giving a unique look with extra natural light and views. These big, curved windows typically have a window sill or seat to create a focal point in a room. They also increase space. They are prone to sagging over time, much like their bay windows cousins.


If you're creating a new bow window or replacing one you have it is crucial to begin with a sturdy frame base. Make sure the frame and header are set enough to support the bow window's weight using jack studs, and 2 4's in place of block studs as necessary.

Install sash window repair bow after you have built solid foundation. Use a bubble level to ensure that the window is level and straight on both sides. Once the window is in place, you can put in an extension cable kit to assist with support and stability. The cable takes a portion of the weight and spreads it down into the wall, helping to prevent sagging over time.

If the window in the bow is sagging in a particular area, it may be a good idea to add more brackets under the base. They can be installed using a drill and are usually designed to fit into the corner of a house. Once the brackets are installed, they must be screwed into the wall and can be positioned evenly on the bottom of the window.

You should also maintain your bow windows frequently. Cleaning should consist of a thorough cleaning of all panes and glass panels and the frames. You should also grease moving parts every year to prevent them from squeaking or sticking.

Installing or replacing windows with bows is a great way to enhance the look of your home, but it's not a DIY job even if you have prior experience in building. These windows can be quite heavy and large, and require structural modifications that can be expensive. They also involve a lot of cutting and adjusting electrical wiring, which is an activity best left to professionals.

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