Garden windows 101: Adding depth, character & functionality to your kitchen
Create a cosy kitchen atmosphere with a garden window. Photo courtesy of Ecoline Windows.
If you're renovating your kitchen this summer and looking for a way to bring in ample natural light, consider adding or replacing a garden window in your kitchen design plans.
Garden windows are a functional and beautiful addition to any kitchen. They extend outward, creating a mini-greenhouse effect and allowing space for you to grow various herbs, flowers and plants more successfully. The two side windows are functional, opening to allow ample airflow for the kitchen and a well-ventilated environment for your herbs. Traditionally installed above the kitchen sink, they offer homeowners an easy way to bring the garden indoors for convenient access when cooking.
Between their aesthetic appeal – adding depth and character to your kitchen – and their practicality as a functional, convenient way to increase light, airflow and growing space, garden windows are a great solution when considering window replacements in the kitchen.
The experts at Ecoline Windows and Doors share their insight on the cost of adding or replacing a garden window in your kitchen and maintaining them afterwards.
Garden windows vs. bay & bow windows
Garden windows stand out from traditional windows thanks to their unique design. Though often compared to bay and bow windows, there are some key differences between the three. Each style offers its own unique design and serves a specific purpose within the home.
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Bay windows: Composed of three units that form an angle, bay windows create additional space and offer expansive views. They are typically found in living rooms or bedrooms and are often used for extra seating or a lounge space.
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Bow windows: Made up of five or more units, bow windows create a rounded appearance and add a dramatic architectural element to your home. Unlike bay windows, they do not generally offer built-in seating but instead open up actual floor space that can be utilized in numerous ways.
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Garden windows: Garden windows are smaller than both bay and bow windows, designed specifically with the needs of plants in mind. They create a small greenhouse effect and include functional windows for ideal airflow.
Cost factors of installing garden windows
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Size: Larger windows require more materials and labour, which can significantly increase the overall price.
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Frame material: Vinyl frames are popular for their durability and cost-effectiveness, while wood frames are more expensive but offer a classic look.
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Custom features: Special glass types, unique frame colours or additional shelves can enhance the functionality and appeal of your garden window but also add to the cost.
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Installation complexity: The condition of the existing window opening, the need for structural reinforcement, and the location of your home all affect installation costs.
A standard-sized garden window with triple-pane glass, known for its energy efficiency and sound insulation, generally costs between $1,200 and $1,900+ to install.
Picking the right garden window
Once you've decided to add or replace a garden window in your kitchen, you have a few other aspects to consider:
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Materials: Opting for durable, energy-efficient materials will help you save on energy costs and ensure longevity but often costs more upfront.
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Purpose: Your new garden window needs to be the right size and style to suit your unique space. Are you growing just a few plants or the equivalent of a small garden? The more plants you wish to keep in the window, the bigger it needs to be.
Maintaining a garden window
Regularly cleaning glass will help maximize the light reaching your plants and maintain its aesthetic appeal. Checking to ensure your garden window's opening mechanisms operate smoothly and watching for signs of leaks or damage can help you stay ahead of any potential problems.
Garden windows are more affordable with the Ecoline Green Grant!
Available directly from Ecoline Windows, the Ecoline Green Grant provides homeowners with more support and encouragement to create a cleaner, greener B.C. for everyone. The Ecoline Green Grant offers up to $3,750 for window and exterior door replacement. Unlike traditional grant programs, it offers freedom and flexibility to homeowners. Choose from a wide range of Ecoline products without restrictions on R-values, glass types or income caps.
The price of adding a kitchen garden window may seem discouraging when considering a kitchen renovation, but its practicality and charming aesthetic make it a worthwhile venture. Invite charm and convenience into your home by adding a garden window to your kitchen today!
Ecoline Windows offers exterior door and window replacement in Hope and the Lower Mainland as well as several other communities throughout Western Canada! Find more information about their services and your eligibility for rebate and grant programs online today at ecolinewindows.ca or by calling 778-400-2063.