How to add sophistication and channel more light with arched windows?

If you are in two minds about traditional vs. modern, half-circle windows can help bring the elements of different styles under one roof. Arched windows can enhance any building or remodel project, lending it an upscale look and feel on the inside and outside. They can add a lot of character to your home by contrasting or complementing other design features. Besides, they come in all heights, widths, and configurations to meet your aesthetically and functionally expectations.

What are the types of arched windows?

Do you need a single impressively large window to maximize natural light and make a design statement? Or the exact size of arched windows in each room for a balanced architectural appeal throughout? There’s an abundance of options to frame the view in style. The innovative technologies provide sizing and assembly flexibility, as single or several panes of glass can be used to fit any size opening in your home:

• Fixed arched windows

These can be made of two halves or a single pane of glass with the top featuring a circular design such as a standard arch (a half-circle) or a softer, wider curve (quarter circle windows). They can also be used as transoms over doors or regular windows. Fixed radius windows serve aesthetic purposes but do not open.

• Opening arched windows 

The top choices for ultimate functionality are arched vertical sliders (curved arched frames with half-circular or gothic top) and rectangular windows topped with round or quarter-round panes of glass. The arched part may be fixed or opened. It's placed over standard casement or double-hung windows, or the entire arched window frame may be designed to swing open in two panes.

• Multi-window arches

Fixed round-top windows that are stacked onto those that open or aligned into a side-by-side series for wider views are the popular configurations for softening the aesthetics of a rectilinear space. Creating a multi-part curve or placing an arched section between rectangular ones (Palladian window) are common ways of mixing regular and special shape windows. 

Add zest to your home design with replacement arched windows

The front-facing windows and your front door can benefit from a facelift that makes them more elegant and impressive. An arch window replacement project can add a touch of grandeur and antiquity that suits older homes or merge a modern feel with tradition. Consider the installation of:

• A single round top window
• An arched grouping of panes
• An arched transom
• A series or a pattern of arched windows

Any window with an arched look creates a focal point that is gorgeous on its own, but it can be styled with decorative add-ons such as window grill designs, shutters, ornamental filtering screens, or sheers to reduce heat or create interesting patterns of light inside.

Creating picture-perfect views as well as playing with height and light – these key perks of arched windows have been adored for centuries. The perception of a space visually altered after installing tall arched windows or multi-arch configurations makes even the smallest rooms seem bigger. Round-top windows compensate for the lack of ceiling height, creating a favorable optical illusion. 

Capturing and channeling more light and letting it flood abundantly or travel deeper into the room or hallway, arched windows and transoms work well to create a brighter, cozier, and more welcoming space. In buildings with high ceilings, the installation of arched windows emphasizes height and grandeur, adds gorgeous or dramatic focal points, and helps distribute natural light over larger expanses.  

What to consider when choosing an arched window style?

Your window replacement project starts with a range of aesthetic choices or arch assembly configurations to consider based on your space's specific needs and measurements. The framing material, glazing, and finish options to choose from will greatly depend on the climate of the area. That's why they are best discussed with a local window replacement company expert.

A professional should talk you through all the ins and outs of installation to ensure smooth and lasting performance. Besides enhancing the exterior and interior of your home, the unique shape windows can offer the same energy-saving benefits as other common types of replacement windows. However, the energy efficiency and security features should be factored into the arched windows prices for an expert to provide rough averages for your project. Choosing from several arched styles for the best fit is likely a matter of your budget and expectations.

Arched windows: Pros and cons

The advantages of arched configurations make them a reasonable investment in your home:

• Versatility: the modern profile forming equipment ensures a variety of bespoke designs made to any size or shape.
• Arched windows can be added onto other window types or over doors.
• They add value and interest, should you consider selling your property.
• When professionally installed and strategically placed, arched windows brighten underlit places and create an open, airy feel in rooms.
• Arched window frames work wonders aesthetically both on the inside and outside, create a unique ambiance, and complement various architectural styles.

However, they have some disadvantages as well, and their installation is more challenging because:

• Arched windows are not a DIY project anyone can tackle. Even taking accurate measurements and creating the rough opening for an arched frame is more complicated than with standard windows.
• Arched windows are more costly and have to be professionally installed (ensuring a perfect fit and weatherproofing is essential).
• A bespoke design costs more than a conventional window.
• Fixed arched windows are cheaper than openable frames, but they may be difficult to clean.

Rounding it up: Arched window replacement costs and benefits

Adding elaborate arched focal points is a fantastic upgrade to what would otherwise be a standard house or room. Your arched dream window doesn't have to come with a luxury price tag, but the bigger the size and the more custom elements or features involved, the steeper the price. The material and the style or assembly configuration you choose determine the cost of arched windows, which can range between $345 - $950 per window. However, the price includes installation costs and quality, no-mess services if you hire a reputable contractor. That said, arched windows can up your home's energy efficiency, with premium performance for years to come and save you more than their cost in the long run. If you want to maximize the savings, opt for fixed glass panes combined with opening sections for the most cost-effective result. 

So, it makes sense to view arched windows as an investment – and enjoyment. Your entire window replacement project cost will likely vary depending on how many windows you need to install. It's a good idea to get quotes from different companies to compare the prices and special offers.