Natural light lovers rejoice! If you’ve been eager to illuminate your kitchen with sunlight each morning or simply want a better view while scrubbing the dishes, a kitchen garden window may be the perfect home improvement project. When shopping for a kitchen garden window, it’s important to know what you’re looking for. We’ve compiled everything you need to know about kitchen garden windows including their cost, where to purchase them, and more.
Let’s dive in.
What are kitchen garden windows?
Image source: Window World
Not unlike bay windows or casement windows, kitchen garden windows are typically installed when natural sunlight is wanted. Set above your countertop and kitchen sink, garden windows are a three-dimensional window with glass on the top and three sides for reinforcement. This specific type of window functions as a mini-greenhouse, even allowing for a small herb garden to spice up your cooking.
Kitchen garden window cost
Kitchen garden windows can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000. The pricing hinges on the size and materials of the window.
Replacing a standard window with a garden window may not break the bank, but the installation is difficult. Instead of going the DIY route, we recommend hiring a professional to get the job done right.
Where to buy kitchen garden windows
Switching out your old window for a kitchen garden window may seem overwhelming, but there are a few specific brands that provide plenty of new and replacement windows for homeowners to choose from.
Harvey
Materials: Vinyl
Window styles: Custom-designed garden window
Harvey’s vinyl garden windows come with a lifetime warranty, while the glass has a limited warranty of 20 years.
Milgard
Materials: Vinyl
Window styles: Custom garden window
Milgard’s garden window comes with a full lifetime warranty for all of the components.
PlyGem
Materials: Vinyl
Window styles: Garden window
PlyGem’s garden windows come in their East Premium and West 400 series both for new construction and replacement.
ProVia
Materials: Vinyl
Window styles: Custom garden window features two operable casement windows and two fixed sashes.
ProVia’s custom garden windows enhance any style of architecture, from craftsman and victorian-style homes to colonial or modern.
Advantages and disadvantages of kitchen garden windows
Image source: Ply Gem
Kitchen garden windows are sure to enhance your home, but it’s important to know their drawbacks as well.
Advantages of kitchen garden windows
Indoor garden: If you have a green thumb, a kitchen garden window is a perfect place to exercise it. These greenhouse windows allow you to cultivate small gardens where you can grow vegetables or herbs. The glass shelf is perfect for growing plants and lets in plenty of light to brighten your home and enhance your living space.
Natural light: Much like a bay or bow window, garden windows bring in a beautiful amount of natural light and open up the space with expansive views.
Increased ventilation: When properly installed, a garden window can increase ventilation. The operable side panels can open to allow natural air circulation on both sides. This can come in handy when the kitchen gets a little warm – or if you’ve accidentally burnt your dinner.
Enhance curb appeal: If you plan on selling your house in the future, installing a kitchen garden window can enhance your curb appeal and increase your home’s resale value.
Disadvantages of kitchen garden windows
Limited installation space: Unfortunately, kitchen garden windows protrude from the surface of the wall, so you can’t install them just anywhere. It will need to be installed in a spot where it’s not obstructing a walkway or path around your home.
Cost: The cost of the type of window you install and its materials may very well drain your home improvement fund for that year. If you’re really in the market for a kitchen garden window and find the prices are a little sleep, be mindful of your material choices and cut costs where possible (and practical).
Low energy efficiency: Depending on the type of material you choose for the window frame, you may compromise your energy efficiency. To save on energy costs, we recommend vinyl or wood frames for optimal insulation.
Are kitchen garden windows right for your home?
Image source: Ply Gem
When you install a kitchen garden window, you’ll reap the benefits of natural light, expansive views, and even an indoor home garden. We recommend installing a garden window above your kitchen sink if possible to further enhance dishwashing duty. It’s important to choose cost-effective and energy-efficient materials to ensure your home retains or even increases in value. We highly recommend installing a kitchen garden window in your home.
Gianna Cappuccio is a home improvement writer at Fixr.com. After obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in English from Montclair State University in 2016, Gianna decided to pursue a career in writing and editing. When she is not busy reading about home improvement and design, she can be found on the occasional hike or enjoying the latest television show.