Arched Window Guide

What Are Arched Windows?

Arched windows, also known as half-moon windows (among other names), are exactly what they sound like: a window that has an arched shape at the top. You can either add a transom arch above a standard rectangular window, or you can choose a window manufactured with an arch.

Why to Choose One

These windows can help a room feel brighter and more open. Their rounded top lets in more natural light, not to mention their architectural appeal unique.

History

Arched windows were used heavily in Roman architecture and are now used in modern homes for their timeless appeal.

Arched Window Options

There are two ways to approach the design of your arched window. You can get a single window configuration, which means the arch manufactured into the design, or you can get a multi-window configuration, where you stack a transom arch above a standard rectangular window. Here are the advantages and drawbacks of both.

Types of Arched Windows

Arched windows go by many names. To add to the confusion, some window installers may use one of these terms — say, “curved window” — to mean a window manufactured with an arch, while other installers may use the same term to mean any window with a curved top, including standard windows with a curved transom added above them.

Ask the contractors you get quotes from about the kind of arched windows they install and what they call each of them.

You may hear or read about any of the following terms, all of which mean an arched window:

• Arched top windows or rounded top windows.
• Radius windows.
• Domed windows.
• Half-moon windows.
• Semi-circle or half-circle windows.
• Curved window.

Looking for an arched window that has a window on either side of it like in the photo above? Then you want a Palladian window.

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Half-Moon Windows: An Exception to the Rule?

Despite all the confusion with names and types of arched windows, there are a couple terms that are more likely to refer specifically to an arched-shape transom window. You might think of these as the exception to the rule for arched windows going by many interchangeable names.

Half-moon windows, semi-circle windows, and half-circle windows are the terms you need if the arched transom is the only part of the window you are replacing. This is most likely to be the case for you if the window is above your front door.

You might also have a multi-window configuration where the arched transom is damaged or otherwise in need of replacement, but the rest of the windows are in good shape. Those terms would also apply in this situation!

However, if have a multi-window configuration that includes a standard window in addition to a transom and you are replacing all of them, then you should revert back to using terms like “arched top windows” or “curved window.”

What Does a Curved Window Cost?

The national average cost for arched windows is $345 to $950. Depending on your window’s size, the project cost may be as high as $3,000. You can check out our guide to arched window prices to learn more about what’s involved in that cost range.

Can Arched Top Windows Open?

They can, yes! The most popular styles of operable arched windows are:

• Casement.
• Awning.
• Single-hung.
• Double-hung.

Be aware that casement windows and smaller awning windows can be manufactured as a single window unit. Single-hung and double-hung arched windows can also be created as a single window, but the moving sash will only come up in the rectangular part of the window.

Or, like in the picture above, you can choose a standard rectangular window that opens and add a transom arch on top to create the curved shape.

You’re an Expert on Windows With Arches! Now What?

Now that you have a better idea of all the choices that come along with an arched window replacement, you’ve got a few different options for what to do next.

1. Considering replacing your arched window with a different shape? You can check out our window types page to see all your options. You can even take our quiz there to be matched to your ideal window type.
2. Visit our main home window replacement page to find everything from a buying guide to our list of the best window brands to window glass and frame options.
3. Check out what an arched window costs and start budgeting for your project. If you have more than one window to replace, you will want to consider what order to replace them in or if you should replace them all at once. A window contractor can help you there.
4. Get quotes for an arched window. You can do that by asking your friends and neighbors for recommendations, by exploring our window contractor directory to compare the pros in your area, or by having Modernize do the research for you. We can match you with up to four pros, which will help you both find the best price and find a contractor you click with.

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