Single-Hung vs. Double-Hung Windows

Single-hung and double-hung windows are the most common types of windows used in housing and commercial buildings in the U.S. Single-hung windows, which cost less, are more common, particularly in older construction, but they are harder to clean. Double-hung windows allow for greater ventilation flexibility and are easier to clean; however, they cost more to install and repair.

«Hung» here refers to a window’s sash(es) — i.e., the glass panels of a window. While it is common to think the sash refers to the movable panel of a window, both single-hung and double-hung windows have two sashes (panels). Confusion stems from the fact that a single sash is movable in a single-hung window, while both sashes are movable in a double-hung window.

Comparison chart

Double-Hung Windows versus Single-Hung Windows comparison chart

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	Double-Hung Windows	Single-Hung Windows
How They Open	Double-hung windows have two movables panels (sashes) and can often tilt inward individually as well.	Single-hung windows only have one movable panel (sash).
Sashes	2, both of which are movable	2, one of which is movable
Ventilation	Offers a more variable ventilation pattern depending on which panel is open and by how much; better-suited for highly-variable climates.	Provides ventilation control only by the amount of space provided between the lower panel and the bottom frame.
Installation	Comes in standard sizes, but not as easy to install as single-hung windows, as the window unit is heavier and requires more precise placement. Best installed by a professional or an experienced DIYer.	Easier to install than double-hung due to lighter weight and fewer moving parts. Can be a DIY project with a little help lifting the window in place.
Cost	Higher installation and repair costs, though maintenance costs for windows on upper floors is often cheaper.	About 10-25% cheaper than double-hung windows. Repair costs less as well.
Maintenance	Easier to clean as each panel can often tilt inward for access.	More difficult to clean, especially on upper floors, because the lower panel impedes access to the higher panel.
Popularity	A very popular choice since the 1990s, but lost some market share after 2008 recession. Most popular choice for new constructions.	Most common type of window installed in U.S. housing, but less popular in modern construction.

Appearance

Single-hung windows, the most common type in the U.S., are those that open by lifting the bottom panel. This panel slides up and overlaps the top panel, which is fixed in place. In double-hung windows, each panel opens separately, often by sliding or tilting, allowing for greater flexibility in ventilation. Alternatively, some designs feature panel(s) that slide to one side.

As for aesthetics, both window types come in a wide range of styles and materials that are suitable for all kinds of architectural designs. However, as the more expensive option, double-hung windows tend to have a slightly larger variety of options when it comes to materials, colors, etc.

Watch the video below to learn more about different types of windows, including single-hung and double-hung windows.

Maintenance

Single-hung windows are more difficult to clean, especially if they are on an upper floor, as when the bottom window panel slides up, it partially covers the top panel. Cleaning the complete surface of the panels or the window’s frames becomes difficult.

With double-hung windows, tilting or sliding each panel individually allows for easier access, especially from inside the home. On double-hung windows that tilt open and closed in either direction, it is especially easy to clean the outside of the window while inside the home.

For single-hung windows on second floors and higher, a ladder and/or long brush may be needed. However, the brush must have soft bristles to avoid scratching the frame or pressing too hard on window panes, possibly breaking them. With double-hung windows, water pressure is often enough to clean those on second floors or higher because there’s no obstacle to reaching the panes or frames, but the water stream pressure must be moderated to avoid stripping paint or loosening the frame due to water infiltration. This type of cleaning is not advisable for single-hung windows, which are lighter and less sturdy.

Cost and Installation

Due to their simpler construction, single-hung windows are about 10-25% cheaper to buy and install, with prices ranging from $95 to $800 depending on materials and features (double-paned for insulation, UV protection, etc.). The window comes as a fixed unit in standard sizes that can be installed in a frame, then secured. Because of standardization, installation can be a DIY project with only a small amount of effort needed to lift and place the window properly. To learn how to install and/or replace a single-hung window, watch this video.

Double-hung windows present a different challenge, as each panel (upper and lower) requires its own installation check to ensure that it will open and close properly. Although double-hung windows also come in standard sizes and fit all common frames, they are heavier and require more precise seating in frames. Professional installation is recommended unless the person is an experienced DIYer. Average prices range from $150 to $1,000, depending on materials and features.

Energy Efficiency

In most buildings, roughly 40% of heat transfer occurs through windows, so one factor to consider when choosing between single-hung windows and double-hung windows is their energy efficiency.

Single-hung windows are more energy efficient because of their immovable panel (sash), which results in fewer gaps that could let in drafts. Insulation to avoid heat loss is improved by double-paned construction, where the window has dual layers of glass with a vacuum between them. The vacuum blocks heat transfer to better regulate the house’s temperature. Though single-hung windows remain more efficient, double-hung windows have improved greatly in this respect and as also come in double-paned models.

Depending on the type of window and its energy efficiency, some windows may come with an additional benefit: a discount on an electric bill. Some local jurisdictions and state governments have created tax breaks for businesses and individuals who install energy-efficient windows.

Security

Double-hung windows are more secure than single-hung windows. Not only do double-hung windows have two locks, versus one for most single-hung windows, but they also have stronger frames and sashes to accommodate their additional weight. This makes them more difficult to break.

Are Double Hung Vinyl Windows the Choice For You?

When replacing your windows, or choosing what you want for a new home, it can be difficult to decide what material you want to use. Wood may look nice but it wears down over time, and aluminum is sturdy but it just doesn’t hold the heat in your home the same way that wood does. If these are some of the issues that you’re trying to deal with, they you may want to consider double hung vinyl windows.

Double hung windows allow you to open your window by sliding the sashes up and down. This is a very aesthetic option that allows you to get the fresh air you need when you want it, and to seal out the elements and keep your home energy efficient when you don’t. Open hinged and casement windows require the area around the window to be kept clear, while double hung windows let you use this space. Double hung windows are also much easier to repair than most other options. If the springs, counterweights, or friction system wear out and need to be replaced, the repair can be done easily without replacing anything but the part. When closed, these types of windows seal out all of the elements unlike open hinged windows. For added efficiency, they can also be double or triple paned, further insulating the home.

The perks are even better when you choose to get double hung vinyl windows. Vinyl reduces the amount of noise that makes it in to your home. It also hold the heat or cold in your home far better than aluminum. At the same time, it doesn’t wear down or require nearly as much maintenance as wooden windows do. Vinyl windows increase the value of your home and make it look nicer overall. They are much easier to install than the other options and the price is very affordable.

Vinyl windows are made of a plastic that is more durable than the other options. It does not corrode or rot with age the way that aluminum and wood might, nor will it warp as a result of fluctuations in temperature. It is far easier to use than the other materials used in building windows, and to top it off in most cases it is also the most affordable option. This means that not only will the windows save you money in terms of the energy efficiency of your home, using the furnace and the air conditioner less often, they will also cost less to buy in the first place.

Some people are hesitant to buy vinyl windows because of the lower price. They assume that this means the quality of the material is lower. In fact this is not the case. Vinyl is superior to both wood and aluminum in flexibility, insulation, and persistence with time. Nor are you restricted to getting white if you purchase vinyl windows. Vinyl is white in its normal state, but it can be mixed with any color when it is being mixed, before it solidifies. This means that not only can you have it in any color you want, but there’s no paint to chip or wear away with age. This makes double hung vinyl windows an excellent choice.

Double Hung Windows

BEST QUALITY VINYL WINDOWS TORONTO ON THE MARKET

Double Hung Windows

Double Hung Windows are the traditional style windows found in various offices and homes. Earlier these windows had a huge demand. They still hold the same interest among the consumers, however with a little modern twist. So, the collection of double hung windows we offer at Total Home Windows and Doors are manufactured with modern functionality to serve the urban homes and offices.

Our Recent Projects

Why are Double Hung Windows Unique

Double Hung Windows are the most elegant among the other styles and most apt for enhancing the beauty of your home or office as it is a popular choice for both. The designs and styles we at Total Home Windows and Doors offer to our clients are unparalleled and unmatched. Our products are unique and we work on it frequently to improve the functional and beauty aspects of the windows. The spiral sash mechanism offered for the windows support them and holds the window on a balanced position. This device also aids in cleaning the exterior effortlessly.

Advantages of Double Hung Windows

Double Hung Windows have a couple of advantages for which these have retained their popularity among the mass. The biggest benefit is that these are available with full size fiber glass screen which enables the user to control the ventilation more conveniently inside the room. There is a vinyl variety in double hung window which is even more energy efficient. The vinyl ones not only save energy but also money. Our vinyl double hung windows have quadruple weather stripping mechanism which is the most energy efficient mechanism. The ones fitted with accurate measurements come with minimum air leaks.
Different styles and colors can be obtained in the versatile vinyl double hung windows. These can be tailor made to suit your demands. The screens on double hung windows are removable and hence cleaning these windows is easy and effortless. Both sashes can be tilted, hence removing the screen is not required.

Unlike other manufacturers our double hung and single hung windows have an elegant frame extrusion, which provide for your house beautiful and unique look.

These windows have elegant and not rusted hardware.

Features

Multichamber Windows.These windows are made from an exclusive, 100% uPVC powder compound that is entirely lead-free. This special compound gives the system a better resistance to impact and discoloration. The windows are maintenance-free and will not crack, blister or warp.

Triple Glazed Argon
3mmClr/ Argon90/ 3mmLowE
LOF S#3,5

Overall U-Value: 1.53
SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient): 0.45
Visual Transmittance: 0.47
Energy Rating: 29

Double Glazed Argon
4mmClr/ Argon90/ 4mmLowE
LOF S#3

Overall U-Value: 1.77
SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient): 0.52
Visual Transmittance: 0.55
Energy Rating: 29

Triple Glazed Krypton
4mmClr/ Argon 90/ 4mmLowE
LOF S#3

Overall U-Value: 1.27
SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient): 0.45
Visual Transmittance: 0.47
Energy Rating: 35