Single-Hung vs. Double-Hung Windows: Which One to Buy?

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Single-hung and double-hung windows are two of the most basic, classic, and timeless styles of windows you can install in your house. If you ask a child to draw a house, he or she likely will not draw a modern slider window, a casement window, or a picture window. Almost certainly, they will draw a box with a gable roof and a single-hung or double-hung window.

If these are indeed the most iconic type of window you can buy, why is this so? Does your house need either type of window? And what is the difference between these two windows that sound much alike?

What Are Single-Hung and Double-Hung Windows?

Single-hung windows and double-hung windows are two different types of windows. Though different, they will look identical from a distance. Both single-hung windows and double-hung windows are vertical-sliding windows with an upper and a lower sash. A sash is the square or rectangular frame containing the window glass and may include smaller pieces called muntins that divide the glass.

The difference is that with single-hung windows, only the bottom sash moves and the top half is permanently fixed. With double-hung windows, both sashes slide up and down. With fewer moving parts, single-hung windows conceivably are more weather resistant. Yet double-hung windows can be safer for children and pets since the top sash

Single-Hung Windows: Pros and Cons

Single-hung windows predate double-hung windows and may be preferred for an authentic look on historic homes. In modern homes, single-hung windows additionally may be preferred because they cost a bit less than double-hung windows.

Also, it is often argued that single-hung windows are less susceptible to air infiltration, or leakage, simply because the upper sash is fixed and cannot develop looseness the same way a moving sash can. This won’t be reflected in performance ratings, as both types of windows must meet the same standards. But in use, window seals tend to degrade over time, and a moving sash cannot be sealed with caulk like a fixed sash can.

If the upper sash of a single-hung window breaks, a glazier must come in and repair the window. With a double-hung window, though, the homeowner could replace the upper sash.

What Is a Glazier?

A glazier is a window expert with a very specific skill: Glaziers lessen the need for artificial lights in the home by installing glass in windows and displays.

Fewer moving parts

Not safe for children or pets when lower sash is open

Double-Hung Windows: Pros and Cons

The double-hung window is the most common style of window available today. And the reason is simple: double-hung windows are easier to clean.

Double-hung windows with tilt-in (also called tilt-out) design can be cleaned from inside the house. With single hung windows (and older double-hung windows without tilt-out function), it’s difficult or impossible to clean the outside of the lower sash from indoors. You have to reach it from the outside—easy if the window is ground-level, difficult if the window is upper-level.

Single-hung windows can also have a tilt-in or removable lower sash, but you still have to reach outside the window to clean the upper sash, a perilous task.

The ability to open the upper sash on a double-hung window is another advantage in terms of airflow. Sometimes it’s nice to open the upper sash and not have air blowing in from below. You can also create a minor recirculating effect by opening both sashes about halfway or less. In theory, this allows warmer air to escape through the upper sash and cooler air to enter through the lower sash. But in reality, this natural convection has little cooling effect on a room.

Finally, for homes with small children, double-hung windows’ top opening sash allows you to keep the lower sash closed, yet still have airflow coming through the open top.

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.

Double Hung vs. Single Hung Windows, Casements or Sliders?

By Great Lakes Window

Window style is not only a reflection of your personal style but can improve the curb appeal of your home. Choosing the right window style can affect the overall feel of your home, inside and out. If you think most replacement windows are the same, think again. Do you want your windows to open and close easily? Prefer easy cleaning and maintenance? Want to know how to best block air and wind? Window styles have everything to do with answering these questions.

Before we delve deeper, let’s start with Window Style 101. Understanding differences between the basic styles is actually much simpler than you may realize.

Compare Double Hung vs. Single Hung

Single Hung (on left) Double Hung (on right)

On double hung windows, both sashes in the window frame are operable or move up and down. On single hung windows, the top sash is fixed in place and does not move, but the bottom sash is operable. Sometimes, a single hung also offers a unique option to incorporate a geo shape option into the top sash.

Slider Windows

Slider Window
A slider window is typically composed of two operable sashes that open and close horizontally on a track. It’s a good window style choice when the width of your opening is longer than its height.

Casement Windows

Casement Window

Casement windows are attached to one side of the frame with a hinge and open by swinging the sash out from the window. Great Lakes casement windows open with a crank and feature a fold-away nesting handle as well as a multi-point locking system.

Picture Windows

Picture Window

Picture windows are sometimes referred to as fixed windows. They are a non-operable window that is designed to fill large spaces in a wall. They provide an expansive view and are an excellent choice if you want to let in more light and increase the curb appeal of your home.

Cleaning Time is a Happy Time–if you choose the right window style!

Double hung wins out for easiest to clean. Double hung windows allow both sashes to raise, lower and tilt-in for cleaning both sashes from inside of the home.Slider windows are easy to clean as well, both are operable – allowing you to easily reach through the opening to clean the exterior of the window.

Casement windows can crank to its fully open position, allowing you to then reach through the opening to clean the exterior of the window.

Air Infiltration: Which style shuts it out the best?

When it comes to resisting air infiltration, the picture window is extremely energy efficient since it is fixed within the open space. Ultimately, if you want an operable window that is the best for air infiltration, nothing beats a casement window. A casement window offers the tightest possible seal against outside air because it has a detailed locking mechanism securing it to the frame in three places.

When you’re considering the energy-efficient qualities double hung windows, casements and sliders, be sure to:

• Look for the NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council) label on a window, which provides information on how a window performs.
• Compare product performance – the two most referenced energy ratings on an NFRC label are U-factor and Solar Heat Gain
• Look for the ENERGY STAR® label – the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency have developed this designation, which varies by climate, for products meeting certain energy performance criteria. Great Lakes Windows can be configured to meet or exceed ENERGY STAR ratings in all 50 states.

Feeling a bit wiser about choosing new window styles for your home? No longer wondering, “What is a double hung window?” For more information that will help make you an even savvier consumer when shopping for replacement windows visit the Window Style section of our website or schedule a consultation with a Great Lakes Window dealer so you can see the differences for yourself!