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.

Guide to Single Hung Windows

Homeowners researching replacement windows will find many styles available. This guide to single hung windows will help you determine whether or not they may be a good choice for your home. Single hung windows are slowly losing popularity in the replacement window markets as double hung windows provide more convenience. Some manufacturers do not even produce single hung windows as part of their normal catalog anymore. The good news is, there are still plenty of companies that do. Even those that no longer produce single hung windows often still provide support and produce replacement parts for repairs to their products. Even though technology changes, companies know that the windows in your house will be there for a long time.

What are Single Hung Windows?

Single hung windows differ from double hung in that the top portion of the window is in a fixed state. The resident can not open it or slide the screen up to allow ventilation through the top portion. A double hung window gives the resident more versatility in how they choose to ventilate their living space. Sliding the screen up allows them to pull the upper sash down. A single hung window may have a tilting lower sash for ease of cleaning. The upper sash is fixed and will not tilt.

What are the Benefits of a Single Hung Window?

A single hung window can provide many of the same benefits that any other type of window will. This is mainly in efficiency and presentation of style of the product. A shopper can expect an Energy Star labeled single hung window to perform just as well as any other type of Energy Star window. The primary benefit of a single hung window is for homeowners on a tight budget or that prefer a more simple approach. Since it has fewer moving parts, a single hung window can be much cheaper than other available models. This will largely depend on the materials used for construction, sizes, and any other features for efficiency a homeowner wants.

What are the Drawbacks of a Single Hung Window?

A single hung window really does not offer many options to the resident for use. If a resident has children, a double hung window can be opened from the top to allow for ventilation while keeping the children away from the opening. A single hung window that opens only from the bottom will not give that kind of flexibility or freedom.

Cleaning becomes a bit more of a chore for a single hung window. The lack of ability for the top sash to tilt in means the homeowner will need to clean the window from the outside when they want to. Due to this fact, resale value may not be as high as a double hung window would provide.

Are Single Hung Windows Right for My Home?

The primary motivation for many homeowners in looking at single hung windows over other models will be their budget. This traditional style of window has been on the market for a long time and served its purpose well for a number of different homes and families. For most people, it will offer an affordable and efficient alternative to more expensive double hung windows. If you have other considerations; such as children or pets that like to explore, then the single hung window may not be the best choice for your home.

What about Single Hung Window Installation?

For industrious home owners that like Do-It-Yourself projects, the single hung window is a fairly easy installation job when compared to other types. They generally feature far less hardware which makes them lighter and easier to work with. One should feel comfortable with performing Do-It-Yourself work before deciding on a self-installation. While it can save money on the actual installation, one can expect much larger costs to be incurred in the event that repairs or a correction is needed. An incorrect installation can do damage to the window frame and inside of the wall while adding inefficiency to the window itself. A homeowner will also want to check into how this will affect any warranties or guarantees on the windows. Some manufacturers will not honor the warranty if the windows are not installed by authorized personnel.

Will I be able to find Repair or Replacement Parts?

Manufacturers generally operate under the assumption that their product will be in your home for an extended period of time. Even as technology changes and adapts, most still continue to produce replacement parts for windows they have offered in the past. This is especially true with companies that put a high degree of focus on ensuring their product lasts a long time. The best place to look for replacement parts for a single hung window will generally be the manufacturer. A homeowner should also be aware of what actions will void their warranty if it is still intact. Unauthorized personnel conducting repairs will generally void a warranty regardless of the type of product it happens to be.

Single hung windows are a great consideration for homeowners on a budget that want to find a solid replacement window. They do not offer all the conveniences that more advanced models offer. The single hung window has long served the public in a variety of buildings over the course of many years. Though they are slowly moving out of style to more efficient and friendly models, they still provide a solid solution for a homeowner’s replacement window needs.

Single Hung Windows – Everything You Need to Know

What is a single hung window?

A single hung window is a window type, which is standard for new homes, apartments and office buildings. These windows have been popular for many decades and are still the most wide-spread in the modern world. A single hung window consists of two parts, which are called sashes. The top part is fixed, while the bottom sash slides up and down. When the window is open, the bottom sash obstructs the top one. Due to the low cost of single hung windows, they have been gaining popularity, even though there is a lot of competition on the window market.

Single hung windows are very easy to install and don’t require professional assistance. This cuts installation costs, which is often important for home owners. However, cleaning such windows can become a real hassle. The top part is stationary, accordingly reaching it is quite complicated. When the window is open, the bottom sash obstructs the top one, so it is impossible to clean. If the window is not close to the ground and can’t be reached from the outside, a professional window cleaner must be hired. Single hung windows rarely need repair, since the constructions is rather simple. There isn’t much which might require attention.

Single hung windows are made from different materials. The cheapest ones are made of vinyl, while more expensive frames are made out of wood. Wooden windows will be more expensive and more durable than vinyl ones. There are also aluminum frames. The integrity of single hung window frame is quite important, since these windows are more susceptible to break ins than their double hung counterparts, because they have just one lock. Check standard single hung window sizes here.

Purchasing a single hung window will definitely save a home, apartment or office owner some money, however, there are some disadvantages, which should be careful noted.

Advantages of Using single hung window

Single hung windows have a long history, which dates back to the 20 th century. This is the most popular window type installed in US apartments and homes for over 90 years. These windows are truly built to last a lifetime and usually don’t have too many unfavorable reviews from the users. A single hung window has one movable panel, also called a sash. Accordingly, the air flow is regulated by the height at which you move the sash to. However, right now many stores offer double-hung windows, which some call a new and improved window type. Even though they might seem as a good idea, many people still choose the single-hung option for their home. Let’s take a look at 5 advantages of using single-hung windows in the modern world.

Cost

This is the first and the most important advantage of buying a single-hung window. The cost of the window itself and the installation is rather affordable. In fact, you would spend up to 25 % less on a single-hung window installation, than you would on a double-hung one. This is especially important when you are building a home and cost cutting is rather challenging.

Easy repair

Due to the simple structure of a single-hung window, the problems are rather rare. When people buy complicated accessories, they usually get into a lot of trouble when something goes wrong. There is not much that can go wrong with this window. It is so simply designed that any breakdown will be quite simple to fix. At the same time the repairs will be much more affordable than for more complicated structures.

Popularity

Single-hung windows are the most popular windows in United States. Accordingly, it is very easy to find what you are looking for. If you are trying to cut costs, you are bound to find some good deals on these windows due to their popularity. Same goes for repair materials. You will unlikely be faced with a situation when you will need to wait for spare parts to be delivered.

East Installation

Due to the simplicity of the structure, a single hung window is rather easy to install. In fact, if you have been dealing with tools before, you might even install these windows on your own. There are some tutorials available for such window installation on the Internet. In fact, even the most inexperienced installer, can do the job. This will really do wonders for cost cutting.

Reviews

Since single-hung windows have been on the market for a very long time, you can easily find many different reviews for these products, which makes the choosing process much easier. If you are about to build a house or do some window replacement, the reviews of home owners can become a really great help.

There are many advantages to installing single hung windows in your home. You can take a look at other windows to make a comparison. A single-hung window has its disadvantages as well, however, it is often the best choice available.