My Cart
You have no items in your shopping cart.
Double Hung Vs Single Hung Windows – Pick Your Style!
By zarafshan qayyum
For a very long time, the homeowners only had a limited window design option. Regardless of their personal design preferences, they had to stick to the available ones. However, advancement in technology has also made some groundbreaking progress in the construction industry. Now you have a number of options to choose from according to your individual requirements. Whether you intend on replacing the already installed windows or want to buy new ones, you have got multiple window design options. Choosing between the single and double sash design is the primary decision that we all have to make when choosing the windows for our home. But most of us aren’t even fully aware of what is the difference between single hung and double hung windows. Many homeowners confuse single and double hung windows with single and double window glazing.
Therefore, we have come forth with a comprehensive double hung vs single hung windows comparison to guide you on their difference. So let’s explore and understand their differences.
Table of Contents
What Is A Double Hung Window?
Double sash windows are superior to their single hung alternative in both style and functionality. It offers better ventilation than a single-hung window. Moreover, the double-hung windows can be tilted to simplify cleaning and maintenance.
What Is A Single Hung Window?
A single-hung window, also referred to as a single sash window, has one fixed and one moveable window pane. The upper sash is typically fixed in its place while the lower sash moves up and down to offer the window opening. In other words, a single-hung window has only one operable panel. When the window is opened, the bottom sash slides over to the top sash allowing an opening for ventilation. Due to limited movement, a single-hung is less effective as compared to a double-hung window. However, most homeowners go for single-hung windows because of the price difference.
What Is The Difference Between Single Hung And Double Hung Windows?
Along with the basic construction, there are some other differences in the two window designs. Let’s dissect the double hung vs single hung windows comparison.
Extent Of Ventilation And Airflow; Double-Hung Takes the Leads!
Single-hung and double-hung windows both have enough openings to allow plenty of air into the house. However, double hung windows provide better air circulation than single hung windows for obvious reasons. Double hung windows have two operable sashes which mean the air gets double the area to flow in as compared to that of a single hung opening. Double hung offers ideal air circulation when both the window sashes are open. Warm air exits from the top opening while the fresh air enters via the bottom sash. Thus creating a balanced airflow through the home interior.
Ease Of Cleaning And Maintenance; Double-Hung Takes the Leads!
Regular cleaning and proper maintenance are very important for the longer service life of the windows. It’s convenient as well. You can use homemade cleaner to wipe the dust off the window panes. However, window construction plays an important role in defining the ease of window cleaning. The moveable sash of the single hung window can be tilted inwards to clean it. However, the stationary sash must be cleaned from the outside.
Double hung windows are easier to clean because both their sashes have tilt latches. The sashes can be turned inward for maintenance and cleaning purposes. You don’t have to go out in order to clean them. Just take a clean cloth, spray the cleaner and wipe the dust off the window sashes right from your comfort zone.
Safety Value; Single Hung is Better!
Both single and double hung sash windows are properly closed to provide effective safety value. However, some poorly installed double hung windows may lack in this case. As both the sashes are moveable, there is a possibility that the upper sash is slightly pushed back into the frame due to gravity. But you can avoid this issue by properly locking the window sashes in their frames. On the flip side, the single hung windows can also prove to be safer. As you can only open the upper sash for ventilation while keeping the lower ground-level sash closed.
Energy Efficiency; Single Hung is Better!
Both the window styles have been designed by factoring in energy efficiency. So there is not a huge difference in the extent of energy efficiency of these windows. However, single hung windows have the advantage of fixed components. As there are lesser movable components, so there are lesser outlets for the air to leave or enter the house. Double hung sash windows on the contrary have more air leakage outlets due to the movable window panes. Insulating foam and weather seals are installed along the frames to get maximum energy efficiency from these windows.
Complexity Of Installation; Single Hung is Better!
Both single and double hung windows can be installed through a number of different mechanisms. The level of installation complexity depends on the size, framing, and place of installation rather than the window style. However, special care should be taken to install the double hung sash windows in order to avoid the loosening of the upper moveable window sash.
Available Sizes; Double Hung Takes the Leads!
The single hung windows have a limited size range while there are a wide variety of size options in case of double-hung sash windows. The size range starts from 3×2 feet and goes up to as huge as 12×6 feet in some cases.
Glazing Options; Depends On The User’s Choice!
Single and double hung windows are highly versatile. They can be integrated into any residential or commercial building. There are multiple framing options to suit the building’s aesthetics and energy efficiency requirements. Similarly, the user can also choose the type of glass for the window panes. Insulated, laminated, tempered, low-E, or any other type of glass can be installed in the hung-style windows to achieve the desired level of functionality.
Cost Comparison; Single Hung is Better!
Cost consideration plays an important role in choosing the window style. Due to the added features and more functionality, double hung sash windows usually cost more than the single hung window of the same size.
A double hung window typically comes in the range of $200 to $400 per window. Including the installation cost and other expenses, you can expect to pay $450 to $600 for a double hung window. On the other hand, a standard-sized single hung window cost around $100 to $300. Their installation cost is also lower compared to their double hung alternative. So depending on the labor cost in your area, you can expect to pay $175 to $450 per window.
Final Takeaway!
There is no debate on which window style is better. Both of them have a number of benefits to offer. None of them is outdated or less functional. So the ultimate choice depends totally on the user’s preferences and the desired end results. Some rooms require more airflow while others are naturally ventilated. You can choose double hung for the former and single hung for the latter. Similarly, you can consider the complexity level of window maintenance to make a decision. If the window is within arms reach, you can choose single hung but if you think that reaching the stationary sash would be difficult, you can pick double hung in this case. The key is to understand your individual requirements and constraints.
