When choosing a window for your home, there are two most common types: single-hung and double-hung windows. Before making a choice, it is essential to contemplate the fundamental distinctions between the two window types because each one has its own advantages and factors to consider.
In this blog, we will delve into single-hung vs double-hung windows and examine each type’s unique features, advantages, and ideal applications in your home.
Window Operation
Choosing the best window for your home requires a thorough understanding of the two types of windows and how they operate. Both single-hung and double-hung windows have unique characteristics and advantages that affect ventilation, maintenance, and cost.
What Is a Single Hung Window?
Single-hung windows have a traditional design with a fixed upper sash and a lower sash that slides up and down vertically. Partial ventilation is made possible by the lower sash’s ability to rise and fall. Due to their ease of use and low cost, these windows can be more practical.
What Is a Double Hung Window?
Double-hung windows provide greater adaptability due to the ability of both the upper and lower sashes to slide vertically. As a result, better ventilation options are provided, enabling efficient air circulation throughout your home. Both sides of the glass are easily accessible inside your house, making maintenance simple.
Window Ventilation & Air Circulation
The ventilation and airflow capacities of these two window designs are the next key distinction. On double-hung windows, you can get optimal circulation by opening both sashes. Cool, fresh air enters through the bottom sash, while warm air departs through the top sash. The dual-operating sashes promote a refreshing and comfortable indoor environment, allowing for natural and adequate air circulation.
Window Cleaning & Maintenance
The simplicity of cleaning is a fundamental benefit of double-hung windows. Both the top and lower sashes may tilt inward from tilt sashes, making it easy to clean the interior and exterior glass from within your home. This feature is handy for second and third-floor windows, as it eliminates the need for dangerous external cleaning methods and ensures a simple maintenance process.
Window Costs
Price can be an essential consideration when choosing a new window. Double-hung windows are significantly more expensive than single-hung windows of comparable size due to their added features and functionality.
Consult with Eco Choice Windows & Doors to guarantee you make the right decision for your project. Our team offers expert advice and recommends the best windows and features based on your budget and individual needs.
Which Is Better: Single or Double Hung?
The ideal windows for your house will depend on several factors, such as where they will be installed, the climate in your area, and any accessibility needs you may have.
Single-hung windows are more common than double-hung windows
Single-hung windows have been around longer, which are more common than double-hung windows. In the 17th century, architects in Historic England first installed single-hung windows in homes. Due to its long history, single-hung windows are frequently used in renovating older, historic residences.
Single-hung windows are also favoured due to their low cost and traditional appearance. As a result of their lower upfront and ongoing costs, they are a good option for homeowners on a tight budget seeking replacement windows.
Single-hung windows can be difficult to maintain and clean
Single-hung windows are cheaper than double-hung but can be harder to clean. Cleaning single-hung windows is more difficult since you have to clean all sides separately, as you must be inside your home to clean the interior and outdoors to clean the exterior. Double-hung windows tilt inward, letting you clean all sides from home. Some single-hung windows include a tilt feature, which usually only applies to the bottom panel. Cleaning the upper panel requires reaching through the window or going outside.
Depending on where you live and the season, cleaning windows at least every other month is advised for the best cleanliness and finish. Therefore, while deciding between single-hung and double-hung windows, considering the cleaning factor is essential because it can impact your home’s general upkeep and appearance.
The Difference in Price of Double-hung windows
Single-hung windows tend to be a more cost-effective option for homes on a tight budget than double-hung windows, often costing between $400 and $500 per window. Double-hung windows, however, can cost anywhere from $500 to $600 per window (not including installation). When it comes to the cost of labour, installing single-hung windows is often less expensive, costing $150 to $200, whereas double-hung window installations can cost as much as $250.
Size, energy efficiency features, window frame material, and UV protection options can all affect the final price of double-hung windows. Double-hung window prices may rise due to increased customization options, but this benefits homeowners by providing more ways to tailor their windows to their homes. When deciding between single-hung and double-hung windows for your home, it is essential to consider your budget and the specific characteristics you seek.
Some double-hung windows can be less secure if not shut properly
Safety is a top priority when it comes to any potential entry into your home, including windows. Particularly double-hung windows could present significant security issues. Gravity may cause the upper sash to descend gently if it is not entirely closed, resulting in insufficient latching. However, double-checking if the window closes properly after closing will ensure safety and security.
On the other hand, single-hung windows can have safety issues in houses with young children. Unlike double-hung windows, single-hung windows don’t let in as much air because you can’t open the top part while leaving the bottom closed.
Nevertheless, by taking proper precautions, single- and double-hung windows can be secure, by keeping all windows properly locked, with child proofing techniques. By adopting the necessary safety measures, you can benefit from either window type without sacrificing security.
Recommended Places To Use Single-Hung vs Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows are most useful on upper floors because warm air may escape through the top sash. However, lower floors rarely suffer the kind of intense heat that would require venting of this kind. Not everyone has easy access to the upper sash of a double-hung window, which limits their usefulness in places like the space behind a sink or a workstation.
Single-hung windows are the best option in these cases because of their low price and easy maintenance. Basements, garages, sheds, and the space right below the sink are ideal places where additional ventilation options aren’t strictly necessary but where single-hung windows can cut costs.
However, double-hung windows excel at providing ventilation on upper floors and in bathrooms since both sashes can be opened independently. They improve ventilation and temperature regulation in single-story homes, too.
