What Are the Differences Between Double-Hung vs. Single-Hung Windows? 

When it comes to figuring out what is the difference between single-hung and double-hung windows, you’ve come to the right place. For purposes of ease, we will begin by quickly defining what a single-hung window and a double-hung window are. The primary difference between them is in terms of design and how they operate. A single-hung window only has one operable sash or pull ribbon. In contrast, a double-hung window has two of these. As such, the top part of a single-hung window will not open, while it will with a double-hung window.

It is reasonable to expect that a homeowner might have a lot of questions about these windows:

• Do new windows actually make a difference when it comes to overall home improvement? 
• What type of window is best for each climate?
• What is the best window in terms of energy efficiency or offering better ventilation? 

These are only some of the questions that homeowners have to ask themselves when trying to find the right window style for their home.

Thankfully, our experts at Remodel USA are here to explain some of these key differences and help you find the right window style for your home. A variety of factors have to be taken into account beyond just how single—and double-hung windows look. These include their airflow, overall functionality, and cost.

After all, a home window is so much more than something that just lets cool air into your home. It helps keep your home safe and secure from outside intruders. On the inside, it is responsible for air circulation, which is essential to the health of you and your loved ones. This is especially important if you have small children in the home.

As such, we have prepared a basic single vs. double hung windows guide to help answer all of these questions. When it comes to window installation, you want to turn to a team you can trust and rely on. Remodel USA has been providing these services for homeowners across the United States for decades. We pride ourselves on working with the best installers and utilizing the highest-quality materials available to ensure that your windows will last for many years to come. We believe so strongly in this concept that we also offer a warranty for all of the window installations that we complete.

Below, we will examine single vs double-hung windows from various vantage points. These include ease of maintenance, ventilation efficiency, overall cost, and energy efficiency. Our hope is that by the time you have completed reading this guide, you will have a better understanding of both of these styles of windows. Here’s what you need to know when it comes to the differences between single and double-hung windows. If you’re ready to learn more, contact Remodel USA for a free consultation!

Double-Hung vs Single-Hung Windows: Which Style of Windows Is Easier to Maintain?

When it comes to which style of windows takes less maintenance, there is a clear answer to this question. Double-hung windows are easier to clean, simply because of how the windows are designed. Where the windows are placed in the home largely factors into this as well. The reason for this is that with single-hung windows, the upper sash is much harder to reach on the window frame. Many people do not realize this, but the location of the window sash has a large impact on how easy the window is to clean.

Regardless of where they are placed, you will need to be able to access the outside of the window to fully clean it. By contrast, double-hung windows can be cleaned from inside the home, as the top sash is much easier to reach. As such, you can more easily tilt in the window on a double-hung style window, which results in an easier cleaning process.

In terms of home improvement, double-hung windows are the better option for your home. Not only are they easier to clean, but they also add more resale value to the home as well.

If you have single-hung windows on the second floor of your home, we strongly recommend that you hire a professional to clean them, as doing so is dangerous and somewhat complex. This is why single-hung windows are better suited for the first floor of your home.

Which Type of Window Offers Better Ventilation? 

In terms of which window offers better airflow, the answer to that is double-hung windows. Again, the reason for this has to do with the sashes and how the windows are designed. On a double-hung window, both the top and bottom sash can be opened by the homeowner. With a single-hung window, the lower sash opens but the upper one does not, which means it offers less in terms of fresh air infiltration. Knowing which windows have multiple operable sashes and which ones do not is essential to finding the best window for your home.

With this in mind, either window can work in any sort of climate. However, if you will need to open your windows to cool off, a double-hung window is your best bet. 

Which Windows Are More Energy-Efficient?

This actually doesn’t depend on what type of window you have, but rather what it is made out of. Vinyl, fiberglass, and wood are all ideal insulators for your home windows, although vinyl and fiberglass have the option for multi-chambered frames. These are ideal for homes in cold locales, as they provide extra insulation and help keep heat in the home.

Are Double-Hung or Single-Hung Windows More Secure?

As stated above, a single-hung window only has one point of entry. For our purposes, we will define that as any window that can be independently opened or closed. This technically makes a single-hung window harder to break into from a security standpoint. However, if you make sure that you lock both sashes on double-hung windows, this shouldn’t be an issue.

In addition, when it comes to children or pets, a double-hung window can be more safe than a single-hung one. For example, with double-hung windows, if you’d like to let in air, you can open the top sash, where your pets or children cannot reach. This way, they can be safe and secure and get fresh air, too.

Which Style of Windows Costs More?  

Single-hung windows generally cost less than double-hung windows. The reason for this is that single-hung windows have fewer moving parts, which means that they cost less to manufacture. However, that is just one factor to consider when selecting windows. When you consider that you can clean your own double-hung windows, while single-hung windows, especially on the second or third floor, need to be cleaned by professionals, the cost differential may balance out here.

Which Style of Windows Offers More Versatility?

When all of these factors are taken into account, it becomes clear that double-hung windows offer more versatility. This is due to the fact that they are easier to clean and allow for more ventilation within the home, which increases their energy efficiency as well. They can also be made in larger sizes than single-hung windows, which adds to their versatility.

Why Choose Remodel USA For Your Window Installation Needs?

Remodel USA has spent decades assisting homeowners with a wide variety of window installation needs. We combine our expertise with high-quality installation materials and superior customer service for an unparalleled installation experience. No matter what style of windows you are looking for–single-hung, double-hung, or something else, we can help.

For more information on our pricing and services, please contact us at Remodel USA today to learn more.