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Single Hung vs Double Hung Window: Which is the Better Choice?

| January 18, 2025

Are you looking for replacement windows? If so, you probably already know that hung windows are among the most favored in the industry, especially for homes with a traditional or historic design (although they are also a perfect fit for contemporary and even minimalist homes!).

If you’ve already decided you want hung windows, considerations don’t end here – you still have to choose between a single-hung vs double-hung window. Single-hung windows have one moving sash, being more energy-efficient and secure, while double-hung windows offer more flexibility with two movable sashes. If you want to learn more about both window types, read on! We’ve outlined all their differences – costs, ventilation capabilities, energy efficiency, and more!

Key Takeaways

  • Single-hung windows are more cost-effective and simpler in design, featuring a movable bottom sash and a fixed upper sash. They offer less ventilation but are more energy-efficient and require less maintenance.
  • Double-hung windows offer superior ventilation and flexibility with two operable sashes, enhancing air circulation and ease of cleaning. On the other hand, they are more expensive and less energy-efficient.
  • When choosing between window styles, consider your budget, whether you prioritize ventilation or energy efficiency, as well as window location.

What Are Single Hung Windows?

Single-hung windows have one movable sash – the bottom one. The upper sash is fixed. This means that only the bottom sash can be opened for ventilation. In some designs, the bottom sash also has a tilt-in feature for easy maintenance and cleaning.

On the other hand, given that the top sash remains fixed, it can be difficult to clean the exterior glass surface. You’ll have to do this from the outside – it goes without saying that this is a huge disadvantage, especially if the window is installed on upper floors.

One of the main advantages of single-hung windows is their cost-effectiveness. They are generally more budget-friendly compared to double-hung windows (as well as other window styles) due to their simpler design and fewer moving parts. This makes them an excellent option if you want to keep renovation costs down without compromising on style.

All in all, here are the advantages of single-hung windows:

  • Budget-friendly
  • Simple yet timeless design
  • Increased energy efficiency because one of the sashes is fixed
  • Easy to install because they have fewer movable parts
  • Easy to maintain because they have fewer hardware components
  • Increased security due to the fixed-top sash

Here are the disadvantages of single-hung windows:

  • Less ventilation
  • Difficult to clean from the inside
  • May not fit building code egress requirements

What Are Double Hung Windows?

Double-hung windows are just like single-hung windows, except that both their sashes are movable. You can slide both the upper and the bottom sashes up and down. Some double-hung windows tilt inwards, allowing you to easily clean the exterior and interior glass surfaces.

Needless to say, one of the most praised benefits of double-hung windows is improved ventilation. By opening both sashes, you can create a flow of fresh air that improves indoor air quality. This is a huge advantage if you live in a region with a warm climate and your home requires proper ventilation during the summer months.

All in all, here are the advantages of double-hung windows:

  • Easy to clean
  • Timeless design
  • Better ventilation and airflow
  • More likely to fit building code egress requirements
  • Safe for children and pets because you can only leave the top sash open.

Here are the disadvantages of double-hung windows:

  • Not as energy-efficient as single-hung windows
  • More expensive
  • Require more maintenance because they have more movable parts
  • Less secure because both sashes are operable

Key Differences: Single-Hung and Double-Hung Windows

Now that we’ve briefly discussed both window styles, let’s outline the key differences between them to help you understand which design is a better fit for your home!

Cost Comparison

Single-hung windows are undoubtedly cheaper than double-hung windows. First, they have fewer movable parts and fewer hardware components, which significantly reduces manufacturing costs. Secondly, they are easier to install, which can reduce installation and labor costs.

On the other hand, double-hung windows have more movable parts and some designs also have a tilt-in feature for both sashes – these undoubtedly increase the final price.

The price for a single-hung window ranges from $300 to $2,200 – it all depends on the window’s quality and materials. The price for a double-hung window ranges from $500 to $2,500.

Ultimately, if you don’t mind that you won’t be able to open the top sash and clean it easily, you can definitely install single-hung windows if you’re on a tight budget. However, keep in mind that the price difference isn’t too significant, and, depending on the materials you choose, the final price may be similar for both window styles.

But there’s another important thing to consider – since double-hung windows have more movable parts, you may also spend more money over the years on lubricating products, for example, or on replacement hardware. Additionally, double-hung windows are less energy-efficient than single-hung ones, so the latter will likely help you save more on energy bills.

In other words, when assessing window prices, don’t forget to take into account the windows’ long-term benefits and drawbacks.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Without a doubt, double-hung windows are much easier to clean due to their design, which allows both sashes to tilt inwards. This feature is particularly useful for upper-floor windows because you won’t need to climb ladders anymore to clean your windows – or hire professional cleaning services, for that matter.

When it comes to maintenance – single-hung windows certainly take the lead. They have fewer hardware components than double-hung windows, which means you won’t have to spend as much time cleaning and lubricating them. On the other hand, you’ll find it difficult to clean the exterior glass surface on the top sash, especially on upper-floor windows.

Ventilation and Air Circulation

Since both their top and bottom sashes can be opened, double-hung windows provide better ventilation. This dual operation ensures that warm air escapes through the top sash while cooler air enters through the bottom, creating a more balanced and efficient air circulation system.

In contrast, single-hung windows limit airflow to the lower sash only, which can restrict ventilation. This makes them less effective in managing indoor air quality and temperature compared to their double-hung counterparts.

However, double-hung windows are more prone to air infiltration, which can affect their overall energy efficiency. Therefore, if you prioritize energy efficiency, you should install single-hung windows or high-quality double-hung windows with the best insulating materials.

Energy Efficiency

As mentioned above, single-hung windows take the lead when it comes to energy efficiency – the top sash is fixed, so only the lower sash is prone to air and water infiltration.

Double-hung windows, while offering better ventilation, have more points where air can infiltrate, so there’s a higher risk of drafts and water leaks. However, the choice of materials and additional features can significantly improve the energy performance of both window types.

For example, you can choose a window company that uses the most energy-efficient window frame material, adds more gas between the glass panes, and provides installation services to make sure the window is properly insulated.

Additionally, the energy efficiency of a double-hung window can be enhanced by Low-E coatings and insulating window treatments like Magic’s thermal blinds.

Ultimately, while double-hung windows are generally less energy-efficient than single-hung windows, their insulating capabilities can be enhanced by various technologies, but this also translates into higher prices.

Safety and Security

Safety is of the essence, even more so if you have children or pets. Double-hung windows offer a significant safety advantage as the top sash can be opened for ventilation while the lower sash stays closed, being much safer for kids and pets.

Single-hung windows, however, can pose a risk as the lower sash is the only operable part, so you’ll have to be very careful when leaving the window open if you have kids or pets.

Another thing to consider is that single-hung windows may perform better than double-hung windows in terms of burglar-proof capabilities, given that its top sash is fixed.

Egress Requirements

Any window can be an egress window as long as it fits local building code requirements, which are primarily directed toward the window’s clear opening area. In other words, an egress window should be large enough to allow for an easy escape route in case of emergencies (check local building codes for precise size requirements).

Therefore, given that you can only open the bottom sash of a single-hung window, it may not fit egress requirements.

On the other hand, it’s worth noting that even if single-hung or double-hung windows fit egress requirements, it may be difficult to escape through them when the sashes are tilted inwards because you’ll have to climb on them to exit the house.

So How Can You Choose the Right Window Style?

When you’re choosing the right window style for your home, remember to consider everything that is specific to your home’s architecture and region’s climate, at the same time taking into account your preferences.

Here are some tips we can provide that may help you along the way:

  • Single-hung windows are better for bottom floors. They are suitable for those who prioritize energy efficiency and lower costs. These windows also excel at security but may not be safe for children and pets.
  • Double-hung windows excel at ventilation and safety. They are better for top floors because they can be easily cleaned from the inside. They require more maintenance and cost more, especially if equipped with technologies that enhance their energy efficiency.
  • When choosing a window type, consider your region’s climate – if you have extreme temperature fluctuations, you can go for single-hung windows or invest in double-hung windows with high-quality insulating materials.
  • Don’t forget to take into account the long-term benefits and drawbacks of both window types.

Hung Windows vs Other Window Styles

If you still can’t decide whether you want single- or double-hung windows, why not consider other window types as well?

For instance, you may go for casement windows instead – like single- and double-hung windows, they are often installed in openings that are taller than they are wide. Casement windows are more energy-efficient than both single- and double-hung windows and provide superior ventilation. They are also easier to operate, especially if installed by a reputable company like Magic – our casement windows are crankless and hingeless, which translates into superior functionality and extended lifespan. Our casement windows can also be easily cleaned from the inside.

You can also go for sliding windows if there’s enough wall space – they are usually installed in openings that are wider than they are tall. Sliding windows are similar to double-hung ones in terms of energy efficiency. Plus, if you install Magic sliding windows, for instance, you’ll be able to open both sashes inwards to a 90-degree angle, which means they’re just as easy to clean as double-hung windows.

If you want to discover more about Magic technologies and compare different window or door types, you can contact us anytime! We provide a free consultation for everyone, during which one of our specialists will take note of even the tiniest details to devise a personalized solution – your home design, the climate in your region, energy efficiency and functionality needs, as well as your preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which are better, single or double-hung windows?

Both single- and double-hung windows are good options – ultimately, you should choose based on their pros and cons while assessing your needs. For example, single-hung windows offer limited ventilation but are more energy-efficient than double-hung windows.

Are single-hung windows more expensive?

Single-hung windows are less expensive than double-hung windows and other window types, but their final price depends on various factors, including frame material, the number of glass panes, and energy-efficient options.

Do single-hung windows tilt in for cleaning?

Some single-hung windows do have a tilt-in function. In this design, the bottom sash of a single-hung window can be tilted inwards so you can clean both glass surfaces easily. The top sash, however, stays fixed.

Are double-hung windows more energy efficient than single-hung windows?

Double-hung windows are considered less energy-efficient than single-hung windows. Single-hung windows take the lead in this regard because their top sash is fixed. However, both types can achieve improved energy performance with the right materials and treatments.

Which window type is better for homes with small children?

If you have children or pets and are worried about leaving windows open, install double-hung windows, as they allow you to open only the top sash, without worrying about accidents.

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