Single-hung and double-hung windows look almost identical from a distance. And as some of the most common types of windows in America, they are familiar to most Americans. But if you haven’t replaced your windows in a while, you probably aren’t aware of the differences between single-hung and double-hung windows.
If you want to add the classic and timeless qualities of single- or double-hung windows to your home, first learn the unique differences between the two. Only then can you decide which type is right for you.
Ventilation
Windows are a great way to ventilate your home on a hot summer’s day. So, ventilation is a good place to start when comparing these two similar types of windows.
Single-Hung Windows Offer Limited Ventilation
Because single windows only open from the bottom, they offer limited ventilation. This means that single-hung windows won’t work well in kitchens or bathrooms.
Double-Hung Windows Offer Superior Ventilation
Double-hung windows open from the top and bottom. You can also open both sashes at the same time. With both sashes open at the same time, warm air escapes through the top, and cool air arrives through the bottom. This is a great advantage for a hot and humid bathroom.
Safety
If you have children or pets in your household, then safety often affects your choice when choosing between single-hung and double-hung windows.
Single-Hung Windows Could Be Dangerous to Pets and Children
In a household with pets or children, single-hung windows could be dangerous, especially on the upper floors.
Double-Hung Windows Are Child- and Pet-Friendly
Double-hung windows are ideal for family households. You can leave the bottom sash closed while you keep the top sash open. This can help prevent accidents involving pets or children.
Cleaning and Maintenance
You’ll need to keep your windows clean and well maintained over the years to ensure they last.
Single-Hung Windows Are Difficult to Clean
Cleaning single-hung windows can be difficult because you generally have to go outside to clean them. This means that if you have single-hung windows in your home’s upper rooms, you could endanger yourself if you attempt to clean them yourself. Our single-hung windows do allow for you to tilt in the lower sash, making them easier to clean as only the upper sash needs to be cleaned from the outside.
Double-Hung Windows Have More Moving Parts
Although modern double-hung windows are easier to clean because you can open both sashes at the same time with their tilt-in feature, the windows have more moving parts. This increases the risk of wear and tear and means you need to be more careful when choosing materials for your double-hung window.
Appearance and Style
Although single-hung windows do look similar to double-hung windows at first glance, there is one important difference.
Single-Hung Windows Can Have Multiple Panes
You can add multiple windowpanes to your single-hung windows to add a more classical look to your home.
Double-Hung Windows Offer a Wider Array of Styles and Colors
Not only can you add more windowpanes to a double-hung window, but you generally have more styles of colors to choose from as well.
Cost and Installation
Cost and installation are also an important consideration when choosing a window style, especially if you’d like to install your windows sooner rather than later.
Single-Hung Windows Are Easier to Install
Single-hung windows are simpler in design. Because of that, installation takes less time.
Double-Hung Windows Are More Expensive
Double-hung windows take longer to install, and they are more expensive. This is because they open from the top and the bottom. This means that these windows tend to be heavier and thus require a stronger upper frame to support them.
Double-hung windows are currently the most popular window type in America. But both single-hung and double-hung windows are an attractive addition to any American home. If you think single-hung or double-hung windows are right for your home, call Pella Windows & Doors of Wisconsin today. We’ll help you to decide what will work best for you and your home.
