Choosing Between Single Hung vs. Double Hung Windows

At first glance, telling the difference between single-hung and double-hung windows can be difficult—especially from a distance. With upper and lower sashes dividing square sets of muntins, these vertically sliding windows are practically identical from the outside, and they complement the same array of classic home architectures and decors, including Cape Cod, Colonial, Ranch, Mediterranean, and many more.

If you’ve fallen in love with the ever-so-traditional look of single-hung and double-hung windows and are trying to decide between the two for your home’s replacement windows, the experts at Midwest Construction can help you discover the differences between both window types—allowing you to make the perfect choice for your home.

Single-Hung vs. Double-Hung: What’s the Difference?

Beyond their similar looks, what really separates double-hung from single-hung windows is design and function. Simply put, single-hung windows are designed with a fixed top window that doesn’t move, while the bottom window slides up and down.

Double-hung windows, on the other hand, feature top and bottom sliding windows. While this extra versatility may make them seem like the obvious choice, it’s actually not that simple. In the next few sections, we’ll break down the advantages and disadvantages of each model and what factors you’ll need to consider when deciding between them for your home.

Double-Hung Windows: What’s Good About Them?

Though single-hung windows might be the most-common window type on existing homes in the USA, double-hung windows have become the rising favorite, and they are the most widespread choice for installation on new home construction and for window replacement.

There are two main reasons for this surge in popularity.

  • The first reason is that double-hung windows are easier to clean with moveable panels and a tilt-out feature that’s particularly useful for windows located on higher floors. While some single-hung windows do feature the tilt-out option, the lower panel blocks the higher, fixed panel—making it difficult to clean.
  • The second reason has to do with ventilation. Double-hung windows offer greater opportunities for air flow within the home, and they allow for a cooling effect when hot air escapes through the upper sash at the same time that cooler air enters at the bottom.

The Green Advantages of Single-Hung Windows 

While a single-hung window might seem far less superior than its more flexible counterpart, don’t write it off just yet! There are a couple of advantages of single-hung windows that you’ll want to consider before choosing one or the other for your home.

The most important advantage for homeowners is cost. Single-hung windows are the less expensive choice, and sometimes substantially so. In fact, single-hung models can be anywhere from 10-25% cheaper than double-hung—which can translate to dramatic savings for your home remodel, especially if you’re considering window replacement for more than just one window.

Another reason why single-hung windows continue to be a popular choice for many homeowners is energy-efficiency. Some experts argue that double-hung windows could be prone to air leakage when compared to single-hung models. While this won’t be true immediately following proper installation—as both models must meet the same performance standards for inspection—it could be true later down the road as your window ages with time.

Get Advice from Installation Experts About Your Replacement Windows

Window replacement is a big home improvement project, and it’s best to be certain about the products you choose before having them installed. If you’re still trying to decide between the two models, a professional can help you make the right decision based on your climate, home architecture, and budget.

At Midwest Construction, we’ve been helping Iowa residents improve their homes with window replacement since 1958. Our friendly team of professional contractors can help you choose between single-hung, double-hung, and countless other window types to make the best possible decision for your needs. Just give us a call to speak with one of our friendly window specialists about our home improvement and remodeling services, or fill out our online form to schedule your free, in-home quote now!