Replacement Windows: Single Hung vs Double Hung
When it comes to replacement windows all Foreman will focus on four primary factors. First, the condition of your current windows. Second the number and measurements of windows you will be replacing. Third the replacement window features such as double pane, triple pane, colors, etc. And last, the style of the replacement window, whether it be casement and awning; bay and bow; sliding windows; and single or double-hung windows.
Many homeowners put a great deal of attention towards above stated focus points 1-3 and fail to pay enough attention to detail to number 4 – the style of replacement window they purchase. That being said, Maverick Windows understands the importance of fine tuning every detail in the window replacement build out stage, so we wanted to take some time out today to highlight the differences between single hung and double hung replacement windows.
It is true that there are differences between single hung windows and double hung windows in terms of ventilation and engineering specifications. But the greatest distinction between the two window types comes in the form of ease of operation and the cost of cleaning and maintenance.
| | Single-Hung | Double-Hung |
| Cost | 10-20% cheaper than double-hung | More expensive in initial costs |
| Maintenance Costs | No cost difference | No cost difference |
| Cleaning |
Difficult to clean the exterior of the top sash since it does not tilt in. Tougher to clean for those living on an upper floor. |
Easier to clean since both windows can be tilted to wash inside and outside surfaces. Both sashes can be cleaned from the inside of the house. |
| Sash Features | Top sash is stationary and does not open while bottom sash moves and tilts in | Both sashes move and tilt |
| Ventilation | Less ventilation since only one sash opens | Better ventilation since both top and bottom sash can be opened |
| Style | Same design options | Same design options |
Single-Hung Windows
Single-hung windows are generally industry standard in new home construction. A single-hung window is easily identifiable as the bottom panel, or sash, moves vertically, while the upper sash remains stationary. When opened, the bottom sash will obstruct the top sash as the top half of the window is inoperable. Maverick Windows installed several single hung windows at our customers home in Dallas recently (window replacement Dallas).
Single-hung windows are generally builder’s choice for one main reason: cost. Not only are they inexpensive, they also offer great energy efficiency. So many homeowners elect to go with single hung windows simply to save money. While the difference in price between single hung windows and double hung windows may not seem the significant, homeowners in need of a dozen windows may see firsthand the increased cost can add up at high volumes. For that reason, single hung windows may be the best option for customers with finance limitations.
However, due to the various limitations of single hung windows, double hung window are the more ideal choice for home window replacement. Because only the lower sash opens in a single-hung window, the window offers limited ventilation. In rooms that require more ventilation, such as the bathroom, this can result in higher moisture levels and little relief from humidity, mildew growth and odor control.
Additionally, single-hung windows make cleaning difficult, particularly for those with homes built off of the ground or on floors higher than ground level. Since the top sash is not operable, homeowners can only clean the outside of the upper sash by accessing it from the outside of the home. For many homeowners this requires hiring a window cleaning company multiple times per year for those difficult-to-reach windows.
Though the cost of the single-hung window is lower up front, the costs over time associated with ventilation and cleaning can run much higher than those for double-hung windows.
Double-Hung Windows
Double hung windows differ from single-hung in that they offer the homeowner the ability to open each sash, rather than just the bottom sash. This allows for better air flow and ventilation.
The ability to open and tilt each sash makes cleaning easier, too. Homeowners living off of the ground level are able to tilt the sashes inward and clean both the interior and exterior surfaces of the glass without needing special equipment or a professional cleaning company to do the chore for them.
Final Thoughts
If you’re concerned about the cost difference, don’t forget that while double-hung may cost more up front, in the long run, the added features for security and maintenance will save you greatly. For more information about your window replacement, call Maverick Windows in Dallas – Fort Worth or Houston, Texas at (214) 302-8541 or schedule your Summer Savings demo online at https://maverickwindows.com/summersavings/