Window Questions: Single Hung Or Double Hung Which Is Better For You?

There are pros and cons to both types of windows, and which one is best depends on a variety of different factors including, but not limited to, space, aesthetic, energy efficiency, cost, and available options from local professionals. This article is going to deep dive into the pros and cons of each of these windows and how to choose the one that’s best for you. Let’s jump in!

Looking at Single Hung Windows

Single-hung windows are more affordable than their double-hung counterparts and are better for spaces where you don’t need to open the window very often. They’re also easier to clean since both sashes are fixed in place. However, they’re not as energy efficient as double-hung windows and don’t offer as much ventilation.

Style-wise, single hung windows tend to fall into the “Craftsman,” “Historic,” and “Authentic” styles of windows. They are often available in wood, fiberglass, a vinyl and while costs can vary they tend to be less expensive than their double-hung counterparts.

These are the most common windows that are used in:

• Bedrooms
• Kitchens
• The first floor of a home

There are plenty of energy efficient options and they don’t have any additional construction problems or considerations – it’s a pretty standard installation. Size-wise, these will come in many sizes from all the standards to slightly taller heights.

The biggest and most common benefit to going with single hung windows over double hung is that they tend to fit in easily with whatever the original aesthetic was and they tend to be less expensive than their comparable double-hung window equivalent.

Looking at Double-Hung Windows

Double-hung windows, on the other hand, are more expensive than single-hung windows but they’re also more energy efficient and offer better ventilation. They’re also easier to clean from the inside since both sashes can be opened. However, they’re not always the best choice for smaller spaces since they take up more room when open.

Double-hung windows are often the better option when looking at Colonial, Victorian, or Traditional designs as they often fit in better. These come in wood, fiberglass, and vinyl options meaning there should be no shortage of aesthetic and material options when it comes to putting in new windows.

Double-hung windows tend to be more versatile because they have two moveable sashes instead of one. This does also make them more expensive, but they can be easier to more fully clean and you have more options because you can move either sash instead of being stuck with one or the other set in place.

Double-hung windows tend to have a lot more custom sizes than single-hung windows making them ideal for custom designs or renovations.

Their biggest advantage over single-hung windows is sheer versatility.

Which Is Best?

So, which one is right for you? It really depends on your specific needs and what’s most important to you. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, then single-hung windows are probably the way to go. If you’re looking for better energy efficiency and ventilation, then double-hung windows are the better choice.

And, if you’re not sure, then it’s always best to consult with a local professional to get their expert opinion.