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On average, a window takes up about 15% of wall space in a home. The more windows you have, the more natural light you allow into your home. In this case, the more natural light you have, the better.

So when going window shopping, you’ll want something easily obtainable.

There are two windows that appear in many houses. The single-hung and double-hung windows are two of the most classic pieces to install in your house and with good reason.

Both windows are practical and functional. They are both easy to use and clean and people buy them for those features.

However, another question arises. Single-hung vs double-hung windows: which is better?

Read on to see the differences between the two windows as well as their pros and cons to see which window would suit your house best.

What Are Single-Hung Windows?

Single-hung windows are similar to double-hung windows in that they are both vertical-sliding windows. Both have upper and lower framed glass panels that are called sashes.

In single-hung windows, only the bottom sash moves while the top sash remains in place permanently.

Pros and Cons of Single-Hung Windows

Despite being one of the most common windows found in houses, single-hung windows have their advantages and disadvantages. Getting to know their pros and cons will help you make a better decision about what you want for your house.

Pros

Single-hung windows have been around since the 17th century. Because of this, people have had the time to develop the window’s design and improve on it.

Here are some of the benefits of installing single-hung windows.

Cheaper

Single-hung windows tend to be cheaper than most window types. This allows you, the homeowner, to put the remainder of the budget into special features that you can add to your windows such as UV protection or higher quality frames.

Energy Efficient

Because single-hung windows only open one way, you get to conserve more energy. This is helpful for seasons like winter or summer when you don’t want the heat or cool AC air to escape through leaks in the window.

Stable

Single-hung windows tend to need less maintenance due to a limit on their moving parts.

Aside from that, single-hung windows are also weather resistant. With one part being a permanent fixture, strong winds will rarely find a way to break through it.

Cons

Of course, these windows aren’t without their disadvantages. Listed below are a few of the cons that installing a single-hung window can bring.

Less Airflow

Expect to receive weaker circulation with a single-hung window compared to a double-hung window. While the fixed sash is great for certain situations such as retaining heat during cold seasons, it might not be the same for summer.

Not as Easy to Clean

Being able to lift one sash gives you less space to clean the window properly. Most likely, you would have to go outside to clean both sides of the window panel.

This can get difficult if your house has multiple stories.

Limited Sizes

Single-hung windows are usually available in one size. Although you can order them in slightly taller sizes, getting a custom size made for your house will end up costing you.

What Are Double-Hung Windows?

Double-hung windows look similar to single-hung windows with one huge difference. Unlike the single-hung window, double-hung windows have two moving sashes.

Pros and Cons of Double-Hung Windows

Looking through the pros and cons of having a double-hung window installation in your home can help you make the final decision in choosing the perfect window.

Of course, a good decision is only made after proper research.

Pros

Double-hung windows have started becoming more popular in recent years. Compared to single-hung windows, double-hung windows tend to have features that many would find helpful.

Below are a few of the features listed.

More Ventilation

Double-hung windows have two moving parts: the lower and upper sashes. By moving these two sashes to the middle, you allow more air circulation throughout the rooms of your houses, ensuring a constant supply of fresh air.

Easier to Clean

Unlike single-hung windows, double-hung windows can be cleaned on both sides, from the inside. You no longer have to walk all the way outside to properly clean your windows. If you have a double-story house, being able to clean your windows from the inside removes any potential of an accident happening.

More Choices for Customization

When looking for double-hung window options, you’ll find that these are easier to customize. You get to play around with the aesthetic of these windows and choose a style and size that matches your home.

Cons

Despite the obvious advantages of installing a double-hung window, it’s not without its disadvantages. Here are some of them.

Costly

In general, a double-hung window costs more. This is due to the multiple additional features along with the added functionality that isn’t seen in single-hung windows.

Would Require More Maintenance

Because double-hung windows have many moving parts, they are more prone to breakage. Finding parts may be difficult, but if you hire a reliable window contractor to fix your windows, this might not be much of a problem.

Not Weather Resistant

Single-hung windows could be maintained and strengthened by adding caulk to the fixed sash. However, for double-hung windows, that method is impossible. Because it has two moving sashes, the windows are generally less stable and not as weather resistant.

Single-Hung vs Double-Hung Windows

Now that you’ve seen all the information regarding these windows, one question remains. Single-hung vs double-hung windows?

Both windows are great for their own reasons. While single-hung windows are perfect for those with a tight budget, double-hung windows could be better for those who prefer to have fresh air in their homes.

Whatever window you choose, one of the most important things is to choose a window contractor that would deliver the best quality work and craftsmanship. We at Americraft Siding & Windows have the experience and skill to do just that.

Want to know more? Contact us and we’ll have one of our representatives get back to you.