Single-hung and double-hung windows are the two primary varieties you’ll probably see while purchasing doors and windows. These two window styles are carefully picked, just like many other aspects of home design. Every style has advantages of its own.
There are two sashes on a single hung window, but only the bottom one moves. A double hung window, on the other hand, allows both sashes to move up and down.
Two common window styles are covered in this guide. Our goal is to assist you in selecting the ideal window for your house.
Window structure
From the structural characteristics, the single hung window is relatively simple, and only the lower window sash can be pushed and pulled along the bottom slide rail to open. This design is easy to operate and does not require complex hardware accessories. Double hung windows are relatively delicate, and both upper and lower window sashes can be moved. They can be flexibly lifted and lowered through hidden balancing devices. Whether it is pushing up the lower sash or pulling down the upper sash, the ventilation mode can be easily switched.
Ventilation effect
In terms of ventilation effect, the ventilation volume of single hung windows is relatively limited because the opening area is limited to the lower half. However, due to its moderate ventilation, it is often used in small bedrooms, study rooms or storage rooms. These places usually do not require high-intensity ventilation. Single hung windows can meet daily ventilation needs and avoid discomfort caused by strong winds. For example, in a quiet study, moderate ventilation can keep the air fresh, helping you read and work quietly without disturbing the pages of books.
Double-hung windows, with the dual opening of the upper and lower sashes, greatly increase the ventilation area, allowing the air to circulate fully indoors. Living rooms and dining rooms, where people gather and activities are frequent, have become its areas of expertise. During family gatherings, the spacious space needs to quickly dispel the stuffiness and odor of oil smoke. The wide-open ventilation mode of double-hung windows can quickly fill the whole house with fresh air.
Window cleaning
The difference between the two in terms of cleaning convenience is obvious. Since only the lower sash of a single-hung window can move, if it is installed on a higher floor, it is difficult for the arm to reach a high place when cleaning the outer glass, which increases the difficulty of cleaning. On the other hand, the double-hung window has a design that can be flipped inward, which is its highlight. Standing indoors, you can clean the inner and outer glass in all directions, easily get rid of the trouble of stains, greatly reduce the risk of high-altitude operations, and make cleaning no longer a headache.
Window performance
Simple weatherstripping is used to seal the window and sash of single-hung windows. The ability of these windows to retain hot air inside is slightly improved. They still lose conditioned air more readily, though.
Temperate climates are best suited for single-hung windows. They are also appropriate for indoor areas that require mild cooling and heating.
Double-hung windows rely on complex multi-point locking and high-quality sealing strips. The window frame and window sash fit tightly together to build a solid insulation barrier. It can effectively block heat conduction in both severe cold and hot weather. It is the first choice for homes that pursue constant temperature in all seasons, especially for master bedrooms, living rooms and other key spaces in cold North America or hot and humid eastern coastal areas.
Cost of double-hung and single-hung windows
The price of single-hung windows is roughly US$150-300 per square meter, while the price of double-hung windows is usually more than US$200 per square meter.
Price has always been one of the important factors affecting the purchase of doors and windows. Single-hung windows have a cost-effective cost advantage with simple structure and few parts, which is undoubtedly the best choice for limited homeowners. Double-hung windows increase their cost due to their complex structure and high-end hardware configuration, but in the long run, the excellent user experience and excellent energy-saving performance have achieved long-term benefits and are the perfect match for high-end residential and building quality improvement.
Single-hung windows and double-hung windows: Which is better?
If you focus on ventilation performance, cleaning convenience, energy saving and insulation, and have sufficient budget, double-hung windows may be a better choice; if you are more sensitive to price, have a small space and low ventilation requirements, single-hung windows can also meet your basic needs.
When choosing windows first, it is best to consider factors such as window placement space (which will correspond to its main function), budget cost, cleaning and maintenance convenience, and climatic conditions in your area. If you still cannot determine the specific window needs, you can choose to contact us. Our door and window experts will help you make accurate choices and provide different window types, such as casement windows and sliding windows. Grandsea, a top door and window brand from China, will definitely make every window you buy perfectly fit your home environment and enjoy a comfortable life.
