Great windows can be a nice accent when you’re putting together the interior of your home. When shopping for windows there are two types that are usually compared to each other, double hung and single hung. But when looking at both, which one is the better choice?
Whether you’re building a home from scratch or improving your current home, double hung vs single hung windows are going to be something you think about. The option you go with will usually come down to a few key factors related to the home. The price, how much maintenance they’ll need, and how energy efficient they are.
Are you contemplating window choices? Looking at remodeling or building your home with new types of windows? Read our guide on the differences between double hung vs single hung windows.
Characteristics of Double Hung vs Single Hung Windows
There are a few main differences between both types of windows but often are separated by how they operate in a home. Single-hung windows have a fixed top sash and one bottom sash that moves vertically.
Double-hung windows on the other hand have both sashes that are operable. You can open both the top and bottom parts of the window.
How Much Do They Cost?
While single-hung windows are more common in buildings, double-hung windows have become increasingly popular for their modern style. But what about the cost of windows that you put into a home, how much are they?
Installing single-hung windows is cheaper than putting a double-hung window in a home. There are fewer moving parts, so it costs less to put together. This is true even for windows that are the same size; double-hung windows will always cost a bit more.
Cleaning and Maintenance
When it comes to cleaning however double-hung windows have an edge over single-hung windows. Not only does opening them give more ventilation to a home, but they are easier to clean. The sashes can be tilted inward, allowing you to clean the inside and outside of the window.
Single-hung windows don’t have a tilted sash, since they only move up and down. This makes single-hung windows more difficult to maintain in buildings with multiple floors that are placed higher up.
Energy Efficiency and Ventilation
Double-hung windows offer much better window ventilation in a home than single-hung windows but are not as energy-efficient. Single-hung windows can allow a home to not waste as much heat in the winter, as well as keep the area cooler in the summer. There’s more air leakage because the top sashes in double-hung windows are not always being closed properly.
With more air leakage, it means your air conditioner or heater will have to work harder to compensate. This can give you higher than normal energy bills. While both window types can have air leakage, single-hung windows are much better for keeping the area hot or cold for longer.
Picking the Right Types of Windows
By reading our guide on double-hung vs single-hung windows, you’ll be able to choose the right windows for your home. Whether you’re looking for the best ventilation or the best price for buying new windows, you’ll need to know how to choose between the options available to you.
Ready to go find the best windows for your dream home? Contact Diligent Exterior Remodeling today to discuss your exterior remodeling services needs. They have great insight into the types of windows you can get, as well as installation and replacement window services.
