A double-hung window, also commonly referred to as a double-sash window, is a type of window that has two operable sashes that slide up and down. There are two main operable parts of a double-hung window — the top sash and the bottom sash. They are both able to open to provide ventilation.
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.
Even when they are identical in style and size, double-hung windows can cost around 75 percent more than single-hung windows, according to Fixr, an online marketplace to hire contractors and builders for home projects. Single-hung windows average around $100 to $300 per window.
“Hung” is a term that refers to the number of operable sashes, while “pane” describes the number of panes of glass in the window. Both single-hung and double-hung windows have two sashes — an upper and lower sash — which separates the window both physically and visually.
A double-hung style window is superior to a single-hung due to its higher level of versatility. This window style includes two sashes and allows for each sash to be opened. Due to the possibility to open both the top and bottom sashes, a double-hung provides better ventilation than a single-hung.
The easiest way to tell if you have a single-hung window is to look below the top sash on the exterior of the window. Double-hung windows will have a small space between the sash and the jamb allowing it to slide up and down.
Window screens are super simple with single-hung windows. The most popular is the standard fiberglass single hung window screen.
Single-hung windows are more secure as there is only one sash to close and lock. They are also more authentic looking for older homes trying to keep the same design aesthetic.
"The trick to getting the maximum flow of air through the window is to slide the sashes so the window is open equally at the top and bottom. By separating the in-flow and out-flow, cooler incoming air efficiently flushes the warm air out of the room.
Double-hung windows have a screen, either full or half, that sits on the outside of the window, so it will cover the exterior, changing the aesthetics and cutting down on the visible light that enters the home.
Tilting the lower sash of a single-hung window makes it easier to clean the exterior glass from the interior.
Single-hung windows also have their benefits: They are much cheaper to order and install than double-hung windows. Since only one sash opens, they provide more energy-efficiency against air leaks. They are easier to install because there are fewer moving parts to consider.
A majority of new construction windows come with screens.
Some suppliers will exclude the cost of that screen if you choose to opt out. On average, these screens cost around $100, but higher-end screens can go as high as $250 to $400 as well.
Exterior screens install over windows from the outside, usually on first floor windows. Interior screens are intended to be installed from inside the home, with the plunger pins or spring systems on the inside of the screen frame so you can access them from inside through an open window.
What is the difference between single-hung and double-hung windows? The difference between single-hung and double-hung windows is the number of sashes that move. A single-hung window has one fixed, or non-operable, sash and one operable, or moveable, sash. A double-hung window has two operable, or moveable, sashes.
You cannot install window air conditioners into casement windows due to the windows cranked outward. Air conditioners need windows which slide up and down to secure a window conditioner unit. Casement windows, in most cases, cannot have screens or storm windows.
Casement windows are an excellent choice for any homeowner looking for something that's easy to clean. Since casement windows crank open, they are easy to open and close and don't have too many nooks and crannies where they keep hidden dirt.
A single hung window has a fixed top sash and an operable bottom sash that moves vertically.
Double-Hung Windows
They can open wide from either the top or the bottom, but they remain inside the frame so they don't protrude out to the exterior or interior of the home. Most manufactures also allow the sashes on a double-hung window to lean.
Double-hung windows generally have screens attached on the outside, while casements have the screen attached inside to allow the window to swing open while keeping the opening covered by the screen.