Single Hung vs. Double Hung Window: What’s the Difference?

Image

Shopping around for windows and unsure what the difference is between a single hung versus a double hung window, or which one is best for your home? We can help you understand the key differences between these two types of windows. 

Window Operation

The main difference between a single hung and a double hung window is how they operate.

What is a single hung window?

single hung window has a fixed top sash and an operable bottom sash that moves vertically.

What is a double hung window?

Both sashes are operable on a double hung window, You can open the top sash by itself, the bottom sash by itself, or you can open both of them for better air flow.  

 

Read more on double hung window operation.

Window Ventilation & Air Circulation

The next key difference is the ventilation and air flow you can get from these two window types. Double hung windows offer maximum circulation when both sashes are open; cool, fresh air will flow in through the bottom while warm air flows out of the top.   

Need help deciding which windows are right for you? Download our Window Selection Guide.

Window Cleaning & Maintenance

A key advantage to double hung windows is ease of cleaning. Double hung windows come with tilt sashes that allow the upper and lower sashes to tilt inward. This allows both the interior and exterior glass to be cleaned from inside your home. This is especially helpful for second and third floor windows.

Milgard Tuscany® Series | V400 offers both double and single hung window operating styles. To get more information, download our Tuscany® Series Brochure

Window Costs

Cost can be an important consideration when choosing a window style. With the additional features and functionality, double hung windows typically cost a little more than a single hung window of similar size. We recommend you consult with a Milgard Certified Dealer about your whole project so they can recommend the right products and features for your budget.

What is Better- a Single or Double Hung Window?

What’s best for your home depends on a variety of factors including where the window will be installed, your geographic climate, and any accessibility needs.

We recommend talking to your Certified Milgard Dealer about your project needs. They can help recommend the right product and operating style for you.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

 

More Helpful Articles

Image

How to Find the Best Sliding Glass Doors

Read this before you shop.

Image

Bay and Bow Windows: Your Questions Answered

A Buyer’s Guide

Image

5 Hot Choices in Patio Doors for Indoor Outdoor Living

Ideas to transform your patio space into an extended living room.

Image

Milgard Black Framed Fiberglass Windows Featured in Idea House

“This home is a work of art!”

Image

5 of the Best Patio Doors for 2023

We’ve got five of the best patio door options for 2022 that you have to see to believe.

Image

Modern design trends in home windows

Black interior/exterior color match

Image

What is a Double Hung Window?

And how it compares to a Single Hung Window

Image

Shop for Quality Vinyl Windows Nationwide

Where to turn if you're looking for Milgard® quality windows on the East Coast.

Image

Buyer's Guide on Sliding Patio Doors: Answering Frequently Asked Questions

Read this before you shop

Image

New school building enjoys natural light with Milgard Windows

Aluminum windows provide a bright future

Add a comment

Restricted HTML

  • Allowed HTML tags: <a href hreflang> <em> <strong> <cite> <blockquote cite> <code> <ul type> <ol start type> <li> <dl> <dt> <dd> <h2 id> <h3 id> <h4 id> <h5 id> <h6 id>
  • Lines and paragraphs break automatically.
  • Web page addresses and email addresses turn into links automatically.
CAPTCHA
This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.