Double-hung and single-hung windows

While they look identical, with two sashes stacked vertically, double-hung windows and single-hung windows function a little bit differently. Both open flush but a double-hung window can open from the top and bottom while a single-hung window only opens from the bottom. This is because the top sash of a single-hung window is fixed.

The distinct advantages of a double-hung window, when compared to a single-hung window, include the following:

• More fresh air: Opening both top and bottom sashes can vent out hot air while letting in cool air.
• Easier cleaning: Our double-hung windows tilt inside the home so you can clean the interior and exterior without going outside. Learn more on how to clean windows.
• A top opening: The higher opening can let in fresh air while giving you peace of mind, especially with windows on a first floor or in a child’s bedroom. 

The distinct advantages of single-hung windows, when compared to a double-hung window, include the following:

• Increased energy efficiency: The top half of a single-hung window is fixed meaning it doesn’t open, so there’s less opportunity for leaking air. Learn how to pick energy efficient windows.
• Cost savings: The simpler design of a single-hung window means it costs a bit less to produce, this is reflected in the price.
• Easier maintenance: Its design is simpler with fewer moving parts and pieces due to the fixed top sash. Fewer operable parts mean less care will be required over time. 

Here are a few instances when a single-hung window might be the best choice.

• When the top sash of your single-hung window is going to be out of reach or you just don’t think you’ll use the top opening, go with a single-hung window.
• When you’re looking to save a bit on your window costs, you could consider single-hung windows or a mix of single- and double-hung windows.
• When you want the look of a hung window but also want to increase energy-efficiency, you’d be best off with a single-hung window.
• When you want to increase your peace of mind, you might appreciate the fact that our 100 Series Single-Hung Windows lock automatically upon closing.

Head to our blog for more ideas about when to choose a single-hung window. 

Here are a few instances when a double-hung window might be the best choice:

• When you’re picking out windows for an upper level, a double-hung window is easier to clean and maintain due to its tilt-wash feature.
• When you want a hung window look and need lots of fresh air, the double openings will be impactful, especially in a small room.

Head to our blog for more ideas about when to choose a double-hung window. 

Our double-hung and single-hung windows can be ordered in a wide range of sizes. 

Go for the largest with our A-Series Double-Hung Window, which can be 4’ wide and 8’ tall, and our 100 Series Single-Hung Window, which can be up to 4’ wide and 7’ 6” tall.

We offer a wide variety of sizes. Standard and custom sizing is also available down to 1/8 inch. Find sizing details for all of our product lines in our sizing resources. 

The cost of our double-hung windows varies depending on your selections — specific window features as well as the product line. Our most budget-friendly hung windows are available through the 100 Series and 200 Series product lines. 

Keep in mind that the cost of the window is only one factor. Installation costs, code requirements, and the scope of your project play a role as well. This is why we recommend requesting a quote. This process will help you get the information you need to financially plan for your project. Perhaps even more importantly, it will connect you with a pro who can work through the process with you — helping you find the best window that fits within your budget.

Request a quote and while you wait, you can start understanding window and door costs.

The exact price will vary depending on a variety of factors, but our single-hung window will cost less than our double-hung windows. 

This is due to their simper construction (with that fixed top sash) and the fact that our single-hung windows are offered through our most budget-friendly product line, the 100 Series.

The best way to understand cost for your specific project is to request a quote. And while you wait, you can start understanding window and door costs.

Our materials vary by product line, and we offer double-hung windows through all our product lines, so no matter the material you seek, we likely have a window that will work for your project. 

Here’s a quick overview of the materials our double-hung windows are made from:

• E-Series windows are wood with a protective aluminum covering on the exterior.
• A-Series windows have wood interiors and a durable exterior made of fiberglass and Fibrex® material.
• 400 Series windows are wood with a low-maintenance vinyl covering on the exterior.
• 200 Series windows are wood with a low-maintenance vinyl cladding on the exterior.
• 100 Series windows are made completely of our trademarked Fibrex material — the smart alternative to vinyl. 

We offer single-hung windows through our 100 Series product line. That product line is made of Fibrex material, which is a composite made of reclaimed wood fiber and thermoplastic polymer.

We call it the smart alternative to vinyl because it's twice as strong as vinyl and can withstand temperatures up to 150°. It won’t fade, flake, blister, or peel, so it’s low maintenance and suitable for any climate.

It’s also available in dark colors and has consistent sight lines across the product line, so you can mix and match window types while still maintaining a cohesive look.

Single-hung windows are more efficient because of their fixed top sashes. Their efficiency can be further improved by selecting the right low-emissivity (Low-E) coating. Low-E coatings help keep air conditioning and heating inside your home. They can also welcome or limit solar heat gain. There are a variety of options suited to various climates.

If you prefer a double-hung window, certain selections can improve performance, such as the right Low-E glass option for your climate and triple-pane glass. Triple-pane glass is the most insulating option. It’s available with our A-Series and E-Series product lines. In certain geographic regions, 400 Series Double-Hung Windows can be ordered with triple-pane glass, too. 

Want to learn more about how to pick out energy-efficient windows?

Are you looking for U-Factor values of our double-hung windows? Find NFRC data organized by product line in the technical documents section of our website.