Double and single-hung windows (also known as “sash” windows) are the staple of traditional American homes.

With sliding slashes that let you open the windows up or down (or both), these windows are both a centerpiece and a practical choice for controlling interior airflow.

The question is, what’s the difference between double-hung vs single-hung windows? And, of course, which one is better?

Keep reading to compare these two window types, including the pros, cons, customizations, and costs of double-hung vs single-hung windows to help you make the right decision for your home.

Double and single hung windows look similar, but operate differently. The definition of a single-hung window vs a double-hung window is:

• Single hung windows: Have a fixed upper sash that doesn’t move and a lower sash that slides up and down to open the window
• Double hung windows: Have two moving sashes on the top and bottom, so you can open the window in three ways – by sliding the top sash down, sliding the bottom sash up, or sliding both so the sashes rest in the middle

Double-hung windows are excellent at controlling interior airflow, keeping kids or pets safe, and are considered a more “modern” type of sash window. But they tend to cost more compared to single-hung windows.

The advantages of double-hung windows are:

• Customizable airflow: The biggest benefit of double-hung windows is customization – you can open only the top half to let hot air out, only the bottom half to let cool air in, or both for maximum ventilation
• Increased ventilation: With the option to open both the top and bottom halves of the window at the same time, you enjoy more airflow compared to single-hung windows
• Safer for children and pets: On upper levels, opening only the top half of the window can make it safer for family homes, with the higher opening less accessible to children and pets
• Easy to clean: With the ability to slide both halves of the window, you can easily clean both the interior and exterior from inside the home
• Contemporary aesthetic: While traditional in their design, double-hung windows offer a modern twist on the classic, single-hung style, adding a unique, contemporary touch to your home

The most timeless and traditional type of door is a painted or primed door. These offer a clean, modern look and are happily affordable options for most homes.

Key features:

• Available with varying panel designs/heights
• Generally the lowest cost
• Low maintenance (once painted)
• Contains a solid wood core for additional strength
• Have an MDF (Medium-density fibreboard) surface veneer to offer a sleek look

The disadvantages of double-hung windows are:

• More complex to install: Professionals need to ensure the windows are precisely aligned and all parts and mechanisms work properly, which can take longer compared to installing single-hung windows
• Higher costs: Double-hung windows cost more compared to single-hung, although many factors affect price, including the material and design you choose (we recommend getting a bespoke quote)
• Energy-efficiency: Some window designs aren’t as energy-efficient as others, and some types of double-hung windows have slightly more air leaks (learn more about window energy-star ratings)

Single-hung windows have the “classic” look, which makes them easy to operate and install (thus lowering costs). They also have good lower airflow and access, making them great for smaller spaces. Yet they are a little harder to clean, and they aren’t as flexible as double-hung windows.

The advantages of single-hung windows:

• Easy to operate: The simplicity of the design makes single-hung windows easier to operate compared to double-hung windows
• Great for smaller spaces: Their sliding design, with only the bottom accessible, can be better suited to smaller rooms or apartments
• Good lower airflow: With only the bottom half of the window opening, it allows good airflow to enter the home at sitting height
• Classic appearance: Single-hung windows have a classic appearance and a historic feel, traditionally found in colonial, craftsman, and farmhouse homes
• Fast installation: With less-complex mechanisms, single-hung windows are typically easier and faster for professionals to install
• Affordable: The simpler installation and design make single-hung windows cheaper, although a variety of single-hung window designs are available that influence final costs

The disadvantages of single-hung windows are:

• Limited ventilation options: With only the bottom half of the window opening, you have fewer ventilation options and can’t control the airflow as much as you can with double-hung windows
• Insulation: Both types of windows are energy-efficient, but the nature of the sliding window design can lower insulation (learn how to seal windows to maximize insulation)
• Slightly harder to clean: The exterior is more difficult to reach and clean, particularly the bottom half of the window on upper floors

Double-hung windows are generally more expensive as they’re more complex and flexible. They’re also considered a more modern option.

As an estimate, you can expect to pay between 20-30% more for double-hung windows over single-hungs. However, the overall costs depend on the style and design you choose for your windows.

Both single and double-hung windows are customizable in terms of their coloring, design, material (e.g., aluminum or vinyl), and hardware. Get an accurate quote today for sash windows in your favorite design.

Read more about the factors that influence the costs of windows:

• Materials: Our single-hung windows come in premium quality vinyl for a lifetime of trouble-free performance, while our double-hung windows come in fiberglass, vinyl, and wood-clad
• Colors: Choose your interior and exterior color scheme, with white, desert sand, almond, forest green, black, royal brown, tan, oak, and bronze all popular color choices for both window types
• Hardware finishes: Choose your preferred hardware colors, with white, desert sand, tan, black, bronze, brass, and brushed nickel just some of the options available
• Window locks: Choose your preferred style of double-hung window locks and window locks for single-hung windows, from dual-action locks, tilt latches, and sash locks
• Glass types: With all our windows, you can choose your preferred glass type, including options like bronze, gray, obscure, textured, tinted, clear, or from a selection of Low-E options
• Grids: Both our single and double-hung windows come with divided glass panels (known as muntins, grilles, or grids) or clear glass windows (with no grids)

Double-hung windows are not necessarily better, but they offer more customization and better airflow in a home. They’re usually good for homes with poor circulation or rooms that need more ventilation (like kitchens and bathrooms).

Compared to single-hung windows, double-hung styles can also be safer for family homes and better at letting natural light enter, as you can open just the top without opening the bottom.

Single-hung windows are usually cheaper compared to the costs of buying and installing double-hung windows; however, it varies.

You can customize the color and material of both window types, and some selections of single-hung windows are more expensive compared to a standard double-hung window.

Learn more about how much windows cost, or get an accurate quote for your preferred style of single or double-hung window.

It depends on your priorities and preferences. Some homes value the flexibility of a double-hung window and need the added controls to manage poor ventilation in a home. In comparison, others prefer the safety and traditional aesthetic of a single-hung window.

Explore our windows today to find your perfect style.

Is it time to replace your windows? Find your signature style today in our superior quality collection of sash windows. Shop double-hung windows and single-hung windows today.

Looking for a professional window installer in Indiana or Illinois? Our fast, certified installers proudly install new windows, exterior doors, shower doors, and mirrors for your home or construction project.