Single Hung vs Double Hung Window Comparison Guide

What is the main difference between a single hung and a double hung window?

Walk down any street with older homes, and you're likely seeing a mix of single hung and double hung windows — yet most people don’t know the difference. If you're renovating, replacing, or building, understanding how these two popular window types work is key to choosing the right one for your needs.

Definitions and Core Structure

Let’s start with clear definitions:

• Single Hung Window: Only the bottom sash is operable — it moves up and down. The top sash remains fixed in place.
• Double Hung Window: Both the upper and lower sashes are operable — they slide vertically independent of each other.

So, structurally, both window types have two sashes. The key difference lies in mobility and function.

Operational Differences

Here’s how the operation impacts everyday use:

• Single Hung Windows:
  • The bottom sash slides vertically, allowing air in from the lower part only.
  • The top sash is sealed shut, which slightly improves energy efficiency.
  • Fewer moving parts means fewer opportunities for failure.
• Double Hung Windows:
  • Both sashes slide, so you can open the top, bottom, or both for better air circulation.
  • Great for homes with children — open the top for ventilation without a fall risk.
  • Easier to clean from inside, especially for upper floors.

Ventilation and Flexibility

Ventilation is often an underrated factor in window selection. Here’s how these two stack up:

• Double Hung Windows allow bi-directional airflow: cool air enters from the bottom, warm air exits from the top. This creates natural convection.
• Single Hung Windows only allow air entry from the bottom, limiting airflow.

Specification Table

Feature	Single Hung Window	Double Hung Window
Operable Sashes	1 (bottom only)	2 (top and bottom)
Ventilation	One-way (bottom only)	Two-way (top and bottom)
Cleaning Access	Outside access required	Inside access (tilt-in)
Structural Simplicity	Fewer moving parts	More complex hardware
Energy Loss Potential	Lower (fewer gaps)	Slightly higher

Key Takeaways

• If you're prioritizing simplicity, lower cost, and slightly better energy retention, single hung might suit you.
• If you want more ventilation and easy cleaning, double hung windows offer better flexibility.
• Consider location — for example, upper-floor windows benefit from the inside-cleaning convenience of double hung types.

Understanding these core differences lays the foundation for deeper questions about energy efficiency, cost, and long-term usability — which we’ll address next.

Which window type is more energy efficient?

When you're trying to cut down on heating and cooling bills, your choice of windows plays a major role. Between single hung and double hung windows, which one actually performs better in terms of energy efficiency?

Let's explore what the data says — especially when it comes to insulation, air leakage, and Energy Star ratings.

Insulation Capabilities

Insulation determines how well a window prevents heat from escaping during winter or entering during summer. Here's how the two types stack up:

• Single Hung Windows: Because only one sash moves, there are fewer seals and joints to maintain. This reduces potential air leakage. The stationary top sash also allows for tighter construction.
• Double Hung Windows: Both sashes are operable, which introduces more opportunity for air infiltration unless the window is very well manufactured and maintained.

In short, single hung windows often have a slight advantage in insulation just due to fewer moving components.

Thermal Performance: U-Factor and SHGC

Let’s decode two key energy metrics:

• U-Factor: Measures heat loss. Lower numbers mean better insulation.
• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): Measures how well a window blocks heat from sunlight. Lower = better for hot climates.

Feature	Single Hung Window	Double Hung Window
U-Factor Range	0.25 - 0.40	0.27 - 0.42
SHGC Range	0.30 - 0.50	0.32 - 0.55
Typical Air Leakage	0.1 - 0.3 cfm/ft²	0.2 - 0.4 cfm/ft²

These are average ranges from Energy Star-rated products. Exact values depend on glazing, frame material, and brand.

ENERGY STAR Certification

Both window types are available with ENERGY STAR® ratings. The program doesn’t favor one type over the other — but requires:

• U-Factor ≤ 0.30 for northern zones
• SHGC ≤ 0.25 for southern zones

Some double hung windows meet or exceed these standards — especially those with double or triple glazing, low-E coatings, and argon gas fills. However, they may cost more (more on that in the next section).

Comparison Table

Criteria	Single Hung	Double Hung
Insulation Potential	Slightly higher (fewer gaps)	Good, depends on build
Air Leakage Risk	Lower	Higher
ENERGY STAR Options	Available	Available
U-Factor (Typical Range)	0.25 - 0.40	0.27 - 0.42
SHGC (Typical Range)	0.30 - 0.50	0.32 - 0.55

What’s the Takeaway?

• Single hung windows tend to offer slightly better energy efficiency, particularly in colder climates or budget-focused builds.
• Double hung windows, when made with premium insulation features, can match or even exceed single hung performance — but usually at a higher price.
• Always look for NFRC labels and ENERGY STAR badges when evaluating windows.

Still wondering which one wins overall? We’ll weigh the financials next.

How do single hung and double hung windows differ in price?

Price is often the tipping point when choosing between single hung and double hung windows. But it's not just about the initial price tag — installation, maintenance, and long-term savings all add up. Let's break down the total cost picture of both options.

Purchase Price Range

At first glance, single hung windows are generally more affordable. Here's a general cost overview:

Type	Price per Window (Standard Size)
Single Hung	$150 – $400
Double Hung	$250 – $600

These ranges depend on materials (vinyl, wood, fiberglass), glazing options, and brand. For example, a high-end double hung fiberglass window can exceed $900.

Why the difference? Double hung windows require more complex mechanisms, making them costlier to produce. More hardware, more labor.

Installation Costs

Installation prices also differ:

• Single Hung:
  • Easier and quicker to install due to fewer components.
  • Average installation: $100 – $200 per window.
• Double Hung:
  • Slightly more labor-intensive due to two operable sashes.
  • Average installation: $150 – $250 per window.

Again, regional labor rates and accessibility (upper floors, historic homes) can raise the cost.

Repair and Replacement Costs

Here’s where things get interesting long-term:

• Single Hung Windows:
  • Fewer parts = less maintenance.
  • If the top sash or frame fails, the entire unit often needs replacing.
• Double Hung Windows:
  • Easier to replace one sash independently, saving on full replacement.
  • Tilt-in mechanisms can fail, but parts are often replaceable without removing the frame.

In other words: single hung is cheaper upfront, but double hung offers more flexibility in repairs.

Long-Term Value

From a cost-efficiency standpoint:

• Single hung windows are ideal for rental units, basements, or budget-conscious builds.
• Double hung windows, although more expensive, may boost property value, offer better cleaning access, and reduce the need for costly window cleaning services.

According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report (remodeling.hw.net), homeowners recover approximately 67–72% of the cost of a window replacement project in resale value — especially if higher-efficiency, easier-to-use models are installed.

Specification Table: Financial Overview

Feature	Single Hung	Double Hung
Average Unit Price	$150 – $400	$250 – $600
Installation Cost (avg.)	$100 – $200	$150 – $250
Repair Flexibility	Limited (fixed sash)	High (individual sash)
Replacement Cost Scenario	Full unit replacement	Partial or full
ROI in Resale	Moderate	Higher

What Should You Expect?

If budget is your top concern and the windows aren't heavily trafficked or hard to reach, single hung windows offer a more affordable solution. But if you're thinking about long-term value, ease of maintenance, and potential resale impact, double hung windows may be worth the investment.

Up next — we’ll look at how these two types compare when it comes to cleaning and everyday upkeep.

Which window type is easier to clean and maintain?

Choosing windows isn't just about cost or energy efficiency — ease of cleaning and maintenance often ends up being the feature homeowners appreciate most. So, how do single hung and double hung windows compare in this regard?

Let’s look at how both types function in real-world usage, especially when cleaning upper floors and maintaining movable parts.

Cleaning Access: Tilt vs. Reach

Cleaning windows from the outside can be risky and time-consuming — unless your windows help you do it from the inside. Here's where the tilt-in feature becomes a game changer.

• Single Hung Windows:
  • Typically, only the bottom sash tilts inward, and even that depends on the model.
  • The top sash is fixed, so you’ll need to clean it from outside, which can be challenging on upper stories.
• Double Hung Windows:
  • Both sashes usually tilt inward, allowing you to clean both sides of the glass from inside your home.
  • Ideal for multi-story homes or windows in hard-to-reach areas.

Homeowners on forums like Houzz consistently report that double hung windows make routine cleaning safer, faster, and less reliant on professional help.

Mechanisms and Wear

Maintenance isn’t just about washing glass. The mechanical components that allow the sashes to move and lock also impact the long-term ease of ownership.

• Single Hung:
  • Fewer moving parts means fewer points of failure.
  • The top sash rarely needs servicing.
  • If a balance system (spring or weight) fails, the entire bottom sash mechanism may need to be removed or replaced.
• Double Hung:
  • More parts — springs, tilt latches, locking systems, and tracks — mean more things can wear out over time.
  • On the flip side, many parts are modular and replaceable without removing the full frame.
  • Easier access makes regular cleaning and maintenance more manageable.

Step-by-Step Cleaning: A Practical Comparison

Single Hung Cleaning (Standard):

1. Unlock the bottom sash.
2. Raise it several inches.
3. Tilt it inward if tilt feature is available (some basic models don’t offer this).
4. Clean the interior and exterior of the bottom sash.
5. Use a ladder or extension pole to clean the fixed top sash from outside.

Double Hung Cleaning (Standard):

1. Unlock both sashes.
2. Tilt the bottom sash inward and clean both sides.
3. Lower the top sash slightly.
4. Tilt it inward as well.
5. Clean the interior and exterior of both sashes from indoors.

Double hung clearly offers a safer and more ergonomic experience — especially for upper-level windows.

Summary Table: Cleaning and Maintenance Comparison

Feature	Single Hung	Double Hung
Bottom Sash Cleaning	Easy (tilt if available)	Easy (tilts inward)
Top Sash Cleaning	From outside	From inside (tilts inward)
Number of Moving Parts	Fewer	More
Risk of Mechanism Failure	Lower	Moderate (more complex hardware)
DIY-Friendly Repairs	Limited	High

Final Word on Maintenance

If you prioritize simplicity and are okay with occasional exterior ladder work, single hung windows are easier to maintain due to fewer moving parts. But if cleaning safety and convenience matter most — especially on upper floors — double hung windows are the clear winner.

In the final section, we'll summarize all these factors to help you make the most informed decision possible.

What’s the final verdict: single or double hung?

After comparing performance, cost, cleaning, and energy use, it’s clear: the better window depends on your priorities. There's no universal winner — but a clear match for different use cases.

Let’s lay it out with a full summary, pros and cons table, and brand examples to help solidify your decision.

Summary Table: Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Single Hung Window	Double Hung Window
Sash Operation	Bottom sash only	Both top and bottom sashes move
Ventilation Control	Limited	High (top-down and bottom-up)
Cleaning Access	Partial (bottom only)	Full (tilt-in both sashes)
Energy Efficiency	Slightly better (fewer gaps)	Good with higher-end models
Purchase Price	Lower	Higher
Installation Cost	Lower	Slightly higher
Repair Flexibility	Limited	Easier (modular parts)
Long-Term Value	Good for budget projects	Better for resale and usability

Use Case Matrix

Use Case	Recommended Type
Budget home construction	Single Hung
Upper-floor bedrooms	Double Hung
Rental properties	Single Hung
Long-term family homes	Double Hung
Energy-conscious retrofits	Single Hung or Double Hung (depending on glazing and seal quality)
Elderly or limited mobility	Double Hung (easy-clean access)

Pros and Cons Overview

Single Hung Windows

Pros:

• More affordable
• Fewer moving parts = less wear
• Slightly better airtightness

Cons:

• Difficult to clean upper sash
• Limited ventilation control
• Less flexible for repairs

Double Hung Windows

Pros:

• Easy cleaning from inside
• Excellent airflow control
• More flexible for part replacement

Cons:

• Higher initial cost
• More hardware means more potential issues
• Slightly higher air leakage if poorly installed

Final Word

If cost control and simplicity are your top concerns, single hung windows offer excellent value. But if you care about ventilation, ease of cleaning, and long-term maintenance, double hung windows are the better choice — even if the price is higher up front.

In either case, always check:

• ENERGY STAR ratings
• NFRC-certified performance data
• Warranty and part replacement availability

Choose based on how you live, not just the specs.