Double-hung windows and single-hung windows are very similar, but they differ in a few key ways. Double-hung windows are easier to clean and provide more airflow, while single-hung windows are more energy-efficient and affordable. Below, I compared double-hung vs. single-hung windows on cost, airflow, installation, energy efficiency, style, and more.
*Costs in this article sourced from contractor estimates used by Angi.
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What Is a Double-Hung Window?
A double-hung window has two operable sashes that slide up and down in the window frame. This allows for either the upper sash or bottom sash to be opened for ventilation, and both can be opened partially to create better airflow.
The sashes on modern double-hung windows also typically pivot inward to make cleaning both the inside and outside of the panes of glass from inside your home straightforward.
What Is a Single-Hung Window?
A single-hung window is similar to a double-hung window, but it has one fixed sash — usually the top sash — and one movable sash — usually the bottom sash. The ventilation options aren’t as good with this window style, but the fixed pane — similar to a partial picture window — does offer better energy efficiency.
The moveable sash on a single-hung window can sometimes pivot inward for cleaning, but this is less common. In either case, cleaning the outside of the upper part of the window is challenging from inside.
Considerations for Choosing Between a Double-hung or Single-hung Window
Although these two window styles are similar, there are some key differences you’ll want to consider before choosing one for your home. I outlined the primary differences in the sections below.
The most significant difference between these types of windows is in the airflow capabilities. With just one movable sash, single-hung windows can either be opened or closed on the bottom while the top remains stationary. This provides some ventilation, but not quite as much as a double-hung window.
On a double-hung window, you have the option to open just one sash — either the top or the bottom — unlike the single choice you have with a single-hung window. You can also partially open both sashes, which provides better airflow. The warm air that rises in the room can escape through the top opening, while cool, fresh air from outside can flow in through the lower sash.
Double-hung windows are naturally more expensive because they have more moving parts and are usually in higher demand. That translates to higher installation costs and higher window repair costs as well.
A single-hung window will average around $250, while a double-hung window will average around $400 per unit. Of course, these prices can vary quite a bit based on frame material, glass quality, design options, hardware, size, glazing, and more, but equivalent double-hung windows will always be more expensive.
Double-hung windows have two sashes that tilt in. This means you can easily clean both sides of the glass while standing inside your house. Single-hung windows often don’t have this feature — and if they do, one pane will still not be able to pivot.
Double-hung windows are a better option if you’re looking for easy cleaning, especially if they’re located on the second floor, where you’d need a ladder to reach the exterior of a single-hung window.
Both double-hung windows and single-hung windows can be quite energy-efficient, and many of the top brands for these styles have great U-factor values — a measure of insulative properties — and Energy Star ratings. However, movable sashes and frames rely on weatherstripping for a seal, so fixed panes will usually be more efficient than movable panes due to decreased air infiltration.
As such, single-hung windows offer more insulation and better efficiency than double-hung windows — provided the comparison is made between windows of the same frame and glass types and quality.
Both styles of windows are among the easiest to install, though with fewer moving parts, single-hung windows are easier to install of the two. While a single-hung installation can be a straightforward DIY project, it’s a more complex job with double-hung windows. Labor costs can also be more expensive with double-hung options.
Since these are the most popular window types, they come in standard sizes. That means your installer will more or less never have to reframe or resize the wall opening to replace one of these windows. If you’re replacing a window on an old home built before these standards were developed, you’ll likely need a custom size.
Lastly, the style and appearance of double-hung and single-hung windows are more or less the same. Both windows come in standard frame options — like fiberglass, wood, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and vinyl — and most window manufacturers produce both styles in a variety of color and glass options.
When these windows are closed, they’ll look identical. The only difference between them visually will appear when a double-hung window is open on both the top and the bottom, which a single-hung window cannot do.
Understanding Size Differences
Both styles come in standard sizes, many of which are the same. The most common window sizes for single-hung or double-hung windows are listed in the table below and shared between the two.
| Width | Height | Listed Window Size |
| 24” | 36” | 2030 |
| 24” | 48” | 2040 |
| 24” | 60” | 2050 |
| 36” | 48” | 3040 |
| 36” | 60” | 3050 |
| 36” | 72” | 3060 |
| 48” | 60” | 4050 |
| 48” | 72” | 4060 |
Which Are Better: Double-hung or Single-hung Windows?
The answer to this question will depend on what you want out of your window and your home. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and there’s no real answer to “Which is better?”
Double-hung windows provide more ventilation and are easier to clean, but they’re also less energy-efficient and more expensive. Single-hung windows provide better insulation and are more affordable, but they’re harder to clean and don’t provide as much airflow in your home.
Many homeowners think about cost first, which makes single-hung a popular choice. However, double-hung windows can be an excellent investment.
Where Are Double-hung and Single-hung Windows Used?
Both window styles are used in just about every area throughout the country, although single-hung windows are sometimes more prevalent in traditionally colder and hotter climates due to their higher efficiency ratings.
As far as locations within the home go, these styles are common in most rooms. They’re the most popular options for bedrooms, and they regularly appear in living rooms, dining rooms, and kitchens as well. They can appear in bathrooms, although this is far less common for privacy reasons, and smaller or horizontally oriented window styles are more prevalent.
Single-hung vs. Double-hung Window Cost
The average price for a double-hung window is around $400 — or between $150 and $650 — while single-hung windows typically cost around $250 — or between $100 and $400. Both options are common in homes, so you should have no issue finding replacement windows or an installer that can handle them for you.
For equivalent frame and glass materials and window size, single-hung windows will always be more affordable. Double-hung windows include more moving parts and, consequently, more expensive warranties — which drives up manufacturing costs a bit. On average, double-hung windows will cost around 1.6x more than single-hung windows.
Which Should You Pick: Single-hung or Double-hung?
Deciding between the two window options can be a difficult choice. You should consider going with single-hung windows if
- You want more energy efficiency. Fewer window components and sashes help reduce the risk of drafts and energy loss.
- You’re on a tighter budget. Single-hung windows can be considerably less expensive compared to double-hung, saving you several hundred dollars in some cases.
- You only plan on using the bottom sash. If you can’t reach the top sash or your window is oversized, you likely only need a single-sash window.
However, double-hung has its advantages, too. You might want to go with double-hung windows over single-hung windows if
- You need better ventilation. Since a double-hung window has two sashes, both can be opened, which can allow you to vent out hot air at the top of the window while allowing cool air in on the bottom.
- They’re on the upper levels of your home. Double-hung windows are easier to maintain and clean as they can be cleaned from inside the house. If you go with a single-hung on an upper floor, you’re going to need a ladder to reach them.
Final Thoughts: Single-hung vs. Double-hung Windows
Both single-hung and double-hung windows are popular options in homes, and they’re fantastic options for just about any room in the house — with the exception of some smaller bathrooms that need more privacy. Ultimately, both window options are suitable for most window replacement projects. Understanding the differences between the two can help you determine the best option for your home, budget, and family.
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FAQs About Double and Single-Hung Windows
How Do I Know if My Window Is Single or Double-hung?
The easiest way to tell the difference is to unlock the windows and try to move the top and bottom sashes up or down. If both sashes move, you have a double-hung window. If only one sash moves — usually the bottom one — you have a single-hung window. Keep in mind that it’s possible for sashes to get stuck or sealed if you recently painted the frames, so make sure that’s not the case when testing your window.
Can Double-hung Windows Be Used in a Basement?
Yes, double-hung windows can be used in basements, but only if you have a window well installed outside that’s large enough to accommodate the longer window style. Hopper windows and awning windows — which are horizontally oriented — are often more suitable for basements that don’t have window wells installed.
Even where there is a well installed, casement windows are often preferred because they have a large enough opening to provide a point of egress, which is important in a basement for safety reasons.
What Is the Point of Double-hung Windows?
Double-hung windows have two sashes that open independently. The idea behind this is better airflow and ventilation since warm air that rises inside your home can flow out of the upper opening, while cool air can flow in through the bottom opening.
What Should I Look for When I Am Buying a Window?
The first thing you’ll want to decide on when buying a new window is the style, which you can choose based on appearance, functionality, ventilation, cost, energy efficiency, or some combination of these factors. Next, you should consider the size dimensions of the wall opening in your home and make sure to buy a window that fits properly without having to reframe the opening — which can add time and money to your window replacement costs.
Finally, you should consider frame and glass options. Frame options include aluminum, vinyl (PVC), wood, composite, and fiberglass — all of which have different insulative properties and longevity. Glass types include plexiglass, single-pane glass, double-pane, and triple-pane—in order from least to most energy-efficient window options—and you’ll also have glass treatments to choose from, including tinting and low-E glass (low-emissivity) coatings. Check out our single, double, and triple-pane windows review to help you make an informed decision.
Are Double-hung Windows Easier or Harder to Operate Than Single-hung?
While double-hung windows are easier to clean, single-hung windows are easier to operate as they only open with one sash. A double-hung window can be harder to open, especially if it’s over a countertop or furniture.
