When asked to picture a window, chances are that what’ll immediately come to your mind is a double-hung window. The double-hung style of window is pervasive across the American landscape; it was the window style of choice in American architecture during the 1800s, and became associated with the traditional and colonial architectural styles. Today, it is the most common, and popular, style of window used in American homes.

Double-hung windows consist of two window panels, or sashes, each on one of a pair of parallel rails set within the window frame; counterweights keep the sashes from dropping down when moved to the top of the rail. Each individual sash can be raised or lowered, and operate independently of the other; the window is closed by sliding one sash all the way up while keeping the other all the way down.

DOUBLE-HUNG VS SINGLE-HUNG

Double-hung windows are distinct from single-hung windows, which look similar, but only have one operable sash. Typically, with a single-hung window, only the bottom half can be opened. This limits your options for opening the window.

PART I: DOUBLE-HUNG WINDOWS: PROVIDING GREAT VALUE

TRADITIONAL LOOK, MODERN MATERIALS

There’s a lot to be said for the charm and curb appeal of double-hung windows. Aside from the homey, traditional look the windows lend your home, the double-hung windows’ long history of use gives you many tried-and-tested ways to enhance their appeal. Shutters, for example, are a popular addition, and are an easy way to augment and accentuate the look of both your double-hung windows and your home.

Despite the traditional look and feel of double-hung windows, when combined with modern materials and manufacturing processes they’re among the best windows money can buy. Today’s double-hung windows incorporate all the most modern advances in window technology. Whether it’s a different window frame material you want, or multiple glass panes, or low-emissivity glass or a gas fill, all these options are available for double-hung windows.

Modern manufacturing technologies make double-hung windows a highly energy-efficient window option. More on this in Part II.

PART I: DOUBLE-HUNG WINDOWS: PROVIDING GREAT VALUE

Double-hung windows have been around a long time. Over the years, people’s views regarding their energy efficiency have differed; by some accounts, they make a good, energy-efficient choice, others will cite other window designs as being more energy efficient.

So which is it?

Modern materials and manufacturing make the difference

When double-hung windows were first invented in the 17th century, a lot of the negative things you’ll read about them were undoubtedly true. In the years since then, however, double-hung windows have evolved with changes in the materials and processes involved in making modern windows.

For overall energy efficiency, the combination of modern materials and updated manufacturing processes, backed by expert installation by certified professionals, makes up the difference. Window sashes today are fitted more closely to the window frame, reducing the chance that the window will leak. The use of multi-pane glass, as well as low-emissivity treatments and gas fills in between the panes, not only increases the energy efficiency of double-hung windows, it makes them one of the most energy-efficient window choices available today.

PART II: DOUBLE-HUNG: DOUBLING DOWN ON ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Different facets to energy efficiency

A window’s ability to keep temperatures comfortable as needed, whether heating or cooling is required outdoors or indoors is not the only measure of energy efficiency, though it is a big one. A couple of equally important factors people often overlook are a window’s ability to let air circulate, and its ability to let in natural light. As much as a window’s ability to seal your home against the outside impacts your energy bills, its ability to reduce your dependence on artificial cooling, heating, and lighting also makes a difference.

With its two independently-operating sashes, double-hung windows allow you to fine-tune the amount of air circulating within a room, which can offset entirely your need to turn up the heat or the a/c. Similarly, with the amount of light that double-hung windows admit, the strategic placement of these windows can offset the need to rely on electric lighting, all the while giving your rooms a softly-lit sense of cozy comfort.

Need more information on double-hung windows? If so, check out Part III, where we answer some of the most common questions about them.

PART II: DOUBLE-HUNG: DOUBLING DOWN ON ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Q: What architectural styles do double-hung windows work best with? Will they look good on my home?

A: While double-hung windows are most commonly seen in houses in the colonial or traditional style, double-hung windows actually work well with just about any home, even those with a more contemporary or modern aesthetic. Many modern architects like to combine multiple rows of large double-hung windows in a blend of traditional and modern styles.

Q: What materials can a double-hung window be made from?

A: While traditionally, double-hung windows were made from wood, modern double-hung windows have also been made from vinyl and aluminum. Windows made from composite materials are also available on the market, and combine the look and beauty of wood with the ease of care and maintenance of vinyl.

Q: What options are available when buying double-hung windows?

A: Aside from the frame material, there is also the number of panes of glass in the window sashes to consider; two panes is standard, but for colder climates you can go with three. You can choose to include an inert gas fill between the glass panes, instead of just normal air, for added insulation. As for the glass itself, there are multiple choices for energy-efficient glass; the most energy-efficient options allow for up to 70% more efficiency in the hot months, and up to 45% more in the cold months, as compared to ordinary glass.

PART III: COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT DOUBLE-HUNG WINDOWS

Double-hung windows can also be fitted with window screens. Installing one allows the window to keep out insects; higher-end screen options allow the window to do so without adversely affecting its ability to let in light.

Q: Why are double-hung windows easier to clean than single hung windows?

A: With single hung windows, the upper sash is fixed, and to fully clean them you will need to access the window both from inside and outside the home. With double-hung windows, both sashes can simply be tilted inwards, towards your home, or can even be detached for easy cleaning. Not only is this more convenient, but it also saves you the hassle of having to go out to clean your windows.

To learn more about double-hung windows, or to have them installed on your home, do consult a qualified professional.

PART III: COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT DOUBLE-HUNG WINDOWS

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