What is a Double-Hung Window?

What is a Double-Hung Window?

Are you looking for the best replacement windows for your home? Choosing a window style that best suits your space can be confusing. A double-hung window is a good option if you want to add a classic and beautiful window treatment as it can increase your home’s efficiency and enhance its aesthetic.

Learning about this window style and understanding its pros and cons can help you decide whether it suits your home and lifestyle. 

What Are Double-Hung Windows? 

The double-hung window style is a popular replacement window option these days. Most homeowners prefer it for its ability to create increased ventilation and airflow with both of its sashes. They are traditional windows in a rectangular shape. 

However, these come with an upper sash and a lower sash. This suggests that you can open a double-hung window from the top or bottom, hence the name. It allows you to fully open your window or only keep one-half open for ventilation. 

For instance, you can open up the upper half if you have small children and pets. Some modern varieties of double-hung windows also offer inner tilting of sashes for easy cleaning. 

The glass in each of the two sashes of a double-hung window is made using one pane only. But, it can be divided into numerous panes with the help of muntins or grids. The casing of this window type is also thicker than that of single-hung windows. However, you may not be able to identify the difference if you don’t have much experience with windows. 

How Do They Work?

You can easily move the upper sash of your window by pulling down on the sash. Make sure you apply pressure downwards to the rails or muntins. For the lower sash, you push up on the rails. Modern style double-hung windows also come with latches. These allow you to lean the windows out from their tracks and clean them indoors. 

Pros and Cons of a Double-Hung Window

Like any other window treatment, the double-hung window style has its own advantages and disadvantages. These should help you decide whether your house needs this style of windows. 

Pros:

  • Safe to Clean: Double-hung windows are safer than other window treatments as you can clean these from inside the house.
  • Easy to Use: You can easily open or close double-hung windows by pushing up or pulling down sashes.
  • Easy to Maintain: You can tilt the sashes inwards for easy cleaning of window exteriors. You can also pull down the upper sash to clean the glass.
  • Adds Value: Double-hung windows are more efficient and functional than other window styles. So, they can add to your home’s value.

Cons: 

  • Costly: While they are a good investment, double-hung windows tend to be more expensive than other options. 
  • Not Air-Tight: Double-hung windows are separated from one another in terms of tracks that make them less air-tight than quite some other window types. 

Wrap-Up

If you are looking for window installation or repair experts in town, make sure to check out Baystate Screen and Window for professional insulated glass repair services. Give us a call today or fill out our online contact form