Pros & Cons of Single Hung Windows

Cost

• The most significant advantage of a single hung window is its price. Adding energy efficient coatings and weatherstripping can increase the cost, but a single hung window is still one of the most cost-effective options.

Versatile

• Single hung windows come in many sizes, shapes and styles, so they match a variety of architectural styles. They are usually taller than they are wide, but they can be placed next to each another to create a wider window. You can also find single hung windows in a variety of materials, including wood, aluminum, vinyl and fiberglass.

Screens and AC

• With a casement window, it is hard to add an air conditioner because the windowpane swings out. Also, older casement windows came without screens. It is fairly simple to add both a screen and an air conditioner to a single hung window.

Difficult to Clean

• Unlike a double hung window that allows both sashes to slide up and down, only the bottom sash on a single hung window moves. As a result, it is difficult to clean the upper portion of the window from the inside of the house. In addition, double hung windows often feature sashes that tilt inward to make cleaning especially convenient.

Not Airtight

• Traditional single hung windows are not as airtight as other types of windows, such as fixed windows and casement windows. As a result, your heating and cooling costs may rise.