Double-Hung Windows: An FAQ

Should you install double-hung windows? If you’re ready to replace your home’s windows but aren’t sure which style is the right option, take a look at what you need to know about this popular pick.

What Are Double-Hung Replacement Windows?

Like the name implies, these windows have double (or two) panes of glass. A separate sash or frame surrounds each of the two panes. One pane and frame stacks on top of the other, creating a vertical window unit. The sashes, or frames, slide up and down. This allows you to easily open and close the window from the bottom or from the top. Along with sliding, double-hung windows can also tilt into your home or outside.

Do All Double-Hung Windows Look the Same?

The answer to this question is yes — and no. All double-hung windows have a vertical two-sash setup. But that’s often where the similarity ends. Even though double-hung is its own window category, you will find a variety between models.

Double-hung windows come in an array of sizes, frame materials, and colors. While the vertical rectangular shape isn’t something you can change, you can pick a standout design by combining other elements.

Can You Place More Than One Double-Hung Window Next to Another?

Yes, you can pair or combine double-hung windows. Two, three, or more double-hung replacements in a row can create a light, airy feel that maximizes the amount of natural light the windows let in. This allows you to build a wall of windows that open and shut with ease. 

Two or more windows in a row can also create a picture window feel — adding a functional element to the replacements. Unlike an oversized horizontal picture window, double-hung styles aren’t static pieces of glass.

Are Double-Hung Windows Energy-Efficient?

Like other window styles, double-hung replacements range in overall energy efficiency. Most new windows provide added insulation and energy efficiency in comparison to older models. But if you choose an inexpensive, poorly made, single-pane window, you might not bump up the efficiency. 

Instead of single-pane (one piece of glass) windows, select a multi-pane option. These windows provide insulation and won’t interfere with the view or the replacement’s ability to let light in. Instead of a solid insulation, multi-pane windows sandwich clear argon or krypton gases between the glass. 

To keep the outdoor air out and the interior air in, look at the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) window label. This label provides you with the information necessary to choose an energy-efficient product. It includes the U-factor (a measurement of the rate the window transits non-solar heat flow), the solar heat gain coefficient (the window’s ability to resist heat gain), air leakage, and visible light transmittance.

Low U-factor, solar heat gain coefficient, and air leakage numbers translate into a higher efficiency window. Along with the window itself, professional installation can reduce the risks of air leakage and increase energy efficiency. Failure to correctly install a window can result in gaps, uneven edges, and other similar issues. The professional can also add weather stripping, caulking, or another sealant around the edges to decrease air transfer.

Are Double-Hung Windows Easy to Clean?

You can easily keep the inside and outside of double-hung windows clean. The ability to move the sashes up and down and in and out gives you the freedom to wash the windows from either your home’s interior or exterior. To clean a pane from the inside, simply tilt the sash inwards. Reverse this step to clean the windows from your yard.

Are you ready to replace your home’s windows with a double-hung style? Contact Fischer Window & Door Store for more information.