Single Hung vs Double Hung Windows

Single hung and double hung windows may look similar but function differently. Among the most common replacement window types, both have their advantages. Let’s explore single hung vs. double hung windows.   

What are Single Hung Windows? 

Single hung windows feature one operational lower sash that moves up and down in the frame. The upper sash is stationary and can’t be moved up and down. A sash is the operating and/or stationary portion of the window that holds the glass and is separate from the frame. See the single hung window operate below.

What are Double Hung Windows? 

Double hung windows offer two sash that move up and down in the frame. Both sash can be open at the same time to allow cool air to enter a room through the lower sash and warm air exit through the top sash. Double hung windows also offer the flexibility of only opening the top or bottom sash. Watch how the double hung window operates below. 

What is the Difference Between Single and Double Hung Windows? 

Trying to decide if a single hung or double hung window is the right choice for your home? Besides the biggest difference—the number of sash that move—let's explore the key differences between Marvin Replacement Single Hung and Double Hung Windows.  

Choosing a Single Hung Window 

A single hung window might fit better on the first floor of a home because the upper sash does not tilt into a room, which makes cleaning tougher with a second-story window. Single hung windows existed before double hung windows so they can also make an ideal choice for older or traditional style homes to maintain a classic look, especially on Craftsman homes.  

Choosing a Double Hung Window 

Double hung windows often appear in new homes and can form bow or bay windows when three or more are grouped together. Double hung windows are easy to clean windows because both sash can tilt into a room. The best window cleaners are often simple solutions and can make cleaning quicker. Double hung windows work great in spaces that need ventilation, like a bathroom, to help remove humidity, which if not addressed can lead to mildew growth. 

Marvin Replacement Double Hung vs. Single Hung Window Style 

Marvin Replacement Single Hung and Double Hung windows feature the same style with both available as Oriel, Cottage, and Standard styles. A Cottage style window has a taller lower sash than the upper sash while an Oriel style window has a taller upper sash than a lower sash. Both windows have optional divided lite patterns for additional appeal or to mimic an existing home style.  

Marvin Replacement Single Hung Windows vs. Double Hung Window Maintenance 

Our Ultrex® fiberglass windows require virtually no maintenance. If you’re looking to keep your windows sparklingly clean,  follow our Care + Maintenance guidelines. Our screens remove easily to clean. Both sash on a double hung window can tilt into a room for quick cleaning. Our acrylic finish resists scratches, fading, chalking, chipping, denting, and peeling. 

Safety 

Marvin Replacement’s Double Hung and Single Hung windows have optional window control opening devices (WOCDs) for window safety that limit how far a window can open. They also have release devices to allow escape in case of a fire or other emergency.  

FAQs 

What is better, a single or double hung window? 

Double hung windows offer more versatility than single hung windows because both sashes can move up and down in the frame. Single hung windows are a smart choice in locations where reaching the upper sash is not important.  

How to tilt open a Marvin Replacement Single Hung window?  

Our single hung windows feature an easy tilt latch that allows you to tilt the lower sash into a room. Unlock the window, push the lower sash up, then press the tilt release button and slide the lock lever, then tilt the sash into the room.  

How to tilt open a Marvin Replacement Double Hung window? 

Our double hung windows also feature the same easy tilt latch. Unlock the window and slide the lower sash up, then press the tilt release button and slide the lock lever, after that you can tilt the sash into the room.  

How to remove a screen from a double hung window? 

To remove our screens, open the bottom sash to a fully raised position, grasp and pull inward on both plunger bolts and push outward on the screen. Grasp the frame of the screen and pull down slightly on the screen until it clears the screen channel. Turn the screen sideways and bring it in through the bottom sash opening.