What Are Double Hung Windows?

Simply put, double hung windows are a type of window that allows for two panels to operate independently of each other. Most modern windows are made up of what are called sashes.  A sash can be a single pane of glass in a frame, or multiple panes of glass framed into one large panel.  Windows come in all types whether the panels like vertically, horizontally, or they may just tilt out a few inches providing a small gap for ventilation.

Most modern replacement windows however, operate either vertically or horizontally.  A double hung window is made so that both sashes (either top and bottom, or left and right) are able to slide freely on the frames track.  Meaning if you could open your window in the traditional sense, sliding the bottom sash up in front of the top sash, OR you could slide the top sash down behind the bottom sash.

Benefits Of Double Hung Windows

The primary benefit of double hung windows is ease of use and versatility.  Depending on the location of the window, opening your windows from the top may provide better circulation, while opening from the bottom may be more convenient.  Having the option to operate your windows both ways is an affordable luxury with double hung windows.  However, they are host to a number of unseen benefits as well.

• Easy To Clean – The primary reason most people choose double hung windows over sling hung sashes is the fact that cleaning your windows is much safer and much easier.  In order to clean the outside of single hung windows, you would need to use a ladder from the outside of the home.  However, with double hung windows you can simply slide down the top sash and hinge it into the room for convenient cleaning.  No ladders, ropes, buckets or hoses needed.
• Thermodynamics and Ventilation – Knowing that hot air rises, we can create better ventilation in our home by opening the lower level windows on the bottom sash, and opening the higher level window’s top sash.  This creates a naturally airflow where the breeze enters the room from the bottom, heats and escapes through the top.
• Safety – If you have kids or pets at home, having a double hung window will allow you to only open the top sash preventing escape from curious children or pets.
• Curbside Appeal – Many sling hung windows only have screens on the bottom half of the window which can seem unbalanced and less desirable than a screen that fit the entire exterior of the window like in most double hung windows.

Soundproofing Double Hung Windows

Any type of window can be made soundproof including double hung windows.  Soundproof windows are manufactured using multiple layers of glass such as triple pane windows where each pane is separated by a thin layer of material that dampens the sound.  It is important to realize that soundproof windows and double hung windows are two different things.  Double hung windows can be either soundproof or not, and not all soundproof windows are double hung.