faqs
Double hung vs single hung windows: What's the difference?
Feb 16, 2023|Updated Oct 13, 2026
Double‑hung windows have two operable sashes that open from the top and bottom, while single‑hung windows have a fixed upper sash and only the bottom sash opens. Double‑hung windows offer better ventilation and easier cleaning, while single‑hung windows are typically more affordable.
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.
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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.
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What are double hung windows?
Double-hung windows offer two sashes that move up and down in the frame. Both sashes 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.
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 sashes that move — let's explore the key differences between Infinity Single-Hung and Double-Hung Windows.
| Infinity Single-Hung vs. Double-Hung windows comparison | Infinity Single-Hung Windows | Infinity Double-Hung Windows |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 48-inches by 96-inches or 54-inches by 85-inches | 48-inches by 96-inches or 54-inches by 85-inches |
| Operation | Only the lower sash slides up and down. The top sash is inoperable | Both sashes slide up and down in the frame. |
| Style | Traditional, historic, craftsman | Contemporary, traditional, Colonial |
| Cleaning and Maintenance | The bottom sash tilts in for room-side cleaning. | Both sashes tilt in for easy room-side cleaning. |
| Where to Use | Bedrooms, first-floor rooms, living rooms | Bedrooms, bathrooms, second-story rooms |
| Energy Efficiency | Have fewer spots for air leakage since upper sash does not move. Energy efficient glass options available. | Energy efficient glass options available. |
| Installation | Full-frame and insert installation available. | Full-frame and insert installation available. |
| Sizes | Custom-sizing available. | Custom-sizing available. |
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 sashes 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.
Double hung vs. single hung window style
Infinity 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.
Infinity Single-Hung Windows vs. Double-Hung Window maintenance
If you're looking for maintenance-free windows, Infinity's Ultrex® fiberglass windows require little maintenance. Our proprietary acrylic finish is 3x thicker and resists scratches, fading, chalking, chipping, denting, and peeling. Infinity Single-Hung and Double-Hung Windows feature easy tilt operation that makes cleaning from inside your home simple and easy. Our screens also remove easily for cleaning when needed. By following Infinity's Care and Maintenance guidelines, your windows will remain sparkling clean.
Safety
Infinity 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.
Frequently asked questions
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.
Our easy tilt operation makes cleaning from inside your home simple and easy — simply unlock and raise the sash slightly, press the tilt release button and slide the lock lever over the button, and tilt the sash into the room for easy cleaning without screen removal.
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.
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.