What is the difference between a single hung window vs. double hung? It’s one of the most common comparisons homeowners face when figuring out which choice is best when it comes to ventilation, maintenance, cost, and other aspects.
Whether you’re building a new home or replacing existing windows, knowing the pros and cons of single hung window vs. double hung options can help you make a better decision tailored to your lifestyle, budget, and regional climate.
Single Hung Window vs. Double Hung: What Are They?
When comparing a single hung window vs. double hung styles, the biggest difference is how the sashes operate. In a double hung window, both the upper and lower sashes move independently. This allows for better ventilation for your home—where warm air can escape through the top opening while cooler air enters through the bottom. For single hung windows, there is only one operable sash, typically at the bottom, which would allow for limiting airflow.
Another valuable benefit of double hung windows is it’s much easier to clean. Many models feature tilt-in sashes, making it easier to clean both the interior and exterior glass from inside the home—which can be especially helpful for second-story windows. Since neither sash extends outward or inward, these windows are also space-efficient, making them a perfect fit for areas like patios or walkways where clearance is limited.
Single Hung Window vs. Double Hung: Key Differences
Why Would You Want a Double Hung Window?
- Better Ventilation: Two operable sashes allow these windows to provide flexible airflow and can improve indoor air quality, especially in humid or temperate weather.
- Energy & Noise Efficiency: Premium models from Simonton and PGT are built with advanced features such as Argon gas fills, Low-E glass, and multi-point locks. This improves thermal insulation, reduces sound penetration, and helps lower homeowner utility bills.
- Hurricane Protection Available: Both Simonton and PGT also offer impact-rated double hung windows with strong, reinforced vinyl frames. These windows can withstand flying debris and hurricane-force winds, offering year-round protection in Florida during the peak of hurricane season.
Why Would You Want A Single Hung Window?
- More Affordable: Due to its simpler design and fewer moving parts, single hung windows are more budget-friendly without sacrificing too much quality or energy efficiency.
- Reliable Performance: Though they offer fewer ventilation options, modern single hung windows from brands like Simonton and PGT still meet important safety and efficiency standards. They’re certified by third-party labs, easy to operate, and built to last.
- Low Maintenance: With fewer components to clean or repair, these windows can be a great choice for homeowners seeking products that require less upkeep.
Single Hung Window vs. Double Hung for Florida Homes
When choosing between single hung window vs. double hung styles in Florida, it’s important to consider more than just appearance or cost. Extreme weather conditions and strict building codes across the state demand windows that can handle high winds, intense sun, and energy efficiency requirements. Both window types can perform well when made with quality materials and proper engineering—but some aspects may make one better suited for your home depending on your location and priorities.
What Works Best in Hurricane Zones?
In Florida’s hurricane-prone regions, especially along the Gulf Coast and in the High Velocity Hurricane Zone, impact-rated windows are not optional—they’re essential. Both single hung and double hung windows are available with impact-resistant glass and reinforced vinyl frames, meaning either option can be hurricane-ready if properly rated.
However, single hung windows are often preferred in storm zones due to their fixed top sash. This design means fewer moving parts and fewer potential failure points under pressure, which can be advantageous in high-wind conditions.
Double hung windows, while more versatile in terms of ventilation, require more careful engineering to ensure both sashes remain secure during a storm. Fortunately, Simonton and PGT brands offer hurricane impact-rated versions of both styles, equipped with multi-point locking systems, laminated glass, and reinforced frames that meet or exceed Florida Building Code requirements.
Code Compliance and Energy Requirements
Florida’s building codes are among the most rigorous in the country, especially in coastal counties with wind-borne debris regions. To pass inspection, windows must meet minimum design pressure ratings, impact resistance (if required), and energy performance standards.
Both single hung and double hung windows from reputable manufacturers are tested to comply with Florida Product Approval and the Florida Building Code. Double hung windows often have a slight edge in ventilation flexibility, which can help with natural cooling, but single hung models generally offer a tighter seal due to fewer operable components.
In either case, choosing windows with Energy Star certification and proper DP (Design Pressure) and SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient) ratings ensures you’re not just code compliant—you’re also saving more on utility bills year-round.
Single Hung Window vs. Double Hung Cost Comparison
Single hung windows typically cost up to 20% less than their double hung counterparts, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious projects.
Base Price Differences
On average, vinyl single hung windows range from $100-$400 per window, while comparable double hung models cost between $150-$650 each. This price difference stems primarily from the simpler design and fewer moving parts in single hung windows. For a typical home with 10-15 windows, choosing single hung over double hung could save up to $2,000 on materials alone.
At Karoly Windows & Doors, we bundle our services so the price includes both the window and professional installation, which can vary.The difference reflects whatever additional time is needed to install and test the functionality of both movable sashes in double hung models. While we sell PGT single hung windows, we also offer Simonton double hung windows for the same price.
Should I Get Double Hung or Single Hung Windows?
While single hung windows have a lower upfront cost, double hung windows may offer better long-term value for certain homeowners:
- Energy Efficiency ROI: Premium double hung windows from brands like Simonton and PGT often feature better seals and insulation options, which allow homeowners to save 5-10% on energy bills compared to standard single hung models.
- Resale Value: Double hung windows can increase a home’s resale value more than single hung windows.
- Maintenance Costs: Easier cleaning capabilities of tilt-in double hung windows can reduce long-term maintenance expenses for homeowners, especially for a multi-story house where exterior window cleaning might otherwise require professional services.
Budget Options Without Sacrificing Quality
If you are working around a tighter budget, quality single hung windows provide excellent value. These features can ensure you’re getting a good product even at a lower price point:
- NFRC certified windows with good U-factor and SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient) ratings
- U-factor can range anywhere from 0.20-1.20. The lower it is, the better the window insulates (according to the U.S. Department of Energy).
- SHGC can range from 0-1. The lower it is, the less solar heat enters (according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors).
- Fusion-welded corners for better durability
- Quality weatherstripping to prevent air leakage
- Sufficient warranties that cover both parts and labor
When making your final decision between single hung window vs. double hung options, consider not just the purchase price but also installation costs, potential energy savings, and how long you plan to stay in your home. For short-term homeowners, the lower cost of single hung windows may be a better fit for you, while those planning to remain in their homes for 10+ years might benefit more by choosing to install double hung windows.
Single Hung Window vs. Double Hung: What Karoly Offers
Karoly Windows & Doors offers both single and double hung windows. However, customers should know we only provide PGT single hung windows, whereas Simonton only offers double hung windows due to warranty issues.
Karoly does offer PGT and Simonton double hung windows, built with sturdy frames and glass that can withstand strong impacts and the highest winds. If an object hits the window at high speed, it will remain fully intact, though the outer layer of glass may shatter.
Request a free consultation for double hung windows today!
