Window replacements can present exciting opportunities for many homeowners to greatly elevate both the aesthetics and functionality of their houses. Have you been daydreaming about more natural light illuminating your interior? Would beautiful new window frames freshen up the curb appeal from the exterior? 

It's important to ask yourself what you want out of your window installation so that you get the right products for you and your home.

There are many different styles of windows on the market today, and each comes with its own set of pros and cons. Paramount Siding & Windows, a leading window replacement contractor in Denver and the surrounding area, has been delivering professional window installations since 2009.

We are here to break down some of the advantages and disadvantages of two very common window types: single-hung and double-hung windows. 

What Are Single-Hung & Double-Hung Windows?

Before you decide which of these window types sounds more like what you want for your home, it's important to know the difference between the two. 

Single-hung windows have fixed top sashes and movable bottom sashes, allowing the window to open by sliding the bottom sash upwards. On the other hand, double-hung windows have both a movable top and bottom sash, so these windows can be opened from either direction.

Pros and Cons of Single-Hung Windows

There are a few reasons a homeowner may consider getting a single-hung window instead of a double-hung version. For starters, because there are fewer components involved, single-hung windows are often priced lower than double-hung, generally costing 20—30% less. Another benefit of this window style is that it can potentially result in better energy efficiency due to the airtight top seal.

However, there is one main disadvantage to a window installation featuring single-hung windows. This type of window can be much harder to clean, especially the exterior glass of the upper sash.

Pros and Cons of Double-Hung Windows

Double-hung windows are a popular choice among homeowners across the nation, and for good reason! Some of the most meaningful benefits that you can look forward to after a window replacement featuring double-hung windows include:

  • Ventilation: Due to their dual-opening sashes, double-hung windows offer excellent ventilation—hot air can easily flow out through the top sash, while cool, refreshing breezes roll in through the bottom.
  • Easy to Clean: Because these windows open from both the top and the bottom, homeowners don't have any trouble keeping these windows clean, with the exteriors of both sashes within hand's reach. 
  • Safety: For those with young children or pets, double-hung windows allow you to safely ventilate your home by opening the top sash while leaving the bottom one in place if children or pets are nearby.

The main disadvantage of a double-hung window installation is that this window type can often cost more than single-hung windows, typically costing between $200—$650 while single-hung windows are closer to the $100—$400 range.

No matter what type of window is more interesting to you, working with a trusted contractor is crucial to getting these types of benefits out of your new product. 

At Paramount Siding & Windows, we customize our replacement windows as needed to ensure airtight installations and source all of our products from leading brands in order to get the best performance possible for our customers, including Pella, Sunrise Restoration, MI Windows, Milgard, Andersen, ProVia, Simonton, Alside, Coeur D'Alene Windows, Jeld-Wen, and GenTek.

To find out even more about all that our trusted window installers can do for you and your home, get in touch with us today, and we'll give you a free estimate on our window installation services!