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What is a Single Hung Window?

Mary McMahon
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Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 9,198
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A single hung window is a window with a fixed upper sash and a movable lower sash. The lower sash can be raised to allow a free flow of air, and the sash may also be designed to tilt so that it can be easily cleaned from the inside. Double hung windows, in which both sashes are movable, tend to be much more common, but a few manufacturers still produce single hung windows in a variety of sizes and styles, and they can be used to replace existing windows or in new construction.

People sometimes confuse a fixed window with a single hung window. A fixed window has a single pane of glass which is not movable. Fixed windows are used when it will not be necessary to open the window for ventilation, and they can provide more insulation from noise and the elements because they are more tightly sealed than a movable window. The big disadvantage to fixed windows, of course, is that they do not open to allow air into the room.

Manufacturers produce single hung windows and accompanying frames which can simply be dropped into place, and it is also possible to purchase the windows as standalone items to fit in an existing frame. The primary advantage to this window design is that it can be significantly less expensive than a double hung window or other designs. The lower cost may be viewed as an acceptable tradeoff for some of the inconveniences associated with a single hung window.

With a sing hung window, the outside of the fixed upper sash cannot be reached from the inside for cleaning, which can be inconvenient. On the ground level, it may be relatively easy to clean the window, but windows on higher floors necessitate access with a ladder. The fixed sash also limits options in terms of ventilation, as people cannot lower the upper sash to allow air to flow across the upper part of the room.

A number of styles can be used for a single hung window. Some manufacturers create a mullioned style with multiple panes of glass in one or both sashes, to make the window more visually interesting. It is also possible to purchase double paned glass for extra insulation, which improves energy efficiency for the structure a window is installed in and cuts down on noise from the outside. Manufacturers are often willing to create custom single hung window designs and sizes by request.

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Mary McMahon
By Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGeek researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

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Discussion Comments
By musicshaman — On Sep 30, 2010

Sorry, I may be a little slow on the uptake, but what exactly is the difference between single hung windows and sash windows? They seem kind of the same to me...

By FirstViolin — On Sep 30, 2010

I have recently replaced my aluminum single hung windows with vinyl windows, and suddenly it's like there's drafts all over the place.

I thought that vinyl windows were supposed to provide better insulation than aluminum windows, so why would this happen?

Do I need to get some kind of single hung window repair manual, or perhaps call the window company? I'd love to avoid actually having to call the company because I don't have a warranty on the windows or anything.

Is there a common issue that I should be looking for, or is there anything else I can do myself before calling somebody else to take a look?

Thanks!

By Charlie89 — On Sep 30, 2010

What are the best kind of window locks for a wood single hung window? I've just moved into a new house, and I'm just not sure of which locks are best with wood windows -- I've only had vinyl awning windows before, so I'm not really up on my single hung window security installation -- any input would be appreciated.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a...

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