Single Hung Window: The Right One For You?
The single hung windows are the most common type of windows for residential buildings. It is also the considered traditional type of window. They are the ones that have two vertically attached sashes with the lower sash sliding upward to open.
What Single Hung Windows Are Not?
The single hung windows are not the same as the fixed windows, which you will not be able to open unless you break it. The lower part of the single hung windows can be slid upward. Today, there are also single hung windows with lower sash tilted outwards rather than slid upward.
Some people also get confused with single and double hung windows. Both have two sashes but the single hung windows allow only one – the lower sash – to be opened by sliding or flipping with the upper sash being fixed and sealed. Both sashes can be opened in double hung windows.
The Best Materials for Frames and Panels
The single hung windows can make use of different materials for the framing. Some of the most commonly used materials for the frames of single hung windows are the metals like steel and aluminium as well as wood and vinyl. For the frame, the steel is the strongest among all materials. However, it is not as thermally efficient as aluminium. The advantage of vinyl frames for single hung windows is that they require much less maintenance. The disadvantage is that it is not as strong as wood or metal framing.
For the panels, glass is one of the most common materials used. Some people also choose to have divisions for the panels of single hung windows.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Single Hung?
There are many reasons why house owners choose single hung windows for their home. First, it is cheaper than most other types of window. The single hung windows also require a lower amount of money when the time of replacement comes. Second, single hung windows give a variety of benefits such as less air leakage and higher sound insulation capacity. This type of window can help you save on the cooling or heating cost because they let as less amount of air as possible to pass. Third, single hung windows are much safer because it has the single lock mechanism. You can strengthen the security measures by choosing high quality panels for your windows.
One drawback of single hung windows is that they are a bit harder to clean. Some people have a hard time reaching the upper part of the window. However, cleaning should be easier once you have found an easy way to clean the upper portion of the windows from the outside. Another disadvantage (which is ironically an advantage) is that it lets low amount of air to pass. Whilst it can help you save on cooling and heating costs, it is a disadvantage if you are relying on natural air from the outside.
How Much Is a Single Hung Window?
The single hung windows are probably the cheapest option. They are highly affordable yet they are a great choice in terms of quality. The entire singe hung window frame will not cost more than $200. One reason why single hung windows are cheaper than other types of windows is because the former have fewer mechanical parts.
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