Home renovation or building a new house often involves choosing the right windows. One option that has risen in popularity is the double hung window. These window types can add a touch of elegance and practicality to your property. However, like any home improvement feature, they come with a set of pros and cons. Let’s take a closer look to help you make an informed decision.
What are Double Hung Windows?
Before diving into the benefits and drawbacks of double hung windows, let’s understand their structure. These windows have two movable sashes that slide vertically, allowing you to open the window from the top, bottom, or a bit of both. This functional design offers increased ventilation and is a common reason homeowners consider these windows. While double hung windows offer numerous benefits, they may require occasional maintenance or repair to ensure optimal functionality, and homeowners in the area can rely on professional Naperville window repair services to address any issues and keep their double hung windows operating smoothly for years to come.
The Pros of Double Hung Windows
- Enhanced Ventilation – One of the prominent features of these windows is their enhanced ventilation capabilities. Since both sashes can be opened, you can let warm air out from the top while allowing cooler air in from the bottom, offering better airflow and temperature control.
- Easy to Clean – With these types of windows, cleaning becomes a less daunting task. Both sashes can be tilted inward, making it easy to clean the exterior part of the windows from inside your home. This is particularly beneficial for people living in multi-story houses.
- Increased Safety – These windows also offer increased safety, making them a popular choice for homes with children. You can keep the bottom sash closed and let fresh air in from the top, reducing the risk of accidents.
- Variety of Design Options – Double-hung types of windows come in a wide range of styles, materials, and finishes, allowing you to tailor them to your home’s architecture and interior design.
The Cons of Double Hung Windows
- Cost – One of the significant drawbacks of these popular types of windows is the cost. They are generally more expensive than most other types of windows, due to the complexity of their construction and installation.
- Potential for Air Leakage – Over time, these specific types of windows can develop problems with their sealing, leading to potential air leakage. This can impact the energy efficiency of your home.
- Limited Size – Unlike picture windows or bay windows, these windows may not provide expansive views of the outdoors due to their structural limitations.
- Maintenance Considerations – While it’s easy to clean double hung windows, they may require more frequent maintenance due to the moving parts involved in their operation. This includes ensuring the springs and pulleys are in good working condition.