Sliding windows in a home

Comparing Sliding and Double-Hung Windows

Window replacements are one of the most convenient ways to spruce up your Denver home. If you’re considering a window replacement, however, it’s important to pick out the best type of window for your needs. Many different types of windows are available and offer different benefits for Denver homeowners.

Sliding windows and double-hung windows are two of the most popular window styles. Though distinctly different, these two window types have won many homeowners over for both appearance and functionality. Here, we’ll compare sliding windows and double-hung windows to determine which window style is the best choice for your Denver replacement windows.

Sliding Windows

Sliding windows may also be called gliding windows or sliders. This type of window has sashes that slide within one frame, either to the right or the left. Two-lite sliding windows are also available, which have two separate sashes. These sashes both slide sideways and can be opened at once, allowing for excellent home ventilation.

Due to the space-saving nature of sliding windows, they have a sleek, minimalist appearance. Sliding windows also offer maximum visibility to the outdoors, allowing for plenty of natural light to enter your home.

Pros

Sliding windows offer many pros, including:

  • Natural light

As mentioned above, the large size of sliding windows, along with the unobstructed panes, allows for natural light to enter your living spaces. Natural light is a crucial element of a pleasant, beautiful home, especially here in Colorado.

  • Ventilation

Sliding windows open fully for excellent ventilation throughout your home.

  • Easy to open

Sliding windows are among the easiest window designs to open. For older individuals and those with physical limitations, sliding windows may be the best, most accessible window option.

  • Energy-efficiency

Sliding windows provide superior energy-efficiency to double-hung windows. Since sliding windows have a streamlined design with a lower number of components, air is less likely to leak out of your home through sliding windows. Especially when your heater or air conditioner is running, this will help keep your home at a comfortable temperature while using as little energy as possible.

Cons

As with any window design, sliding windows have a few drawbacks, including:

  • Upfront cost

When compared directly to double-hung windows, sliding windows are a bit pricier when it comes to initial cost. This is mainly due to the fact that sliding windows are typically larger, thus requiring more materials to construct.

  • Difficult cleaning

Sliding windows can be harder to clean than double-hung windows. Sliding windows don’t tilt inward, which can make cleaning the outside of the window more of a hassle.

Double-Hung Windows

Double-hung windows feature two sashes in one frame. Both of these sashes can slide up or down on their own. Additionally, at the top and bottom, this type of window has tilt-in sashes for easier cleaning and versatility. Since a double-hung window can open at the top or the bottom, it provides excellent ventilation for homeowners in Denver.

Pros

The main pros of double-hung windows include:

  • Safety

If you have a Denver household with children, double-hung windows will provide superior safety. Parents can lock the sash at the bottom of a double-hung window, ensuring that children can’t fall out of windows on the upper floors of the home. Sliding windows don’t provide this level of security.

  • Space versatility

Unlike many other window designs, double-hung windows can fit into a vertical window area. Double-hung windows can also fit in with larger window designs, such as a bay window.

  • Easy cleaning

When compared to sliding windows, double-hung windows are much easier to clean. Particularly, double-hung windows with tilt-in sashes can make cleaning the windows on the upper floors of your home a breeze.

  • Ventilation

Similarly to sliding windows, double-hung windows provide excellent ventilation.

Cons

Double-hung windows have a few cons, including:

  • Maintenance

Double-hung windows have more parts than sliding windows, so they’ll generally require more upkeep to prevent damage. The window tracks will need to be lubricated at least once per year to avoid jams. Weather stripping will also need to be updated regularly.

  • Efficiency

Since double-hung windows require weather stripping, they’ll likely allow more air to leak out of your home than sliding windows. This can lower the efficiency of your home’s heating and cooling systems. To learn more about sliding or double-hung windows for your Denver home, contact Clearwater Exteriors today.