Getting to Know the Double-Hung Window

Getting to Know the Double-Hung Window

PART 1The Basics of Double-Hung Windows

If I were to ask you to walk around and take a look at the houses in your neighborhood, there’s a big chance you’ll spot quite a few double-hung windows. Currently the most popular type of window in the US, the double-hung window is sought after for its simple, classic style.

Getting to Know the Double-Hung Window

The Basics of Double-Hung Windows

In this e-book, we’ll talk about everything the average American homeowner needs to know about double-hung windows, starting with the basics.

GENERAL DESCRIPTIONThe double-hung window is a type of sash window that has two movable panels (sashes) contained within a single frame. The window is opened or closed by sliding one or both sashes up or down. Unlike casement or awning windows, double-hung windows do not project outwards or inwards when open.

ORIGINSThe double-hung window design is often credited to English scientist, architect, natural philosopher and inventor Robert Hooke, although no conclusive evidence exists to back up this claim.

The design came about as a response to the demand for larger windows. Casement windows, the most common window style in the 1600s, had hinges that were as yet unable to support larger panes of glass when open. The fact that the sashes of double-hung windows stayed in the same plane as the wall simplified the issue of weight support.

Today, the oldest surviving sash windows (installed in the 1670s) can be seen at Ham House along the Thames.

Getting to Know the Double-Hung Window

The Basics of Double-Hung Windows

ANATOMYKnowing the components that make up a double-hung window may help you get a better understanding of how it works. Below is a general list:

rail

stile

muntin

lock

casing

glazing

sill

apron

jamb

balancesystem

■ Glazing – window glass

■ Sash – movable frame that supports the glazing

• Rails – horizontal structures that form the top and bottom of the sash

• Stiles – vertical structures that form the sides of the sash

• Muntins – thin strips of material that divide the glazing; also called grilles or grids

Getting to Know the Double-Hung Window

The Basics of Double-Hung Windows

■ Frame – main support for the entire window

• Head – horizontal structure that forms the top of the frame

• Jambs – vertical structures that form the sides of the frame

• Casing – trim that closes the gap between the jambs and house frame

• Sill – horizontal structure that forms the bottom of the frame

• Apron – decorative trim installed right beneath the sill

■ Sash balance system – counterbalances the weight of the sashes when opening and closing

■ Lock – secures the window against forced entry

Some of the parts listed are optional, such as muntins and aprons, both of which are just decorative. The exact type of sash balance system can also vary. Spring and spiral sash balances are most commonly used.

Getting to Know the Double-Hung Window

PART 2Benefits of Double-Hung Windows

It can be easy to downplay the benefits of double-hung windows because they’re pretty ubiquitous throughout the country. But there are a lot of good reasons why so many American homeowners prefer double-hung windows over all other window types. Let’s find out what those reasons are.

Getting to Know the Double-Hung Window

Benefits of Double-Hung Windows

SPACE SAVINGSBecause double-hung windows open along the same plane as your exterior walls, you don’t have to worry about their becoming an obstruction. This makes them an excellent choice for ground-floor windows and for walls next to high foot-traffic areas, where a projecting window can constitute a safety hazard.

VERSATILITYManufacturers know that homeowners love the look of double-hung windows, so you have virtually unlimited options in terms of style, color, material, and trim. This is part of what makes them so easy to match with different architectural styles.

SCREEN-FRIENDLY DESIGNThis is again a consequence of the way double-hung windows are designed. Because they don’t project inward or outward, it’s easy to mount insect screens inside or outside the windows. You also have the option of installing the screen across the window’s full length or just halfway.

Getting to Know the Double-Hung Window

Benefits of Double-Hung Windows

A/C-FRIENDLY DESIGNIf you plan to have an air conditioning unit installed in a room, a double-hung window can simplify the process. The vast majority of window A/C units are specifically designed to fit double-hung windows with the lower sash raised. You don’t have to pay for any carpentry work, so it’s a very economical solution.

EASY WINDOW CLEANINGMany double-hung window models have tilting sashes that make their outside surfaces easy to reach from inside the house. This facilitates cleaning and makes them an excellent choice for upper-story windows.

TROUBLE-FREE INSTALLATIONYou’d be hard put to find a window replacement contractor who has never worked on a double-hung window. This is another plus side to their being so common. Finding a licensed contractor with a good local reputation and plenty of experience with this type of window won’t be a problem.

Getting to Know the Double-Hung Window

PART 3Double-HungWindow Considerations

We now come to the third and final part of this e-book. So far, we’ve discussed double-hung window history and anatomy along with the different advantages this type of window offers. If you’re sold on getting double-hung windows on your next window replacement project, we’ve got a few tips to help you choose the right product for your home.

Getting to Know the Double-Hung Window

Double-Hung Window Considerations

HOME ARCHITECTURECertain types of double-hung windows complement certain types of homes.

■ American Farmhouse – closely related to New England Colonial architecture with a distinctive Victorian influence

• Recommended style: tall, narrow double-hung windows with 2×2 grille patterns

■ Craftsman Bungalow – inspired by the British Arts and Crafts movement with a focus on simple structural elements

• Recommended style: double-hung windows with vertical rectangular grille patterns

■ Georgian/Federal – an interpretation of Greek and Roman architecture with a strong emphasis on attenuated detail, balance and symmetry

• Recommended style: tall double-hung windows with vertical rectangular grille patterns

■ American Queen Anne – a picturesque architectural style with a strong Victorian influence; eschews symmetry in favor of pretty detail

• Recommended style: double-hung windows with geometric grille patterns; may feature art glass

■ Ranch – notable for its long, narrow, unpretentious profile and minimal use of decor

• Recommended style: double-hung windows with horizontal or no grilles

■ Shingle – a plain but picturesque style that eschews highly ornamented Victorian patterns and emphasizes horizontal continuity

• Recommended style: double-hung windows with square or rectangular grille patterns

Getting to Know the Double-Hung Window

Double-Hung Window Considerations

ENERGY EFFICIENCYYour windows play a big part in how energy-efficient your home’s thermal envelope is. Some energy-saving features you’ll want to look into include:

■ Non-conductive frames. Wood, vinyl and thermally-improved metals have always been popular choices for energy-conscious homeowners, but each has its share of limitations. Modern composites like Fibrex®, a proprietary material developed by Andersen® Corporation, have done a pretty good job at combining the energy-saving benefits of wood, vinyl and metal sans the downsides.

■ Low-emissivity glass. This high-performance glazing is capable of curbing solar heat gain by blocking upwards of 80% of UV and infrared rays without affecting natural light levels. It also helps preserve the color and quality of drapes, artwork and furniture.

■ Insulated glazing. Double- or triple-glazed window units contain gas fills that reduce winter heat loss and summer heat gain, allowing your HVAC system to operate at peak efficiency. They also insulate against outside noise.

Other considerations you will want to look into may include exterior and interior colors and finishes; hardware materials, styles and finishes; trim and grille styles; and warranty options. Always keep in mind that the rules for “window shopping” aren’t set in stone and that your personal preferences should also be factored in.

Talk to a contractor you can trust about your options so that you can make a truly informed decision.

Getting to Know the Double-Hung Window

RENEWAL BY ANDERSENOF DENVER AND COLORADO SPRINGS

1401 W Bayaud Ave #5 Denver, CO 80223

Denver (303) 968-3287Colorado Springs (719) 313-5403

www.LoveYourWindows.com