While some windows don't open at all and others only open one way, double-hung windows offer the flexibility of moving both sashes, providing multiple options for ventilating your home. You can open the lower sash, the upper sash, or both.

However, some argue that this increased ventilation comes with a downside. Double-hung windows and other windows with moving sashes aren't as naturally energy-efficient as windows with fixed sashes. The solution is simple: choose energy-efficient windows. When shopping for new windows, look for the Energy Star label or other energy-efficient markers. Opting for energy-efficient windows can not only reduce your energy usage but also save you money on your energy bills and improve your comfort at home. It may even reduce fading caused by the sun on the fabrics and other materials inside your home.

Occasionally, you may hear the argument that the single-hung window offers greater security due to its fixed upper sash, which makes it harder for an intruder to gain silent access. However, since a thief could still break into your home through the working lower sash, this argument seems fairly impractical.

On the other hand, those who argue that double-hung windows offer enhanced safety make a stronger case. They point out that the option to keep the lower sash closed and open the upper sash instead can make a room safer for pets and small children. With the bottom sash down, there's no chance for anyone to crawl out or yank a sash down onto small fingers. Meanwhile, the lowered upper sash can provide ventilation while remaining out of reach.

People generally like clean windows. However, the work of cleaning windows has fewer fans. With any type of fixed windows, it's an awkward process that often involves ladders or strange contortions as you try to reach around to polish the glass and scrub the frame while hoping not to leave streaks.

Double-hung windows make the process far more user-friendly because both sashes move freely. This provides easier access to all the various surfaces. Most modern double-hung windows will tilt inward so that scrubbing the upper and lower sashes both inside and out is a breeze. You can generally clean the entire window in just a few minutes while standing comfortably inside.

Windows are often described as the eyes of a home. It's only natural to want your windows to look fresh, attractive, and bright. Most homeowners are eager to select windows that fit the architecture of their home, their style, and their budget. To do that, you need options.

Because the double-hung window is so popular, you'll generally find a wide array of options when you go shopping for them. They're normally available from many trusted manufacturers in numerous materials, styles, and colors. If you're searching for a particular feature or need a certain size, you'll likely be able to find it among the many offerings of double-hung windows.