A double-hung window has two sashes that both slide up and down, so you can open the top, the bottom or both at once. Most double-hung sashes also tilt in, which means you can clean the outside glass from inside your home. At Central Window Sales, our family owned team in Winter Haven has replaced windows across Polk County since 1963, and double-hung windows remain one of the most requested styles for traditional homes and second-floor rooms in Central Florida.
What makes a double-hung window different?
Both sashes move. On a standard hung window only the bottom sash opens, but on a double-hung window the top sash lowers too.
That small change gives you more control over airflow, cleaning and safety. Each sash rides in the frame on its own balance system, and a latch where the sashes meet locks them together when closed.
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Top-down opening: lower the upper sash to let warm air escape near the ceiling.
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Bottom-up opening: raise the lower sash to bring in a breeze at room level.
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Both at once: open a little at the top and bottom to set up a gentle flow of air through the room.
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Tilt-in sashes: release the latches and tilt each sash inward to wash both sides of the glass.
Should I choose double-hung or single-hung windows?
Choose double-hung if you want top-and-bottom ventilation and easy cleaning of upper-floor glass. Choose single-hung windows if you mostly open the bottom sash and want a simpler unit.
Many homeowners mix the two. A common plan is double-hung windows upstairs and in rooms where airflow matters, with single-hung windows in ground-floor spaces that are easy to reach from outside. Because both sashes of a double-hung window move, it carries more hardware than a single-hung, which can add to the price. We can help you decide during your estimate.
Are double-hung windows a good fit for second floors and older homes?
Yes. Tilt-in sashes let you clean second-floor glass from inside without a ladder, and the classic look suits traditional and older homes.
Upstairs rooms and safety
Opening only the top sash lets fresh air into a bedroom or playroom while the lower sash stays closed and latched, which many families with young children appreciate.
Traditional and historic character
Double-hung windows match the look of the original wood sash windows found in many older neighborhoods. Grid patterns and frame colors can be chosen to keep the style of the house while gaining modern glass and seals. If you are weighing whether your current windows can be saved, our guide on whether to repair or replace your windows can help.
How do I keep double-hung windows opening smoothly?
Keep the tracks clean, keep the balances working and check the latches once or twice a year. Most problems with hung windows start with dirt in the tracks or a worn balance.
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Vacuum and wipe the side jambs and sill so sand and pollen do not grind against the sash.
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Watch for a sash that will not stay up or drops on its own. That usually points to a worn balance.
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Tilt each sash in now and then so the tilt latches and pivot pins do not stick.
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Make sure the sash lock pulls the two sashes tightly together for a good seal.
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Look for cracked or flattened weatherstripping that lets in air or water.
If a sash keeps sliding down, our article on what to do when windows will not stay open explains the usual causes. When frames are warped or seals have failed, replacement is often the better long-term answer. See how long windows last in a home for signs to watch for.
Can I get double-hung windows with impact glass, and what will they cost?
Yes. Every window style we install, double-hung included, is available with impact-rated glass. Your exact price comes from a free estimate based on the size, glass and number of windows.
For planning, our typical installed ranges are about $450 to $900 per window for standard non-impact vinyl, about $800 to $1,400 for an impact-rated single-hung window, and about $1,500 to $2,500 or more for large, custom or architectural windows. A whole-home project of 10 to 20 windows usually runs about $8,000 to $25,000 or more. Financing is available.
Impact windows may qualify for wind mitigation credits on your homeowners policy, though savings vary by insurer. Our guide to impact vs non-impact windows in Florida breaks down the differences.
Who installs double-hung replacement windows in Polk County?
Our team at Central Window Sales does. We manage every step, from measuring and ordering to installation, the permit and the final inspection.
We are a family owned, faith based company, licensed and insured (CBC1257644) and Google Guaranteed, with our home office and showroom at 2001 Havendale Blvd. NW in Winter Haven. We install windows from PGT, ProVia, Norandex, Simonton and Andersen, and our window replacements include a Lifetime Glass Break Warranty. Learn more about our window replacement service, compare every style on our replacement windows page, or see the communities we serve across Polk County.
Ready to see how double-hung windows would look and work in your home? Call us at (863) 293-2977 , request your free double-hung window estimate, or schedule your estimate online. Estimates are free, carry no obligation and can be done with minimal to no in-person contact.
Watch: The Features and Benefits of Double-Hung Windows
Most double-hung windows we install have tilt-in sashes, so you can clean the outside glass from inside your home. We will confirm the features of the exact unit you choose during your free estimate.
Yes. We replace single windows, a few problem openings or every window in the home. Your free estimate covers only the windows you want priced.
In most cases, yes. Frame colors and grid patterns can be chosen to match or blend with the windows you are keeping, and we will show you options during your estimate.
Yes. Our team pulls the permit and handles the inspection for your window replacement, so you do not have to deal with the building department.
Yes, financing is available. Call (863) 293-2977 or request a free estimate and we will go over the options with you.
