When you get new replacement windows, you can upgrade your old windows to modern versions that are more convenient to use and that are more energy efficient. One change you may want to make is to switch your windows to the double-hung style. Here are the benefits of choosing double-hung frames.

Double-Hung Frames Allow Both Sashes To Move

Traditional frames have a fixed upper sash that is not capable of moving. Only the lower sash goes up and down. Both sashes can move up and down in a double-hung frame. You can raise the lower sash, lower the upper sash, or move both at the same time.

Double-Hung Windows Can Be Safer

One reason to choose a double-hung frame is so you can let in a breeze on a cool day without having to open the lower sash. This is an important safety feature if you have kids or pets who might play up against the windows. Plus, intruders have a harder time entering an upper sash whereas they can simply slip inside an open bottom sash.

Double-Hung Frames Improve Ventilation

Double-hung frames make it easier to cool down your home in the evening. Once it's cooled down outside, you can lower the upper sashes in a few of your windows so hot air from inside your house can escape. At the same time, open some lower sashes so cool air can be pulled in your home.

You can add a fan to speed up this process or let passive ventilation cool down your house for the evening. This saves you from having to run an air conditioner when it's cool outside but hot in your house.

Double-Hung Frames Make Cleaning Easy

Another nice benefit of double-hung frames is that the sashes can tilt inside for easy cleaning. If you have foundation plants around your home, it may be difficult to get close enough to your house to clean the glass well. Cleaning second-story windows is even more difficult.

When the sashes tilt inside, you can clean both the inside and outside of the glass from inside your home. This makes it easy to keep your windows sparkling clean and attractive.

Double-Hung Frames Allow For More Privacy

If you prefer to let a cooling breeze in your home rather than use air conditioning, but you don't like neighbors or people walking down the sidewalk looking in your home, then double-hung frames could be the ideal solution. You might combine the double-hung frames with shades that lower from the top so you can lower the sash and shades to allow the outdoor air and natural light to enter your home while keeping the lower sash closed and covered.

Reach out to a professional like one at JFK Window & Door Co for window replacement options.