Nearly 40% of homeowners say choosing the right window changed their home’s comfort. This shows that the right window can change a room as much as paint or flooring.
We offer a clear comparison of picture window vs double hung for Canadian homeowners. We focus on the Greater Toronto Area market. Our goal is to help you choose based on style, energy efficiency, ventilation, maintenance, and cost.
Key Takeaways
- Picture window vs double hung is mainly about view/light vs ventilation.
- Vinyl windows are a common, energy-efficient choice in the GTA market.
- Double hung windows offer versatile ventilation and easy cleaning.
- Picture windows maximize daylight and curb appeal but don’t open.
- Our guide focuses on practical factors for choosing between picture window and double hung for Canadian homes.
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What is a Picture Window?
A picture window is a big, fixed window that doesn’t open. It lets in lots of light and views, connecting us to the outdoors. They’re often in living rooms, dining areas, and places with great views.
These windows can be made of vinyl, fiberglass, or aluminium. Vinyl ones are popular for being easy to care for and keeping warm or cool well. Companies like Total Home Windows & Doors use special glass and gas to help with this.
Picture windows have good points and bad points. The good side is they offer clear views, lots of light, and are tight to keep air in. They also need little care and can be cheaper than other types of windows.
The not-so-good side is they don’t let in air and can’t be used for emergency exits. Big windows can also let in too much sun in summer and lose heat in winter if not made right. Cleaning them on high floors can be tricky.
It’s best to use picture windows with windows that open, like double hung or casement. This way, we get the best of both worlds: views and air. In Canada, using special glass and gas makes picture windows more efficient than double hung.
Choosing between picture windows and double hung depends on what you want. If you want views and light, picture windows are great. But if you need air and can leave, double hung is better.
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What is a Double Hung Window?
Double hung windows have two sashes that slide up and down. You can open the top, bottom, or both. They also tilt inward for safer cleaning on high floors.
These windows have a frame, two sashes, weatherstripping, and hardware. You can add features like Low-E glass and argon fills for better energy use. Vinyl frames are durable and easy to care for.
We talk about the good and bad of double hung windows. They offer flexible ventilation. Opening the top lets warm air out, while the bottom lets in fresh air.
Cleaning is easier with tilt-in sashes, great for tall homes. They also meet egress rules for bedrooms and other rooms. Their design fits both traditional and modern styles, with energy-saving glazing.
We also look at the downsides. More parts mean more maintenance and a chance for air leaks. They cost more than fixed windows but offer more benefits.
Choosing between a picture window and a double hung depends on what you want. Picture windows give a clear view without rails. Double hungs have rails but offer more airflow.
Double hungs are better for rooms needing air and easy cleaning. They’re good for bedrooms and traditional homes. We often pair them with picture windows for the best of both worlds.
When deciding, think about what’s important to you. Double hungs are great for ventilation and safety. Picture windows are better for a clear view and saving money.
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Compare energy efficiency between Picture Window and Double Hung Window: comparison table
We look at frame material, glazing, Low-E coatings, and gas fills to judge energy use. These elements affect heat loss and air leakage more than if a window moves. In Canada, the glass and how it’s installed are key.
Picture windows often have less air leakage because they don’t move. This means fewer places for air to get in. With double- or triple-pane glass, Low-E coatings, and gas fills, they do well in cold weather.
Double hung windows might leak more air because of their moving parts. But, good weatherstripping, locks, and installation can reduce this. Modern vinyl and fiberglass frames also help keep warmth in.
When both types use the same glass and frames, their energy use is similar. Picture windows might be a bit tighter, but double hung windows offer ventilation and ease of use.
| Feature | Picture Window | Double Hung Window |
|---|---|---|
| Airtightness | High due to fixed frame and no operable seals | Moderate; depends on sash seals and hardware quality |
| Glazing Options | Double or triple pane, Low-E coatings, argon/krypton fills available | Same glazing packages available for comparable performance |
| Solar Heat Gain Control | Requires careful SHGC selection for large glass areas | Easier to manage with smaller individual sashes and shading |
| Thermal Transfer (Frame) | High performance with vinyl frames | Improved with modern vinyl and fiberglass; multi-chamber profiles help |
| Maintenance & Serviceability | Low maintenance, limited service options due to fixed unit | Higher serviceability with tilt-in sashes; routine maintenance affects long-term efficiency |
| Suitability for Canadian Winters | Excellent when paired with Low-E and gas fill | Very good when specified with high-performance glazing and seals |
| Typical Advantage | Small edge for airtightness in best window style comparison | Slightly more prone to leakage; modern picture window vs traditional double hung shows similar trends |
Choose ENERGY STAR rated windows and add Low-E coatings with gas fills. This choice improves comfort and energy use in Canada.
Cost Analysis: Comparison table
We look at the cost of buying, installing, saving energy, and keeping them up when we compare picture windows and double-hung windows. Double-hung windows cost more at first because of their moving parts and special systems. But, picture windows offer big glass areas at a lower price, unless you want special features.
We make it easy to see which one fits your budget and needs. Double-hung windows are usually 10–20% more expensive than fixed ones because they have moving parts. This makes them more complex to install.
We break down the costs into different areas. How long and well the windows are installed matters a lot. Picture windows are easier to put in and seal. Double-hung windows need more care to work right and keep out weather.
We also talk about long-term upkeep and energy savings. Picture windows need less care because they have fewer parts. Double-hung windows might need adjustments and new weatherstripping over time. Both types save energy with special glass and gas fills.
| Cost Factor | Picture Window | Double-Hung Window |
|---|---|---|
| Typical purchase price per unit area | Lower base cost; rises with custom sizes or high-performance glazing | Higher by roughly 10–20% due to sashes, balances and hardware |
| Installation complexity | Simpler install and sealing; shorter labour time | Precise fitting required for operability; longer labour time |
| Maintenance | Fewer parts; lower routine maintenance needs | Periodic adjustment and weatherstrip or hardware servicing |
| Energy upgrade cost | High-spec glazing adds cost but improves winter performance | Same high-spec glazing options available; adds to the higher base cost |
| Lifecycle cost considerations | Often cost-effective for large glass areas on a budget | Higher initial outlay; may offset some heating losses with energy upgrades |
| Local market note (Greater Toronto Area) | Local vinyl suppliers such as Total Home Windows & Doors may lower lead times and installation costs | Same local suppliers offer double-hung options; expect a market-quoted delta over fixed units |
It’s smart to think about both the upfront and long-term costs when choosing between picture windows and double-hung windows. For those on a tight budget, picture windows might be the better choice for big glass areas. But, if you need to open and close your windows, double-hung might be worth the extra 10–20% for better airflow and energy efficiency.
Picture Window vs Double Hung Window: What’s Best for Your Home?
Choosing between picture windows and double hungs starts with function. Picture windows are great for bringing in lots of light and views. Double-hung windows are better for ventilation, easy cleaning, and meeting egress needs.
Think about where and how your windows will look. A big picture window works well with other types for modern looks. Double-hung windows are better for traditional homes and bedrooms.
In Canada, energy and materials are key. Vinyl or fiberglass frames with triple-pane glass are best. Look for ENERGY STAR products and work with local suppliers like Total Home Windows & Doors. This ensures your windows work well and last long.
In short, pick windows based on what each room needs. Use picture windows for light and views, and double-hung for ventilation and cleaning. Mixing both can offer the best of both worlds.
