Sliding Windows vs Double Hung Windows: Which Should You Choose for Your Home?
Choosing the right windows for your home isn’t just about looks—it’s about getting the best airflow, energy efficiency, and long-term value from your renovation. If you’re weighing up sliding windows vs double hung windows, you’re not alone. These two popular styles both offer practical benefits, but they suit different spaces and needs. Whether you want to maximise a view, improve ventilation, or match a classic or modern aesthetic, the window style you choose can transform the comfort and street appeal of your home.
At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we help Perth homeowners compare all the options every day, offering a complete range of sliding windows in Perth and double hung windows in Perth—all in quality aluminium frames from Jason Windows. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what sets each window style apart, their pros and cons, a clear feature comparison, and which rooms or homes each is best suited for. We’ll also answer the most common buyer questions and let you know how to see and try both window types in person at our Guildford showroom.
Ready to find the perfect fit for your next project? Let’s compare your options and make window selection easy.
What are Sliding Windows?
Sliding windows are one of the most popular and versatile window styles for Australian homes. These horizontal sliding windows operate with one or more sashes sliding left to right within the frame, making them extremely easy to use. There are also double sliding windows, where both sashes move, providing even more flexibility. Importantly, a “sliding up window” is a different style entirely (see double hung windows below); sliding windows always move horizontally, not vertically.
At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we offer a full range of modern aluminium sliding windows from Jason Windows. These are a favourite choice for living rooms, kitchens, and any space where you want a wide, clear view and smooth, easy operation—perfect for Perth families and renovators after hassle-free, easy to use windows that stay looking sharp for years.
Pros & Cons of Sliding Windows
| Pros | Cons |
| Simple, easy operation | Exterior pane can be harder to clean upstairs |
| Cost-effective (often cheaper) | Less flexible ventilation (only half opens) |
| Wide, unobstructed views | Not ideal for narrow/tall spaces |
| Low maintenance, durable | Less classic appearance |
Sliding windows are a smart choice for many Perth homes, offering streamlined style, solid airflow, and great value for money.
Learn more about the advantages of sliding windows.
What are Double Hung Windows?
Double hung windows are a popular style of vertical sliding window where both the upper and lower panels, known as sashes, can move independently up or down within the frame. This design gives you the ability to control airflow from either the top, bottom, or both, making it easy to improve ventilation while keeping your home secure. Double hung windows are commonly found in bedrooms, bathrooms, and living spaces where flexible ventilation is a priority.
Within this category, you’ll find double hung sash windows—a traditional version where each sash (the framed panel of glass) slides vertically. Double hung sash windows are a hallmark of heritage architecture and Hamptons-style homes, recognised for their classic look with visible timber (or timber-look aluminium) frames and period detailing. The sash design provides timeless aesthetics, and modern aluminium versions offer improved durability and ease of use while retaining that traditional appearance.
A common variation is the single hung window, which looks similar but only allows the bottom sash to move—the top sash is fixed in place. This limits ventilation options compared to true double hung designs.
At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we stock a full range of aluminium double hung windows by Jason Windows, including both classic sash styles and modern variants. These options are engineered for Perth’s climate and suit everything from period renovations to contemporary homes seeking a touch of elegance and flexibility.
Pros & Cons of Double Hung Windows
| Pros | Cons |
| Both sashes open—flexible airflow | More moving parts = more maintenance |
| Classic, heritage or Hamptons look | Can be more expensive than sliding windows |
| Easy to clean from inside (tilt sashes)* | May not suit wide/low window openings |
| Good for bedrooms, controlled airflow | Slightly less energy efficient if not sealed tightly |
Double hung windows offer a blend of timeless aesthetics and practical functionality, making them a standout choice for bedrooms and traditional homes throughout Perth.
Read our Awning Windows vs. Double Hung Window comparison if awning windows are also a consideration.
Sliding Windows vs Double Hung Windows: Feature Comparison
When it comes to choosing the right window, a quick side-by-side comparison can save hours of second guessing. Here’s an at-a-glance guide to the key differences between sliding windows and double hung windows, so you can see exactly which type is best for your Perth home and why.
Feature Comparison Table
| Feature | Sliding Windows | Double Hung Windows |
| Operation | Horizontal slide (left/right) | Vertical slide (up/down) |
| Ventilation | Only half can open at once | Top, bottom, or both open |
| Cleaning | Outside pane tricky on 2nd floor | Easier from inside (tilt feature) |
| Security | Simple locks, hard to force open | Strong locks, more points |
| Energy Efficiency | Good with seals, basic models | Slightly less if not sealed well |
| Style | Modern, wide openings | Classic, heritage, Hamptons |
| Cost | More affordable, less hardware | Slightly higher, more mechanisms |
| Best Use | Living areas, kitchens, cost-focused renos | Bedrooms, period homes, controlled airflow |
Key Feature Breakdown: Sliding vs Double Hung Windows Explained
Not sure which window type fits your needs best? Here’s how each feature actually affects your everyday living. Use this guide to help you weigh up what matters most for comfort, style, and convenience in your home.
Operation
Sliding windows move horizontally within the frame, making them easy to operate even in tight spaces or above kitchen benches. Double hung windows feature vertical sliding sashes, also known as vertical sliding windows, where both top and bottom panels move independently for added flexibility.
Ventilation & Airflow Control
Sliding windows only allow one side to open at a time, meaning you can only open up to half the total area for airflow. Double hung windows let you open the top, bottom, or both at once—drawing in cool air at the bottom and letting hot air out the top, which is especially useful in bedrooms and for year-round comfort.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Sliding windows are easy to clean on the inside, but reaching the exterior pane can be tricky, especially on upper floors. Some modern designs offer removable sashes. Double hung windows, particularly those with a tilt feature, make window cleaning straightforward from inside your home—ask at Ross’s about this convenient option.
Safety & Security
Sliding windows feature simple, robust locking mechanisms and are difficult to force open when locked. Double hung windows typically include multiple locking points for enhanced security, though regular maintenance is key to keeping all moving parts operating smoothly.
Energy Efficiency
Both window types can be energy efficient when properly sealed, but basic sliding windows often perform slightly better due to fewer moving parts. Double hung windows, if not sealed tightly or maintained well, can be a little less efficient, but modern aluminium frames and quality seals from Jason Windows help minimise heat loss.
Appearance/Style
Sliding windows deliver a clean, modern look with wide, uninterrupted views—great for living areas and open-plan spaces. Double hung windows (and double hung sash windows) are all about traditional style and classic curb appeal, making them a popular pick for period homes and Hamptons-inspired designs.
Cost/Value
There’s a significant price difference between these two window types, especially when comparing the same size and quality. For example, at Ross’s, a single sliding window (943x610mm, aluminium frame) starts from just $470*, while a comparable double hung window in the same size is priced from $815*. That’s a substantial difference, making sliding windows the more budget-friendly option for most renovations or new builds. Double hung windows, while pricier, deliver a classic style and flexible functionality that can add long-term value and street appeal, especially in heritage or Hamptons-inspired homes.
*price at time of article publication, subject to change
Best Applications
Choose sliding windows for kitchens, living rooms, and cost-effective renovations where wide openings and simple use are a priority. Double hung windows are the go-to for bedrooms, period homes, or anywhere flexible airflow and classic style are desired.
Best Applications: When to Choose Each Window
Choosing the right window isn’t just about the features—it’s about finding the perfect fit for your room, your home’s style, and your everyday needs. Here’s how Perth homeowners typically make the call, with a few real-world examples from our customers at Ross’s Discount Home Centre. Whether you’re after a modern look, low maintenance, or a classic Hamptons vibe, there’s a window to suit—and you can see both styles on display in our showroom.
When to Choose Sliding Windows
Sliding windows are the top pick for living rooms, kitchens, and areas where you want to make the most of a wide view or natural light. Their simple, horizontal operation means you don’t need to worry about bumping into furniture or blocking walkways—making them ideal for tight spaces, patios, or walkways as well. Many Perth renovators go with sliding windows in modern homes for their clean lines, ease of use, and the peace of mind that comes with low-maintenance aluminium frames. With a range of colours and finishes from Jason Windows, it’s easy to match your sliding windows to any contemporary home design.
When to Choose Double Hung Windows
Double hung windows shine in bedrooms, classic or heritage homes, and anywhere you want both flexible airflow and timeless style. Because you can open either sash independently, these windows let you control ventilation for maximum comfort—handy in kids’ rooms, home offices, or spaces where privacy is important. Double hung sash windows are especially popular in Hamptons-style homes and period renovations, where their classic proportions and vertical sliding function fit perfectly. With modern aluminium options from Jason Windows at Ross’s, you get all the beauty of a traditional window with the durability and easy upkeep today’s lifestyles demand.
Matching Window Style to Home Architecture
- Modern Homes: Sliding windows blend seamlessly with contemporary architecture, offering a streamlined appearance and maximising light.
- Period or Hamptons Homes: Double hung windows (especially sash style) maintain that authentic, heritage look while still providing modern performance.
See Both Styles On Display in Perth
Still not sure? The best way to decide is to see and try both window types in person. Ross’s Discount Home Centre in Guildford has a dedicated windows and doors display, featuring the full range of Jason Windows’ aluminium sliding and double hung windows in all the latest finishes and styles. Our team can help you match the right window to your space, measure up, and get the most out of your renovation or new build.
Ross’s In-Store Experience & Jason Windows
At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we know that choosing new windows is a big investment—one you want to get right the first time. That’s why our windows and doors display at 57 James St, Guildford, lets you see and compare both sliding windows and double hung windows up close. You’ll find the full selection of premium aluminium frames from Jason Windows, Western Australia’s leading window manufacturer.
Our friendly, knowledgeable team is always on hand to answer your questions, help you compare window types, and offer advice based on decades of experience with Perth homes. You can browse the different finishes, try out the hardware, and get a feel for the quality before you order. We’re here to help with accurate measurements, product selection, and no-obligation quotes—so you can plan your renovation or new build with total confidence.
Proudly serving the Perth metro area and surrounds, Ross’s is your trusted local aluminium window supplier. Whether you’re building, renovating, or simply exploring your options, our in-store experience makes it easy to find the right windows for your project.
Conclusion
When it comes to sliding windows vs double hung, the best choice really depends on your style, space, and how you use your home. Sliding windows are ideal if you’re after something simple, modern, and affordable—perfect for living rooms, kitchens, and anywhere you want low-maintenance, wide-opening windows. Double hung windows, on the other hand, bring a timeless look and flexible ventilation, making them a top pick for bedrooms, period homes, or anyone wanting that classic Hamptons touch.
If you’re still deciding, the easiest way to choose is to see both in person. Visit Ross’s Discount Home Centre in Guildford to view our full range of double hung windows in Perth and sliding windows in Perth, all supplied by Jason Windows—WA’s trusted window manufacturer. Our team is always here with expert advice and friendly service to help you get your project right from the start.
