Double Hung Windows Customization Options
Go for clean white, warm almond, or painted tones that keep heat from building up. Prefer a wood look? Laminates with stable color and strong adhesion stay looking fresh over time. Each finish bonds to vinyl frames so they can flex with temperature changes—no peeling, no cracks.
Solid finishes
Painted finishes
Our paint has been specially designed for vinyl windows and engineered for maximum durability and heat reflection:
- Non-toxic, non-hazardous, non-flammable, environmentally friendly, lead- and chromium-free;
- Has excellent cohesion to the vinyl. It is elastic and moves with the vinyl as it expands and contracts. Also, the paint has exceptional abrasion and impact resistance.
- Ensures both long-term color retention and low heat absorption.
Laminated finishes
The laminate films endure a series of rigorous tests performed within the Grafco laboratory. These tests include heat reflectivity, Delta E (fade factor), distortion and adhesion, allowing us to offer a lifetime warranty.
Some of the Custom Color Options
You can choose double or triple panes from 18–36 mm thick. Add Low-E coatings to keep heat where you want it, fill the space with argon gas to slow transfer, and use warm-edge spacers like Endur® or Super Spacer® to protect the seal and cut down on condensation.
Double- and Tripple-pane Glass Units
Our window and door products feature insulated glass units (IGU) with dual or triple pane combinations.
Thickness ranges from 0.708" to 1.417" (18-36 mm) depending on the product. Glass panes are available in various thicknesses and types.
Coated glass, tints, and patterns are available for double and triple pane units. NEAT® coating on the exterior surface allows for easy cleaning.
Energy-efficient Spacers
The energy-efficient spacer systems used are stainless steel INTERCEPT UltraSpacer®, Endur, and organic SuperSpacer®. The spaces between the glass can be filled with dry air, argon, or a mix of argon/krypton gases.
All glass units meet industry standards and undergo frequent electronic quality checks. IGUs have a 20-year warranty for seal failures, the highest standard in the industry.
Insulation
LoĒ-270 Coated Glass
The LoĒ-270 glass pours sunlight into a Chicago home while keeping the winter chill out. With tempered glass, it takes a kid’s wild throw and holds steady.
LoĒ-366 Coated Glass
LoĒ-366 is a clear coating that blocks even more solar gain, reflects heat, and lets the light stream in. It even outperforms the tinted glass often used in warm climates.
Safety
Annealed glass
Annealed glass, commonly known as the standard glass, undergoes a thermal treatment process followed by slow cooling to eliminate internal stresses. It is commonly utilized in applications where safety considerations are not a primary concern.
Fully tempered glass
Fully tempered glass is significantly stronger than annealed glass, with a strength four times greater. In the event of breakage, it shatters into small, safe pieces, minimizing the risk of injury.
Heat Treated Glass
Heat-strengthened glass undergoes a slower cooling process compared to tempered glass, resulting in a lower compression strength. However, it still provides approximately twice the strength of annealed glass.
Laminated Glass
Laminated glass can withstand strong impacts. It is a superior solution to safety glazing.
Laminated glass does more: it is the type of safety glazing that also remains intact within the window frame.
Maintenance-Friendly Surfaces
Neat Glass
Neat® glass sheds rainwater and dust so cleaning is quicker and needed less often.
Choose Colonial, Prairie, Farmhouse — or keep it clear. Grids are sealed inside the glass, so they stay clean and don’t need extra care.
Grid options
Decorative grids or blinds can be added and are sealed within the glass units.
Understanding Double Hung Windows
Because the sashes move separately, you can control airflow from the top, bottom, or both. Want to vent out heat but still pull in fresh air? Open each a little. The look works for old, new, and everything between.
Twin Double Hung Windows
Placing two units side by side doubles the air movement and widens your view. Balanced symmetry makes it work just as well in a formal room as in a relaxed family space.
How to Operate:
- Unlock the meeting rail.
- Lift the lower sash or lower the upper sash with steady pressure.
- Set the opening for the airflow you want.
- Close and relock when done.
Why They’re a Strong Choice in ChicagoLand
Adaptable ventilation for quick weather changes in Elgin, Cary, East Dundee, West Dundee, Hoffman Estates, and nearby suburbs/near me spots.
A familiar style that blends into historic streets and newer builds alike.
Tilt-in sashes let you clean inside and out without stepping onto a ladder.
A Bit of History Behind Double-Hung Windows
Think of an ornate Victorian in East Dundee, where double-hung windows feature intricate Colonial grids and a warm almond finish. The tilt-in sashes make it easy to clean the multi-pane design from inside, perfect for maintaining that historic look. Vent the top sash in spring to release heat, while the tempered glass holds up against the occasional stray branch.
Comparing to Other Window Types
If you're weighing options, double-hung stands out from single-hung ones, where only the bottom sash moves. That top sash being fixed in single-hung might save a few bucks upfront, but you lose that extra airflow control, especially handy on hot days when heat rises.
Against casement windows that swing out like doors, double-hung are easier in tight spaces — no cranking handles or worrying about them banging into furniture. And sliders? They're horizontal, great for wide views, but double-hung give that classic up-and-down motion that's just intuitive for most people. In the end, it boils down to your home's layout and what feels right day-to-day.
Installation Tips from the Pros
Thinking about putting these in yourself or hiring help? Pros always start with precise measurements — nothing worse than a window that doesn't fit snug. In older Chicago-area homes, like those in Elgin with settling foundations, you might need to shim the frame for a level install. Put a good layer of caulk around the edges to keep those harsh Lake Michigan winds at bay.
Don’t skimp on flashing either — it stops water from sneaking through during summer storms. If you’re going the DIY route, rope in a buddy since the sashes are heavy. Still, pros bring reassurance, and their warranties can cover any surprises down the road.
Maintenance Beyond the Basics
Neat® glass is a great head start, but windows still benefit from a little TLC. A quick spring cleaning of the tracks with gentle soap keeps the sashes sliding smoothly. Inspect weatherstripping yearly and replace it if it’s past its prime to avoid losing heat or cool air.
For moving parts, a small amount of lubricant on the pulleys or balances will do wonders. Notice fogging between panes? That’s your cue to get the seal repaired before moisture leads to mold. A few minutes each year keeps them in top shape for decades.
Eco-Friendly Angles
In today's world, everyone's thinking green, right? You can recycle double-hung windows with vinyl frames, and the Low-E coatings lower your heating and cooling bills, reducing your carbon impact. Argon gas is inert and worry-free. And picking up locally sourced stuff from Midwest suppliers keeps shipping emissions low — handy for Chicago suburbs.
Some brands even offer FSC-certified wood accents if you go hybrid. It's a win for your wallet and the planet, especially with rebates for energy-efficient upgrades in Illinois.
Design Trends We're Seeing
Lately, homeowners are mixing grids with minimalism — think Prairie style in a contemporary kitchen for that subtle nod to tradition without overwhelming the space. Black exterior frames are huge for modern vibes, contrasting white interiors for a bold look. And bay window combos with double-hung on the sides? They add depth and let in tons more light, perfect for reading nooks.
In historic spots like West Dundee, folks stick to authentic colors to match the neighborhood, but newer builds in Hoffman Estates play with custom tints. Whatever your style, these windows adapt without stealing the show.
Living with Double-Hung Windows
In a lively Hoffman Estates home, double-hung windows turn the kitchen into a breath of fresh air after dinner prep. Pop the top sash open to release cooking steam while the kids play outside, their laughter drifting in. The tilt-in feature lets Mom clean them safely from inside, keeping the black frames spotless against the modern white walls.
Weather Considerations in ChicagoLand
The shifting seasons around Chicago demand windows that can handle it all. Double-hung models excel — insulation holds back winter cold, quality seals keep spring rains from seeping in, and gas-filled panes cut down on summer fog. In the fall, opening both sashes quickly clears the air indoors. It’s no wonder West Dundee homeowners trust them through sudden changes in weather.
Personal Stories from the Area
Local chatter in Elgin often turns to the benefits of new double-hung windows. A family there swapped worn, drafty units for tilt-in models, lowering their heating bills and simplifying cleaning. Over in Hoffman Estates, a similar upgrade — pairing two double-hungs with a bay — brought fresh daylight into a previously dim dining space. Even in historic Cary, where preserving charm matters, people love how customizable finishes blend old and new. These stories show how the windows fit into real lives, not just blueprints.
Upgrading Older Homes
If you’ve got a fixer-upper, double-hung windows can breathe new life into it. Older homes often have warped single-hung or wood frames that swell and stick. Swapping them out for vinyl double-hung means smoother operation and better insulation.
In places like East Dundee with Victorian era houses, matching grid patterns keeps the historic feel while modern tech handles energy loss. Just check local codes — some neighborhoods require approval for exterior changes. It’s a balance of respect for the past and comfort for today.
Future-Proofing Your Investment
Thinking long-term? These windows are built to last. Vinyl doesn’t rot like wood, and the glass options adapt to future energy standards. As climate patterns shift, those Low-E coatings and argon fills will keep performing, reducing reliance on HVAC systems. What’s more, when you sell, the tilt-in design and custom flair up the home’s worth — buyers go for the easy upkeep and stylish touch. In a thriving area like ChicagoLand, it’s a wise step to safeguard your house from rising energy costs and evolving tastes.
Community Impact
Beyond your house, these windows tie into the local vibe. In Hoffman Estates, where new developments mix with established streets, they help unify the look. Community events often spotlight home improvements, and double-hung upgrades get nods for boosting curb appeal.
Even in Elgin’s historic areas, these windows help keep the old-time feel alive with period-perfect styles, all while staying super efficient. It’s a nice touch to boost the neighborhood’s vibe and enjoy some benefits for yourself.
Seasonal Tips for Max Enjoyment
Each season brings a chance to use them differently. Winter, keep them locked and rely on the insulation — maybe add storm panels for extra protection. Spring, open them wide to air out after a long, cold season. Summer, play with top and bottom openings to beat the heat — especially handy during those humid Chicago afternoons. Fall, let the crisp air in while watching the leaves fall. A quick wipe-down each season keeps them pristine, and you’ll get the most out of their versatility year-round.
Why Locals Love Them
Ask around, and you’ll hear why they’re a hit. In West Dundee, people appreciate the ease of cleaning — tilt-in sashes mean no risky ladder work. In Cary, the airflow control beats out fixed windows on stuffy days.
And in Hoffman Estates, the custom options let everyone stamp their personality on their home. It’s not just about function; it’s about feeling at home in a place that reflects you. That’s the double-hung magic in ChicagoLand.
Call us now 224.225.8685 or fill out our online form to schedule your free estimate.