A top-hung window is a window that is hinged at the top and opens outward from the bottom. You push the bottom of the window outward, creating an opening at the bottom for ventilation. It’s the most common type of opening window in Dutch homes.
How does a top-hung window work?
The window rotates on hinges (or window stays) at the top of the frame. A window stay or friction hinge lets you lock the window in different positions:
- First position — Tilt (small opening for background ventilation)
- Second/third position — Further open for airing out
- Fully open — Maximum ventilation, also useful for cleaning the outside
Comparing window types
| Type | Opening direction | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top-hung | Bottom swings out | Good ventilation, rain rarely gets in | Hard to clean outside |
| Side-hung (casement) | Side swings inward | Easy to clean | Takes up space inside |
| Bottom-hung (hopper) | Top swings inward | Ventilation, safe at height | Limited opening |
| Tilt-and-turn | Tilt + side swing | Versatile | More expensive hardware |
| Sliding window | Horizontal/vertical slide | No projection | Maximum half opening |
| Fixed window | None | Cheapest, maximum glass | No ventilation |
Replacing or maintaining a top-hung window
Replacing window stays/hinges
1. Open the window and support it
2. Unscrew the old window stays
3. Fit new stays in the same holes (or pre-drill)
4. Check the window opens and closes smoothly
Replacing draught strips
- Remove old strip
- Clean the rebate
- Press or stick new EPDM draught strip in place
Common mistakes
- Leaving the window open in a storm — Window stays can bend or break
- Ordering wrong window stays — Measure the existing size (length, load capacity)
- Hinge screws too short — Use screws that grip at least 30 mm into the frame
Related terms
- Window frame
- Glazing
- Threshold
- Reveal
- Draught strip