If you've just moved into a new home and are looking to let some fresh air in, you might find that your windows are stuck shut. This is often due to multiple layers of paint or poor maintenance, but it can be a frustrating experience. Fortunately, there are ways to open a painted-shut window without causing too much damage. In this article, we will guide you through the process of freeing your windows from their paint-induced prison, allowing you to enjoy the breeze once more.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Tools | Putty knife, window opener tool, razor blade, sharp knife, multitool with Japanese teeth blades, small flat pry bar, hammer, utility knife, window zipper, Phillips-head screwdriver, paint scraper, pry bar, dry lubricant, sandpaper, wood putty or epoxy, respirator mask, disposable coveralls, painter's hat, soap, standard bar of soap, box cutter |
Techniques | Breaking the paint seal, removing window stops, cleaning and maintaining the window, assessing the window for damage, lubricating the window tracks, removing and repairing a window |
What You'll Learn
Slide a putty knife between the stop bead and window sash
To open a window that has been painted shut, you will need a putty knife (ideally flexible and about 1-and-1/4 inches wide).
Firstly, slide the putty knife between the stop bead and the window sash. This will cut through the paint seal. If you have a window with a top and bottom sash, start with the lower sash. If you are struggling to cut through thicker beads of paint, you could also try a utility knife or a specialty blade called a window zipper, available at many hardware stores.
Next, use the putty knife to open the joint between the bottom sash and the windowsill (stool). Slide the knife along the rail where the top and bottom sashes meet.
Now attempt to lift the sash. If the window opens, great! If not, you may need to remove the window stops.
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Pry the window stop from the jamb with putty knives
To pry the window stop from the jamb with putty knives, you'll need to follow these steps carefully:
First, push the flat edge of a putty knife between the window stop and the wall. Wiggle the knife gently to create some space and start moving the stop away from the wall. Be patient and avoid forcing it if it feels stuck. Remember, this process requires finesse to avoid damaging the window frame.
If you need more leverage, slide a second putty knife in place behind the first one. This will give you more force to work against the stubborn window stop. You can also try using a pry bar between the knives to protect the wood and gently hammer the end of the bar to wedge it further.
For particularly tough window stops, you may need to use a pry bar directly. Place the pry bar between the knives or against the window stop itself and gently hammer the end to create more leverage. Be cautious and don't force it if it feels stuck, as this could damage the window or the surrounding wood.
Once you've successfully pried the window stop from the jamb, you can move on to the next steps of removing any remaining nails and attempting to lift the window sash. Remember to work slowly and carefully to avoid any damage to your windows.
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Cut the sash cords and take out the sash
If you are still unable to open the window after removing the window stops, you may need to cut the sash cords and take out the sash. The sash cords are located inside the wall. Once you have removed the stop on the right-hand side, you will be able to see what looks like a hidden compartment. Cut through the thick cords hanging there with a sharp knife or a pair of scissors. Then, slide the window sash away from the wall.
The sash cords have weights on their ends. As you cut the cords, hold on to the weights to prevent them from falling. After cutting the sash cords, you can then fully remove the sash from the window frame.
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Pry the window open from the outside
If you're unable to open a painted-shut window from the inside, you can try prying it open from the outside. Here are the steps you can follow:
- Start by identifying the type of window you have. The most common types are casement, sash, and sliding windows.
- For casement windows, you can try levering the casement out of the window frame with a pry bar or a similar sturdy object.
- For sash windows, use a pry bar or crowbar to lift up on the latch. Wedge it between the bottom of the sash and the window sill and push up until the sash opens.
- Another method for sash windows is to use a knife or sharp object to pry up on the latch. Find the space between the sashes and insert the tool, then push up until the sash opens.
- For sliding windows, you can try jiggling a pry bar between the windowsill and the glass until the window moves. Alternatively, use a hacksaw blade in the track of the window near the latch and saw back and forth until the window opens.
- If your window has a crank on the outside, you can simply use the crank to open it by pushing down and turning it in either direction.
- If your window is locked and you need to get in quickly, you can try breaking the lock. Use a screwdriver or sharp object to break the seal, or a hammer or blunt object to break the lock itself.
- As a last resort, you can break the glass to gain entry. Cover your hand with a cloth and keep your face away to protect yourself from debris.
Remember to always be cautious when prying open a window from the outside. Use gentle force and stop if the window feels stuck, as you may damage the window or injure yourself.
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Lubricate the window to prevent it from sticking again
To prevent your windows from sticking again, it's important to lubricate the window tracks properly. Here are the steps you can follow:
Gather Your Supplies:
- A few cloths and towels
- Vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment
- Vinegar or baby shampoo
- Silicone-based lubricant (avoid using WD-40 as it could make the problem worse)
Clean the Window Tracks:
- Open the window as far as possible to access the tracks.
- Wipe the tracks and frame with a dry cloth to remove loose dust and dirt.
- Use the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to remove any remaining debris from the tracks.
- Create a mild cleaning solution by mixing three-fourths of a cup of vinegar or half a teaspoon of baby shampoo with a half-gallon of hot water.
- Dip a cloth into the solution and use it to clean away heavy dirt buildup, mould, and mildew.
- Rinse the cloth with clean water and wipe down the tracks. Then, dry the window with a clean towel.
Lubricate the Window Tracks:
- Spray the lubricant onto a dry cloth (avoid spraying directly onto the window to prevent a greasy mess).
- Wipe the cloth along the inside and outside window tracks, jamb liner, and weatherstripping.
- Open and close the window several times to distribute the lubricant evenly and apply more as needed.
- If your window has multiple sashes, remember to lubricate the other tracks as well.
Additionally, you can use ordinary wax, such as a white candle, to lubricate wooden window channels. Apply a light coat and open and close the window several times to distribute the wax.
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Frequently asked questions
You'll need a putty knife, a razor blade or sharp knife, and possibly a pry bar and hammer. If there are multiple layers of paint, a multitool with Japanese teeth blades can help cut through them.
Slide a putty knife between the stop bead and window sash to cut through the paint seal. You can also try using a heated putty knife or a chemical paint remover to soften the paint and make it easier to break the seal.
Try removing the window stops, which are the thin pieces of wood holding the sash in place. Force a putty knife behind the window stop and carefully pry it out. You may need to remove nails with a hammer.
Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from paint chips and debris. If your home was built before 1978, there may be lead paint present, which can be hazardous. In this case, wear a respirator mask and disposable coveralls, and thoroughly clean up all paint chips and dust with a HEPA vacuum.