How to Open Windows That Were Drawn Closed
When a window has been closed for years – or even a long winter – it’s normal for it to stick a little when you try to open it again. But sometimes it takes more than a few extra efforts to let in fresh air, especially in situations where the window is painted over.
In most cases, windows are not painted over intentionally: this is usually the result of lazy or careless painting. Fortunately, there is an easy way to break the paint and reopen the window. Here’s what you need to know.
How to open a shaded window
Before you go any further, check (or double check) that the window won’t open because it’s locked or boarded up. Also, if your house was built before 1978, there’s a good chance that the paint on the window (and the rest of the room) contains lead, so take all the necessary precautions . Regardless of the age of the house or building, you should wear gloves and goggles for this project.
Then, using a putty knife (or a special window opener, which is a serrated, paper-thin stainless steel blade), carefully cut through the paint at the joint between the sash (the movable frame that holds the window pane in place). ) and stops (inner edges of the upper and lower sash channel). Keep the blade level as you move it around the perimeter.
You may need to cut through both sides of each sash several times to get to the point where about 1/2 inch of your blade can pass through and slide freely around the sash’s perimeter. At this point, you should be able to open the window.
In some cases, windows are painted closed both outside and inside, so if the window does not open after releasing one side, repeat the process, if possible, on the opposite side.
Once you get the window to the point where it will open and close easily, dust the window gutters and sashes with talc to keep them lubricated.