How can I open windows that have been painted shut?

Question

Our house is old and the wood is pretty fragile. I'm also afraid the glass will crack if I try to force them open. Any ideas?

Answer 1

First try using a wide scraper that looks like this: http://www.acehardware.com/product/index.jsp?productId=1272912 It should have a thin metal blade. Tap it lightly with a hammer to break the paint seal all around the window.

There is a tool specially designed for unsticking pianted windows. It looks like a scraper with teeth on the sides.

Answer 2

Need to cut the paint between the window and the casing

Signs of a sloppy paint job

Answer 3

Take a utility knife and score around the sash (movable window) on the interior and exterior then push on it or tap it on the top of the bottom window. Do this on the interior, just cut the sash on the exterior. good luck and be careful.

Answer 4

Try cutting the paint with an sharp knife, or try using turpentine and stripping the paint.

Answer 5

butter knife on where the window will slide... scrape the paint off