How to Free a Painted-Shut Window

A saw-tooth blade cuts the paint bridge between sash and frame. Use it only when paint is what holds the window and the glass and wood are sound.

What you need

Find out what should move. Check double-hung, single-hung, casement or slider before you cut.
Unlock and check every lock, pin, latch, crank and screw. Remove anything holding the sash.
Look along the seam under raking light. A continuous paint skin across the gap is a paint bridge.
Score a thin surface film first with a sharp utility knife.
Saw through deep paint with the Window Opener, around every accessible seam, on the inside and outside.
Free the sash with gentle hand pressure. Do not pry or hammer.
Clean up the disturbed paint and check the window opens and closes.

Cut a proven paint bridge first, but expect a second problem. A painted sash may also have a broken cord.
Do not sand or plane painted edges on old windows. That can create a lot of lead dust.
If the sash twists or one side moves ahead of the other, stop and look for a hardware fault.

Do not use the tool if glass is cracked or loose, putty is missing, or wood is rotten.
In housing built before 1978, treat the paint as lead paint and follow EPA lead-safe practice.
Window caulk and glazing compound can contain asbestos. Age alone does not prove it, so check before cutting.

Questions about the right tool for your job? Email cs@hydestore.com or call 508-916-6442.