The Secret to Unsticking Windows

Sometimes, even a DIYer needs a handyman. Our upstairs windows were stuck closed. I tried everything – utility knives, 3-in-1 tools, screwdrivers, hammers – you name it. Nothing worked. So I called a handyman to help.  And I’m glad I did because he shared the secret to unsticking windows!

Apparently, I was doing it all wrong.

The handyman, Christopher “Kit” Riley (I am not receiving any money for this post, FYI – totally just writing it because he gave me loads of good info and told me I could share it with you), told me that, when people try to unstick windows, they go about it the wrong way. In fact, from the wrong direction.

Rather than trying to push the window up, hit it DOWN first.

Down?!?

First, he scored around the edge of the window with a utility knife. That broke any paint seal that might have been created the last time the windows were painted.

Then, he took a rubber mallet and hit the bottom sash (or meeting rail) of the window down. Just a few light smacks with a rubber mallet and the window opened right up!

Kit said that hitting it down breaks any seal that wasn’t broken by the utility knife. And it’s easier to hit it down rather than up! Gravity is your friend here.

I thought that unsticking our upstairs windows would take all morning. I was envisioning major surgery to get this done.

He did all of the windows in about 10 minutes.

So, the secret to unsticking windows:

Score around the edge with a utility knife, then lightly hit DOWN on the lower rail or sash of the window with a rubber mallet. Should open right up.

Kit gave me more tips on other common home problems and I’ll be sharing those, too.

Now, go unstick some windows and enjoy the fresh air!