How-To

Unstick a Window

A sash that won't budge is a common and persistent malady for double- and single-hung windows, especially those made of wood. Here are three steps to help get it moving today.

Photo: Sunset Books, Michele Lee Willson

Getting Started

Stuff You'll Need:

- Utility knife
- Putty knife
- Hammer
- Pry bar
- Scrap block of wood
- 180-grit sandpaper
- Paraffin or beeswax

The sash may be sticking because it is painted shut, either from the inside or the outside. Take a utility knife with a new, sharp blade and carefully score the seam between the sash and frame.

If the sash still won't operate, wedge the flexible blade of the putty knife between the sash and the frame from the inside of the house. Use the hammer to lightly tap the knife blade around the entire perimeter of the frame and sash.