The home is one of the places we hope for peace and relaxation when we need it. However, you will undoubtedly feel uncomfortable if you cannot open the window for natural ventilation, and that would encourage you to consider how to open locked windows from outside without causing damage.
However, the job may not be as straightforward as it appears because not all window locks are made equal. Except you’re a window builder, there’s no way to know how each window operates. As a result, you’ll need to understand different sorts of window locks and discover the most effective methods for unlocking a locked window.
Common Types Of Locks In Different Windows
Every window has locks, and the type of lock is determined by the window you use. Let’s look at some types of window locks found in different windows.
Double-Hung Sash Windows
The windows may be slid up and down directions. Understanding how they work will aid you in opening any top sash window, even if it’s your first. The following features distinguish these windows:
- A cam rotates on the top of the frame just outside the window’s outer portion. It also has a hook linked to the bottom of the frame and an inner window, which aids in its sliding movement.
- A barrel lock sometimes replaces the sash lock, or both types of locks may be used in the same window.
- The top window frame comprises a pivot lock that fits into several holes at that location. There’s also a handle shaped like a pancake where you grasp to lift the window.
Horizontal Sliders Lock
Sliding half-sides with a hinged catch linked to the window frame are used in aluminum or vinyl windows. Some have a sliding catch on the other side of the window that latches to a lowered bottom track. Knowing how to open horizontal sliding windows means releasing both locks of the window.
The window’s self-locking mechanism is another wonderful feature, and it also has built-in springs to ensure that it automatically locks when you close it. If you don’t know this, you may only release one catch and wonder why the window won’t open.
Because one of the two windows is out of the track, the pivot locks on horizontal sliding windows can become jammed. With one hand, lift the window and turn the pivot knob to unlock it.
Casement Windows Lock
Sliding horizontally on their hinges, casement windows are one of the features of this style. They include a barrel lock or a hook-and-lock, which is tough to open if you lose your key. However, like other windows, there are several ways to open a locked window.
Step-by-Step On How To Open Different Locked Windows
In this section, we’ll go through how to unlock each sort of locked window after you’ve learned about different windows and their locking mechanism. Because each type of window operates uniquely, it’s critical to understand how they operate to open them. To open them, you must first understand how they function.
How To Open Sash Lock Window
- Place your hand over the sash in the window’s center.
- To detach the window bottom from the windowsill, grasp the sash with both hands and pull upward. Raise the sash so you can reach through and release the sash between the two windows. Wrap your hand around the liberated sash and then push up on the window.
How To Open A Stuck Sash Lock Window
- Scratch the space between the sash and the frame with a utility knife. If you still can’t open your window, go on to step two.
- Gently tap a hammer on the putty knife between the window frame and the sash. Hit a hammer lightly against the putty knife. Proceed to the next step if nothing happens after doing so.
- Outside the window, put a pry bar right under the windowsill. Place a wooden block under the bar and gently strike it with a hammer several times. Repeat this process all around the windowsill.
- When the window is opened, sand it to remove any rough edges and surfaces. To keep the windows together, apply beeswax or paraffin on the tracks.
These are the simple methods for opening a locked sash window. You’ve got warped windows components and sashes, so replace them completely.
How To Open A Horizontal Sliding Window From The Outside
Whether you have a window that won’t slide or is stuck, it’s something you should understand. This style is quite popular, so finding methods to open a frozen sliding window isn’t limited to burglars. To unlock or open this sort of window from the outside:
- Look for a gap in the window, then use your hands to push it open. If this doesn’t work, insert a pry bar between the window and the windowsill. Jiggle the window slightly, and it should move away from the masonry. However, if you are latched, this method may not function.
- Use a thin hacksaw to cut through the window near the latch. This technique only works if you can insert the blade between the window sashes and turn the lock.
- Breaking the lock on a locked sliding window is another method. This procedure may sound drastic, but it’s a great approach if you don’t want to damage your glass. You can open the latch with a prybar and force the window open.
How To Open A Locked Casement Window
A casement window may become stuck or close for a variety of reasons. The most common reasons can be identified by conducting an investigation. Knowing how to open a window with latches from the outside, on the other hand, necessitates only two simple abilities:
- Scratch dry paint between the window frame and the sash using a blade. To do so, gently tap the end of the blade with a hammer to dig deep into the space. Repeat on the outer portion as well.
- Wrap a towel around a tiny block of wood and lean it against the sash. Stick the piece with a hammer until the remaining debris falls off. Repeat the procedure on all sides of the window to release any debris preventing it from swinging freely.
- Place the putty knife head in the gap between the frame and sash where it’s difficult to reach. Bend the knife and use it to pry open the window, then continue on all sides of the window.
- Use two putty knives to enhance the impression until the seal in the hole is broken. The hinges will be free to move after this procedure.
- Apply a spray of lubricant to the hinges and attach any loose screws. If they’re rusted, replace them straight away. To decrease friction when the hinges turn, lubricate the inside of the hinges.
- Use sandpaper to remove paint from the gap between the frame and sash. To smooth rough wood on this part, use it to remove paints and polish it. Apply it to prevent further adhesion by using vanish or candle wax.
Safety Precautions
In most circumstances, avoiding shattering the glass is preferable since it might be costly to repair. If you break the window, sweep up the shards, so no one is harmed.
- If the lock is frozen, use a hairdryer to warm it.
- Gloves will protect your hands if the glass breaks.
- If the window breaks, cover it with a towel to prevent glass fragments from flying all over the room.
- Use a ruler or pen to keep the safety pin in place, so you don’t have to use your fingers.
Frequently Asked Question
How Do You Open a Locked Sliding Window?
There are a few methods for opening a locked sliding window. One way is to utilize a credit card or your driver’s license. Another option is to use a butter knife or any other slender object. You can also try pounding and chiseling with a hammer and chisel.
How Do You Open a Locked Window with A Knife?
There are a few options for opening a locked window with a knife. One method uses the knife’s blade to pry open the window, and another uses the knife’s blade to chop through the window’s lock.
How Do You Open a Locked Upvc Window?
There are a few methods to break into a locked uPVC window. One technique is to insert a credit card or a knife and unlock the window. Another method is to use a hacksaw to cut through the window frame.
How Do You Open an Apartment Window?
There are a few methods for opening an apartment window. One method is to use a credit card or a driver’s license to pull down the window. Another option is to bend back the glass with a wire hanger. If the window isn’t too high off the ground, you may try pushing it up from the bottom instead. If everything else fails, you may always request a locksmith to come and open the window for you.
Conclusion
If you find yourself in a bind and need to open a locked window but don’t have a key or anything to smash the glass, there is still hope. All you need is a plastic card and some elbow strength. To open a locked window, simply clip the card between the glass and the frame and push up until the window opens. It’s that simple! Thank you for taking the time to read our post on unlocking a locked window without breaking it.
