You're likely familiar with window latches. They are located on the top of the window sash and latch the two parts of a window together when the window is closed. These work with single and double hung windows. You simply turn the handle on the latch to lock or unlock the window.
Work a thin hacksaw blade into the window near the latch. This only works in situations where you can flip the latch by moving the blade straight in between the sash and the window. If you can reach the latch, push it with the hacksaw blade till it's open.
Unrestricted closed position – turn the key anticlockwise to unlock. Restricted open position – turn the key clockwise to unlock and limit how far the window can open to 100mm.
A window latch is a standard lock found on double and single hung windows. This simple mechanism connects the two sashes of the window and prevents either from moving.
Find out if the window is open and push it with your hands. If this doesn't work, place a prybar between the window and the windowsill. Jiggle the window a little, and it will move and be able to slide or come off.
You need to open the handle one way (eg so that the window tilts) then push the corner in for the other way (eg push it so that it is in the position for being turned open), finally turn the handle the other way (eg so that the window now turns) and then shut it.
Using a flat screwdriver, grip the seal around the window frame and pull it out around the area of the window lock or push the seal down and out of its groove. Now the seal has been removed, use a torch to see into the now empty groove and insert a small allen key into the gap between the frame and sash.
Find the tabs with your fingers, placing your index fingers on their outside edge. Push the tabs inward and slide the screen upward. In most cases, you'll need to push the screen's tabs inward so it can slide along the track.
A shifting foundation is the number one cause of sticking windows. When a house shifts, pressure is exerted onto the window frames. A distorted frame will cause the window sash channels (the tracks where a window slides) to no longer line up with the window, preventing it from fully opening or closing.
In this position, the tilt and turn window pivots from the bottom and tilts inward slightly. After opening only a few inches, the window locks into place and will open no farther. This tilting option allows breezes to enter the home while preventing rain and the elements from entering.
Use a flathead screwdriver to pry the removal clips, which look like small metal tabs about 1 inch high, on each side of the window jamb so they're at a 45-degree angle. Lift up the vertical sash until it comes off of its tracks and pull it out of the window.
If your window won't open, humidity, natural wear and tear, and paint are usually the main culprits. Fortunately, all you need is basic DIY skills and the right tools to unfreeze a jammed window. Window replacement can be quite expensive so be careful not to break any parts of the window as you attempt to open it.
The most common cause of single and double hung windows being difficult to open and close is dirt and dust build up. Over time, dust, dirt, and debris can build up in the window frame causing more friction—making it more difficult to open. Clean the window frames and spray with lubricant.
"But in Germany, the windows open inward, and nobody has time to clear that all out twice a day to fully open the window, so instead, people just open their window to a slightly tilted position."
Sliding and Single-Hung Windows
To do so, open your window as far as possible, then press the window screen up towards the top of the window. Tug on the screen tab or tabs, which are usually found at the side or bottom of the window screen, then push outward to unhook the screen from the window frame.