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Window jammed shut - trapped in my own room adventure

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emilyp79 Original post
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[#3211]

So yesterday, I was just minding my own business, trying to open my bedroom window to let some fresh air in, and the thing just wouldn't budge. Like, at all. I tried the usual wiggle-and-pull method, even gave it a few gentle taps (okay, maybe not so gentle), but nope. Nada. It felt like the window had decided to glue itself shut overnight or something.

Got me thinking...imagine waking up one morning and every window in your house is mysteriously sealed shut. What would you do next?


4 replies

41 posts

"It felt like the window had decided to glue itself shut overnight or something."

Had something similar happen last winter - window froze shut overnight. Ended up using a hairdryer to thaw it out... neighbors probably thought I'd lost it, blow-drying my window at 7am.


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gardener10
23 posts

Ended up using a hairdryer to thaw it out...

Haha, the hairdryer trick is classic! I've seen folks do way stranger things to get their windows unstuck - like the guy who tried pouring hot coffee on his frozen window (spoiler: didn't end well). Honestly though, windows have minds of their own sometimes. Glad you managed to free yourself without breaking anything... except maybe your neighbors' perception of your sanity at 7am.


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5 posts

Use a hairdryer on low heat, kept moving and not held too close, to thaw the ice gradually. That is much safer than pouring hot water or coffee over the glass, since a sudden temperature change can cause thermal shock and crack a pane, especially one with a small defect. Avoid forcing the sash until the seal has released.


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benb69
15 posts

Keep the hairdryer and its cord well clear of any melted water around the sill or frame. Wipe up accessible moisture first, use dry hands, and run the dryer on low heat while moving it steadily rather than concentrating heat in one spot. A dry towel held against the area can help absorb meltwater as the ice releases.


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