Paint stuck windows

[tobee]

We had the outside of our house painted over the summer. Scaffolding was used to reach the upper floors. Lovely job.

However, the decorators left the sash windows ajar to dry. The decorators didn't remind us to shut them when they were nearly dry. We were to stupid to think of it. Obviously, that was fine over the hot summer. But not now. We've tried to close them from the inside but they won't budge. They are also too high to reach from most ladders on the outside.

Any suggestions? Will we need to get someone professional in? Who should we look for to do it?

Such a stupid problem.

If they are original wooden sash windows, they are made so that the sashes can be removed from the inside by prising off beading. The insides will need repainting afterwards.

I've never done it myself. Some joiners will know how, especially if they are old or classically trained, or if they often work on old houses. A beginner could do it but might cause damage through ignorance. Have a look round for other local houses with original windows and try to find out if they know anyone. Personal recommendation is bext.

There are builders who specialise in the restoration of period buildings, for millionaires.

Like everything else, it's sure to be easy when you know how.

BTW

The way to prevent new paint on doors and windows sticking, is to wipe the touching surfaces with vaseline, just enough to make them greasy, and to prop them apart with matchsticks.

@PigletJohn thank you so much for your reply! I will do what you suggest.

Have you tried tapping tbe wood gently all the way round the window. You simply need to break the seal any touching surfaces have created.

You can nirmally tell where the seal is just by eye. It is unlikely to be the whole window, just in some places.

I agree with PJ about the use of vaseline, but would add that the use of Candle wax on the running surfaces can also make life a lot easier.

Thank you @Flyingsouthwiththeswallows! I will try all suggestions.