Can You Open a Window From the Outside?

Types of Windows and Window Locks

There are a variety of window kinds and locking systems that you may meet, and each has its own unique method for opening from the exterior.

Window locks

Cranks and latches are the two primary forms of window locks. The most common sort of lock for ordinary windows is a crank. To open a window using a crank, you must press down while turning it in either direction. Typically, latches are found on older windows or windows with improved security systems. To open a window with a latch, lift the latch and pull the window open.

In addition to these two primary types of locks, there are other variants for each. For instance, certain cranks can be opened by pressing down and turning them in either direction, while others must be held down, and locks can be unlocked by either pressing down or pulling up.

Window locks

In addition to cranks and latches, you may find a few additional types of locks. Among these are keyed locks, chain locks, and bar locks. Typically, only-from-the-inside operable windows, such as basement windows, have locks that require a key. Chain locks are frequently used in conjunction with other types of locks, such as latches, to prevent the window from being opened beyond a specific extent and enhance security. Bar locks are horizontal bars that can be installed across a window’s inside to prevent it from being opened at all.

If you are uncertain about the type of window you have or how to open it, you should examine the locking mechanism to see how it functions. Once you understand how each type of window locks and unlocks, you will be more prepared for any eventuality.

Windows

Opening a Casement Window From the Outside

Next, we will examine the different types of windows and their properties.

Windows

There are four primary window styles: casement, sash, sliding, and stationary. Casement windows are the most common style of window seen in dwellings. They are hinged on one side and swing open like doors.

Sash windows are available in single-hung and double-hung configurations.

Single-hung windows have a stationary upper sash and a vertically movable lower sash.

The two sashes of double-hung windows operate independently of one another.

One or two sashes travel horizontally along tracks on sliding windows.

Stationary windows are typically found in showers or as room accents because they do not open.

The optimal method to open a window from the outside will also depend on the type of window you have.

Now that we’ve covered the various types of locks and windows, let’s examine some techniques for unlocking them from the outside.

If your window has an exterior crank, the simplest way to open a casement window from the exterior is by turning the crank. If your window has a crank, you can open it by pressing down on it while spinning it in either direction.

The casement is opened by levering it out of the window frame.
If your window lacks an exterior crank or the crank is broken, you can still open it by prying the casement out of the window frame. To accomplish this, you will need a pry bar or another sturdy item to push down on the casement and dislodge it from its frame.

Once the casement is removed from the window frame, you can unlock the window from the inside. There may be sharp edges on the frame that could cut you if you are not careful. [2] Activating a Sash Window From the Exterior
By prying the lock open with a crowbar

The best method for opening a sash window from the exterior is to use a pry bar to raise a latch. Simply insert a crowbar between the bottom of the sash and the window stile to raise the window. Pull one of the window sashes upward until it opens. The window should then be operable from the exterior.

This is one of the simpler procedures, but care must still be taken to avoid damaging the glass.

Utilizing a knife or other pointed object
Using a knife or other sharp tool to pry up the latch is another method for opening sash windows from the exterior. First, locate the space between the two sashes and insert the desired instrument there. Pull one of the window sashes upward until it opens. The window should then be operable from the exterior.

This is a riskier technique that should only be used as a last resort, as you risk breaking the window or harming yourself.

Activating a Sliding Window From the Exterior

Unlocked sliding windows can also be opened by pushing them around the sash with your hands. Try jiggling a pry bar between the window sill and the glass until it moves. Nonetheless, if it too fails, we have more solutions for you.

Activating a Sliding Window From the Exterior

By utilizing a hacksaw blade

We will also discuss opening sliding windows using a pry bar. Insert the prybar between the window and the frame and lever it until the window opens.

This is another way that can cause harm to your window, so proceed with caution. [2], [4]

Can You Open a Window From the Outside?

There are also approaches that are applicable to all window kinds. These are the extreme tactics you should only employ if you have an immediate need to open the window.

Unlock it by destroying the lock

You can always attempt to break the lock on your window if you’re in an emergency scenario and need to enter your home immediately. This is the most destructive procedure and should only be used if all other methods have failed and time is limited.

Depending on the locking system of your window, there are several potential methods for breaking a window lock. A screwdriver or other sharp item can be used to break the seal around the lock. The alternative method is to use a hammer or other blunt item to shatter the lock. However, the most efficient method would be to use a pry bar to break the lock.

Once the lock has been broken, you should be able to open the window from the exterior.