Novice question: stuck sash window

[calcal]

Look for some guidance please. Moved into new house (built in 1890) and I cannot open the window. Initially I thought it was painted shut but after moving it about a bit I now see these two pins on the meeting rail (see photo)

Any ideas what they are? Are they meant to be there? How do I unlock them to open the window? Thanks in advance

 

[mardinor]

Does it look like a nail? Not part of a usual sash window and most likely a cheap security measure, where someone has hammered a nail through the frames.

Two ways of removing it - dig it out from the face it was stammered in from (if you can see the divot), or cut through it. The latter is easiest with a vibrating multi tool, but could be done with a hacksaw blade (you can buy handles to grip them on one end only).

 

[a twig]

Just to offer a third option, a dremel with a cutting wheel should whizz through it no worries.

You may find they have been nailed closed due to broken mechanisms but there are good threads on here already on how to repair sash windows

 

[calcal]

Does it look like a nail? Not part of a usual sash window and most likely a cheap security measure, where someone has hammered a nail through the frames.

Two ways of removing it - dig it out from the face it was stammered in from (if you can see the divot), or cut through it. The latter is easiest with a vibrating multi tool, but could be done with a hacksaw blade (you can buy handles to grip them on one end only).

Thank you so much, window now opens!

 

[calcal]

Just to offer a third option, a dremel with a cutting wheel should whizz through it no worries.

You may find they have been nailed closed due to broken mechanisms but there are good threads on here already on how to repair sash windows

Thanks a lot! Got it opened!