How to remove window metal?

[AP3]

Hi I have a piece of metal that runs along the width of a window that I need to remove. It appears it is only held in place by 2 screws at each end, otherwise I think the piece of metal just sits flush against the window frame. The screws are in channels - see picture. What’s the best way of removing this? Was thinking a multi tool could be used to cut through the screw? Any advice ? 

 

[EricL]

Hello @AP3 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your window.

A multi tool is a very handy tool especially for tight inaccessible spaces. If the screw is in an inaccessible spot and you will no longer need it to be reattached, then cutting the screw with the multi tool is the way to go. However, if reinstallation is in the cards, then I suggest further investigation and see if removing parts of your window frame will allow you to access the screw for removal. 

Let me call on our experienced members @Noyade, @Dave-1 and @Nailbag for their recommendations.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[AP3]

Thank you! Thats right I don’t need anything to be reattached, just removed. So I’ll grab a multi tool - any recommendations? Thanks very much 

[Dave-1]

Good Evening @AP3 

I am wondering what the other ends of the screws are like? Is there any chance of removing them over cutting them off? A multitool is still going to leave a mark on the piece you remove plus its next to a window as you say, vibrations around glass I would hesitate and leave to the last option type deal.

Dave

[EricL]

Hello @AP3 

If you have any of the popular tools such as Ryobi, Ozito or AEG and Stanley it would be practical to get a tool that you already have as you already access to its power source. For example, if you had a Ryobi set you can just purchase the Ryobi 18V ONE+ Multi Tool - Tool Only and use the Ryobi One+ battery on it. If you don't have any of the tools mentioned, I leave the choice up to you to choose from the brands I've mentioned. They often come with a default cutting blade for wood and steel, but if you want a good blade choose from the Kango or Diablo range.

@Dave-1 raises a good point in regards to safety. Please remember that if you are working near glass to be extremely careful as it might shatter due to vibration and cause injury. Please make sure you are wearing personal protection such as gloves, goggles and a mask. If possible, please cover the glass with a towel to reduce any vibration that may travel around it.    

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[AP3]

Thanks Dave

the other ends are in the timber frame I presume they are headless because it screws into the actual framing around the window. The metal channel the screws are visible in is very difficult to manoeuvre around, unless there is bashing and brute force but as you say the window is right there.. so that isn’t a real option. Ive tried jamming a flat head screw driver in and using mallet to see if the metal lip moves but it didn’t budge. Would padding the glass area that close to the screws with towels etc  make a difference to minimise vibration from the tool? I’ve not used a multi tool before 

[AP3]

Thank you Eric 👍

[Nailbag]

Hi @AP3 

Yep spot on using the multitool, but you will need a decent metal cutting blade, which aren't cheap. But this Diablo one I can vouch for, but in the long run is better value for money due to longevity over many others I have burnt through litterally.

Run the tool at around 3/4 speed so not to heat it up to much and don't apply to much pressure and it will cut through relatively easy.

Nailbag

[AP3]

Awesome thank you very much 

[Dave-1]

Morning @AP3 

Padding wont help a lot, cant hurt but the very nature of the vibrating tool is to vibrate Id take it easy as @Nailbag has suggested and also use a decent cuttting blade.

Dave