Taking the glass out of aluminium widows

[Jonathan]

I have an aluminium window whose espag locking mechanism needs replacing. It is currently locked shut and I think that the only way to open it will be to remove the glass and force the espag levers to an open position. The actual mechnism that the handle goes in is missing and it is only the arms that are holding it shut.

The double glazed unit is held in place with rubber seals. Can someone please advise on how to remove it (without breaking the glass) tips on putting it back would also be appreciated.

Many thanks

Jonathan

[Roger Mills]

The usual method of fitting the units is as follows:

The double glazed unit is inserted from the outside. It is held in by snap-in aluminium beads which have a rubber gasket in contact with the glass. Then, from the *inside* the double glazed unit is pushed outwards as far as possible, and a further strip of gasket inserted all the way round, inside - using something like a paint scraper. This locks the beads in place and prevents them from being removed.

So, to take the unit out, you first have to remove the inside gaskets. You can then push the unit inwards by a small amount, which enables the beads to be removed.

Having said all that, I'm not convinced that removing the unit will make the mechanism any more accessible.

[John Bryan]

Snip

With the unit out you should be able to drill a hole in the bottom rail to allow a suitable lever to operate the mechanism.

[Jonathan]

That is the plan.

Jonathan

[Jonathan]

Thanks

Very helpful

Jonathan