How to open stuck aluminium windows?

[LorenClayton]

Hello

There are 2 aluminium windows I can't open at all, and one front loungeroom window which can't be closed!

The photos I took of both openable and permanently closed windows look the same to me so hoping someone can help. The closed windows are all on the left hand side, where visibility is poor so this might be for added security. Openable windows (kitchen, bathroom etc are all on the right hand side with a clear line of sight from the neighbours.

The last 2 photos show a metal piece at the top on the front lounge window which seems to be what's causing the problem for the window I can't close. The first photos are of the bedroom and side lounge window which can't be opened at all. (The lounge window was actually just plastic before I got this changed to glass). 

I did try, but I can't budge these screws at all.

Thanks.

[Jason]

Sorry for the slow reply @LorenClayton.

One of our resident Bunnings D.I.Y. experts will assist as soon as possible. Let me also tag a few helpful members who like to solve tricky problems: @Jewelleryrescue, @Noyade, @Nailbag and @Dave-1.

Jason

[Nailbag]

Hi @LorenClayton 

It's hard to know for sure, but those side screw are possibly ones that secure the side of the window frames to the top and bottom sections. If these appear on all windows both openable and non-openable then it's more probable and In which case aren't meant to be removed. Having said that they could still be simply concealing a locking mechanism not in use as it's uncommon for large screws like that to be used to hold manufactured frames together. 

If they are only on the un-openable ones, then they could be part of a window lock mechanism. If they are 2nd story windows it would be more likely as part of privacy and/or safety due to overlooking regulations to the neighbours. The glazing would also be semi-transparent. They would also have this type of glazing on that left side even on the bottom for privacy if the neighbours house was 2-story to stop them looking in on you. This would have been done by the previous owner as there is no law covering that.

Do any of the opening windows have a pull to slide open handle on them? Can you supply a full window shot from the inside?

Is the metal bracket I have highlighted in the photo the one you refer to for the windows you can't close? If so this is actually just a supporting bracket for the louvre blinds. It may be bent out of shape causing the issue.

Sorry I'm unable to be more concise as it is difficult to get a clearer understanding from photos alone. I would still have a go at removing the two screws just on one window. You might need a longer shafted No 2 Phillips head screwdriver to get a better grip in to the screw head as its off on a slight angle. Then apply a lot of pressure as you attempt to unscrew at least two on one of the windows. This set is reasonable quality and has a lot of other handy screwdrivers.

Unless one of my workshop colleagues have any ideas, it might be one to engage a good handyman to look at. It's the sort of thing that if they resolve one windows issue, they can straight away resolve the others pretty quickly.

Nailbag

[Dave-1]

Good Morning @LorenClayton 

Windows can be a pain. I have come across some where I have tried and tried only find a little tiwst and bingo they slide easily 😕

That piece in the middle at the top is for the venetian blinds. There is usually a toggle handle half way up the sliding window on the side that butts up against the wall side. This is what latches the window closed. I cant see it in your photos as it seems to be missing? The screws you show conenct the window frame taht is holding the pane of glass vertically to the horizontal part. I dont think they are stopping the window sliding.

Can you lift the windows up and out of the track is my first thought? Tho a latch of some kind may make that hard but would show up where the window is catching at least.

I have had windows where the "catch/clip" has been pushed further up near the top of the window so its not seen. Trying to lift the window up may show where the catch is.

Lifting the window up - I would try to lift the window gently with your hands from the middle of the window frame, You may be able to see the window lift from the track a tiny bit, at the least it will show the window isnt stuck I am hoping.

If you run you hand around the window that is supposed to slide (the one that is further towards you when you stand inside looking out) is there any protusions or bumps along the edge of the two vertical sides?

Dave

[JacobZ]

Hi @LorenClayton,

Apologies for the delay in response.

@Dave-1 and @Nailbag have covered all the troubleshooting efforts I would have recommended.

Please remember to take caution when working with tools around glass as there is potential for it to shatter. Wear gloves, enclosed shoes and long protective clothing to mitigate risks.

I don't think the screws you've shown are the cause, but it is worth trying as you can always put them back.

I suspect trying to lift the window up will reveal where it is binding. Give this a try and let us know how you go.

Jacob

[Nailbag]

Hi @LorenClayton 

In order to be able to lift a sliding window up then out, it needs to be first pulled open enough to grab it both sides. Then its lifted up and out. But you need to be able overcome open ing them first. Grabbing the left side of the window frame firmly, can you move them up and down at all?

nailbag

[Jewelleryrescue]

Hi @LorenClayton 

Those plastic windows were probably shatter proof lexan ( a house brick will bounce it back at the thrower if they attacked the window)

I personally would love all lexan windows as a unbreakable security to many time you see youths on tv  walking around with base ball bats ready for a little break and enter as security cameras  dont scare the more brazen ones.  No lexan metal  bars across the windows looking  like a  prision.

So those silver screws in the photo are to hold the bottom side window frame to the bottom and top window  frame so no need to undo them.

I think @Nailbag  is on to something RE  "Is the metal bracket I have highlighted in the photo the one you refer to for the windows you can't close? If so this is actually just a supporting bracket for the louvre blinds. It may be bent out of shape causing the issue."

@LorenClayton  I would have a real close look at the window frames that open and then compare them with the window frames that are frozen shut and see if you find an extra something out of place.   We must all be missing something.

Try removing the windows as @Nailbag @JacobZ and others suggested it may show the grab points

Those windows must have latches please double check they are opening enough to release.

The only other thing I can think of is bent or damaged window frame somewhere frozen oxidized rollers if the window has them

As security i have in the past added a rod into the track to prevent opening or a screw through the frame into the window in desperation after a rent break in (once they get in  they nearly always return so beef up your security ASAP)