We have these aluminum windows with zinc alloy handles that have corroded over time and parts of them have snapped off. I've checked a few hardare stores (I live in Hong Kong) and was quoted between 250-300hkd (32-40usd) which initially I thought was a little high but not to bad for HK, but then they told me it was for EACH window, so I thought I would do it myself.

I've done a few searches but come up with nothing. I know it involves prying open one of the panels on the frame of the window to expose the screws attaching the handle to the window itself, but my previous attempts have not been successful. I tried prying one open but I just ended up cracking the glass in the window. I gave up when I almost dropped a screwdriver from our 10th floor bathroom window.

Here are pics from the internet of what my window looks like:

[ATTACH=CONFIG]2732[/ATTACH]
The type of handle I am replacing it with:

[ATTACH=CONFIG]2733[/ATTACH]

 

Are the screws on the inside of the frame? Is that the only way to reach them? Which panel has to be pried? Can you just cut the handle off with a sawsall?

 

Hi, the screws that hold the handle in place are hidden under the bottom panel. When I first tried to pry it loose there seemed to be something holding it in place which I thought was glue or maybe the sealant around the glass. I discovered today after having another look, that it's possible to remove the panels on either side first, which are obstructing the panels on the bottom and the top of the frame. Before I went ahead with it, I decided not to since I didn't know if removing these panels to expose the screws might loosen the actual window glass itself or result in the window frame falling apart.

Been trying to find more out but have had no luck. I'll try to post an actual picture in the next 12 hours to see if it helps.

 

The actual window. Attachment 2938

Pointing out the gap in the bottom panel where I tried to force it open. Also shows the overlap which I did not notice until just yesterday.

Attachment 2939
The broken handle. You can see clearly the gap where I tried to force the panel open, initially thinking it was glued down. THe handles aren't aluminum like the rest of the window so being in the bathroom, exposed to higher humidity and moisture levels means they corrode much faster than the others in the house.
Attachment 2940


Close up shot of where the side panel overlaps the bottom panel.
Attachment 2941

 

I couldn't view your pics.
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http://www.doityourself.com/forum/el...-pictures.html

 

They showed up ok initially but all of a sudden disappeared...

I'll try again here:




























Edit: I just posted and can confirm the images are visible. I won't try to mess with them or add words in between this time. Basically the first and third photo's show the gap in the bottom panel and how the side panels obstruct the bottom and top panels.

 

It doesn't look as if you'll be able to open the frame without damaging it. What about another type of lock that doesn't require you to open the panels?

 

No, only this type handle will work on these windows. Last time this happened we used a string to tie it down for a few months until we had it repaired together with some other stuff in the bathroom.

After I discovered the side panels were obstructing the bottom ones, I did try and was successful in prying part of one of the side panels open but I didn't go through with it. I just need to know the window won't fall apart when I do this.

 

There are no guarantees. Either you take a chance or you don't. It's up to you.