Removing basement window security bars

[Rollin Hand]

Got word at 4 p.m. yesterday that they are going to start doing our windows on Monday. As a reuslt,we are taking down curtains et al.

In the basement, we have steel or iron burglary/security bars on the windows. Pics below.

I got the lag bolts of one of them out, and the grid portion does not move. It goes into the window framing. I tried hitting them with a deadblow hammer, and no movement. Any idea how to get these out without resorting to a sawzall/grinder? I could theoretically pull the panelling down around one of them to see what I can see, but if it won't be of any use, then I would rather not.

Of course one of the three slid out effortlessly. Would that have been an escape window or something? Thanks.

[tlarson58]

It's almost like they built the window around the bars, huh?

Tough one but I bet somebody comes up with a solution. 'Smart guys here.

[Rollin Hand]

The best answer I saw online was to "cut them, but do it at night, so the metal is cooler. Wear a ski mask to protect your face."

[BatUtilityBelt]

It looks impossible to tell what they're attached to under the plaster. Since you're sure you're removing them anyway, I'd cut through one of them with a sawzall (ought to be easy with the right blade). Then see if the loose end pulls out of the wall. If not, then you at least know how much work is ahead.

[Rollin Hand]

It looks impossible to tell what they're attached to under the plaster. Since you're sure you're removing them anyway, I'd cut through one of them with a sawzall (ought to be easy with the right blade). Then see if the loose end pulls out of the wall. If not, then you at least know how much work is ahead.

It might be the only way. Gah!

[mozz]

Off topic but is the neighborhood that bad you need bars on the windows?

[bleys21]

Are the places where they connect welded together? I can't tell from the picture. If so, its possible that's how they were installed: anchored into the wall plate, then welded to the center piece, and repeated across the whole window...

[mickey]

If we advise on removing the bars, will we get charged with "Aiding & Abetting an Escape" ???????

[Rollin Hand]

Off topic but is the neighborhood that bad you need bars on the windows?

Nope.

But I really hope I didn't jinx things by saying that.

[Rollin Hand]

If we advise on removing the bars, will we get charged with "Aiding & Abetting an Escape" ???????

Don't worry, I ain't no stool pigeon.

[Rollin Hand]

Are the places where they connect welded together? I can't tell from the picture. If so, its possible that's how they were installed: anchored into the wall plate, then welded to the center piece, and repeated across the whole window...

All welded.

Current plan is to cut close to one end. That way, if they don't slide out once cut, I have fewer cuts (and blades wrecked) to complete the job.

Glad now that I bough the DeWalt saw.