How To Remove Vinyl Window Grilles

Many replacement windows use vinyl window grilles to provide the appearance of several panes of glass. You might want to remove the grilles to clean them or change the appearance of the window. The most common window-grille installation simply uses a frame retainer on the inside of the window. These types of vinyl grilles are simple to remove and clean. However, some grilles are glued in and cannot be taken off without damaging the glass. How the grille attaches to the window greatly determines whether you can remove the grille or not.

Step 1

Grasp the window grille at its center on the window. Attempt to pull the grille slightly off the glass. If the grille moves, it is removable. If the grille does not move, it is glued and is not removable.

Step 2

Remove any plastic locks from the sash frame if the grilles have never been removed. Locate the small circular locks on the upper edge of each sash. Punch the lock rings out carefully with a small Phillips-head screwdriver and a hammer.

Step 3

Pull the vinyl grille out slightly to bow its center. Pull down to unlatch the grill from under the upper frame grommet. Pull the sides and bottom of the grille from under the grommet, then pull it away from the window.

Step 4

Start at the bottom when reinstalling the grille. Position the bottom part of the grille into the grommet and bow it slightly to install the top and sides.