Installing a blind inside the window - Metal plate above window frame?

[Drake5]

Hello,

I'm trying to install a blind inside the window and the windows are PVC so I can't screw directly into the windows, so I have to mount it upwards. However when screwing/drilling I'm hitting something that feels like metal. I'm not a DIY guy at all so I'm not sure if it's safe to even continue trying to drill through this.

Does anyone know what this might be and is it safe to try to drill through? If so what sort of drill bit and wall plugs/screws should I use?

Cheers

 

[ChrisD.]

It'll be the lintel, you can drill into it. You'll need to use the right drill bit depending on whether it's concrete or metal etc. Start with a small pilot hole.

 

[Deleted User 298457]

Speed and power (+ the right drill bit!)

 

[Drake5]

Appreciated the replies, thanks. So I'm going to need a HSS drill bit from what Google tells me?

Cheers

 

[rodders]

Self drilling screws are all you need.

 

[Drake5]

Self drilling screws are all you need.

If I use self drilling screws won't I need to use wall plugs at all?

 

[aVdub]

I would add a small pilot hole and avoid cheap screws as these might have a tendency to snap when being screwed through metal.

 

[200sols]

Self tapping screws, drill a small pilot hole first.

 

[rodders]

If I use self drilling screws won't I need to use wall plugs at all?

nope, they drill a clearance hole and screw straight into that, just don't go mega tight with the drill.

Edit - I've put 4 blinds up without drilling pilot holes, but it also wont hurt.

 

[casper_uk]

I have not long done similar. I ended up finding the best drill bit to use was:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0B1MWWRS1

Lots of upwards pressure and eventually it started to chew through the metal lintel. I then used a fischer wall plug and screwed it straight in without any hassle.

 

[alex24]

Do your blind mounts allow you to drill into the window aperture to the side, thus avoiding the lintel? I would check that before you try drilling through the metal.

Also, you can screw into the uPVC frame in a pinch, but it obviously makes a hole in the window frame (can be made good with some faff) and won’t take much weight safely beyond a small, light blind. I think, at least. Not an expert either.