They basically make glass block windows obsolete. While beauty is in the eye of the beholder, many current design experts, home decorators and architects agree that the look of glass block is outdated, unattractive and unnecessary. Some architects have argued that glass block is all too commonly relied upon as a crutch to cover up a poorly designed walkway or corner. Glass block windows have a thick, cloudy, and slightly reflective look that is difficult to see through, and some homeowners prefer to let this trend stay in the past.
They must be carefully planned and measured out, and the blocks must be cut to size. The process is fairly similar to bricklaying, which is a learned skill best performed by a professional. Glass block walls are often touted for their strength. However, their thickness and durability have tricked some homeowners into thinking they can bear more weight than they really can.
Glass block windows should never be used in any load-bearing capacity. They may not break immediately, but given enough time they will start cracking, which is a safety hazard and an expensive mess to clean up. Additionally, glass block windows are quite heavy, so you would also need to inspect the floor under the area, and possibly add structural support boards underneath. The weight of a glass block wall or large window could cause the floor to sink, warp or even collapse.
For example, consider using a glass block dividing wall in a bathroom with bright white walls. The translucency of the glass block will make the place appear bright and spacious.
Glass blocks can also tie an eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary style elements together because they look both modern and classic. Using Glass Blocks for Privacy — Glass block windows are a great addition to bathrooms as they allow plenty of natural light into the room while still obscuring the view.
For instance, consider using a glass block window wall for your shower. Lots of sunlight will make the shower feel spacious and bright while preventing prying eyes from seeing into the room.
You must work with the sizes available to drive your design. You want to make a statement with your block window. You no longer want a generic job. This is great…. You may wonder how to get past this problem. These sizes will drive your design. First, develop or find on Pinterest a fun design you love.
Then, with your home builder or contractor figure out if your openings can be sized to work with the design. You need to see what block feels right for you. This is where knowing your patterns and processes comes in handy. The amount of privacy which is right for you will also depend on where the window is located.
For example, if you have a first-floor bathroom window , smack dab in the middle of the shower which anyone on the outside can walk up to , you obviously will want maximum privacy. Earlier in this article I talked about glass block premade windows. The most popular glass block prefabs are frameless. In remodeling jobs in masonry openings, frameless glass blocks are perfect.
However, in wood framed or new construction openings, not so much. With the vinyl framed window you can still create any type of design see blunder 3 , but the window is prefabricated into a vinyl frame with a nailing flange. With this unit the window is installed like a new construction vinyl window. Use the right window.
Take the anxiety out. Then the lead times are too long. The key to solving this problem is to develop your design before your bathroom is remodeled or new home windows are framed. In the United States today most of the colored blocks are metric sizes the only American sized colored blocks are done with an aftermarket drilling and filling color process.
Third, buy the colored glass block window. Pride trumps no political play on words here practicality. Why go it alone when you can get help for free? Glass block is a niche business. There are a small handful of companies across the country who really know their glass block stuff. I hope these 7 blunders get you off the pot-hole filled dirt road of a bad glass block bathroom window installation.
If you need help click the links or call the numbers below. Me and my team would be delighted to assist you. For assistance designing, building or installing a glass block bathroom window, shower wall or bar call Innovate Building Solutions at for nationwide supply. Designed to limit visibility while allowing in light, our glass block window products are the perfect addition to your bathroom. As you plan new construction or remodeling for your bathroom, feel free to contact Quality Glass Block and Window Company for detailed product information and consultation.
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