Glass block windows, walls and panels have been used for years to create unique, light enhancing looks in home design. Now more popular than ever before, with new designs and color options, glass blocks have many interior and exterior uses. Whether creating glass block showers, or glass block walls, the multi-faceted blocks are sure to bring much to any design.
What Are Glass Blocks?
There are two types of glass blocks available. The first is a solid glass block. This is made of two slabs of glass that have been fused together. Hollow glass blocks, which can allow for greater insulation and sound deadening, are made of two hollow glass block halves, fused together at the edges to create a hollow, vacuum filled interior.
Glass blocks come in two thickness, of standard 4” or a thinner, residential 3” block. While non weight bearing, the blocks are chip and shatter resistant and safe for most applications.
Used to create walls, windows and inset panels, glass blocks can transmit light while bringing designs, patterns and privacy to a space. Solar glass tubes are available to help attract and heat homes, when used in exterior wall applications, while energy efficient blocks are available to help preserve the home’s interior temperature.
Styles of Glass Block Available
There are many patterns of glass block available, to fit any style design. For privacy, there are glass blocks with light scattering patterns that transmit light while obscuring view. Other types of glass block allow maximum amounts of light to transmit, with a clear finish, and deco design elements.
New, colored and design glass blocks can incorporate pictures and designs into a wall or panel. Curved blocks are available for creating a pillar, or enclosing a shower or space with a curving wall.
Uses for Glass Blocks
Glass block can be used on many different interior and exterior applications. Privacy walls can be incorporated into the bathroom design, by building a half-wall of glass block between the toilet and shower, or between the tub and shower. Full shower walls can be built to create a walk-in shower design which allows for light transmission, without the use of a shower door
Exterior walls and windows of glass block can be used to bring a unique element of style to the home, while helping to preserve energy, and reduce heating and cooling costs.
For offices, glass block walls can help deaden sound for privacy, while bringing light into the room.
Use bubble filled glass block patterns in bathrooms for a water effect, while using tunnel appearing glass blocks for modern looks. Striated and light refracting glass blocks work well in basement playrooms or rec rooms where room delineation is needed, without sacrificing light.
For a custom look, consider using colored and decorative glass blocks as a partition between living room and dining rooms, or as a panel going into the shower in a bathroom.
Glass blocks are easy to install with their locking sides and easy application of mortar. Adding them to any area of the home can add light, and style to the space.
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