BLOCKS of GLASS

Glass block isn't just for windows. And the buyer has a choice of style and color.
By REBECCA SLOAN
VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT
If your home's basement windows look dingy and outdated, why not consider glass block replacements?
Glass block not only brightens living spaces with a clean, modern look, it can also make a home snugger and more energy efficient.
"Glass block is more air tight than the typical double-paned window," said Patty Gessler of Experience Glass Block in Struthers.
But that's not all. Glass block can beef up home security too.
"It's much more difficult for a thief to enter a window that's made of glass block, especially if the glass block is mortared together. The only way to get through glass block and mortar is to smash it with a sledgehammer," Gessler said.
Of course, glass block is for more than just basement windows.
These days, homeowners are asking contractors to build bars, serpentine walls, aquariums and even shower stalls from glass block.
"One advantage to having a glass block shower stall is that the stall can be large enough that it won't need a door or shower curtain. The stall is designed with a curve so that water won't splash out of the open entry space while the person is showering," explained Kim Spagnoletta of Tight Seal Glass Block in Girard.
Privacy factor
Besides glass block shower stalls, many homeowners also want glass block bathroom windows.
"Glass block makes sense in the bathroom. It allows for plenty of light but also plenty of privacy," Gessler said, adding, "Because of moisture and humidity, we recommend vented glass block windows if a homeowner decides to put a glass block window in their bathroom."
Most glass block window vents are made of vinyl.
They are inserted in the window in place of one or two blocks and can be opened and closed as needed.
Vented glass block windows are also a good idea in musty basements, Gessler said.
Although most glass blocks are fastened together with mortar, some contractors use silicone as an adhesive.
Both Gessler and Spagnoletta said mortar makes a better adhesive because it is stronger and more durable.
"Although silicone will hold up well on the interior of the window, it's uncertain how well it will do on the exterior of the window over time," Spagnoletta said.
A silicone adhesive also makes glass block less of a deterrent to thieves.
"If a window is sealed with silicone, a thief can just kick out the glass block," Gessler said.
Styles and colors
Both Gessler and Spagnoletta said the glass block industry has grown in recent years because of new styles and colors.
"You can get blue, pink, turquoise, green -- there are many different colors. Or you can choose from bubble glass or other glass patterns," Gessler said.
There are also many shapes.
"Besides coming in different sizes, some blocks come with rounded edges," Spagnoletta said.
Lovers of Tiffany-style windows often choose to have a colored glass block window inserted in place of a stained-glass window.
"A colored glass block window is more energy efficient and not as fragile as a stained-glass window, and it looks just as beautiful," Gessler said, adding, "We have installed colored glass block windows in a few local churches in place of stained glass."
Specialty glass block costs about twice as much as traditional translucent glass block.
Spagnoletta said homeowners can expect to pay about $75 for a traditional glass block basement window.
"That price includes installation and is for a nonvented window. A vented glass block basement window will cost about $100," Spagnoletta said.
Although it's more difficult to estimate price tags for more exotic glass block additions to the home -- such as shower stalls or bars, Spagnoletta said a ballpark figure on a glass block bar is about $1,000.
"That price does not include the countertop," she added.