Glass Block Window Installations Made Easier With Lighter Blocks

Are you considering doing a glass block window installation project but are worried about the weight of the blocks? Worry no more - there is a solution for you. With the introduction of the 2" thick series of blocks fabricated into vinyl frames this window installation has been made easier to install a lighter and safer window assembly. In this article you'll learn 5 tips on where and how to use a vinyl framed block window.

Tip 1 - Identify where you want to use the window - Glass block windows have many uses beyond what most people think about. Here are a few common (and more unique) uses to consider:

Bathroom and Shower- With this type of window you can get rid of the expensive blinds and window treatments in the bathroom while still getting maximum light transmission. Use this window in the shower to provide a low maintenance light source in this wet area.
Basements - This cost effective use is popular to provide maximum security for a cost effective price.
Den- position these windows underneath cabinetry to let natural light flow in while maintaining privacy.
Closets- Do you have problems seeing well in your closet with only a small light fixture overhead? A solution is to install a fixed block transom window near the top of the closet walls. This will even help colorblind people to distinguish between blue and black socks.
Garage - If you like to use your garage for projects natural lighting is a big benefit and the block window provides high security for any valuable items you may be storing as well.
Kitchen - A block window between your kitchen countertops and cabinetry can let light stream in and provide a natural backsplash that's easy to clean.

Step 2 - Determine if a framed or frameless window is better - The lighter 2" thick glass block windows are only available in a vinyl framed system. Although it's easier to work with the lighter window, the vinyl framed system is not the best solution for all projects. Here's where to use both the framed and frameless systems:

Vinyl framed windows- use in wood framed (rough openings) where the size of the opening will work with the dimensions of the 2" thick blocks (note: the 2" thick blocks come in 8" x 8" x 2" size so the rough openings need to work in 8" increments). These windows (which are available with easy to install nailing fins) are used frequently in new construction, room additions, or in upper floor framed and stucco openings where the window openings can be adjusted to fit the window.
Unframed block windows- this window is (which are available in the heavier 3" and 4" thick blocks) generally more cost effective than the framed system and are best used in masonry openings where the block windows can be mortared into place. The other advantage of the unframed windows is they are available in more blocks sizes (the most common are 4" x 8", 6" x 6", 6" x 8" and 8" x 8") which allow these window building panels to be designed in 2" size increments. Most basement windows are completed with the unframed system.

Step 3 - Make sure this window is built for strength - Not all vinyl framed glass block windows are created alike. Make sure you choose a window that is manufactured to withstand extreme weather conditions. The best made windows use a vinyl stacking spacing system in between the blocks which provides superior impact strength, minimizes the chance of water infiltration, and offers higher wind load capabilities.

Step 4 - Add style with colored, frosted, and etched blocks - You no longer need to make your window decision based on a one size fits all approach. You can select from a wide variety of colored, frosted, etched glass blocks. In the lighter 2" series blocks (which are manufactured by Mulia Inc.) you can choose between two privacy patterns called Wave and Iceberg. There are also white and almond frames available.

Step 5 - If the window's not a fit you must acquit- A block window is not the right solution for all projects. If you're looking for full operability (but you like the looks and privacy of blocks) you may want to consider using an acrylic block window. This type of window is available in several opening styles including single hungs, sliders, casements, awnings and hoppers.

Now that you're equipped with these 5 tips you're ready to get started with ordering your lighter vinyl framed glass block window.

Mike Foti is President of Columbus Glass Block, Cleveland Window Company, Clear Choice Window & Door, Mid America Glass Block Cincinnati, Dayton, Akron & V.P. of Eastern Glass Block New Jersey & New York. These companies are nationwide suppliers and regional installers of glass block windows, walls, showers and bases.

Tel. 614-252-5888 Nationwide 877-668-5888

glass block windows

vinyl framed glass block window

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

Bathroom Replacement Windows - Choosing Between a Glass Block, Acrylic, Wood or a Vinyl Window

Selecting a bathroom replacement window is not easy. Choosing between a wood, vinyl, acrylic or glass block bathroom window is made easier by considering 7 criteria based on the window's design, cost, looks and function. This article will provide seven practical steps to help compare window types and will help you make the right selection for your window project.

Step 1 - Determine how much operability you need in the window - If you need a window that can open completely, (whether it be a side to side slider - an up and down double hung - or a crank out casement style) then a vinyl, wood or acrylic block window will be best. These types are available with different opening options to maximize air flow. A couple in Cleveland Ohio recently replaced an old single pane metal framed bath window that was literally rusted shut with a vinyl casement window and are now able to get the steam out of the bath area while simultaneously reducing heating and cooling costs.

Step 2 - Think through your need for security - If you're worried about vandalism, break-ins, or theft a glass block window is an excellent choice. These blocks are very difficult to break (it would take a sledgehammer to knock them out) and gaining entry would require that each unit be broken out individually - a task that takes a lot of time and makes a lot of noise - something burglars aren't looking to contend with. Many of these windows are also mortared into the foundation for additional security.

Step 3 - Evaluate how much privacy you want - If the bath window to be replaced is directly in or by a shower or tub you'll want to use a glass package that offers the maximum amount of privacy. For vinyl and wood windows you can use an obscure and tempered glass assembly for maximum safety and privacy. Acrylic and glass block windows are available with high privacy frosted, diamond, ice, or wave patterns that can even eliminate the need for curtains in a wet area. A single mother in Columbus Ohio felt much safer after replacing the old and rotten wood frame double hung window in her daughter's bathroom with a high privacy block window pattern with an integral air vent.

Step 4 - Develop a budget for your bath window - When it comes down to the budget rarely does someone say the skies the limit. If you're looking for a more cost-effective window vinyl or glass blocks are best, next most expensive will be the acrylic blocks, and the priciest windows will be made of wood. The opening designs of the windows will also have an impact on costs. Double hung and slider windows are generally the cheapest and the casements are most expensive. Make sure to consider the life cycle costs of your window - a more insulated glass package will cost more today but can pay for itself with reduced energy costs down the road.

Step 5 - Get money back from the government with an energy efficient glass package and save money on your heating and cooling costs- With the $1,500 energy tax credit available on windows with a U value of.30 or better (that is comparable to an R value of 3.33 or better) you can get back your investment in new replacement windows in a very short period of time. Look for wood and vinyl windows with Low E/Argon or Krypton filled glass packages. Make sure your windows are tax credit eligible before making any purchase.

Step 6 - Consider the interior and exterior design look you desire - For a classic and traditional look it's hard to beat the wood window (which looks very nice with fancy trim packages to finish the window on the inside). For a more contemporary design the sleek look of the block window will generate a more modern appearance.

Step 7 - Use decorative, frosted, etched glass or colored glass block to add style to your bathroom window - Why be boring when you can add a cool and distinctive look to your bath or shower window? You can use decorative etchings or mural designs in vinyl, wood and block windows. In addition there are frosted and colored glass blocks that can brighten up a room and add a one of kind style. A family in Cincinnati Ohio put an etched glass block window tree mural into an area that was formerly an inefficient single pane metal picture window in their master bathroom.

Making the right choice of the best bathroom replacement window is not the simplest thing to do. Develop your selection by examining the function, design, and cost of the window for your specific remodeling project.

Mike Foti is President of Columbus Glass Block, Cleveland Window Company, Clear Choice Window & Door, Mid America Glass Block Cincinnati, Dayton, Akron & V.P. of Eastern Glass Block New Jersey & New York. These companies are nationwide suppliers and regional installers of bathroom wood, vinyl, acrylic and glass block windows.

Tel. 614-252-5888 Nationwide 877-668-5888. bathroom replacement window & replacement windows.

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

Glass Block Window Sizes For Basements, Bathrooms, and Buildings - 4 Steps For Success

When sizing a glass block window panel you need to throw out the old saying "measure twice and cut once." With an interior or exterior block window project you need to measure twice and don't cut at all (this is because you can't slice through a block and have it retain it's structural integrity and energy efficiency properties). Although determining the size of the block glass window does require skill and knowledge, it does not take a neurosurgeon to figure this stuff out. In this article you'll learn the 4 step process to get the correct window size, system, pattern, color and options for your needs and tastes.

Step 1) Where do you want to use the block window? What material is (or will be surrounding) surrounding the window opening?

o Will your glass block window be used in a lower level basement, a 1st floor garage or commercial building, or a 2nd floor bathroom window that is 20 foot to the sill? If you're putting the window on the lower level you can generally make the window panel larger since you won't have to be lifting it in the air (most basement windows tend to use anywhere from 8 to 15 blocks in a pre-assembled section - weighing from 50 lbs. to 90 lbs per section). Most second floor bathroom windows tend to use 12 to 24 blocks so you might want to select a thinner block thickness (either 2" or 3 1/8") so the panel is lighter and easier to install.

o The surrounding materials the window panel will be set in (also called the head - or top, jambs - or side, or sill - or bottom) are also important. If you're doing a basement foundation window that will be set inside a masonry wall made of concrete block, sandstone, or poured concrete you may want to size your block window using a mortar joint (to match up with your surrounding masonry materials) vs. a silicone jointing process for the window. For a bathroom window inside of a wood framed opening the silicone vinyl framed glass block window system might be preferred because this window is lighter (usually built with 2" thick blocks) and easier to set, making an upper level installation safer.

Step 2) Measuring an existing opening or determining the size you'd like to create a new opening

o To replace an existing window you start by measuring the opening first. When measuring an existing masonry opening for block basement windows or upper floor windows you usually want to measure assuming the frame will be removed (this happens about 90% of the time), from side to side, and from the top of the sill to the top of the header plate. The block window will need to be sized smaller than this opening remembering that you can't cut the glass, or as my Dad used to say fit 10 lbs of you know what into a 5 lb. bag. For upper floor frame openings you usually will measure the area inside of the frame after the window sashes would be removed to size your window.

o Creating a new opening for a block window If you're creating a new opening for a block window you want to begin with the end in mind. Choose your specific block window system, pattern, design, and/or colors and find out from your glass block window manufacturer what size the window panel will be after it's manufactured. Then you'll create your opening usually about ?" larger than the size of the panel (for example if the glass panel size is 40" x 40" you'll want to create your rough opening to be 40 ?" x 40 ?").

Step 3) Choose a glass block window system and select your pattern, design, air vent, colors, and block sizes.

o Block window panels can be made either with or without a frame. For existing basement windows in masonry openings a frameless block window is more cost effective, can be mortared in place, and is usually the way to go. The frameless window panels can be joined together either with mortar or silicone. The advantage of the mortared windows is they are harder to break in through and match most foundations. The advantage of the siliconed windows are they are smaller in size when pre-assembled together (which works well for tighter fitting openings), lighter, and have an all glass look.

o For upper level frame openings a vinyl framed block window can be an excellent choice since these windows are available in different frame colors and can be installed just like a standard replacement window. For openings you are creating, or can modify the size of, this is the way to go.

o There are a wide selection of block sizes, patterns, design possibilities, air ventilation products, and colors for your windows. A brief overview is presented below:

o Sizes and thicknesses of glass blocks - Glass masonry units are made is both metric and American sizes. Most of the blocks available in the United States are American sized. The American sized blocks are available in 4" x 8", 6" x 6", 6" x 8", 8" x 8", 12" x 12" and specialty shapes to turn corners or radiuses if you're looking to create a bay or bow block window. The blocks have nominal sizes meaning the actual size of the block units is ?" smaller allowing for a mortar joint (a 6" x 6" block actually measuring 5 ?" x 5 3'4"). There are 3 available thicknesses - 2", 3 1/8", and 4" thick. Thinner blocks are lighter and generally easier for someone less experienced to work with.

o Patterns, designs and colored glass blocks - Blocks come in a multitude of patterns providing different levels of privacy, style, security, and energy efficiency. The block are now available in standard and custom colors and artistically decorated murals to match any interior design style. Check out a comprehensive block web site to see the possibilities.

o Air ventilation and acrylic block windows - Glass block windows are available with vinyl air vents, dryer vents, or power exhaust fans. There are also acrylic block casement and awning windows that give you the look and feel of real block with the ability to open completely as well.

Step 4) Don't worry about any of the first 3 steps and call a glass block window manufacturer and installation professional - If you really don't want to figure out what size window you need call a block specialty company who offers design, fabrication and installation services. This type of company will usually come to your home or business (without a charge), measure your openings, figure out the right window size, and install it for you with a guarantee.

Mike Foti is President of Columbus Glass Block, Cleveland Glass Block and Mid America Glass Block of Cincinnati, Dayton, and Akron and Vice President Eastern Glass Block of New Jersey and New York. These companies are nationwide suppliers, glass block window manufacturers, and installation contractors of glass block windows, showers, walls, and specialty colored glass blocks. Mike can be reached at the following:

Tel. 614-252-5888 Nationwide 877-668-5888

mfoti@columbusglassblock.com

basement windows

vinyl framed glass block window

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

How to Make Acrylic & Glass Block Window Installations Easier & Improve Quality at the Same Time

"I'm really scared to do this glass block window installation" a customer recently said. "Don't you have a way to make it easier, lighter, and maybe even cut down the mess for my window project?" Fortunately the answer is yes - it's by using vinyl or aluminum framed windows built with acrylic and glass blocks. In this article you'll learn the following:

1. Why framed windows systems can make your project easier

2. What products and sizes are available

3. What rooms a vinyl framed window system will work best in

4. Where to use both glass windows vs. acrylic block windows systems

5. Cool and unique projects ideas.

1) Why framed windows systems can make your life easier

Let's face it mortared block window installations are messy. Getting the right mortar mix is not easy, and there is always the concern of the pre-fabricated window assembly breaking just as you go to set it into the opening. Framed window systems take much of the guess-work, weight, and worries away.

Framed windows are pre-assembled with silicone joints between the blocks (getting rid of the need to mix mortar) and are usually made with 2" thick glass or acrylic units (reducing the weight by as much 1/3 to ? vs. traditional block units made of 3" and 4" thick block). With integral nailing fins the windows are installed like standard vinyl windows (they are nailed into the opening for new construction or built without the fins for a replacement window application) without the mess usually associated with a mortared glass window. Since the windows are siliconed together inside a vinyl frame they can be shipped nationwide and have been used in states with varied weather patterns - from Florida to Minnesota to California to Maine.

2) What product and size options are available?

Factory assembled framed block windows systems can be made of with vinyl or aluminum frames using either glass or acrylic blocks inside the windows. Glass block sizes used most often are 8" x 8" x 2" (for the reduced weight), 6" x 6" x 3", and 8" x 8" x 4" in a wide variety of patterns and colors. Acrylic block sizes used most frequently are 8" x 8", 6" x 6" and occasionally 9" x 9" and are usually 1 ?" to 2" thick. Frame colors can vary with white and almond being the most common.

3) What rooms should you use a vinyl framed window system

The main reasons to choose a block window system are where you want privacy, a cool clean look, style, and privacy all wrapped in one window solution. Since these windows meet tempered window standards they are stronger and harder to break than standard glass windows which make them safe to use in bathroom and other higher risk areas of a home or business.

Acrylic or glass block windows are being used in bathrooms as either transom windows above tub surrounds or above soaking and Jacuzzi tubs on the side of the home for privacy. Kitchen and den backsplashes are becoming a more popular application to get natural light underneath cabinetry. These windows are being used in stairwells in commercial buildings and for churches who want light, security, and color with their windows (a church in New Mexico is looking to put in green, purple, red, and orange colored glass blocks into one framed window assembly). Sidelites around front doors and closets are using block windows to get security and light without compromising privacy. For most basement windows considering using block windows without frames - it is usually better to mortar these windows into their masonry and poured wall foundations than to have a vinyl frame around the windows.

4) Where to use glass and acrylic framed window systems

There is much debate over whether glass or acrylic is better for your window projects. The simple answer is they both have their place and that is why both materials are successful in the market. Here is a quick look at where it's best to use each product.

Advantages and Where to Use Framed Glass Block Windows

- Where you want the strength & durability of a real glass window for scratch resistance and quality - If you want to incorporate a wide variety of colors into your windows

- Where you are concerned about what cleaning products may be used on the windows

- (acrylic blocks can have problems if abrasive cleaning agents are used on the block's surface)

- If you like a slimmer frame around your window Advantages and Where to Use Framed Acrylic Block Windows

- If you want a fully operable single hung, casement, awning, or slider window (acrylic windows can be provided with cranks and fully operable window sashes). In addition acrylic windows can be used in arch top, hexagon, octagon, or round top window designs.

- If you need an energy star or Low E rated window.

- If you want a lighter window for ease of installation.

- If you need a custom fit block size for a replacement window application.

5) Cool and Unique Project Ideas

Here are some different ideas to consider with your block windows:

- A step down almond colored vinyl framed glass block window was used above a soaking tub in a home builder's Parade Home in Columbus Ohio.

- A therapist in New Orleans Louisiana is planning to use a slider acrylic block window in a waiting room inside of an existing glass block wall for privacy and to keep the all block look.

- A home being remodeled in Dallas Texas is considering installing a framed window with a block art mural with an ocean scene applied directly on the glass (this decorative art mural uses glass frit which is baked directly into the glass making it a permanent part of the glass).

- A church in Arkansas is looking to put a Ruby Red colored cross inside a framed window. With framed glass and acrylic block windows and a vast selection of styles, patterns, colors, sizes and designs

- projects have never been easier, cooler, and neater to do!

Mike Foti is President of Columbus Glass Block, Cleveland Glass Block, Mid America Glass Block Cincinnati, Dayton, Akron & Eastern Glass Block New York & New Jersey - nationwide suppliers of acrylic block windows and also vinyl framed glass block window manufacturers including patterned and color glass blocks.
For nationwide questions and orders call 877-668-5888

acrylic block window
acrylic block windows

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

Glass Block Windows - 5 Steps For Installation Success

Like many product categories the installation options for glass block windows have grown proportionately to the expanding design options. Years ago, blocks were made in a 8" x 8" x 4" size in a few patterns and put together inside a masonry window opening (usually by a skilled mason) block by block with a gray mortar and masons sand - not real sexy, but it worked. In today's world people want to use blocks more creatively in different types of openings (could be masonry, framed, steel openings etc.) for a wide variety of uses, and not have to rely strictly on a mason to get the job done. The following 5 installation steps can help you think through what's needed to have your block window installation project go smoothly.

o Step 1 - Ask, "What size is my window opening?"- The size of the opening is a large factor in the window installation approach. There are two basic ways to install a glass block window:

* (Option 1) As a window panel alone, or as a panel built into a vinyl or metal framed window system.

* (Option 2) installing the glass blocks one by one inside of the opening.

A benefit of glass block is it's a heavy material, the challenge is it's a heavy material when you're installing it! For most openings less than 25 square feet consider option 1, the block window built as panel (or section) vs. option 2. Option 2 is usually more difficult, costly, and requires a higher skill level. For the first option you can get a block window panel built by a glass block window manufacturer, often saving time and money.

o Step 2 - Ask, "Where is this block window going?" A key factor in the block window installation is if the glass window is going in new construction or a remodeling project, and whether the surrounding construction is masonry (poured concrete or concrete blocks) or frame (surrounded by wood). Here are some recommendations for each job condition:

* New construction projects in framed openings - For new construction framed openings use a vinyl framed nail in glass block window. Consult your glass window manufacturer for the size to create your rough framed opening. These windows (which are usually siliconed together for an all glass look) can be purchased with nailing fins to simply nail in from the outside just like a traditional vinyl window in new construction. Since they can be manufactured with the 2" thick series of blocks (in either a high privacy "Ice" pattern or "Wave" pattern from Mulia Inc.) they are lighter than traditional block windows. These windows can also be purchased for the 3" and 4" thick series of blocks as well if you'd like to try one of the upscale designed Beveled or Spyra series of blocks from Pittsburgh Corning.

* New construction projects in masonry openings - For most masonry openings under 25 square feet it is best to purchase mortared or siliconed block panels that can be set into the opening and mortared in at the top (also called the head), sides (also called the jambs), and bottom (also called the sill).

* Remodeling projects in framed openings -

- (Option A) If you can adjust your openings to fit one of the vinyl framed glass block windows you can install your project like a standard vinyl replacement window (make sure the window manufacturer takes the window nailing fins off for this type of installation) by placing the vinyl window in the opening, insulating around the window, and installing aluminum coil stock capping to meet the glass block window.

- (Option B) If you can't adjust your existing wood opening then remove the existing window sashes and mortar the glass block into the wood opening and install aluminum coil stock to the block and caulk where the coil stock meets the glass masonry units.

* Remodeling projects in masonry openings (concrete blocks or poured walls) - In remodeling projects measure the entire size of the masonry openings with the existing frame being removed (the only time you don't remove the metal or wood frames is when the frame is either seated over the concrete blocks or poured walls and removing them might cause damage to the surrounding interior or exterior walls). Then size your block window panels to be smaller than the masonry openings (these block windows can be sized basically in any 2" size increment). The window panels can then be mortared into the openings.

o Step 3 - Ask, "What should I use to put the glass block together into a window panel assembly?" - You might have heard varied opinions about how the block panel should be assembled (the most common methods are using mortar or silicone). While some companies may tell you that only one method is correct, they are often just trying to get people to buy the fabrication method they prefer. You should choose that method where the panel size is going to fit best into the opening (making sure the joints do not exceed 1" around the window). Included below you'll find some advantages of both the mortar and silicone systems:

- Advantages of Mortar over Silicone - Mortar is the traditional way to build a block window. The advantages of this system are the ability to vary the size of the mortar joint (helpful when you have an odd size), the mortar joints can be finished to match the existing masonry, and it's very difficult to break a block out of mortared joint.

- Advantages of Silicone - Silicone is preferred if you like an all glass look to your panel, or if you need a smaller window in an opening (silicone joints are smaller than mortar joints), and transportation is safer because the glass window will stay together better than with mortar.

o Step 4 -Ask, "How do I handle an opening greater than 25 square feet?" - When openings become larger than 25 square feet (mostly in commercial, architectural and institutional projects) it is often better to build the window block by block within the opening (this is because the panels would need to become larger, heavier, and are more difficult to handle). With openings of this size you will need to keep the following installation points in mind:

* The window usually requires a "soft joint" at the top (head), and sides (jambs) of the opening - Windows greater than 25 square feet need more space for expansion and contraction requiring glass block caulk be used at the jambs and head of the opening along with an expansion strip. For larger openings an aluminum channel will also help with concerns regarding wind loads.

* Structural steel or aluminum may be required - To allow for wind loads and structural safety larger openings (greater than 20 feet high for 4" blocks and 10 feet high for 3" blocks, and 25 feet wide for 4" blocks and 15 feet wide for 3" blocks) there should be a metal stiffener put into the glass block window. This stiffener could be a metal hidden plate, an I beam, or a T shaped mullion of steel behind the window/wall.

o Step 5 - Ask, "What should I do if my skills or physical abilities don't allow me to do this type of installation?" - Call a specialty glass block contractor or find a nationwide glass block window manufacturer (to make a pre-made glass panel) to make contract out the installation of this window. This will ease the process, reduce cost, and improve the quality of the block window installation project.

Now that you've got the 5 installation steps you're ready to either to get your hands dirty or hire the right specialty glass block contractor for your project.

Mike Foti is President of Columbus Glass Block, Cleveland Glass Block and Mid America Glass Block of Cincinnati, Dayton, and Akron and Vice President Eastern Glass Block of New Jersey and New York. These companies are nationwide suppliers, glass block window manufacturers, and installation contractors of glass block windows, showers, walls, and specialty colored glass blocks. Mike can be reached at the following:

Tel. 614-252-5888 Nationwide 877-668-5888

mfotigb@aol.com

glass block windows

how to install glass block windows

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

Glass Block Window Prices - 9 Cost Saving Ideas For Basement & Bathroom Windows

Getting the best price and value in your glass block window purchase may never be as important as it is today. The cheapest price sometimes comes with the worst service and poorest product quality. How do you ensure you get an excellent value with the features and benefits you want in a new block window purchase? Use the 9 ideas presented in this article to stretch your dollars and exceed your expectations with this purchase.

General Glass Block Window Cost Saving Ideas

Here are 3 general cost saving ideas to consider:

1. Buy Prefabricated Window Panels Factory Direct - Since a large percentage of block windows are made to order due to sizing differences with the existing windows being replaced, why invest unnecessary time going to supply yards and retailers who rarely sell custom sized block windows? As long as you have your opening sizes the windows can be prefabricated and shipped directly to you anywhere in the United States. There is generally a substantial price saving to you versus having to find a skilled mason to put the windows together and the quality is higher since the windows are built in the factory, not at the project site. Consumers in states like North & South Carolina, Georgia, Kentucky, and Louisiana where masons are harder to find have found this service beneficial.

2. Compare Installation Guarantees to Years in Business - Did you ever buy from someone who gave you a "lifetime guarantee" only to call them one year later for service and find a disconnected phone number? If you're looking to have your block windows professionally installed by a contractor ask them how many years they have been in business and how many glass block window projects they've completed. If you're not comfortable asking these questions consider joining a consumer rating service like Angie's list to get the straight scoop on your potential contractor.

3. Beware of discounters selling metric sizes or off color blocks - Remember the Latin phrase - caveat emptor (which means let the buyer beware). Although metric sizes can work in openings you are creating new the standard metric sizes usually do not fit existing masonry and rough openings in the United States market. Another trick some "discounters" will use is to sell off color glass blocks. These are blocks where the shading or hue of the blocks may be inconsistent from size to size or from block to block. Evaluate the quality of your potential supplier starting with their web site, to the staff that answers your questions on the phone, to the manufacturers they use - Pittsburgh Corning and Mulia are two of the highest quality manufacturers in the market today. If the pricing seems too good to be true it just might be.

Basement Glass Block Window Cost Saving Ideas

Here are 3 cost saving ideas specifically related to block basement windows:

1. Buy air vents for your block windows with the initial purchase - An extremely popular feature with block basement windows are air vents to allow fresh air in the lower level and to minimize mold concerns. Air vents usually cost anywhere from $30 to $60 per window opening if you do it with the original installation and 3 to 4 times as much if old blocks have to be removed and an air vent added at a later date.

2. Add a dryer vent through the glass block basement window - Dryer vents with standard 4" holes can be incorporated into your block window at a much lower cost than having to create a hole in your concrete block or poured wall foundation. These dryer vents usually have flaps that open when the dryer is working and are closed when it is off.

3. Find a specialty block window installer - In some areas of the country there are companies who specialize in the installation of glass brick windows, walls, and showers. Since they do this work every day the finished quality and value is usually better than a contractor that may dabble in block window installations.

Bathroom Glass Block Window & Upper Floor Window Cost Saving Ideas

Consider these 3 ideas if you're looking to get the best value in a bathroom, garage, or other upper floor block window project:

1. Consider a vinyl framed glass block bathroom window - To make block window installations easier and more cost effective you can now purchase a block window with a vinyl frame (either with nailing fins for new construction or without the nailing fins for replacement window projects). These windows can be made with different sizes (8" x 8" and 6" x 6" are the most popular) and are available in a 2" thick series that reduces the weight of the glass window by about 1/3 in comparison to the 3" thick size. Higher quality Vinyl Wrap brand windows are manufactured with an integral vinyl spacer on the inside of the window and a specialized sealant for block. The windows are installed like a standard replacement or new construction vinyl window which allows an owner a wider variation of choices of contractors that should be qualified to install this window.

2. Use color glass block vs. fiber optic lighting systems - If you're looking to jazz up your block bathroom or upper floor windows consider using block that is colored. Coloring the block is usually less expensive than trying to light the block window with a fiber optic system and more vibrant than rope lighting strung behind the window. A church in Virginia used a variety of colored blocks in their window openings to create a stained glass effect at a substantially lower cost.

3. Use acrylic block windows for more air flow combined with the looks and privacy of block - Although acrylic block windows are generally more expensive than glass, they are an excellent choice if you need a fully operable window with the privacy of block and a tempered glass rating. In the market today there are casement, awning, double hung, and slider windows made of acrylic to choose from.

Now that you're equipped with these 9 price and cost saving block window ideas you should be ready to start your project.

Mike Foti is President of Columbus Glass Block, Cleveland Glass Block, Mid America Glass Block Cincinnati, Dayton, Akron & Vice President of Eastern Glass Block New York & New Jersey - nationwide factory direct suppliers & installers of glass block basement and upper floor Vinyl Wrap bathroom windows, walls, showers and bars.

Nationwide 877-668-5888
basement windows
glass block windows

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

Bathroom Glass Block Windows - 8 Benefits For a New Home Or Remodeled Bathroom

Finding the right type of bathroom window in remodeling or new construction can be tough. Here are two problems many homeowners have with their bathroom windows:

1) A remodeling bathroom window challenge - Your existing window is sitting right in the middle of a bathtub or shower area and the window frame is rotted or rusted out. You want privacy, you want the window to look good, and you don't want the constant maintenance of having to re-caulk the window or rework the wood framing around the window.

2) A new construction bathroom window challenge - You're building a new home with a soak tub or Jacuzzi in the corner of the master bathroom that has windows above the tub at eye level which are clearly visible from your neighbors property. You want a high privacy and good looking contemporary style window, but don't really want to invest in expensive blinds.

How can you solve these two problems with style while maintaining your budget? One answer - bathroom glass block or acrylic block windows. This article will explore the benefits of these types of windows for your home.

Glass Block Window Benefits for your new home or remodeled bathroom

Here are the 8 benefits you'll realize by replacing your existing bathroom windows or installing blocks in your new home bathroom window:

1. Increased privacy - With homes being built closer together as land costs continue to escalate finding a cost effective window that provides privacy in your hall bath or master bathroom window can be difficult. With block you can pick a high privacy pattern like Icescapes or Delphi from Pittsburgh Corning or Ice or Pristal from Mulia to let light in, yet maintain the privacy you need.

2. Reduce your heating and cooling costs - Most existing bathroom windows have old aluminum frames or deteriorated wood frames with a single pane window glass inside. They are inefficient windows which frequently fog up, required a lot of effort to maintain, and cause your heating and air conditioning costs to be higher. Block glass windows are 10 times more energy efficient than single pane glass and provide a combination of obscurity and style many vinyl replacement windows do not.

3. Increased Security/Ease of Gaining Entry into the Home - Existing window are flimsy, usually held in with caulk and are an easy target for break ins. New glass brick windows are mortared in for most remodeling projects, making them difficult and time consuming to attempt to break through. New construction glass block windows come with a vinyl frame and nailing fin providing excellent security.

4. Cut Maintenance takes time, money and energy - Single pane metal and wood windows need to be repainted and caulked to keep the elements out and to prevent rust and deterioration. With block bathroom windows there is no maintenance needed since the windows are either mortared in or nailed into the framed walls in the property.

5. Easy to clean - These windows can be cleaned with soap and water or window cleaning solution.

6. Windows will become easy to operate - Existing bathroom windows are sometimes rusted shut, or cannot easily be opened making a bathroom retain excessive amounts of moisture, allowing mold spores to grow. New block windows can be combined with fresh air vents or power exhaust fans to make your bathroom healthier for your family and friends.

7. Easy to open- Acrylic block windows can open completely (there is a casement window available in multiple frame and glass styles for bathrooms) and glass windows can be combined with vinyl hopper style air vents which open very simply as well.

8. Old Windows don't fit your new design style - Glass block bathroom replacement windows now are available in colors, different tints, satin finishes, decorative patterns, beveled edges, and many custom architectural designs to match a contemporary, traditional, or transitional design style.

Your master bathroom or hall bathroom window no longer needs to be an eyesore. With a new glass block bathroom window you can get an easy to clean, easy to maintain, cost-effective/ energy saving window, and add to the style and value of your home at the same time.

Mike Foti is President of Columbus Glass Block, Cleveland Glass Block and Mid America Glass Block of Cincinnati, Dayton, and Akron and Vice President Eastern Glass Block of New Jersey and New York. These companies are nationwide suppliers, glass block window manufacturers, and installation contractors of glass block windows, showers, walls, and specialty colored glass blocks. Mike can be reached at the following:

Tel. 614-252-5888 Nationwide 877-668-5888

mfotigb@aol.com

http://www.columbusglassblock.com/windows.aspx - bathroom glass block window, block glass windows, operable block window, replacement windows.

http://www.columbusglassblock.com/products-designer-and-color.aspx color and colored glass block windows and walls

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.