Glass block windows today give a vast selection of designs, patterns, and designs for any budget or purpose, but, before settling on use this product there are other basic questions to be answered. First, why should you use blocks, where in case you use them, and just how can the product help to solve your problems or needs? The four steps to glass block design success will answer these questions plus more.
o The first step - Ask, "What are my goals, then Determine Your Patterns and merchandise."- Begin with the finish in mind. What problems do you need the block windows to unravel? Do your existing windows seal poorly, include the frames rusted or rotted. Do you lack the privacy you desire, are you concerned about the safety of your respective family or workers, or maybe looking for a hot look to add style for your property? Here are some block window recommendations to fix these specific problems:
o Drafty windows that don't seal properly - Think about the thin line series (3 1/8" thick) compilation of blocks. They are more cost effective than the commercial series (3 7/8" thick), and are avalable in a wide selection of sizes (generally 4 x 8, 6 x 6, 6 x 8, and 8 x 8) for proper sizing of the window opening.
o Require more Privacy - In case you are concerned about someone looking at your windows - particularly in basement, bathroom, and garage windows - think about the high privacy Ice and Pristal patterns from Mulia or Icescapes or Delphi from Pittsburgh Corning. That you can do without blinds or shades (saving you money) with these patterns however , you don't have to sacrifice light transmission (in fact, some say they acquire more light as the old frame is slowly removed in many glass block installation projects).
o Want more security - Since several of the glass block windows are mortared together breaking in through such a window opening is extremely difficult and time consuming. These windows are more cost effective than installing electronic security pads on windows and provide strong energy efficiency benefits also.
o Buying cool, hot, contemporary look - Why have boring windows when you are able add style and uniqueness to your residence or business? Colored glass blocks, block patterns with beveled edges, frosted blocks, and artistically designed blocks income create one of a kind designs are available in today's block window.
o 2 - Ask, "Do I've any special window needs?" - Especially in the commercial, institutional, and architectural markets glass masonry units can solve some very specific design challenges. For example:
o 60 or 90 minute fire ratings - Blocks with thicker faces (often called Thickset) can (with the proper installation) provide 60 and 90 minute fire ratings in window assemblies. Standard blocks provide an excellent 45 minute fire rating that is good for most residential applications.
o High Security or Vandalism Applications - The Vistabrik pattern glass unit masonry block can be a 3" solid bit of glass which resists bullets, fire, noise and graffiti. The product has been used extensively while in cargo authority projects in Ny and Nj markets.
o Reducing Solar Heat Gain - Solar Reflective blocks, involving a metal oxide coating with this report surface of the block, greatly reflects solar panel technology while reducing the passage of sunshine. This helps property owners to cut their cooling costs and also to minimize fading of floor coverings at the same time.
o Step 3 - Ask, "Where must i use glass block windows?" - The subsequent outline may very well broaden your thinking on where blocks enable you to provide privacy, security, energy savings, light transmission, or just an interesting design element to your home or commercial property.
o Use blocks in and out of - Block windows are usually thought of as being used in an exterior window application being a basements, bathrooms, garages, and stairwells. Here are some new applications to consider:
Under kitchen or den cabinetry to let see how to avoid
Interior borrowed light window walls to move light using an inside wall and privacy (by way of example in small, dark water closets, or with this report walls of basements to move light passively with the home).
In closets in homes to let in day light to see your clothing and colours better while keeping privacy.
Above one piece shower units in smaller bathroom to remove the need for costly skylights.
o Use glass blocks in new construction and remodeling projects - Often regarded as a renovation project block windows are frequently seen in new construction at the same time. In new home and room additions glass block new construction windows with nailing make installations simple and easy painless. In remodeling projects pre-fabricated window panel assemblies are factory made and permit the window to slide into the opening vs. the struggle of laying the blocks one by one (improves your quality and cuts your time and efforts to get the job done).
o Step . 4 -Ask, "Would I like this window to provide ventilation" - Glass block windows need not be solid glass. There are many of window block venting products to choose from. Here is a quick list of your choices:
o Air Vents to relieve heating and cooling costs and keep air flowing- With double pane glass and slim line vinyl frames the new generation of air vents allow air in the future in while being small enough to help keep intruders out. Available in white and tan and sizes to match exterior colors and gaze after the symmetry in the block window.
o Power Vents to eliminate musty smell and improve indoor quality of air - Power vents are vinyl framed ventilators with two powered fans that may move 145 cubic feet for each minute of air to fight mold, power away smoke, circulate mid-air for healthier, thereby providing fresher areas. The Power Vent carries with it an A/C adapter that plugs right into your wall.
o Dryer Vent Blocks to advance air from a dryer in a glass block basement or utility room window - Dryers are often located in basements and their venting is usually directed with an inefficient single pane metal or wood framed basement window. Vinyl dryer vent blocks replace space taken up by one block in a new glass window and allow you to obtain the benefits of the block and never have to vent your dryer over the foundation (that is considerably more expensive).
Now that you've the 4 design steps you need to choose the right block window for your project. Be on the lookout for the next article on this series around the steps for glass block window installation success.
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