How to Install Glass Block Windows
In some rooms, like bathrooms and dark areas of the house, natural light looks great, so instead of regular windows, many people use glass block windows in various styles and patterns. You can ask window installation experts to professionally install glass block windows, but if you know how, you can do this yourself.
What You’ll Need:
Glass blocks
Glass block mortar
Chisel and crowbar
Pad and pen
Drill
Wood screws
Measuring tape
2 x 4″ wood planks
Level
Screwdriver
Clear polyurethane
Wood primer
Spacers
Glass block sealant
Trowel
Shims (if necessary)
Procedure:
Using the chisel and crowbar, remove the previously installed windows, if there are any. If there are any pieces and bits of mortar and wood in the window cavity, remove them. If there are areas damaged by termites, you can replace wood beams as needed.
Get the measuring tape and measure the opening of the window carefully. Make sure you also calculate in the layers of the mortar and the wood for the frame. You can get glass blocks in different sizes, the most common ones measuring 4 x 8″. Bigger blocks can measure as big as 12 x 12″.
After measuring, calculate how many blocks you need for the window opening, to fill it completely. Make sure you get a few spare blocks, in case some accidentally break. If there are blocks that need to be cut, ask the customer service representative at the home improvement store if they can pre-cut these blocks.
Using the 2 x 4″ wood planks, frame the window where you’ll be placing the glass blocks. Afterwards, pre-drill holes for your wood screws, then use the screwdriver to screw them in. The frame should be completely level.
If needed, use wood shims to life the planks in some spots, so any settling of the house or unevenness will be gone.
Paint the frame using a primer or stain of your choice. Afterward, apply some clear polyurethane. Skipping this step will cause the wood to buckle and bend due to moisture. Let them dry completely.
Do a test run first. Put the glass blocks in the window’s opening. If you want to use different-sized blocks, make sure that you work out the pattern.
Prepare the glass block mortar you’re going to use. Once it’s all right to use, spread a layer of it on the bottom part of the primed and sealed wooden frame.
Carefully push the spacers in the mortar, then add the glass blocks. Make sure you put mortar in between the glass blocks, too.
Repeat the process, row after row, until the glass block window is secured and in place. As you go, scrap off the excess mortar on both sides of the window. Allow the mortar to dry and the blocks to settle.
Once they’re secure, caulk the window edges with glass block sealant. Scrape off the excess.
Add style to your home area with lovely glass block windows.If you do it yourself using these steps, you can save a lot of money!