In the past 90 years, glass block has fallen out of the public image's favor; however, it always makes a comeback. Despite fluctuations in trends, glass block remains a popular choice of residential, commercial and public building owners as a window material.
While beauty is in the eye of the beholder, many current design experts, home decorators and architects agree that the look of glass block is outdated, unattractive and unnecessary.
Architects and designers are deploying the once-dated building material in fresh, modern ways.
Glass blocks have been around since the early 1900's. I know they were used a lot in the 1980's but depending on how they are installed and featured they don't have to scream 80's.
And the style is increasingly making its way back into interiors as well. While we might associate it with the modernist aesthetic of the 1930s, and the resurgence of similar styles in the 1980s, when industrial materials were firmly back in vogue, glass bricks are suddenly feeling very of the moment.
Despite fluctuations in trends, glass block remains a popular choice of residential, commercial and public building owners as a window material.
Acrylic Blocks are an innovative, lightweight alternative to old fashioned glass blocks.
The most apparent difference between a glass brick and a glass block is that a glass block has a hollow core and a glass brick does not. A glass brick is a solid piece of glass. It is made by pouring a molten mixture of soda ash, silica particles and other components into a single mould.
Glass blocks gained widespread popularity during the early to mid-20th century for their unique combination of functionality and design appeal. But what are glass blocks? They are durable, light-transmitting building elements used in windows, walls, and even walkable surfaces.
These modern glass bricks are also a cost-effective solution with a 50+ year lifespan. With the ability to withstand significant impact while maintaining its beauty, VISTABRIK® is the perfect solution for any project where a glass brick window is desired.
Material Costs
Standard Glass Blocks: These typically range from $5 to $60 per block, depending on their type and style.
Provide Light and Privacy
Depending on their texture and design, glass blocks allow natural light to pass through while maintaining a sense of privacy. They even offer the potential to play with light with different textures and patterns, creating stunning light and shadow.
Pros: Classic and timeless, red bricks provide warmth and charm to a variety of architectural styles. They blend well with traditional and colonial homes.
Glass block walls have long been associated with a certain era in architectural design, but are they really dated? The answer is no. In fact, glass block is experiencing a resurgence in popularity in modern architectural design. Glass blocks are now making a stylish comeback.
Kitchen trends come and go, but glass-front cabinets prove that a classic look never goes out of style. "Demonstrating that what's old is new again, glass-front cabinets are popular once again and are now being incorporated with an elevated, modern look," says Paul Kropp, co-founder of Bakes & Kropp.
Example #7 why a glass block shower can be 'in' today – When you want to create a 'step-down' design and/or a walk-in doorless shower. If you're a fan of ditching the expensive glass shower door – and the idea of a contemporary walk in shower is up your alley, take another look at a glass block walls.
It depends on the type of glass block and how you define “secure”. Standard glass block (anything not solid) can be broken but you have to break each individual block. There is wire reinforcing in the joints (either each course or every other course) but that is not much of a deterrent.
However, while they can support themselves to a degree, they are not load bearing and would not be able to support the wall above. There are a couple of drawbacks to a solid glass brick, namely it is heavier and, as well, provides less thermal insulation than a hollow glass block.
Brick walls often have lower upfront costs than glass partitions. They demand minimal maintenance and stand the test of time, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run.
The thick glass provides increased insulation and security, obscuring the view from outside without blocking natural light. These windows are a good option in bathrooms and basements, especially for ranch-style homes. Glass block windows typically cost between $250–$3,900, with the national average of $720 per window.
Settings. Glass block windows have been popular in bathroom designs for decades, offering a blend of privacy and natural light. However, as home design evolves, many find that glass block windows are outdated and lack functionality and versatility.
You can still see vaguely into some types of glass block windows at night. Although there won't be clear definitions, passersby may still see shapes, shadows, and movement through the glass. If you want complete privacy, consider installing diamond glass block windows rather than the typical clear or wavy glass blocks.
Glass brick has an r value between 1.75 and 1.96, close to that of thermopane windows.
Architects, designers, contractors, and property owners have discovered the new world of glass block — a material that dates back to the late 19th century and enjoyed resurgences in the Art Deco and Mid-Century modern design movements and in the 1980s.