What cement is appropriate for glass block installation?

Author: Nils Corkery  |  Last update: Friday, January 9, 2026

Glass-Block Mortar is a factory-prepared blend of Portland cement, sand and chemicals specifically designed for glass-block installation.

What type of cement is used for glass blocks?

Glass block manufacturers recommend using white portland cement and white quartzite sand free of iron compounds to produce whiter, more aesthetically pleasing joints. WATER REPELLENT Glass block manufacturers recommend using a metallic-stearate admixture to increase water-repellency of the hardened mortar.

What mortar to use to install glass block?

A: QUIKRETE Glass Block Mortar is a white Type S masonry mortar designed particularly for glass block installations. It can be used for re-pointing brick work. Ordinarily, we recommend a Type N masonry mortar for this application, like QUIKRETE Mortar Mix #1102.

What adhesive to use for glass blocks?

CT1 is the best glass block adhesive in the market because of its unique TRIBRID® Technology strength, flexibility, and fast curing time. CT1 bonds glass blocks effortlessly and can create long-lasting bonds even in wet conditions and underwater.

Can you use type S mortar for glass block windows?

To develop strong bond b e t w e e n nonporous glass block and mort a r, glass block manufacturers recom- m e n d using ASTM C 270 Type S portland cement- lime mortar, whether or not its high compressive strength is needed. This is espe- cially important for exterior w a l l s and panels.

ProVantage Silicone Installation System for SEVES and Redi2Set Glass Block

What is a substitute for glass block mortar?

Using silicone to adhere glass blocks has become a popular trend due to the cleaner “all-glass” look and lighter weight.

Should I use Type S or Type N mortar?

Where type N mortar can support up to 750 PSI, type S mortar can support up to 1800 PSI, and some mixtures can support between 2300 and 3000 PSI. So, if your finished block, brick or stone project will also be under heavy weight or pressure, you should always use type S mortar.

Is mortar or silicone better for glass block?

Because it can be easily applied with a caulking gun, silicone is typically easier and cleaner for homeowners to install. Mortar is the traditional installation method for glass block.

What is the best adhesive for glass to concrete?

Loctite Epoxy Metal/Concrete is a fabulous choice if you want to bond concrete, metal, glass, ceramic, and wood.

Can you install a glass block window without mortar?

With the Vetrokwik™ glass brick installation system, no mortar or cement is required. The innovative polycarbonate grid system used for installing glass bricks from the Vetropieno™ series is a mortar-free installation method.

Will thinset mortar stick to glass?

GMT Thin-Set Mortar provides superior adhesion to glass, mosaic tiles, porcelain, ceramic, and natural stone. Its unparalleled proprietary formulation makes it the perfect choice for setting tile in swimming pools, spas, water features, and other areas with submerged applications.

What type of mortar is used for blocks?

Type S mortar contains more Portland cement, giving it a 1,800-psi compressive strength – making it strong enough for brick or block above or below-grade applications. This means that Type S mortar is stronger than Type N mortar.

How long does it take for glass block mortar to set?

It can also be used for tuck- pointing, stucco, or other decorative applications where white mortar would be appropriate. TECHNICAL DATA QUIKRETE® Glass Block Mortar exceeds ASTM C 270 and C 1714 property requirements for Type S Mortar achieving a compressive strength in excess of 1,800 psi (12.4 MPa) at 28 days.

What do you use to install glass blocks?

Traditional installation is carried out using cement binders such as Vetromalta. Alternatively, traditional mortar mixed with Portland cement or similar (class 3.25) can be used. Plastic spacers, stainless steel rods and joint tape are also used.

What type of cement is used for blocks?

Construction professionals and civil engineers typically opt for a Type S mortar mix, which is a high-strength option. 🧱 Type S mortar mix consists of Portland cement, hydrated lime, and fine sand. It offers superior bonding properties and can withstand the weight and pressure of concrete blocks.

How do you seal glass block mortar?

Cut the tip of the nozzle on an angle with a utility knife to match the width of the crack and load into a standard caulk gun. Slowly draw the gun along the joint forcing a bead of repair caulk deep into the crack. Remove excess material with a trowel immediately after placement.

Does quikrete stick to glass?

QUIKRETE® Advanced Polymer Construction Adhesive is UV resistant and adheres to sheet metal, steel, pre-painted metals, concrete, brick, masonry, wood, glass, vinyl, and most plastics.

Does Quikrete bond to concrete?

QUIKRETE® Concrete Bonding Adhesive (No. 9902) permanently bonds new concrete, plaster, and stucco to existing concrete, plaster, and stucco. Eliminates the need for roughing the surface before the application. Exceeds the performance requirements of ASTM C 1059 Type I and II.

How to secure glass to concrete?

5 Results
  1. Waterproof Glue. A polyurethane glue which is perfect for use where a waterproof bond is required e.g. external furniture. ...
  2. Alco-Flex Polyurethane Adhesive & Sealant. A polyurethane adhesive and sealant with permanent elasticity. ...
  3. Build. ...
  4. Fix-All. ...
  5. Rapid Epoxy.

What type of mortar is used for glass blocks?

Quikrete 50 lb. Glass Block Mortar is a specially formulated product that is designed for glass block applications requiring white mortar joints. It can be used in both interior and exterior applications. Quikrete 50 lb.

What holds glass block together?

Mix the Glass Block Mortar

It's recommended to mix white masonry cement, mortar cement and sand with water. Alternatively, silicone spacers are also available.

What are the disadvantages of glass blocks?

This article will detail seven major drawbacks of glass block windows, what to consider in the future, and how to choose the best replacement windows.
  • Limited Ventilation.
  • Maintenance and Cleaning Challenges.
  • Limited Visibility.
  • Poor Insulation.
  • Limited Design Options.
  • Potential Breakage.
  • Complex Installation.

Can you lay a block with type S mortar?

Type S is the most flexible mix, perfect for every masonry project. Engineered for laying block or stone above- or below-grade, or as a stucco mix, Type S mortar is the pro-grade mortar mix you need to get the job done right.

Does type S mortar need a bonding agent?

Depending on your project and building needs, your building team will select a specific type of mortar to ensure that your brick structure is strong. Whether you use Type N or Type S mortar mix is determined by what type of bonding agent your project needs most.

What type of mortar is used for cinder blocks?

CEMEX's Type N Masonry Cement, Type S Masonry Cement and Type M Masonry Cement are specially formulated and manufactured to produce masonry mortar. The masonry mortar is often used in brick, concrete block and stone masonry construction; it is also used to produce stone plaster.

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