What is the R-value of glass block? The R-value for Premiere Series glass block is 2.08, which is more than twice the value for flat 1/8" sheet glass windows or roughly equivalent to a double pane thermal window. The Thinline Series R-values are slightly lower at 2.00.
Glass brick has an r value between 1.75 and 1.96, close to that of thermopane windows.
Insulation
Energy efficient glass blocks can improve the energy efficiency in your home. Many of these blocks are certified high thermal insulation capacity and have a double chamber inside the block. These glass blocks are assembled with a polystyrene frame that acts as a thermal break to reduce heat conductivity.
Glass Block Window Advantages
Because of how thick they are, glass block windows insulate and offer thermal protection that's superior to single pane windows and comparable to double pane models.
For instance, a window's frame would have a specific R-value, while the glass, or glazing, would have a different value. Here's an example: Single-pane R-value of glass that is one-fourth inch thick is around . 90, while R-value of a double-paned window of similar thickness would be nearly double at roughly 1.7.
Windows with high R values include double-glazed windows, triple-glazed windows, and argon-filled windows. Double-glazed windows have two layers of glass with a space in between, while triple-glazed windows have three layers of glass.
R-glass – A reinforcement glass made with calcium aluminosilicates used where higher strength and acid corrosion resistance is needed. S-glass – High strength glass made with magnesium aluminosilicates. Used where high strength, high stiffness, extreme temperature resistance, and corrosive resistance is needed.
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.
Are Glass Block Windows Attractive? 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eye of the beholder, many current design experts, home decorators and architects agree that the look of glass block is outdated, unattractive and unnecessary.
Standard glass block is hollow one-chamber product, where the inner space is filled with under-pressured air. The thermal transmission (U-value) of such glass block is approx. 3.0 W/m2K. Energy Saving option brings a flat glass sheet insertion into the glass block, which eventually forms two-chamber system.
Glass block windows are not only visually appealing but also built to last. On average, glass block windows have a lifespan of around 20 to 30 years or even longer if properly installed and maintained.
All glass block panels shall be provided with expansion joints at the sides and top.
We already discussed that glass block windows are excellent insulators so just be mindful of where you install them. We live in the Midwest. While it's very cold here in the winters our summers can get super hot!
Closed-Cell Spray Foam Insulation
Closed-cell spray foam has a far better R-value per inch than other, less effective insulations like cellulose, fiberglass, or even open-cell foam. All these have R-values ranging from R-3.2 to R-3.8 per inch. The R-value of closed-cell foam is R-6.5-7 per inch.
According to the National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA) the tested R-Value for a standard 8x8x16 concrete masonry unit (CMU) is 2.2 at 105 lb. density. The tested solid grouted R-Value for the same unit is 1.7 proving that air is a better insulator than grout (which is a form of concrete).
Glass block windows offer a variety of benefits that make them an attractive choice for both commercial and residential use. From energy savings to severe weather protection, glass block windows are versatile enough to meet the needs of almost any project.
Hiring a pro to install your glass block windows ensures they will be uniform, aligned, and custom fit to your space and needs. Window replacement projects average around $400, and glass installation specifically costs $150 to $1,000 for prefabricated windows and up to $4,500 for a custom job.
Acrylic blocks offer a great alternative to traditional glass block. It looks just like the real thing, but weighs and costs less. Acrylic is durable, energy efficient, and easy to install. You can use them for partitions, shower walls, or clock windows.
Unlike traditional window panes that are easy to shatter, glass blocks are thicker and more robust, making it extremely difficult for intruders to break in. This added layer of protection can give you peace of mind, especially if your basement houses valuables or serves as a family gathering area.
Essentially, anywhere you have a glass block window, you can include a hopper vent. Keep in mind for the larger vents, there may be two locks rather than one, for added security.
The cost of installing a glass block window can vary depending on the size and complexity of the installation, but it's generally less expensive than installing a regular window. Plus, since they're strong and durable, they require little maintenance aside from the occasional cleaning.
A single-pane window will have an R-value of 1. A standard double-pane window will have an R-value of 2. While a single-pane window with an R-value of 1 does not offer great insulation, you get a much better picture of its performance by comparing it to a double-pane window than to an insulated wall.
Removing Fiberglass from Your Skin
If you've come into contact with fiberglass shards or you have a rash and itchiness after you were exposed to fiberglass, don't rub or scratch the area. Immediately wash the exposed area with warm water and mild soap and wipe with a washcloth to remove the glass fibers from your skin.