Replies

1. 
   Guest_ | Nov 02, 1999 08:05pm | #1

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   I see no reason not to use block in this situation, although it will do nothing to prevent the accumulaiton of debris. What might happen is you don't see the junk until the window well is completely full and the light blocked off. I would think any fixed glass would do almost as well. I presume you are not concerned with ventilation.

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   Guest_ | Nov 02, 1999 09:36pm | #2

   *Glass block has worked wonderfuly for me: secure, durable, none of the usual weather/bugs/leaking concerns that windows that near the ground might have.One trade off is lack of ventilation. Usually, I prefer to keep the outside air outside to prevent condensation on the cool, brick walls. But one thing I have realized is that after sealing my basement I now have a higher radon level down there. So, some kind of air-exchanger/exhaust will be in my house's future....Anyway, I have seen glass block used many times on basement windows and it always looked like a pretty good idea, "Is there any technical reason not to? Would it look stupid? Has anyone done this or seen it done at grade level? ". So, I think, 'No', 'No' and 'Yes'.

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   Guest_ | Nov 03, 1999 02:55am | #3

   *When I did work for HFH all windows, for the egress window were done with glass block. To solve the ventilation problem we used a 8" X 16" hopper window made to go with the block system. seemed to work.

1. 
   Guest_ | Nov 03, 1999 08:54am | #4

   *In my area, it is common to lay one glass block in the foundation wall to allow the gas utility to read the gas meter which is often mounted directly inside the basement within inches of this "window"

1. 
   Guest_ | Nov 05, 1999 03:21am | #5

   *oops, if you are putting in glass block I almost forgot: It is really a good idea to have a second escape (other than the stairs). So one opening window ought to be included in your plans, big enough to get through. I don't know if this is required by code, but it is good to know it is there. Put a good lock on the inside for security.

2. 
   PRP | Nov 05, 1999 04:40am | #6

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   There is a company that is now offering a glass block window that is operable. I think that the thickness of block is less than normal. Contact me if you want the manufacturers name.

   Also, with regards to 'is it a good idea,' just remember that glass block can never be used to take an additional structural load.

   Phil

1. 
   HammerChick | Nov 06, 1999 04:47am | #7

   *brad J We have a glass block window in our unfinished basement, it was there when we bought it. It doesnt look wierd or stupid. Hey it's your house if you've got the money and time, do it! My guess is, your friends will think it looks good and then you can wow them by telling them you put it in.

1. 
   Bill_Richardson | Nov 06, 1999 05:46am | #8

   *I 'spose I'm a non-glass block fan, despite the ventilation accessories that you can purchase, different colors and sizes; I think for asthetics, better volume ventilation and egress reasons-I choose and have chosen standard window construction. To each his own. I removed approx 80 individual blocks from a ground floor level in my home and wasn't sorry for the choice. Something to watch out for if you do decide to use them, poke a hole in them and mold, water and mildew will get in there and create a jungle over time. Poke a hole in them and they do or some do release a gas or air under a lot pressure, I have seen some glass fly too. Good luck.

3. 
   Brad_Jones | Nov 06, 1999 05:46am | #9

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   >I am building a new house with lots of cellar windows to avoid the dungeon effect. Some hopper windows are below or near grade and require window wells. Wells collect leaves & require drainage.
   >Could I use glass block instead of normal windows in the foundation wall? Is there any technical reason not to? Would it look stupid? Has anyone done this or seen it done at grade level?