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Glass Block Windows

| Posted in General Discussion on October 25, 2000 06:55am

*
I need to replace two casement windows, hopper style, 16 x 32″ with something else, as the steel frames are rusted out, and won’t close anymore. I liked the windows for a long time… they worked well, admitting light and air to the basement. They were installed when the basement wall was built, and slid down into the block as the wall was laid. I figure I can take a Sawzall and saw out the old frame, and install glass blocks. This suggestion was in the archives, but I can’t find a web-site or other ideas about installation of the blocks. Any one have any ideas?

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  1. Nick_Pitz | Oct 17, 2000 04:27am | #1

    *
    Jim -

    There was an article in JLC or FHB about laying glass block a while back - I don't remember which one but maybe someone else will. Depending on where you live, there is probably a place locally that sells them, and the right supplies. Some places will make up units of block to the size you want. I just had a 16" x 24" unit made up for about $40.

    You can also delete your other posts if you catch them in the first thirty minutes.

    1. Mike_Smith | Oct 17, 2000 05:51am | #2

      *jim .. after you get the frame out you can install a vinyl repacement hopper window in the concrete opening...take your measurements to a good lumber yard that handles vinyl replacements...two to four weeks..you can install them direct or into a new PT frame....

      1. bobl_ | Oct 17, 2000 03:47pm | #3

        *Haven't tried this, but looks interesting for glass block installationhttp://www.acmebuildingbrands.com/ibp/home.htm

        1. Bill_Tomko | Oct 19, 2000 05:17am | #4

          *Earlier this year I replaced a 19 x 30 metal basement window with glass blocks. After removing the metal frame I fastened pressure treated framing to the concrete w/ adhesive & tapcons. I used a glass block system that uses aluminum tracks,spacers, and silicone caulk. Customer was very satisfied with the end result. Cost was around $75.I purchased the material from Frankford Alum. in Phila., Pa Manufacturer is Weck Glass Block Co.

          1. Ralph_Wicklund | Oct 19, 2000 05:27am | #5

            *This is probably the same system that Bill refers to - setting glass block in a metal frame and sealing with silicone. Check out this site for the info.GLASS BLOCK

          2. wedgehead | Oct 21, 2000 03:41pm | #6

            *Used glass block for a wndow in my shower. Not real tough if you get the little plastic spacers. They set your mortar lines and also have a little alignment tab that breaks off after the mortar begins to set. break 'em off, go back and strike off your joints. took me about 2 hrs. to do a 24x64. Don't know if it is a concern, but it seems ot me the acrylic block would be more energy efficient.

          3. Rich_Regan | Oct 25, 2000 06:55pm | #7

            *Keep in mind that replacing a casement window in a basement with glass block eliminates a means of escape in case of fire. Previous owners replaced all the hinged windows in my basement with glass block. Only one way out - wood stairs to the kitchen. With our first child on the way, I'm planning to change at least one of them back.

  2. Jim_Singer | Oct 25, 2000 06:55pm | #8

    *
    I need to replace two casement windows, hopper style, 16 x 32" with something else, as the steel frames are rusted out, and won't close anymore. I liked the windows for a long time... they worked well, admitting light and air to the basement. They were installed when the basement wall was built, and slid down into the block as the wall was laid. I figure I can take a Sawzall and saw out the old frame, and install glass blocks. This suggestion was in the archives, but I can't find a web-site or other ideas about installation of the blocks. Any one have any ideas?

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