Page Contents
Quick Answer
Yes, it is possible to have a glass block window in a shower. Glass block windows, also known as glass brick windows, are made from translucent glass arranged in a grid pattern and held together by mortar. They allow light to pass through while obscuring visibility and providing privacy. With proper sealing and waterproofing, a glass block window can be installed in a shower wall or enclosure. The key factors when using glass block in a wet area like a shower are preventing water intrusion and providing adequate ventilation to avoid excessive moisture buildup.
Glass Block Windows Overview
Glass block windows have been around since the early 1900s and experienced a surge in popularity in the 1930s and 1950s. Originally made from thick glass, modern glass blocks are thinner but still provide excellent durability, security, and insulation. Here are some key advantages of glass block windows:
– Privacy – The translucent glass obscures shapes and details while still allowing light transmission. This prevents people from seeing inside while letting daylight in.
– Strength – Glass blocks are extremely durable and resistant to breakage. Their mortar framework makes them able to withstand wind pressure and impacts.
– Sound dampening – The dense glass construction helps block outside noise. This is useful for busy urban areas.
– Insulation – Glass block windows have high R-values, meaning they are excellent insulators. This helps regulate indoor temperatures.
– Light diffusion – The prisms in the glass blocks softly diffuse and disperse light. This creates a soft, consistent lighting effect.
– Low maintenance – Glass blocks do not require painting, staining, weatherproofing or other regular maintenance. An occasional cleaning is all that is needed.
The main downside of glass block windows is that they do not open and ventilation must be achieved through other means. The window itself is also fixed in place within the opening.
Using Glass Block Windows in Showers
Putting glass block windows in showers or other wet locations like bathrooms is possible but requires special consideration to ensure proper waterproofing. Here are some tips for successful installation and use:
– Use tempered and reinforced glass block – Standard glass block is prone to thermal breakage when subjected to hot and cold temperatures in quick succession. Using tempered glass block prevents this. Reinforced glass has embedded wire to provide added impact resistance.
– Ensure proper support – Glass block windows need to be fully supported all the way around their perimeter. Adequate anchors and connections to structural framing is crucial.
– Include flashing and end dams – Flashing and vertical end dams made from metal, vinyl or other waterproof material prevents intrusion of water between the blocks and surrounding framing.
– Use waterproof, flexible mortar – Standard mortar can allow moisture intrusion and also crack due to vibrations or building movement. Use specialized latex or acrylic-modified mortars designed for wet applications. Backer rod and quality silicone caulking around the window perimeter adds further waterproofing.
– Provide good ventilation – Use exhaust fans, recirculating ventilation fans or operable windows in other parts of the bathroom to properly ventilate the space and prevent excessive humidity. This moisture control helps prevent mold and mildew growth.
– Consider privacy film add-ons – For additional privacy, specialized translucent films can be applied to the blocks to further obscure visibility while still allowing light through.
With proper installation and seals, a glass block window can safely allow natural light into a shower or bathroom space. An experienced contractor is recommended for best results when using glass block in wet areas.
Building Codes for Glass Block Showers
All building work, including the use of glass block windows in showers, needs to comply with local building codes and regulations. These help ensure safety, accessibility, energy efficiency and functionality of the space. Here are some key building code considerations for glass block shower windows:
– Waterproofing and moisture control – Building codes require that shower assemblies and windows properly prevent water intrusion and leakage into surrounding walls and rooms. Proper flashing, seals, caulking and ventilation must be demonstrated.
– Light and ventilation requirements – Most codes specify minimum natural light and ventilation that must be provided in bathrooms and occupied spaces. Glass block windows can contribute to meeting these requirements.
– Safety glazing – Tempered or otherwise safety-rated glass is typically required in hazardous locations like shower enclosures. Standard glass block often does not meet safety glazing requirements unless tempered and designed specifically for wet applications.
– Structural support – The glass block assembly must be properly anchored and supported around its perimeter and connected to structural framing. Adequate robustness against water pressure must be shown.
– Maximum area – Some codes limit the total allowable area of glass block assemblies because they do not offer emergency egress. Larger windows may require additional adjacent ventilation openings.
– Accessibility – Glass block windows must comply with limited protrusion and accessibility clearances stipulated in accessibility codes. Sills and surrounds cannot obstruct maneuvering or access.
Consulting local building departments during planning can help ensure a successful code compliant installation of a glass block shower window.
Design Options
Glass block windows offer unique aesthetic qualities that can enhance a bathroom’s design. Here are some of the design options possible when incorporating glass block windows into a shower space:
Sizing and Placement
Glass block windows can range from small porthole-sized circular windows to large expansive panels covering most of a wall. Typical shower installations utilize tall, narrow window panels. These can be aligned vertically at the shower head or eye level to allow light in while preserving privacy. Wider glass block assemblies can also extend across a portion of the horizontal shower wall as an accent.
Color and Texture
Glass blocks come in a variety clear, colored and even patterned varieties:
– Clear – Provides good visibility and light transmission while obscuring shapes and details.
– Low-iron clear – Exceptionally crisp and true light transmission with slightly bluish tint.
– Colored – Tinted blocks in colors like blue, green, bronze and grey to filter light and add color.
– Fluorescent – Catches and emits UV light for added glow.
– Prismatic and patterned – Molded, lattice, swirl and other patterns provide visual interest and sparkle.
Shape and Size
The most common shapes of glass blocks are rectangles and squares. But other shapes can add distinct flair:
– Circles and curved blocks – For porthole windows or circular accents.
– Hexagons – Can create honeycomb-like arrangements.
– Triangles – Form linear or pyramid-like groupings
– Custom shapes – Starbursts, diamonds and other specialty shapes are possible.
Varying the size and mixing large and small blocks also adds interest to the window composition.
Surrounds
The area surrounding the glass block window provides opportunity for further design expression:
– Contrasting materials – Use natural stone, ceramic tile or wood trim to frame the window.
– Matching materials – Surround with more of the same glass block or tiles.
– Backlighting – Concealed LED lighting around the window can provide a glowing backdrop.
– Decorative metalwork – Wrought iron, stainless steel or copper grilles and scrollwork for embellishment.
A thoughtfully designed glass block window can provide a focal point and infuse a shower space with inviting natural light.
Costs
The costs of installing a glass block window in a shower will depend on the size and specifics of the project. Here are some of the factors that influence the overall costs:
– Glass block – The blocks themselves range from $5-$20 each depending on size, style and quality level. More specialized blocks and custom shapes cost more.
– Mortar, caulk and grout – About $0.50-2 per square foot for required adhesives and sealants.
– Window framing – Prefabricated vinyl or metal frames specifically sized for glass block windows range from $200-500 for a typical shower window. Custom wood or metal frames cost more.
– Labor – Installation costs usually account for 50-70% of the total project price, especially with custom applications. Simple DIY projects can reduce labor expenses significantly. Expect to pay $50-100 per hour for professional installation.
– Other materials – Flashing, waterproof membranes, fasteners and backer boards add $50-200 typically.
– Accessories – Privacy films, decorative metalwork, lighting and surround finishes add more costs if included.
For a basic 24” x 48” glass block window installed professionally in a shower, total costs usually range from $1000-2000. Larger or more complex designs with custom features can cost $5000-8000. The artistic possibilities and ample natural light provided often make the investment worthwhile in the right bathroom setting.
Maintenance
One advantage of glass block windows is their low maintenance needs, especially compared to framed glass windows. Still, some periodic upkeep is recommended to keep the window looking its best:
– Clean interior and exterior glass surfaces with mild soap and water as needed to prevent dirt and grime buildup. Glass cleaner can also be used. Avoid harsh abrasives.
– Re-apply silicone caulk and grout periodically as it wears down over time. Watch for any cracks or gaps in the sealant that allow moisture intrusion.
– Make sure weep holes at the window base are clear of obstructions to let condensed moisture escape rather than collect in the window.
– Keep surrounding bathroom surfaces like tile grout clean to prevent staining or discoloration where they contact the glass block window.
– Check for any cracks, loose blocks or damage after major building movements from factors like earthquakes or foundation settling. Repair as needed.
– Avoid forcing anything into the openings or mortar joints as this can damage the blocks. The window itself is not designed to bear weight.
With routine cleaning and sealant maintenance, a properly installed glass block shower window should last for decades with little required repair or rebuilding.
Conclusion
Installing glass block windows in showers can provide appealing design aesthetics and an infusion of natural light. With careful selection of properly rated glass block, waterproof installation practices, quality sealants and proper ongoing maintenance, glass block windows can be a durable, low maintenance addition to a shower enclosure. Following building codes and working with experienced contractors helps ensure the glass block window assembly meets safety and functionality standards. While costs are higher than conventional windows, glass block windows reward the investment with added privacy, soft natural lighting and a unique decorative focal point. With sound design and execution, glass block shower windows provide lasting beauty and daily enjoyment.