Glass Block Timeless Beauty, Practicality and Flexibility
by Earl Rivard
Glass block products are a timeless building material. Molten glass was first injected into glass block molds in 1937 and since then glass block has been a staple of contemporary architecture. In the early 1980s, Pittsburgh Corning thought about discontinuing its glass block line, but beseeching letters from architects forced the company to reconsider. Although other building fads come and go, glass block continues to capture the imagination of designers, builders and homeowners. Glass blocks have long been an architectural feature in buildings of all sizes and types, moving in recent years from their utilitarian beginnings in commercial and industrial buildings into widespread popularity in residential construction and its use with windows, shower enclosures, kitchen counters, bars, walls and partitions. According to the NAHB, the average home with more windows actually has a much higher resale value. The benefits aren?t just financial either. Windows offer natural benefits -- daylight and fresh air. Homes that provide natural light positively affect human performance and moods. Studies show patients in hospitals, for example, recover faster when their rooms are better lit. Glass block windows are a unique alternative to traditional windows. They are strong, attractive, sound-deadening, and allow natural light to enter while still preserving privacy. They are also highly energy-efficient. Much like double-pane thermal windows, they have a vacuum-filled space that insulates. There are inserts for ventilation, too. Beyond their beauty, versatility and efficiency, they offer a sound level of security as they are virtually indestructible. Glass Block Innovations, Inc. of Phoenix, Arizona, a leading glass block window manufacturer and distributor, services the glass block requirements of contractors, home builders and commercial builders. The company?s General Manager, Steven LeMert, states they have produced an innovative window product incorporating real glass blocks with a patented PVC joint system. ?The PVC joint system makes for a more pleasing look than traditional mortared block windows and provides superior light transmission with increased reinforcement between blocks.? These windows can be delivered directly to the construction site completely assembled and ready to install. It was known that most of the mess and expense associated with glass block was in the mortar joints, so the logical solution was to pre-assemble the blocks into a frame that could be delivered to the job site and installed as a single unit like a conventional window. With the pre-assembled glass block windows, replacing the traditional cement-based mortar grout between the blocks with an interlocking grid system sealed with silicone internally, so that there isn?t any exposed silicone to collect dust or discolor from UV degradation. This system also results in easier maintenance, a reduction in weight and improved flexibility in areas of high wind or where movement of the window -- next to a door, for example?might present problems. These attributes also speak well of its strength and durability when shipped across the country. Professional builders need access to a broad assortment of products in every type in order to find the items that fit a particular job. They also consider installation requirements to match products to the overall building system. The introduction of acrylic (plastic) block has been used to simulate real glass block and often used for architecturally stylish applications. However, it is well known that acrylic block lacks the clarity, colorization and visual refraction of the light spectrum. Experience shows that the exposure of acrylic block products to any type of stress or pressure will shorten its performance and life expectancy. This supports the fact they are adversely affected by altitude and temperature changes, which can cause the surface of the sealed blocks to expand or collapse. Additionally, they are overly sensitive to most standard window cleaning supplies, which can result in surface damage, discoloration, cracks or block failures. Acrylic block also presents other traditional problems as it is often more easily scratched or damaged during construction, installation or even in the hands of the homeowner in everyday use. Further, when in need of a repair due to damage, it becomes a complex matter of replacing perhaps several blocks or a section?as opposed to replacing a single glass block (should one break). Showers represent the second highest use of glass block in homes. A glass block shower can add beauty, elegance and make any bathroom appear larger. The smooth, impervious nature of glass block makes it a fantastic substitute for ceramic tile in a shower. With its patterns and sparkle, the block itself is beautiful, and allows natural light to flood through the walls into the shower. Appearance characteristics are important and must always be in keeping with the prevailing style of the home and the tastes of the homeowners. Glass block promotes a higher image and value. From making a dramatic entrance to bringing splash to bath, you can do it with glass block. Perhaps no other building material combines glass block's unique combination of timeless beauty, practicality and flexibility, as well as the added benefits of privacy, security and insulation. Web Section: Articles Form
Company Name: Glass Block Innovations. Inc.
Website: http://www.glassblockinnovations.com
Author: Earl Rivard
Address: 3807 West Adams Street
City: Phoenix
State: AZ
Zip: 85009 | 
