How to Install Glass Block

Who says you can't live in a glass house? Glass blocks may be square or rectangular and can be used in any non-load-bearing wall where you want more light with privacy. Here are a few steps to help you install a glass block and let more light into your home.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Glass Blocks
• Work Gloves
• Work Gloves
• Sponges
• Wood Sealer
• Scouring Pad
• 1-by-2 Boards
• Caulking Guns
• Hammers
• Silicone Caulk
• Trowels
• Sponges
• Hammers

Frame Installation

1. Install 1-by-2 board as framing for the blocks.

2. Nail it along the center of the space so that the blocks will cover the front and the back when they are set in place.

3. Put two coats of sealer on the wood to protect it from moisture.

4. Let it dry completely.

Mortar Installation

5. Bend the panel anchors into an L shape, with the short leg at about 3 inches.

6. Nail the panel anchors to the frame with the short leg parallel to the floor. Add a new panel anchor every third row.

7. Set a row of blocks with plastic spacers.

8. Follow the manufacturer's directions and mix the glass-block mortar.

9. Use a mortar knife to put a layer of mortar on the base or sill. You'll know you're using enough if the mortar squeezes out when you place a block on it.

10. Put the spacer into place, then slide the first glass block in.

11. Put a layer of mortar on the side of the next block and press it into place. Repeat for the entire row, then make sure the row is level.

12. Scoop up the squeezed-out mortar with a trowel, then wipe the glass with a damp sponge before starting the next row.

13. Finish three rows, then lay a line of mortar across the top.

14. Set a wire stabilizer on top of the mortar to reinforce the wall.

15. Set another layer of mortar on top of the stabilizer, put the spacers in place and continue laying the blocks.

16. Let the mortar dry for 24 to 36 hours, then caulk the outside edges to keep moisture out.

Using Prefabricated Panels

17. Lay a continuous bead of silicone caulk around the entire opening.

18. Center the panel and, holding it level, set it into the opening.

19. Tap roofing nails around the panel to hold it in place.

20. Slide a drip cap over the top if the panel is being used in a shower or bathtub.

21. Install the trim around the glass and enjoy!

Tips & Warnings

• Clean up excess mortar with a dry scouring pad.
• Don't put mortar on the jambs or over the spacers.
• Be aware that preassembled glass block panels are very heavy.
• Don't put glass blocks in areas where they will be required to support part of your home's structure. They are not designed for bearing loads.

[frankieblue]

on 1/20/2009 Go to http://www.sevesglassblock.com/m_posa.html they have all kinds of instructions for installing glass blocks with either cement mortar or silicon glue.

They also have a dry mount systems like Pegasus Posavelox and Quicktech that makes installing the blocks faster and easier.

[cac8912]

on 10/15/2008 What can I put on the top row of a 3 foot glass block wall? This wall is seperating the exercise equipment from the hallway that leads to the Sauna room. Everyone will see the top of this wall. How do I finish it off?

[ToolGuy]

on 6/19/2008 There is a product, like a clear rubber track, that you can use between the blocks. Acts as a spacer. You use it dry to get all the block stacked in place. Cut short pieces of the track for the vertical joints. Then caulk all the joints with silicone caulk. I think they sell it at Home Depot and probably at other stores that sell individual glass blocks.

[BFunkey]

on 10/2/2007 What about using silicone rather than mortar, for a "pane-less" or all-glass look?

[pmpiper]

on 7/3/2007 I think ths silicone caulk is a bad idea, it is hard to work with when it is time to repaint.
Use latex caulk instead, it is paintable easy to apply and it offers an excellant water seal. It is also easy to remove when repainting is needed.
Phil Piper