How to Replace a Double Pane Window With Glass Block
Pre-assembled glass block window units make it relatively simple to replace the windows in a basement or bathroom. Glass block allows in natural light while still providing privacy. The glass block comes in standard sizes, with the mortar applied in the factory. Measure your window opening and order the glass block to accommodate your space. Building codes in most states require that bedrooms have a window with ingress and egress, meaning the window needs to open in the event of a fire. Do not install glass block in a bedroom that does not have another viable fire escape. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Pry bar
- Screwdriver
- Hammer
- Scraper
- Glass block window
- Mortar
- Trowel
- Jointer
Instructions
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1
Remove the bottom sash from the existing window. Unscrew or remove the nails from underneath the bottom sash. Use a pry bar to pull the sash from the wall. Repeat the process with the side and top sash as well. Tap with a hammer and use the pry bar to work the wood pieces from around the window. Pull gently to avoid damaging the wall around the window.
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2
Slide a pry bar into the exposed window jambs. Pry the jambs loose from the window frame. Leave the window frame intact.
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3
Scrape around the inside of the frame with a metal scraper. Remove peeling paint. Pull out loose nails or other hardware.
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4
Mix mortar according to package directions. Spread a 1/2-inch bed of mortar around the inside of the window frame on all four sides. Use more mortar if the glass block is slightly smaller than the opening.
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5
Lift the glass block in place and set it in the window. Fill in mortar with the tip of a trowel so the space between window and glass is full.
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6
Run a jointer along the mortared perimeter to create a smooth line. Clean up any excess mortar from the front of the glass block. Let the mortar dry.
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7
Squeeze a bead of caulk around the perimeter of the glass block window with a caulk gun. Smooth the caulk with your finger. Caulk will prevent water from seeping between the window and wall.
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References
- Photo Credit glass blocks image by Stephen Orsillo from Fotolia.com
