glass block installation in bath/shower
micheledrew
| Posted in General Discussion on
We need to replace a 4×5 ft window that is in our shower tub stall area. The old window was leaking into the wall. Now we will have to replace the framing and rip out some of the tile that surrounded the window. We were thinking about putting in a glass block window…I was thinking about making the window bigger to avoid having to match tile (the width of the tub). Does anyone have any recommendations for this application? We need glass, not acrylic block…silicone joints, aluminum, grout??? Thanks for any helpful hints. Michele
Replies
One concern is that by making the widow wider, you could exceed the width of the header (support beam) above the window opening. Changing the header and associated framing significantly expands the scope of the project.
If you're open to other suggestions, you might consider an all-vinyl replacement window trimmed-out with tile on the inside so there is no wood in the tub area.
Al Mollitor, Sharon MA
Thanks for your input regarding the glass block window. Were you talking about the vinyl glass block windows? They have the silicone grout between glass blocks. I wonder how the silicone holds up...does it yellow? Do have to avoid harsh cleaners? We have extremely hard water so I want a window I don't have to worry about. If you are talking about a clear window, I have had a hard time finding a clear window made to get wet on both sides...Any brand recommendations? I guess we are ok with the header making the window bigger, thanks for your input, Michele.
My reference to a vinyl window was for a regular replacement window in case you decide the glass block idea is too much trouble. They can be ordered in custom sizes to fit nearly any opening. You can also get them with obscure glass to provide more privacy in the shower. I only mention this type of window because it won't rot, you won't have to change your opening size and they are inexpensive. This idea won't help if you decide to stick with the glass block idea.
Al Mollitor, Sharon MA
"Does anyone have any recommendations for this application?"
Michele,
I think you need to post a little more detailed info. Are you planning on doing this yourself, or simply looking for info so that you'll be a well informed HO when the contractor makes recommendations to you.
I do know that Pittsburgh Corning make prefab glass block drop in windows. Is that what you are looking for?
Jon
As mentioned, be concerned with header length and the weight of the glass block itself. From experience, something half that size would weigh quite a bit. Properly flashing/waterproofing the sill and side area on the inside and detailing the exterior is a must. I usually hold the block toward the exterior, creating a modest well pitched sill area to put all the crap people use in the shower. Return the tile to the block, very pleasing to the eye. Mortar the block shallow to set, come back and grout to level with the tile grout.
Remodeling Contractor just outside the Glass City.
Quittin' Time
Edited 11/15/2003 7:59:26 PM ET by calvin
Thanks for your recommendation regarding the glass block window. Do you think we are better off doing the mortar by hand method, or getting a prefab vinyl window that has the glass blocks with silicone grout ...there is also an aluminuim window frame with glass blocks and each glass block in encased in aluminium. I like the mortar look the best, but I'm wondering about maintenance in a place where it will get wet all the time...I don't know how much of an issue it is. Thanks again, Michele
I'm not sure michele about your water. Some heavy lime/iron concentrations will leave a white or orange film on anything. The chemicals you use could possibly etch aluminum. How bout a fibreglass window? You need to spec the glass as tempered or safety because of the proximity to the tub. I have installed those in tub/showers before and if you detail the sill and flashing /sealant in that area, water has not been a problem inside or out. There is no wood in the frame, sash or jamb. The vinyl block window should likewise be in a frame/sash of no wood. I have not used them. Best of luck.Remodeling Contractor just outside the Glass City.
Quittin' Time
Thanks for your reply to my glass block window question. I had to laugh because my husband told me not to go into so much detail initially...and you told me I needed more. We are feeling this project out. I am trying to decide whether in a shower it would be better to have regular grout, or get the prefab windows that have either silicone grout, or the aluminium between blocks instead of grout. We have really hard water so I want to not have to worry about turning silicone yellow or deterioration (I don't even know if I should be concerned about this). I don't know if I have to worry about the aluminium powder coat breaking down or discoloring with chemicals. I guess our header is long enough to make the window bigger, but we will probably have to make sure the frame below the window is reinforced to support all the extra weight. I am also open to just having a big clear window there (our neighbor is a ways away) but I don't know of any windows that are made to have water on both sides. I am considering a contractor doing the work, but I want to make sure I know my options. Thanks for your input. Michele