How Much Do Glass Block Windows Cost to Install?
Glass block window pricing is based primarily on the size, style, installtion type, and your location, but on average this project costs $710.
Glass block windows offer increased privacy and efficiency and are popular in bathrooms or kitchens.
Colored blocks or those with unique shapes are almost triple the cost of standard clear glass blocks.
If installing in a kitchen or bathroom, budget for vinyl joints (which are more expensive).
You can save a few hundred dollars by buying prefab glass block windows and installing them yourself.
Being comfortable in your own home is a necessity, and for most homeowners, privacy is a prerequisite. And if your current windows don’t meet your needs, it might be time to consider glass block windows. Glass block windows provide enhanced privacy and increase your comfort. In addition, they are energy-efficient and can instantly spice up your home’s aesthetic. On average, expect to pay $710 to install glass block windows. This can be a complicated project, so you should hire a professional installer near you to do the job right.
Glass Block Window Cost by Size
Depending on the window size, the cost to install glass blocks varies—people enjoy using smaller glass windows in areas such as basements and garages, while larger ones are common in living rooms or kitchens.
| Window Size | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 25 x 25 in | $60–$300 |
| 31 x 31 in | $65–$350 |
| 36 x 36 in | $85–$475 |
| 48 x 48 in | $155–$840 |
Glass Block Window Cost by Style
When it comes to aesthetics, there are various glass block window styles to choose from. But know that style will affect what you pay.
Clear Glass Blocks
If you opt for the classic clear glass blocks, expect to pay roughly $7 per block. But if you want custom blocks or unique shapes, you might pay up to $25 per block. Clear glass blocks consist of a combination of limestone, soda ash, sand, and cullet—the mixture is heated, melted, and then shaped into blocks.
Colored Glass Blocks
Colored glass blocks are similar to clear glass blocks but offer less visibility. Colored glass blocks cost $20 per block on average, but depending on the colors, they can cost up to $35 or more.
Acrylic Glass Blocks
Acrylic is a stronger and longer-lasting material than glass. Acrylic glass blocks cost roughly $12 to $20 per block.
Wavy Glass Blocks
Wave glass blocks are a very common style that can go with nearly any type of room. These blocks are typically $7 per block but can cost up to $25 per block.
Alpha Glass Blocks
The key feature of alpha glass blocks is a large circle in the middle of the clear glass. On average, they cost somewhere between $10 and $20 per block. Alpha glass blocks come in several different colors and are common in living spaces.
Ice Glass Blocks
Ice glass blocks feature wave patterns that provide privacy without blocking the light. Ice glass blocks typically cost roughly $15 per block but can go up to $30 per block. Ice glass block windows are commonly installed in bathrooms because they offer privacy.
Diamond Glass Blocks
Diamond glass blocks consist of woven patterns inside the block, which offers full privacy. Diamond glass blocks cost $15 per block on average but can go up to $70. The downside is that they block out a significant amount of natural light.
Frosted Glass Blocks
On average, frosted glass blocks cost $25 per block. This type of block features a texture that creates a blurred and distorted view without blocking light from entering your home.
What Factors Influence the Cost to Install Glass Block Windows?
In addition to style and location, there are a few other factors that affect your total project cost when installing glass block windows.
Installation Type
The three types of installation for glass block windows are mortar, silicone, and vinyl.
Mortar glass block windows typically cost $175, but the cost can range from $30–$320. These windows often have a traditional look but are less energy-efficient than other options.
Silicone glass block windows are easy to apply and ideal for small spaces due to their smaller joints. They are usually around $200 but can range from $40 to $350.
Vinyl glass block windows are the most versatile and also the most expensive option. These are pricey since they can usually withstand damage from water, weight, and wind. Expect to pay around $275 for vinyl glass block windows, but they can range from $70 to $500.
Ease of Installation
If your current windows are damaged or have structural issues, the installation will be more demanding and may require special equipment. This will increase labor costs and add to the total cost.
Ventilation
Customers often request added ventilation when installing glass block windows because, as the name suggests, the blocks are solid and don’t let any air in or out. This additional purchase with your window blocks will increase the total cost by roughly $20.
How Much Does It Cost to Install Glass Block Windows Near You?
Based on your location, the cost to install glass block windows will vary slightly. The average range in the U.S. for installing glass block windows is $460 to $980.
| City | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Boston | $980 |
| Chicago | $788 |
| Raleigh | $832 |
| Salt Lake City | $710 |
| Austin | $1,100 |
| Los Angeles | $990 |
| Philadelphia | $1,000 |
| Indianapolis | $720 |
| Minneapolis | $1,140 |
| New York City | $960 |
Can You Install Glass Block Windows Yourself?
Installing glass block windows is a doable task when you have prefabricated options; “prefabricated” windows refers to windows that have been made beforehand. As a DIY project, installing glass block windows usually costs somewhere from roughly $150 to $450.
On the flip side, when your glass block window project includes custom-built walls or windows, your best bet is to hire a local glass block installer, who will ensure your windows are properly assembled and installed.
Cost to Hire a Pro Glass Installer
Hiring a pro to install your glass block windows ensures they will be uniform, aligned, and custom fit to your space and needs. Window replacement projects average around $400, and glass installation specifically costs $150 to $1,000 for prefabricated windows and up to $4,500 for a custom job.
Sophie Yalkezian contributed to this article.
If you like to be certain of your privacy at home, glass block windows might be your match. They offer privacy without preventing light from entering, while also providing enhanced security. Plus, they increase your home’s energy efficiency.
Glass block windows are airtight and prevent drafts so your home will not lose or gain heat, saving your money on heating and cooling bills. The cost of energy-efficient windows is often a bit higher than standard windows, at about $400 per window.
If an individual block breaks, you can remove and replace it. This is a job for which you should contact a professional because the project is usually complex, involving you having to break the block further.
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