Get matched with top glass block pros in Eufaula, AL

Installing glass block windows has benefits and disadvantages, as with most materials. The pros and cons can vary depending on the type of glass block and the window location.

Pros

• Maintains privacy while letting light into the bathroom

• Energy efficient

• Sealed to prevent drafts

• Aesthetically pleasing

• Strong and secure

Cons

• Costly to install

• Challenging installation

• Challenging repair

Glass blocks are much thicker than glass panes in traditional windows and serve as better insulators. The overall glass block window is sealed against drafts that allow warm or cool air to escape, saving on energy costs. Since this type of window is sealed airtight into your home, you don’t have to worry about air leaks and drafts as often as traditional windows that open and close. When installing glass block windows, look for options that are Energy Star rated, proving their energy efficiency.

New glass costs anywhere from $3 to $100 per square foot. More specifically, tempered and insulated glass—a common option for sliding glass doors—costs between $10 and $14 per square foot.

Heavy glass tends to be more expensive than thin glass because it is stronger and more durable. In most cases, ¼-inch-thick glass is ideal for mirrors, and ⅛-inch-thick glass is ideal for residential windows. Heavier glass isn’t always necessary, and can be more challenging to hang or install. Work with a local window installation pro for replacement or new construction windows.