Glass blocks have esthetic, practical uses

Take an ordinary home and add a glass-block window, entrance or partition. Or use glass block as a creative design element. Presto - the ordinary becomes extraordinary.

Since the 80's, architects, designers and homeowners have been rediscovering the appeal of glass block - not just for windows and exterior walls, but for interior applications as well.

You can modernize a kitchen with a glass block backsplash, transform a stairwell into a piece of art, create unique entryways, shower stalls, partitions, backlit headboards ... and the list goes on.

The major reasons for the glass block revival are clear. Glass blocks feature the radiance and delicacy of glass, while maintaining the strength and durability associated with partitions.

Glass-block windows and walls define spaces, provide a degree of visual and acoustical privacy while creating a sense of openness. Because glass blocks aren't opaque, they eliminate the feeling of confinement created by traditional partitions.

The beauty of the glass block, is in the wide variety of choices available to the consumer. The different patterns determine the degree of light transmission, brightness and privacy.

Some patterns diffuse the light while others reflect it Some patterns distort images, allowing for privacy, while others are practically translucent.

Different thicknesses and sizes are also available. The standard 3 7/8 inch blocks are suitable for indoor and outdoor use while the thinner 3 1/8 inch blocks are better suited for interior applications.

Remember the glass-block kitchen backsplash? How about using: blocks that are a mere one inch thick? Sizes for hollow square units range from six-by-six-inches to twelve by-twelve inches while hollow rectangular units are available in fourty-eight-inches and six-by-eight inches.

To widen the design possibilities, corner blocks of 90 and 45 degrees are also available.

Although it' s easy to choose glass block on its esthetic merit alone, there are other advantages to consider as well.

First, glass blocks are made by fusing two pressed glass halves together, creating a partial vacuum inside. The result is an insulation value equal to a double-pane window.

Second, they are more secure and less prone to vandalism than single- and double-pane windows. Put an end to basement window break-ins by installing glass block designed specifically for this type of application.

Solid glass block provides superior resistance to breakage while also allowing for good visibility and sound insulation.

Third, but not least they're so easy to clean! Simply hose them down outdoors or wipe them off with a damp cloth indoors. Elegant, energy efficient affordable (they start at $5 a piece) No wonder the glassblock revival is going strong!