Custom Laser Etched Glass Block Windows Provides Style and Security

Have you thought about purchasing an etched glassdesign will tend to work best since the mortar will
window and decided not to because of a concernbond better with the block than a vinyl frame. You
with replacing the window sash if it becomes broken?will find masonry openings most frequently in
Now there is the technology to create highbasement window and commercial replacement
resolution, custom laser etched design in glass blocks.window projects.o Frame openings in remodeling -
These blocks have standard 3/8" faces which areFor upper floor frame or stucco construction
very difficult to break - and even if one block wereopenings where you can create an opening the vinyl
to break, it can be replaced without having to replaceframed window is preferred. This window installs like
the entire window.a traditional vinyl window (it is available both with and
Here are 5 steps to consider when placing a laserwithout nailing fins for an easy installation) and is
etched glass block window order:more comfortable for most contractors and
Step 1 - Where are you going to use this window -homeowners. If you cannot size the opening usually
Block windows can be used in residential orthe frameless windows will work best. For these
commercial applications. For homes the most commonprojects you can use a spray foam insulation around
uses are bathroom, kitchen, basement, family or livingthe block window panel, trim the opening out with
room windows. The etching process can be appliedwood, and use aluminum or PVC coil stock over the
to either see through (Vue and Clear patterns) orwood trim.
moderately distorted (Decora or Wave patterns)Step 4 - Determine what glass block size, color and
blocks. These blocks come in a variety of sizes to fitpattern will work best - Most block patterns are
any opening and are also available in custom colors.available in 2" increments with the most common
For architectural, commercial and institutional projectssizes being 4" x 8", 6" x 6", 6" x 8" and 8" x 8".
etched glass can be used for exterior or interiorWhen laser etching the blocks the see- through and
window openings and signs. Churches have foundmoderately wavy patterns tend to show the etched
these products to offer an excellent alternative toartwork most prominently.
stained glass since the glass blocks can be coloredThe window sizes can also be varied by choosing
and custom etched. Hospitals are beginning to useeither mortar or silicone joints to create an optimal fit.
these blocks to create directional signs that areThe blocks can be etched individually or as part of a
functional, structurally strong, and can be custommural assembly. For the murals it is recommended to
designed to fit their specific need.use the silicone jointing process because the blocks
Step 2 - Measure the masonry or rough openings -are closer together than with mortar jointing. If you
Most of your window openings will either be in framehave a question about the right sized window and
or masonry construction. For masonry openingsblocks for your project contact a block window
measure from the top of the sill on the outside tospecialist. If you want to add even more style
the bottom of the header plate that is above thedichroic (this is a mirrored multi-color process) and
window frame. In most masonry openings thecolored glass blocks can be used.
existing window frame will be removed (by cutting,Step 5 - Order a stock pattern or supply your
sawing, or prying the frame out) in the installationcustom image for a one of kind design - Blocks can
process.be laser etched with either stock patterns or virtually
For framed rough openings measure the space insideany custom image. There are several series of
of the frame after the old window sashes would bepatterns to choose from including:o Pets, Hobbies
removed. For these applications the new window will& Holiday Serieso Contemporary Serieso
generally be set inside of the existing frame.Traditional Serieso Earth Series
For new construction you should be able to specifyThe stock patterns can be etched into one block or
the opening to your contractor.a series of blocks as a mural.
Step 3 - Determine if a frameless or vinyl framedIf you'd like a custom image supply a pdf, jpeg, tif or
etched glass window will work besto Masonrysimilar type of file and your etched glass window can
openings in remodeling- It's usually most costbe turned into a custom piece of artwork. Now that
effective and easier to mortar a block window panelyou're equipped with these 5 steps you're ready to
inside masonry openings. The frameless windoworder your own laser etched glass block window.