Installing Windows in Your Home

Posted on: 16 December 2020

Glass is one of the most versatile and visually appealing materials. It is available in many forms, like glass blocks, which are applicable in the construction industry. You can use glass blocks to set up or replace old windows on your building. Their insulating ability and transparent nature make them both functional and appealing to the eyes. Replacing your single-pane windows with glass block windows is a good decision. If you plan to take on this project, here are some tips that will come in handy.

• Measure the Area and Plan Your Project

The first stages of replacing your window are key to getting the whole project right. Start by measuring the size of the window openings to figure out the size of the glass blocks that you will use and the number of glass block windows you require for the whole project. When measuring, remember to account for one-quarter to half an inch of space around the whole glass block window. You need the space to hold the reinforcing mortar that will keep the whole thing in place. It is imperative to measure each window independently even if they had the same size during initial installation. Window frames often shrink and expand as time goes.

• Prepare the Glass Window Opening

Before you start, make sure you have the right set of protective equipment such as gloves and eyewear. Thereafter, proceed to remove the old window fittings and leave the frame so that you can use it to hold the incoming glass block window. Most frames will be made of masonry or wood frame. If you have a wood frame, refurbish it by brushing and applying a suitable wood preservative. Moreover, you will need a wood moulding to fill the gap between the glass block window and the wood frame.

• Lay Your Glass Block Window

Laying a glass block window is like laying bricks. You have a small margin for error, and the transparent glass exposes all the mistakes you make. Ideally, you should use preassembled glass block windows. Start by placing the window sill on the lower side of the window to offer the required structural support. Next, lift the glass block window and place it centrally in the opening, then fill the lower gap using mortar.

It is worth noting that preassembled windows are quite heavy, and it is best to have a second person helping you lift them. Put evenly sized shims on either side to make sure the window has even spaces on all sides. Lastly, apply mortar on the sides while extracting the shims gradually. Level the mortar and let it cure.

To learn more, contact a resource like Nu-Look Windows.