Glass block
From MaterialProject.org, the free architectural material catalog
Contents |
Material analysis
MasterFormat Number: 04 00 00
History of Glass Blocks
- Widely used in the American Art Deco Movement (1925 - 1940's)
- Two inventions facilitated the wide-spread of glass blocks in architecture:
- 1867 - The invention of reinforced concrete by Monier
- 1903 - The introduction of glass manufacturing by the Lubber Machine. In 1904, glass blocks were first used as a vertical surface in a dome made of concrete and glass.
Traditional uses
- In the early 1800's, individual glass blocks were used to provide light to cellars and ships bowels.
- They are made using prism-shaped pressed glass that allows light to disperse easily.
- The development of hollow glass blocks for vertical structures, which offered the advantage of better noise and thermal insulation in comparision to the solid blocks, took place in 1902.
- Today, glass blocks are used in various ways to provide light and privacy.
Emerging uses / trends
- Widely used in exterior and interior structures with variety of colors, patterns and textures.
- Replacing existing basement windows with glass block windows - Installing glass block windows reduce high energy costs because they are 10 times more efficient than single pane glass. Glass Blocks are mortated into the foundation which makes it difficult to break, which increases the security of the home.
Finish and aesthetic qualities
- Huge range of colors and patterns are available to match any decor.
- Some designer blocks have ornate etched patterns and are available in color tints.
- Fiber optics can be added for contemporary and varying colors.
Surface forms / shapes
- Available in square and rectangular shapes.
- Angled blocks in large shapes are available for giving curves.
Cost analysis
- Price / SqFt: Varies from $30-$35 installed.
- Individual Glass Blocks: $3.50-$20.
Material properties
Primary structural use
- Non-load bearing
Material performance
- Glass blocks are strong, attractive, sound reducing, and allows natural light to enter while still preserving privacy.
- This material necessitates zero maintenance.
Dimensional and opening restriction
- From 4"x8"x3" to 12"x12"x4"
- Size restrictions for commercial production are 30cm (11.8in) x 30cm.
- Openings must be square and perpendicular and made to suit glass block modules.
- Glass blocks cannot be cut like masonry bricks or tiles.
Acoustic property
- Has sound deadening properties varying from 35-55stc (sound transmission class).
Manufacturing process and assembly
- Two halves of glass block are fused together under high temperature.
- When the block cools, it forms a partial vacuum, insulating the block.
- For best integral strength, glass blocks should be installed into a four-sided prepared opening. This opening can be timber, brick, steel, concrete, or block work.
- As glass blocks expand and contract with temperature change, provision for expansion and movement must be made at jambs and heads of all panels
- Glass block should not be installed when the surrounding temperature is 5c or 30c and rising.
Environment and Life Safety
Environmental impact
- The inside of each glass block is a near vacuum, which provides higher heat insulating value than the double glazing glass. Glass blocks are easy to clean and are condensation free, which facilitates easy maintenance.
- Glass Blocks that do not open are great energy savers. They reduce air infiltration to zero.
Flammability rating
- 40-95 minutes
References
Student contributions
- Purvi Thakkar, Fall 2005
- Amanda J Davidson, Spring 2008
- Alison Kowal, Spring 2010
- Kate Krall, Spring 2010
See also
Similar materials
External links
Leading manufacturers
