Windows provide safety and privacy, but they can also make or break the overall look and feel of your space. In modern homes, especially, the choice of window design goes beyond functionality. It’s a statement, a blend of aesthetics and practicality that sets the tone for your space.
What other options do we have?
Vinyl, fiberglass, aluminum, acrylic, and thermal pane windows are excellent choices if you’re looking for a modern alternative to glass bricks.
But as you know, they are not all the same. Some of these alternatives are more durable than others, and may not give you the privacy that glass bricks offer.
In this post, we’ll explore their pros and cons, and the things you need to consider before upgrading from obsolete glass bricks.
What Are Glass Bricks?
Glass bricks or glass block windows are made mostly of multiple blocks of thick glass inserted into a window frame. Typically square or rectangular, the blocks are assembled using mortar or silicone.
Such windows work great in allowing a lot of natural light in while keeping your privacy. Glass bricks are used in a wide range of architectural and design applications.
You can use them as basement windows, replacement windows for your home’s exterior, garages, bathrooms, or anywhere that demands some privacy and ample light transmission.
Other benefits of a glass brick or a glass block window include:
Energy efficiency. Glass brick windows are a wonderful choice for large homes that require lots of lighting. They provide abundant natural light, without sacrificing your security.
These windows also offer excellent insulation, making them an energy-efficient choice. Because a glass block window seals your walls with mortar, no outside air can get in, making it easier to control indoor temperature. But if you want to let some fresh air in, you have the option to install small vents.
Less noise. Because glass brick windows are shut and you cannot open them from the outside, it also helps block unnecessary noise. Their noise-reducing properties make them great if you live in a busy street or neighborhood.
That said, glass brick windows come without the downsides:
Hard to maintain. Especially if it stretches across your bathroom division or garage door because they have multiple blocks. Cleaning and installing this type of window is simply laborious.
No ventilation. Compared to other types of windows, you can’t open a glass brick window if you need ventilation.
Fragile and bulky, just like mirrors. And as soon as the structure starts chipping or cracking, it could pose danger.
The Best Alternatives to Glass Bricks
While glass brick windows offer great pers, modern homes now require a more relaxed, airy structure. And it’s not these bulky glass windows. They are simply outdated.
Why Upgrade?
Upgrading to modern alternatives allows you to customize your design and it can increase your home’s resale value. Here are several options you can try:
Vinyl
Vinyl windows are glass panes that are set into a steel-reinforced plastic frame. It’s the most popular option because it’s a less expensive alternative and easier to install than glass block windows. A vinyl window also requires less maintenance, is lightweight, and versatile.
It’s weather-resistant and can survive changing temperatures though it can easily fade when overexposed to sunlight. The windows also take away your privacy.
Fiberglass
If you’re looking for an even more versatile option, you could never go wrong with fiberglass windows. These windows are glass woven within the frames, providing a nearly indestructible structure.
It’s one of the most durable alternatives to wooden windows, and more lightweight than glass block windows. Plus, it resists moisture and warping and comes in various styles and colors to suit your space. With proper upkeep, fiberglass windows could last for decades.
But if your main goal is to save money, fiberglass might not be the best option. They are more expensive than glass brick windows. It might not also be worth it that they are more fragile.
Aluminum
Aluminum windows are the best choice if you’re more into the modern and industrial style. Many homeowners are drawn to aluminum windows because they are more environmentally friendly. Aluminum windows also look beautiful in modern spaces and they are durable.
If you opt for aluminum windows, you have the option to explore different locking systems. The downside, however, is that it’s not as insulating as glass block windows. So when it’s hot, your house can get hot. And when in the winter months, you better get ready for the unsightly condensation.
Acrylic
Acrylic glass or poly(methyl methacrylate) windows are easy to customize, install, and clean. They are durable, about 16x harder than glass but still lightweight. Acrylic windows are virtually indestructible and resist fading and ultraviolet rays. And they provide better insulation than glass.
The main downside of acrylic windows is probably their transparent nature. So, if you want to
maintain privacy, the transparent window look of acrylic isn’t the best choice, though it can come in different tinted options.
A trick that many people do is pasting window paste directly on an existing glass. This is a great, easy remedy to gain your privacy back.
Thermal Pane
Thermal pane windows are a great alternative to glass block windows if you live in extremely cold climates. These windows provide excellent insulation and work wonders at blocking outside noise. However, once the glass cracks, all of its advantages suffer.
Wood (Maybe?)
Wood windows are on the more traditional side, but they can be incorporated into your modern space if you’re trying to achieve a certain look. Although it’s on our list of best alternatives to glass block windows, we don’t really recommend it because it requires a lot of upkeep.
But for aesthetic reasons, you can be creative with wooden windows.
Choosing the Best Alternative to Glass Block Windows
It’s hard to pick the best modern alternative to glass block windows. There are things about one material that you need to compromise to reap the benefits from the others. But the more important considerations at hand are durability and safety.
FAQs
What Are the Advantages of Glass Brick?
The main advantage of glass block windows is they allow a lot of natural light to flood into the room. In modern spaces, natural lights can impart a more inviting feel. This also reduces energy costs because you don’t need artificial lighting during the daytime.
Are Glass Blocks Outdated?
Glass blocks are a classic and one of the hallmarks of traditional-style homes. And while the idea of privacy and natural light is enticing, it’s honestly very outdated. Many homebuyers prefer houses with more modern structures.
What Is the Purpose of Glass Block?
Glass block windows are a great replacement for traditional clear glass windows. Besides foyers, they are used as non-load-bearing internal walls in bathrooms and garages. However, privacy is the main reason it’s installed in many properties.
What’s Your Pick?
Is it the versatility of vinyl windows and glass fiber windows or the aesthetic and modern feel of aluminum? How about the excellent insulation of acrylic and thermal pain?
Whichever you pick, make sure it fits your lifestyle and your needs. Remember to consider safety and durability to get the most out of your investment.
If you have more questions about our top glass bricks alternatives, let us know and we’ll be happy to help you. Good luck!
