Glass Break

Glass Break

Glass block windows today are no longer simply the clear, colorless, functional cubes of the block of yesteryear. As Emeril Lagasse would say these blocks have kicked it up a notch! Yes, the benefits of the product's past still hold true -increased security and hard to break, greater energy efficiency than the windows they're replacing, and increased privacy. Contemporary block windows take it to the next level - they're cooler, hipper, safer, easier to install, and environmentally friendly. Let's take a peek at what's new:

Hot Styles and Patterns for your windows

Boring is out, cool is in! Why go colorless when you can match the hottest design colors today. With the new wave of blocks color match (or contrast) your blocks to your tiles, your walls, your furniture, whatever you desire. Put a stripe of color in a clear wall, or just randomly put some color blocks into a wall for style and pop.

In addition to colors there are now artistically & decorative colored glass blocks with murals to stretch your imagination. There are over 60 standard murals you can put into windows, walls or custom design a scene for your exact tastes and interests. Some of the predesigned murals include:

o Places - Manhattan, Acropolis, Santori, and Rome.

o Flowers - Lilies, Iris, Tulips, & Hibiscus.

o Interests - Golf, other sports.

o Famous artists' - Warhol, Van Gogh, Miro, Michelangelo, Picasso.

Cool new patterns are available in the blocks and also bevels are cut onto the blocks with the new products manufactured today. Pittsburgh Corning has come out with Bevel Series line where numerous architectural designs can really put a distinctive edge on your windows and walls. There is a pattern which can remind of you of the sea, called Seascapes from Pittsburgh Corning or Bubble from Mulia. Also there is a Focus pattern block with a circle in the center - very contemporary & hot! Architects, designers, and homeowners alike will have fun making unique windows and walls with these products.

Fire Resistance and Security to Keep You Safe

The thickness of blocks (they are can range from approximately 2" to 4" thick depending on the size and style) have always been recognized as an excellent deterrent to minimize break-ins, but the following new features make today's blocks even more secure and fire resistant.

o 60 minute and 90 minute fire rated security glass blocks - Pittsburgh Corning and Mulia both make fire rated window assemblies that allow a homeowner, commercial developer or home builder the option to meet fire codes while simultaneously providing light and privacy to those occupying the buildings and homes. If you're looking to get light into multi family housing units, tight lots for new homes, stairwells, or corridors the 60 or 90 minute fire-rated blocks might be the design answer for you.

o Vistabrik security glass blocks for safety - If you're looking for the ultimate in window security the Vistabrik product from Pittsburgh Corning is for you. This product is 3" of solid glass, graffiti resistant, and excellent used in either public building or retail spaces where security is of the utmost concern - heavy blocks, incredibly hard to break.

Easier to Install Glass Block Windows & Better for the Environment

Whether you're looking to install blocks in a new home, commercial building, or remodeling an existing space the systems and processes have never been easier. Here are some basic installation recommendations to consider:

o Upper floor windows or wood framed openings - For frame openings consider the Vinyl Wrap Glass Block window system in new construction or remodeling projects . This product, which is available either with or without an integral nailing fin, installs just like a traditional vinyl window and is siliconed together for an all glass look. Some of the more popular uses have been above a soaking or Jacuzzi tub in a bathroom, over a shower surround in a smaller bathroom, garage windows, walk in closet windows, and in stairwells.

o Improve health concerns, increase ventilation, and improve the environment - with this product you don't have to block up the entire window system. In residential and commercial application the use of vinyl ventilation products has become quite common. Standard air vents can be used in any location of the window and there are even exhaust fans, dryer vent options, and removable sash windows. Since glass blocks are extremely long lasting and durable they are a green friendly product as well.

The glass block windows of today truly are cooler, more secure and safer, and easier and more flexible to use than ever before.

Mike Foti is the President of Columbus Glass Block, a nationwide supplier and installer of glass blocks and related products. Mike is also a professional speaker on getting results through people in a construction business.

Tel. 614-252-5888
mfotigb@aol.com

http://www.columbusglassblock.com/product_new-construction.aspx (vinyl framed glass block window for remodeling or new construction)

http://www.columbusglassblock.com/products-designer-and-color.aspx (colored glass blocks and artistically decorated glass blocks)

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