DIY Network

Glass Block Installation From "DIY to the Rescue" episode DTTR-304F

In this project, glass blocks were used to enclose an unusual hole in the bathroom wall and give the space privacy. Glass blocks were installed into a frame, which was then added to the hole. Three standard 8" square glass blocks were used to a create a 24" rectangular insert.

Materials:

Tape measure
Miter saw (table saw, circular saw or handsaw with miter box)
Glass block (8" x 8" x 4" deep)
Glass block installation channels
2 glass block spacers
3/4" wood for frame
Screwdriver or drill with screwdriver bit
3/4" and 1-1-1/4" wood screws
Trim paint
Wood shims
Wood screws
Level with plumb guide
Wood trim (flat wood trim or casing molding)
Construction adhesive (optional)
Paintable acrylic or latex caulk
Finishing nails (for wood trim installation)
Clear silicone caulk

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E
	Figure F
	Figure G

1. First, measure wall hole area and create the design for the glass block insert. In our case, it was 3 glass blocks, 8" x 8" x 4" deep, to create a 24" long rectangular insert.

2. Straight-cut lumber to measured opening and build a frame around the glass block.

3. Next, miter-cut the glass block installation channels. Use short screws to attach each glass block channel to each side of the wood frame (figure A).

4. Use your fingertip to dab paint onto the screws to make them blend with the surrounding channel (figure B).

5. Attach one vertical side frame piece to the bottom frame piece using wood screws at the corner (figure C).

6. Position glass block in the bottom channel and snug it up to the side frame piece. Install other glass blocks, inserting a spacer between each.

7. Using wood screws, attach the other vertical side frame piece at the end, tightly against the blocks (figure D).

8. Attach the top of the frame using wood screws.

9. To install the entire framed glass block insert into the wall area, first position the insert. Adjust so it's flush with the wall and check for level and plumb. Add shims as needed along the bottom and top (figure E).

10. Secure the insert with screws or nails. Drive the screws or nails directly into the shims and along the top and bottom surfaces.

11. Measure and cut wood trim or molding. Apply construction adhesive to the back of each trim board and attach to the wall with nails or screws (figure F).

12. Use paintable acrylic or latex caulk to caulk around wood trim edges and wood frame gaps.

13. Apply clear silicone caulk between the glass blocks (figure G).

14. To finish, paint trim and frame.