Glass Block Blogger

Solar Tubes for Multi-Wyth Walls

New York, New Jersey, Boston, Philadelphia

Solar Wall Tubes are an easy and aesthetically pleasing way to let light
into a building that is built with multi-wythe walls. A wythe is a continuous vertical section of masonry one unit in thickness.

The Solar Wall Tubes replace standard masonry units and allows light transmission for LEED contribution.

Block Solar Wall Tubes mirror-like finish magnifies and reflects the light and solves many design issues related to single or double glass block installations. Daylighting is increasingly important in buildings today. The more daylight that enters a room, the less energy needed by the electrical systems in the building. Daylighting also has a positive effect on mood, atmosphere, and productivity.

Superior Thermal Performance

Solar Wall Tubes from Eastern Glass Block are available in various sizes with your choice of privacy levels. Pittsburgh Corning Solar Wall Tubes are composed of one or two, hollow or solid, glass blocks assembled at each end of a stainless steel tube with a mirror-like finish to create a heavily reflective inner surface to maximize daylighting. The tubes are assembled in two pieces with a non thermal-conducting material connecting them and wrapped with a rubberized asphalting material. The stainless steel tubes are non-corrosive and provide long-term durability.

Solar Wall Tube Installation

The Glass Block Solar Wall Tubes come in two standard sizes with various privacy options. Custom sizes are available.They are thermally broken and thus provide improved thermal performance. In addition, they are easy to install and are self-supporting when installed in a running bond wall.

Do not install in stack bond CMU walls unless a lintel is provided. Solar Wall Tubes are available in 8″and 16″ modules in various depths to meet wall thickness requirements. It allows the architectural look of a single or double glass blocks on both sides of a thick wall. It provides a visually aesthetic look in the hollow area between the glass blocks.

The sturdiness of the metal tube prevents any loading from above the opening being transferred to the glass block.

Guidance and Information

Contact us for further information. We would be pleased to answer any questions. We have over 20 years of experience designing and installing Glass Block nationwide.