Posted by: glassblockblogger | June 25, 2013

Learn Why Glass Block Shower Kits are a Great Choice When Rebuilding or Remodeling

Facts and Benefits of Glass Block Shower Kits

Glass Block Shower Kits make it easier and cost-effective to bring the impact of a bright, beautiful glass block shower into your bathroom designs. So you get all the beauty of a custom-built glass block shower — without the “custom” hassle.

Standard or Walk-in Shower Kit OptionsStandard-shower System

For something called “Standard Fit,” it’s quite a revolutionary idea. The Standard Fit Glass Block Shower is sized to fit any bathroom. So, whether you’re replacing an existing tub or adding a new shower to your home, the Standard Fit Glass Block Shower will make the perfect fit.

Walk-in-shower from Eastern Glass BlockFor a truly astounding shower design, step out of the ordinary and step into the beautiful Glass Block Walk-In Shower. A dramatic addition to any bathroom, the Walk-In Shower adds a level of elegance and luxury that today’s discerning homeowner wants.

Mortar or Mortar-less Installation

You can choose either Mortar Installation or the new Pittsburgh Corning ProVantage™ Glass Block Installation System. The ProVantage™ Glass Block Installation System is a mortar-less method that incorporates a special spacer system and joint finish to make it easier than ever before to build beautiful glass block walls and showers. (Refer to this video on “how to install glass block“)

Some Details About Shower KitsEastern Glass Block Shower

Glass Block Shower Kits are available in either the Decora® or IceScapes® Glass Block patterns. The bases of the shower kits are special because they are specially designed to accommodate glass block through molded channels that serve as guides for block placement. Also, they are constructed to support the extra weight of glass block walls.

The NAHB Research Center has certified the bases to meet Z124.2. Glass block installed with mortar is exempt from the safety glazing requirements of all model building codes. The bases are made of Lucite® XL cast acrylic. This high quality material resists chipping and peeling. In the rare event the material scratches, polishing will restore it back to the original shine. Color goes all the way through the material. This hard, non-porous surface prevents dirt from accumulating and resists stains better than other materials. With normal use, Lucite® cast acrylic will retain its beauty with only a minimal amount of care. Low maintenance is always a big plus for a bathroom shower.

All Eastern Glass Block Shower Systems are pre-designed to include:

  • Premiere Series Glass Block Providing
    • Timeless beauty and practicality
    • Durability and ease of maintenance
  • Customized Acrylic Base
    • Designed to accommodate and support glass block
    • Installed like traditional shower bases to help reduce installation time and labor coordination
    • Stain resistant, durable, easy to clean
  • Doors
    • Pre-selected to fit and install with the shower systems
  • Detailed Installation Instructions and Bill of Materials to Simplify Ordering and Installation

Give us a call or send us an email if you are planning to install a Shower. At Eastern Glass Block, we have over 20 years of experience in commercial and residential design in the New York and New Jersey area. (800.635.1226)Contact Us at Eastern Glass Block

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Posted by: glassblockblogger | May 24, 2013

Consider Tornado Resistant Glass Block Windows for Above Ground Storm Shelters

The recent outbreak in tornadoes seems to be an indication that our weather has become more extreme than any other time in memory. In fact, the last five years are the five years in U.S. history with the highest insured losses from thunderstorms and their effects, said Robert Hartwig in a Washington Post article, president of the Insurance Information Institute, a trade association for the insurance industry.Eastern Glass Block, New York, New Jersey, Boston, Philadelphia

Having seen the recent devastation from tornadoes to property and people’s lives, many are considering installing storm shelters. When we may think of a storm shelter, we think of the type that Dorothy’s family entered in the beginning of the movie The Wizard Of OZ (thanks Mike S!). However, there are several types of storm shelters. Common examples are shelters built above ground or a safe room inside the home or garage.

Windows would be an appropriate and functional element in an above ground shelter. However, you cannot install just any type of window. You will want to make sure any windows you put into a storm shelter or safe room are tornado-resistant. Tornado-resistant Windows provide the needed protection from the elements while letting people see what is happening outside of the shelter. It also allows for daylighting, which is a benefit both when using the space as a shelter and also as a multipurpose area during other non-critical times.LightWise Tornado Resistant Window

LightWise Hurricane and Tornado Resistant glass block windows from Eastern Glass Block are attractive and easy to install. You get privacy and light aesthetics that you can only get with Glass Block.

Tornado-Resistant Windows are the perfect choice for Safe Rooms, Community Shelters, Schools, Corporate Campuses and Government Facilities.

Pittsburgh Corning’s new LightWise Architectural Tornado and Hurricane Resistant window from Eastern Glass Block has successfully passed the highest standards of performance for FEMA 361 “Design and Construction Guidance for Community Safe Rooms”, meet the large missile impact tests referenced in the International Building Code, and Dade County Approval Protocols. The window provides effective protection against air pressure and flying debris caused by tornado-force winds.

If the Shelter is above ground, then the shelter should be attractive and provide practical application on the property.

  • Meets requirements for FEMA 361″Design and Construction Guidelines for Community Safe Rooms” and FEMA 320 “Taking Shelter From the Storm: Building a Safe Room For Your Home or Small Business”
  • Effective protection against air pressure and flying debris caused by tornado-force winds
  • Factory assembled window provides strength and durability of steel and laminated VISTABRIK® glass block
  • Enhanced security with vision and light transmission
  • Easy to install which means reduced on-site labor costs
  • Protection from damaging UV rays
  • Available in various sizes

Design Consultation

Whether planning residential or commercial construction of Storm Shelters, contact us at Eastern Glass Block. We have over 20 years of experience in commercial and residential design. (800-635-1226)

Tornado Resistant Window Impact Test Video

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Posted by: glassblockblogger | May 16, 2013

Time to Rebuild – Now, What Type of Window Do You Choose?

If you need to rebuild your home or business because of a catastrophic event, do not make a hasty decision on the type of window you use just because that was the way it was always done.

Eastern Glass BlockConsider glass bricks as an incredibly practical material that will enhance any modern design. They’re ideal for use in applications where beauty, light transmission, and protection against high winds and debris is desired.

Pittsburgh Corning is a manufacturer of American-made Glass Block. They are constantly thinking of new ways to marry function and design in unique and innovative products that stand the test of time. Some examples are:

Tornado-Resistant Windows

Provides effective protection against air pressure and flying debris caused by tornado-force winds. Highest standards of performance for FEMA 361 “Design and Construction Guidelines for Community Safe Rooms”

Energy Efficient Panels

Each glass block features a coated glass panel that filters out 70% of solar energy, while still allowing superior day lighting.

Blast-Resistant Panels

Available in set panel sizes or custom-sized panels, blast-resistant glass block system stands up to numerous blast levels.

Detention & Security Windows

Only light can escape the LightWise® Architectural Systems Detention and Security Windows – specially designed for high-security environments.

Hurricane-Resistant Windows

Hurricane-force winds are no match for these windows, which have passed International Building Code and Dade County hurricane impact tests.

Low E Glass Block Windows

ENERGY STAR rated vinyl windows. Patented design uses SOLARBAN® 70 to provide the most energy efficient glass block window on the market today.

GuardWise® Basement Security Windows

These easy-to-install and highly versatile basement windows provide enhanced home security, sound reduction, thermal efficiency and privacy with natural light.

Today, the versatility of Glass Block has opened up great opportunities for modern interior design. With the modern shapes and color alternatives of Glass Block, the unique options for Glass Block in rooms such as Home offices, Home Entertainment Centers, and Open Plan Living Rooms is nearly endless. In addition to the aesthetic versatility of Glass Block, there are also the advantages of easy installation and no maintenance.

Design Consultation

Whether planning residential or commercial construction, interior or exterior plans, the challenge is always balancing the need for light without sacrificing safety and sustainability. At Eastern Glass Block, we have over 20 years of experience in commercial and residential design in the New York and New Jersey area. Contact us and let’s discuss how Glass Block can create a more sustainable design for you. (800.635.1226)

Related Posts:
Best Glass Alternative for Modern Home and Commercial Designs
Tornado and Hurricane Resistant Glass Block
A Better Building Material for Your New Construction
 

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