Posted by: glassblockblogger | July 15, 2011

Glass Block Solar Tubes for Multi-Wyth Walls

Solar Tubes for Multi-Wyth Walls

New York, New Jersey, Boston, Philadelphia

Solar Wall Tubes are an easy and aesthetically pleasing way to let lightEastern Glass Block Philadelphia, Boston, New York, New Jersey
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.


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Posted by: glassblockblogger | July 11, 2011

Tornado and Hurricane Resistant Glass Block

Tornado and Hurricane Home Building Considerations

New York, New Jersey, Boston, Philadelphia

Tornadoes and Hurricanes are an ongoing threat in New England. As we remodel our current home or consider building a new home, we have to take extreme weather possibilities into consideration. However, we want to create a beautiful home for our family. That is why Glass Block is an excellent alternative.

In our previous post The Role Glass Block Plays Concerning Climate Change, we discuss the uncertainty in the climate debate today.

For peace of mind, we must plan our living spaces with security and safety at the forefront. Then comes the task of incorporating beauty with safety and security.

Glass Block from Eastern Glass BlockGlass Block has become an excellent solution by its ability to provide an aesthetically pleasing space with the security we demand. As an example, LightWise Hurricane and Tornado Resistant glass block windows from Eastern Glass Block meet the large missile impact tests referenced in the International Building Code and Dade County Approval Protocols. Plus, they are attractive and easy to install. You get privacy and light aesthetics that you can only get with Glass Block.

Some of the features of LightWise Glass Block vinyl windows are:

  • Visually stunning, pre-fabricated panels that are easy to install
  • No need for shutters
  • Protects against flying debris and hurricane force winds
  • Available with a range of visibility and privacy options
  • Greater security than conventional windows
  • Possibilities are limited only by your imagination

Pittsburgh Corning’s new LightWise Architectural Tornado and Hurricane Resistant window has successfully passed the highest standards of performance for FEMA 361 “Design and Construction Guidance for Community Safe Rooms”. The window provides effective protection against air pressure and flying debris caused by tornado-force winds.

For more information on LightWise Glass Block, contact us. We can go over the specifications and answer any questions you have.

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Posted by: glassblockblogger | July 5, 2011

Glass Block Art, Crafts, or DIY Remodeling Alternatives

Glass Block Art, Crafts, or DIY Remodeling Alternatives

New York, New Jersey, Boston, Philadelphia

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The light variants that are produced by Glass Block make it an excellent material for artistic creations. We can see this demonstrated in every setting, from art exhibits, to crafts, to home remodeling projects.

Artistry

For some of the most artistic renditions, we can look to accomplished artists, such as Jim Campbell. This internationally acclaimed artist has identified the opportunities that Glass Bock provides for their expression of beauty. An example would be “Scattered Lights”, showcased in an exhibit in Madison Square Park.

As was stated in Madison Square Park Conservatory about Campbell’s Scattered Lights exhibition that was open for viewing through February, 2011;New York Madison Square Garden Campbell

…An array of LEDs encased in a glass-brick wall (70”h x 70”w x 10”d) create illuminated images that appear to glide across the glass plane, reflecting the movements of the city around them and echoing the aesthetic poetry of the Scattered Light installation.

Creativity

Although we may not have the great talent of an artist as Jim Campbell, we can explore our creative abilities in crafts. Glass Block is a versatile material that opens many opportunities for gifts and novelty items.

Eastern Glass Block, New York, New Jersey, Boston, PhiladelphiaColor and artificial light can be added to glass block in many ways. In one of our past Posts during the Easter season, we showed how Glass Block can be used in very creative ways as gifts and decorations. Eastern Glass Block suggests that Glass Blocks can also be engraved with unique designs or a personal message to increase the unique value of a memorable gift.

Alternatively, you can put lights in a Glass Bock and then the item can act as a night-light or table lamp.

PracticalityLightWise Vinyl Glass Block Window

Then there are those Do It Yourself remodeling projects that we have been planning. When working on the house, you need to think about light, security, energy efficiency, as well as modernizing the look and feel of the room. Glass Block is an excellent material for that purpose.

Whether you are looking to build a unique bar in the game room, a new shower, a kitchen island to enhance your open floor plan, or simply add a design element to your home, Glass Block makes it all possible. With our weekend DIY project modules, we can help you to choose the right materials and provide you with assistance on the design and installation to bring your ideas to life.

Versatility

If you would like to talk more about the options that are available to you with Glass Block, or, if you want to work out an installation or design issue that you have come up against, call us at Eastern Glass Block. We have been designing and installing Glass Block for over 20 years. We love to share our ideas and experience.

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