| Installing a Glass Block Window: Prep Work, Remove Windowsill and Cut Out Interior Side Holes |
From "Weekend Remodeling"
episode WKR-112 |
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Prep Work, Remove Window Sill and Cut Out Interior Side Holes = 3 hours
Remove Old Window and Cut Out Side Windows = 4 hours
Build New Frames and Set Glass Blocks = 5 hours
Exterior and Interior Trim = 4 hours
Total time spent on project = 16 hours over 2-1/2 days On a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the hardest, this project is a level 3. We spent approximately $600 for supplies; a contractor would charge around $1,500. Materials: Scaffolding (rented)
Utility knife
Flat pry bar
Hammer
Level
Key hole saw
Speed square
Cats paw
2 x 4's
2-1/2" wood screws
1 x 6 pine
2-1/2" finish nails
Glass blocks
Framing for glass blocks
Mortar for glass blocks
Spacers
White or clear silicone sealant
Panel anchors
Trowel
Mortar pan
Drill, driver and bits
Tin snips
Measuring tape
2-1/4" case molding
Caulk and caulking gun
Paint and brushes - Figure out the layout of your new window. Sketch the dimensions and take good measurements to decide the size and style of block you want to use. Computer programs are available that create 3D images to give you an idea of what your window will look like.
- Gather all your supplies and tools before you begin the project.
- Set up the scaffolding underneath the bathroom window (figure A).
Expert Tip: Renting scaffolding may seem like an unnecessary expense, but considering how secure you will feel and how much mobility you will have while you work, renting scaffolding could be the smartest money you will spend on a job. - Remove window blinds or curtains you currently have over the window, and take down the brackets.
- Cut along the drywall about an inch away from the window with a utility knife. This will keep you from disturbing too much of the wall and making more repairs than necessary.
- Remove all of the drywall from around the edges of the window (figure B) so you can build the frame for the glass blocks.
- Remove the windowsill with a flat pry bar.
- Mark locations for the 4-inch side accent windows. Measure in 7 inches from the side of the window and make a mark. Use a level and plumb a line. Mark the vertical line with a pencil and then measure 6 inches from that line, make a mark and plumb another line with the level. Repeat this process on the other side. You now have 6-inch wide vertical boxes that are equal distances from the main window.
- Score the drywall along the outline with a utility knife (figure C). Cut the drywall with a key hole saw.
Note: The area for the left window on the show had a 2 x 4 stud in it (figure D) and will be dealt with later.
RESOURCES :
Taunton's Build Like a Pro: Windows and Doors: Expert Advice From Start to Finish (Build Like a Pro)
ISBN: 1561584835
Author: Scott McBride
Order this book from Amazon.com.
The Taunton Press Inc.
Website: www.taunton.com
Glass Block Materials (Pittsburgh Corning Corp.)
Pittsburgh Corning Corporation
Pittsburgh, PA 15239
Phone: 724-327-6100
Fax: 724-325-9704
Website: www.pittsburghcorning.com
The Complete Guide to Doors and Windows
Model: 1589230450
Author: Tom Lemmer
(August 2002)
Order this book from Amazon.com.
Creative Publishing International, Inc.
Website: www.creativepub.com
Great Windows and Doors: A Step-by-Step Guide
Model: 0806956038
Author: Rick Peters
(June 2001)
Order this book from Amazon.com.
Sterling Publishing Co. Inc.
Website: www.sterlingpub.com
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