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The use of glass block in the construction of interior partitions. DIY installation methods. Dimensions of decorative glass blocks Kitchen wall made of red glass blocks

Many of us, when we hear the word “glass blocks,” recall Soviet buildings with bluish-green glass squares of glass that served as windows or partitions in various public buildings- from canteens to baths. In those days, it never occurred to anyone to use this building material as decoration. The use of glass blocks was due to the durability, affordability and obvious functionality of the products. Nowadays, this building and finishing material has undergone external changes and is used not only for its main purpose, but also to decorate the interior and facades of buildings. Over the past ten years, the use of glass blocks in residential design has been gaining popularity - modern designers offer options for constructing practical and aesthetic structures, using glass blocks locally as functional decor.

Glass blocks are wonderful soundproofing material, resistant to moisture and having good heat-saving properties. That is why it was so often used in utilitarian rooms for taking water procedures. And these days, glass blocks can most often be found in bathroom design projects, where partitions are created from translucent cubes, window openings are laid out and counters are installed.

The design of a glass block is simple - it is a hollow “brick” inside, the walls of which are 6-8 mm thick. The rarefied air inside the unit provides the product with high sound insulation properties and low thermal conductivity, helping to conserve heat in rooms. As a result, industrial glass blocks are used both for the construction of non-load-bearing walls inside a building and for cladding the external surfaces of buildings.

As a rule, glass blocks are produced in a square shape, but there are also products in the form of “bricks”, end (corner) blocks and even o round shape. As for colors, transparent, colorless glass blocks have an advantage, but Lately Tinted products are gaining popularity, with various decor inside (pebbles, shells and even herbariums), LED products look especially luxurious and modern. Glass blocks can be of different sizes, but the most popular option is the standard shape: 19x19x8 cm and 24x24x8 cm.

Glass blocks in interior design

Partitions, racks and more

One of the most popular options for using glass blocks in the interior is creating partitions in the bathroom. And there are several reasons for this popularity:

• glass blocks transmit up to 85% of sunlight, but at the same time create a barrier behind which you can retire;
• excellent moisture-resistant properties;
• structural strength;
• relative cheapness of the material;
• ease of care;
• excellent soundproofing properties allow you to muffle the sound of pouring water;
• glass block partitions are able to retain heat, creating comfortable atmosphere for taking water procedures.

In order to create a safe and easy-to-use glass block partition, products with a rounded shape are used in the last row of the building. As a result, your opening, passage or niche in the partition will be ergonomic, safe and visually attractive.

Creation of semicircular partitions from glass blocks separating the shower space from common area, is most widespread in modern design projects. You get a bathroom space isolated from high humidity, but at the same time retain the presence of sunlight in the shower area.

Combining clear and tinted glass when constructing partitions in bathrooms allows you to create not only functional protection of the room from moisture, but also decorate the interior and introduce an element of originality.

Products of different sizes and colors will help to bring originality to the construction of glass block partitions. Here is an original combination of transparent rectangular glass elements with square emerald blocks with a grooved surface.

When creating glass block partitions from colored glass, the main thing is not to overdo it with brightness and maintain harmony in the use of color solutions.

Partially laying out one of the walls of the bathroom with glass blocks will allow you to maintain the privacy of the room, but at the same time create the possibility of using light coming from the adjacent space. As a result, during the day you don’t have to use artificial lighting when visiting the bathroom.

Windows in rooms for different purposes

Most often, glass blocks are used for construction window openings in utilitarian rooms - bathrooms and toilets. This is a logical choice because the result is a window that lets in almost as much light as double glazed windows, but also creates privacy without the need for curtains or blinds. Most often, glass block windows can be found in private urban homes or suburban households.

The use of glass blocks for window decoration allows you to create both panoramic monolithic window openings and entire compositions from small sections with a translucent composition.

The use of glass blocks of different sizes and shapes allows you to build not just window openings, but real decorative interior elements that can raise the level of unique design to unprecedented heights.

Creating a glass block window in the bathroom allows you to use the resulting surface as a base. For example, when placing one or two sinks near such a window, you can hang mirrors and even small shelves.

Panoramic bathroom windows made of glass blocks can be used to attach various auxiliary elements. In the shower space, these can be handrails or small shelves or mirrors.

But it’s not only in bathrooms that glass block windows can be found. This one brings originality and practicality. inexpensive material into the living room space. In this case, glass products are used not only for their functional qualities, but also as a decorative element.

When converting former industrial premises into residential spaces, you will often see the use of glass blocks, a nod to the times when these glass products were used purely for their functional qualities. Here is a design project for a spacious kitchen space with high ceilings and windows made of glass blocks.

Another example of arranging a glass block window in a modern kitchen-dining room

Even in the interior of the hallway, the use of glass block windows looks organic. Modern and unique.

Original solutions in a modern interior

Windows and partitions made of glass blocks can hardly surprise anyone. But the use of this durable, but at the same time translucent building material as a basis for flooring can bring originality to any interior design. This is exactly the way to design an office with a seating area. The glass roof, complete with a glass block floor, made the room completely airy, bright, and light.

A semi-circular bar counter made of translucent glass blocks? Easily! The design will look especially impressive if you add lighting to the structure - color or monochrome.

Small glass block inserts in the walls are a unique opportunity to add originality to the interior of the room. The room is filled with light, glare plays on the surfaces, but at the same time the walls do not lose their strength and wear-resistant qualities.

Creating an interior partition from transparent glass blocks in the staircase space will help create a light, almost weightless image of this structure. Robust design will provide your staircase with the penetration of sunlight from adjacent spaces.

Unusual uses of glass blocks can be found even in sleeping area. Windows made of this material can protect your space from prying eyes, but at the same time fill the room with muted sunlight.

Glass blocks in the interior - functional, aesthetic, modern

The tradition of using glass blocks dates back to Soviet times, when they were used in hospitals, schools, baths and gyms. Then this material looked like a series of rough bricks of uneven, cloudy glass.

Today, taking the idea itself as a basis, manufacturers offer a large assortment, which includes many shapes and colors.

At the same time, the scope of application of this finishing material has expanded significantly. The use of glass blocks in the interior of an apartment allows not only to create original design, but also to solve many functional problems.

Kinds

Glass blocks are products intended for construction purposes, consisting of 2 pressed glass halves-plates that create a sealed cavity. Insulation with such a structure is equivalent to laying two bricks.

Depending on the external characteristics The following types are distinguished:

• transparent ones are capable of transmitting about 85% of the light flux, but objects look unclear through them, the contours are slightly distorted and blurred;
• corrugated ones are usually colorless and light-directing or light-scattering, depending on the vector of the corrugation faces; despite the transparency, objects behind them are difficult to see;
• such blocks with a matte surface may have a corresponding feature on one or both sides, transmitting no more than 50% of light;
• glass blocks with inserts are usually made under certain interior and here the variety of subjects amazes the imagination - from dummies of vegetables, fruits, seashells to real subject paintings and even portraits;
• colored glass blocks are distinguished by a relatively small color spectrum, including green, yellow, blue, red, but the range of shades is huge; it is worth noting that the glass mass is colored during the cooking process, so the products subsequently do not change color and do not fade;
• “stained glass” glass blocks are quite expensive and difficult to manufacture; for their production, composite elements are cut out of colored sheet glass and sintered in a furnace, therefore, despite the excellent aesthetic characteristics, these products have not become widespread.

Bathroom design using glass blocks

One of the features of this material is its immunity to moisture, which is why it is so readily used to decorate the bathroom. At the same time, the use cases are quite diverse.

Glass blocks in the bathroom interior can be used for zoning a room, as partitions separating a bathroom or shower stall.

The partition can have either a straight line or radius shape By experimenting with the appearance of blocks you can achieve a variety of effects.

Bathroom walls can include glass blocks, either as single inserts or as a whole.

Either way, it looks very attractive and makes the room brighter and more interesting. In this case, two rooms are decorated at once, if a wall separates the rooms or the facade of the house is decorated.

Walls

1. In the hallway, a wall consisting entirely or partially of glass blocks can separate the room from the living room. This partition looks interesting interspersed with small empty niches that can be easily adapted for souvenirs.
2. The use of glass blocks in the interior of the hallway allows you to fill it with light, giving lightness and non-triviality to its appearance.
   The entrance to private houses decorated with glass blocks looks very original. To decorate it, opaque corrugated or colored glass is used, which transmits light but reliably protects the interior from prying eyes.
3. Arches interspersed with glass blocks are distinguished by graceful forms and visual lightness and airiness.
4. Partitions divide rooms into zones without burdening them with blank walls, ideal for small rooms, since they do not narrow the space and saturate it with light.

In the interior of the kitchen

The use of this material for decorating a kitchen space truly has no limitations.

Glass partitions can serve as an excellent separator between the kitchen area and the dining room. It is recommended to purchase light-colored glass blocks that transmit light well.

Decorative glass blocks in the kitchen can create a spectacular panel, and given the variety of motifs, choose the appropriate overall design room fragments will be simple.

Conventional flooring can be successfully replaced with glass blocks.

This will be an extraordinary move that will immediately transform the room and make it truly unique. For this purpose, special glass blocks prepared for increased load are used. And if you install lighting in some of them, the effect of such a floor will be simply mesmerizing.

Glass blocks are perfect for all rooms in the house, but glass blocks will leave no one indifferent.

And the right furniture and color combination in the kitchen will make it not only comfortable and functional, but also give it a special chic. Therefore, we recommend that you read the article.

Fans of experimentation will certainly like the bar counter made of glass blocks.

It will highlight the taste of its owner, hide shelves for dishes and give a play of light on its edges.

Choice of colors

The color directly depends on the scope of its future application and the functions that are assigned to it. If we are talking exclusively about decorating a room, the color can be any, the main thing is that it fits harmoniously into the overall color palette. At the same time, more saturated colors against the background of muted walls look more advantageous. In this case, you can use those types of glass blocks that are decorated additional elements and drawings.

To zone small or dimly lit rooms, it is better to purchase transparent glass blocks or painted in delicate pastel shades.

Glass blocks can be used in bedrooms and children's rooms bright colors, the light playing in them will add optimism, activity and Have a good mood. Dark shades are ideal for places intended for relaxation and stress relief.

Prices

GLASS BLOCKS Colorless	Unit measurements
Industrial colorless Wave + all other textures
Euro colorless Wave + all other textures
Euro colorless matte
Euro colorless semi-matte
Mounting elements
Cross for mounting glass blocks 1 cm
Cross for mounting glass blocks 5 mm
Matting of any block	30 RUR/side

Decorative elements

1. Glass blocks for windows are a fresh look at room decor. They replace window glass where the use of blocks seems more appropriate, since they are quite durable and at the same time create soft lighting that is pleasant to the eye. Besides various ways Laying glass blocks allows you to create windows of the most unexpected shapes. Refracting light, such a window looks like a sparkling diamond.
2. Decorating walls with glass blocks allows you to simultaneously decorate two rooms, if we are talking about interior partitions, as well as the interior and exterior, in the case where the outer walls are decorated with glass blocks.
3. Furniture made from glass blocks has its own attractive qualities; you cannot deny its originality and elegance.
   

   From glass bricks you can create a bar counter, a stationary island or a console for a washbasin.

   True, when rearranging such “furniture” you won’t be able to move and change it, but it will last for a very long time.

Bedroom interior modern style for girls, goes well with a glass block wall, or decorative partition. The main thing here is to choose the right bedroom design, and ours will help you with this.

Also, a partition made of glass blocks will elegantly fit into the interior design of a bathroom in Khrushchev; it will allow you to separate the bathroom combined with the toilet, without losing precious square meters. Find out which bathroom design is better to choose.

Bedroom

This material can perform the same function of zoning a room.

In addition, glass blocks in the bedroom perfectly create the mood: soft shades, highlighted by lighting, set the mood for relaxation, rest, and expressive ones charge with energy, not only filling the space of the bedroom with light, but also having a beneficial effect on the emotional state of the residents;

The smoothly curved screen of their glass blocks will look very non-trivial in the appropriate color design. It will become an intriguing detail of the bedroom interior.

Blocks in interior walls will flicker slightly or resemble cozy glowing windows. All this will allow the bedroom to acquire new colors and sound.

Installation of the blocks is quite simple and does not cause any difficulties. There are two main ways.

The first uses special modular plastic systems, allowing you to quickly erect glass block walls. Even without using a plumb line, the walls are completely smooth. Glass blocks installed in this way look extremely neat, modular system hides all seams and joints.

The use of sealant will improve sound insulation and ensure tightness.

Laying with mortar is the second option. The process is not complicated; installation involves the use of special plastic spacers. It is used when it comes to glass blocks of non-standard shape, for example, corner, half-shaped and others.

Today, you can increasingly find glass blocks in the interior of premises decorated in various stylistic directions. Due to its good performance characteristics and aesthetic qualities, this finishing material can be used to create partitions, windows, wall decoration and doorways, which will make the design refined, original and effective.

A glass block is a hollow volumetric block created from fused glass plates about 10 mm thick. The product can have a square, triangular, round or rectangular shape. The first option is the most popular. Glass blocks are characterized by dimensions of 190x190 and 240x240 mm, thickness 80-100 mm. The weight of the product depends on the dimensions and averages 3-4 kg.

Glass blocks - photos clearly show different variants– can be transparent or matte, with a smooth or embossed surface, glossy, matte or with a mirror shine, which affects the light-scattering effect. Manufacturers produce products in a variety of colors, ranging from calm neutral shades to bright flashy colors.

Thanks to their special design, they are characterized by a number of distinctive advantages. Due to the air inner layer, the sound permeability of the material is reduced by 60-70%. The product is at the same time characterized by good light transmittance, and thanks to the dense glass, the outlines of the silhouettes located behind the glass block wall are blurred, this makes it impossible to spy on what is hidden from prying eyes.

The material is characterized by high strength, resistance to cracking, smooth surface and environmental friendliness, as a result of which it can be used for the construction of partitions in children's institutions. The products have increased moisture resistance, good thermal insulation, resistance to condensation and temperature fluctuations, which makes it advisable to use glass blocks for partitions in bathrooms, saunas and swimming pools.

Glass blocks do not require special care. The surface can withstand an unlimited number of cleanings using any detergent.

Made from glass blocks it looks very original and stylish

However, this material is not without drawbacks. Among the main negative points You can highlight the significant weight of the product, for which reason it is not recommended to build walls from glass blocks with an area of ​​more than 15 m². In addition, installation of elements is very labor-intensive and requires certain skills and knowledge. Another disadvantage is the high cost of the products. Buy glass block from domestic manufacturer can be done for an average of 150-200 rubles. Product European quality will cost 300-450 rubles. The cost of a decorative element varies between 1200-1500 rubles. a piece.

When using glass blocks in the interior, you should be guided by the main rule: everything should be in moderation. This material is capable of bringing translucent beauty and icy chic into the environment, while simultaneously filling the room with cold.

Glass blocks should not be used when decorating interiors in classicism, baroque, empire, renaissance or gothic styles. The material will be appropriate for more laconic trends, such as electrical, minimalism, eco-style, pop art, hi-tech, modern, art deco, country and urbanism.

When using glass blocks, you must follow certain recommendations:

• cold glass should be proportionally combined with warm finishing materials, such as wallpaper, laminate, fabric, in a ratio of 1:10 for residential premises;
• in rooms where glass blocks are used there must be decorative accessories made of wood, fabric or forging elements;
• colorless transparent products should be balanced with bright, saturated tones;
• When using glass blocks as elements, you should remember that the structure created from this material has a decorative function and is not a multifunctional element.

Options for using glass blocks in the interior of an apartment: photos of design solutions

Today, glass blocks have become often used in interior design. With their help, you can bring original and bold ideas to life and play with light to your advantage. In the interior of an apartment, glass blocks can be used to create partition walls, furniture elements, decorative accessories, and when decorating walls, windows and floors.

During overhaul apartments, there is often a need for redevelopment of premises, which allows you to plan your living space in a new way, choosing more convenient option placement of rooms. In this case, it is interesting and original solution, which at the same time does not burden the space.

You can fill the room with light and air by decorating the window opening with glass blocks. Get maximum effect It will be possible to combine the design with lighting, which is clearly demonstrated by photos of glass blocks in the interior of the living room and bedroom. The material is often used to create internal window between the bathroom and the kitchen, allowing the first room to receive some natural light.

A non-standard solution is to use glass bricks as flooring. In this case, the surface of the products should have a rough texture, which will eliminate the possibility of slipping. You can also use them to create podiums.

The use of these elements allows the production of furniture structures. For the kitchen, you can make a bar counter or an island; for the bathroom, it is recommended to form glass blocks under the sink.

Important! Despite the fact that glass furniture looks extraordinary and original, it cannot be moved to a new place, since the structure is created permanently.

Various techniques for decorating glass block walls

It is recommended not only to use glass blocks for the construction of load-bearing partitions, but also to decoratively cover the wall surface with them, thereby successfully incorporating the design of the apartment. In rooms that lack natural light, such as dark halls, corridors and lobbies, a wall made of glass blocks with lighting will not only be a functional element, but will also become an additional source of light. However, such design technique will not deprive the room of an atmosphere of detachment and seclusion.

Related article:

Features of finishing material. Varieties of products. Mirror panel in the interior of the premises for various purposes. Laying tiles.

A glass structure with a rounded shape will look interesting and unusual, which will significantly enliven the interior design. It is also advisable to decorate various protrusions in the wall with glass blocks, thanks to which you can visually expand the spaces of the room, making it airy and light.

An original solution is to decorate the surface adjacent to the stairs going to the second floor, which is clearly shown in the photo of a wall made of glass blocks. A false fireplace in the living room will look unique. Using glass blocks, you can also decorate a niche in the wall, which will undoubtedly draw attention to the elements that are located in it.

Helpful advice! For a living space, when creating a glass block wall, you should combine products with other materials: plasterboard, chipboard or PVC panels.

Transparent glass or tinted inserts with lighting on the wall surface will look impressive. The material can also be used to decorate a doorway in the living room. Here you should use elements with interior decor in the form of pebbles, shells, herbariums or extraordinary installations, which should be selected taking into account the overall design concept of the room.

It is preferable to place glass blocks pointwise, thereby decorating the wall. In this case, one tile should be located on an area of ​​1 m². This option is often used in the kitchen when decorating an apron. In the living room, one of the walls can be decorated with multi-colored blocks, thereby creating a decorative panel or a unique picture on its surface.

Application of glass blocks for partitions

The main use of glass blocks is zoning a room by creating partitions. This helps to divide the total area into several small open areas. In this case, a lighter, freer environment is provided, not cluttered with solid structures.

Partitions can be various shapes: trapezoid, pyramid, oval, circle with holes made in the form of steps, arches or ziggurat. Glass construction may have different heights and width. Using these elements, you should not only zone the room, but also create limited spaces in the form of showers or dressing rooms.

Helpful advice! In small narrow rooms, it is advisable to arrange partitions from glass blocks, since transparent structures contribute to the optical increase in the dimensions of the room.

When choosing the type of glass block to create a partition, you should take into account the purpose of the room, since individual elements differ in the degree of light transmission and the nature of the light-scattering effect. The glass transparent design is ideal for creating a dining area in the kitchen.

To enclose a cozy sleeping place In the living room it is better to use matte elements. The bedroom is colorful glass partition You can separate the boudoir area or wardrobe. Also, the design will fit perfectly into a room combined with a bathroom, for which any type of glass block is suitable.

Using glass block partitions in the bathroom

Glass blocks look very organic in the bathroom interior. The rational use of products is due to the strength, moisture resistance, and environmental friendliness of the material, which is at the same time characterized by good reflective capacity and remains opaque.

Using glass blocks in the bathroom - the photos clearly confirm this - you can separate the toilet and organize a relaxation area in the bathroom, which is a rational solution for combined bathrooms. Here it is better to use matte products that are sufficiently impermeable and do not visually overload the room. The partition in this case should be straight or curved, reaching the middle height of the room or reaching its ceiling.

Using glass elements, you can also make a screen for the bathroom or enclose a place for water tonic procedures. Today, more and more often in modern apartments you can find shower stalls made of glass blocks, which have various designs, which makes the design of the room extraordinary and exclusive. At the same time this design solution allows you to save significantly cash. In this case, the material can also be used for flooring, into which lighting should be additionally installed, which is clearly shown by the photos of showers made of glass blocks.

The process of constructing a partition from glass blocks

The construction of a glass block partition in a bathroom, living room or other room will not cause any difficulties for craftsmen who have dealt with installation tiles and brick. However, there are some subtleties here. Installation can be done in two ways: end-to-end using adhesive solution, as well as a special frame module, which is a lattice with cells. The second option is simpler to implement. Thanks to the modular frame, the future partition will be of better quality and smoother. However, such a lattice is difficult to find on the construction market.

As an adhesive solution, use a special glue, a mixture for laying ceramic tiles or cement-sand mortar with the addition of PVA glue at the rate of 200 g per 5 buckets of the mixture, as a result of which the plasticity increases.

Helpful advice! If transparent glass blocks are used to build a partition, it is better to use adhesive composition white, thanks to which the product will have a more aesthetic appearance.

To work, you need to prepare glass blocks required size, adhesive composition, mounting plastic crosses, galvanized or stainless steel reinforcement bars, level, rubber hammer, sealant, colored grout.

Algorithm for constructing a partition from glass blocks

Before you begin laying glass blocks, you need to clean the base and make markings taking into account the size of the product and the thickness of the seams. To determine the size of the frame, you should lay out one row of blocks, placing crosses between them. Next, a guide metal frame of the required width and height is installed, which is attached to the enclosing walls, floor and, if necessary, to the ceiling using dowels 50 cm long. During the installation process, it is important to constantly monitor the horizontal and vertical position of the module.

After preparing the surface, you should begin laying glass blocks. The first row starts from the wall. To the bottom horizontal surface and the side of the vertical profile guide, an adhesive composition with a thickness of no more than 1 cm is applied. Next, the first block is installed, which is pressed into the solution. An adhesive mixture is applied to its side surface and the next element is installed. Between them there are mounting crosses on both sides, the dimensions of which correspond to the thickness of the seam. The row continues until it stops at the vertical guide located on the opposite wall.

It should be remembered that the adhesion time of glass blocks to the solution is longer than when laying ordinary bricks, therefore, you should wait at least an hour before starting the construction of the next row, which is carried out according to a similar principle. If a cement-sand mortar is used, after installing three rows of glass blocks, the structure should be left to dry for at least 24 hours.

To create a reliable structure, every third row should be reinforced with metal rods, which, when laid on blocks, should not come into contact with them in order to avoid subsequent corrosion. This is controlled using mounting crosses.

After the solution has completely dried, work is carried out to clean the surface of any remaining mixture, remove protective film from the blocks and the joints are grouted. While the mixture is still wet, clean the glass surface with a soft cloth.

Alternative options for assembling a glass block wall

Instead of a metal frame, you can use reinforcing bars made of galvanized or stainless wire with a diameter of 4-5 mm. They are inserted into each subsequent row horizontally and vertically on top of the mounting crosses, immersing the rods, which should not come into contact with the glass, into the solution.

If a shower is being installed from glass blocks of a non-rectilinear shape, a denser reinforcing mesh should be installed, which will prevent shifting complex design, and the masonry itself will have a more accurate appearance. Horizontal rods must be bent to give them the required shape. In this case, the mounting crosses are located exclusively on the inside of the masonry.

The simplest, but most expensive installation method that can be implemented to create a partition from hollow glass blocks in a bathroom is to use a wooden or metal module with cells of the required size into which the blocks are inserted. The frame is pre-painted suitable color and is fixed to the load-bearing wall. Each block is located in an individual cell. The joints are fixed with sealant. The structure is ready for use after 12 hours.

Modern glass blocks, thanks to the variety of shapes, colors and textures, can transform any room, making the design original and unique. With the skillful use of such a universal finishing material, and with a developed imagination, you can make any boring and ordinary space sparkle with new colors.

Glass block partition – This modern approach in decorating the interior of a house or apartment.

This material, which was not particularly sophisticated, was previously used quite widely in public buildings.

A glass block is a block of thick glass plates fused into a single structure. A sealed air cavity is formed inside such a block, which increases sound and heat insulation parameters.

In other words, a glass block is a kind of glass brick of various shapes, from which you can lay various building and interior elements.

Advantages

Due to its structure, glass block has the following advantages:

1. Natural materials in the composition ensure environmental friendliness.
2. Unique properties: high mechanical strength(including compression and impact) and wear resistance, resistance to low and high temperatures, as well as temperature changes.
3. Increased heat and sound insulation properties, not inferior to hollow bricks.
4. Fire safety ensured by the non-flammability of the material.
5. Ease of installation and further maintenance. The blocks can be cleaned with any detergent.
6. Absolute moisture-proofness and water resistance, which makes it possible to use it as outdoor elements and in rooms with high humidity, even in water.
7. Decorative. The glass block surface does not require additional finishing coatings. Modern blocks have different colors and shape, which makes it possible to create the desired, attractive design.

Important distinctive feature glass blocks is the ability to transmit scattered Sun rays and provide unique room lighting. At the same time, the opacity of the elements protects from prying eyes.

Flaws

Like any building material, glass blocks also have certain disadvantages that must be taken into account during construction:

1. Large weight significantly weighs down the entire building structure. Taking into account this property, it is undesirable to erect walls and partitions with an area of ​​more than 16 m².
2. Increased cost of decorative glass blocks, which can reach 1500-1700 rubles/piece. At the same time you can use regular blocks economy class with a cost of 100-130 rubles/piece.
3. Problems encountered when attaching shelves and fastening various items, because It is difficult to secure a screw or nail in glass blocks. They can be solved using other standard fasteners and suction cups.

In general, glass blocks continue to be unfairly considered an exotic material. This attitude is developed due to a mistrust of the strength of glass. However, a glass block is quite difficult to destroy even with hammer blows, and their use is perhaps limited only by their increased cost.

What types of glass blocks are there?

Modern glass blocks do not have a legal classification, but the following main criteria for distribution by type can be distinguished:

1. Block size. The most common are square-shaped glass blocks measuring 19x19 and 24x24 cm with a thickness of 8-10 cm, as well as rectangular elements measuring 19x9x8 and 24x11.5x8 cm. The weight of the bricks depends on the size and is in the range of 3-4.5 kg.
2. Form. In addition to the most common square and rectangular options, glass blocks are available in triangular, round, and also in the form of a hexagon and the letter “G”. Elements can have clear, straight or rounded corners.
3. Color palette and internal filling. The color of glass blocks can be different - from unpainted glass to bright colors(red, blue, black, etc.). There is usually an air cavity inside, but some models use decorative elements that are melted inside the block and create a specific pattern.
4. Surface structure. Elements can have a smooth, glossy, corrugated, patterned surface. In addition, products with a matte surface are produced. The light transmission of the material depends on the structure.
5. Glass element thickness. This indicator is responsible for the strength specific gravity and some other material characteristics. Most often, blocks are made of glass with a thickness of 5.5-7 mm.
6. Mechanical strength. Standard elements have fairly high strength, but additionally high-strength glass blocks are offered that can withstand even a bullet from a gun.
7. Optical parameters. Products with this characteristic have a wide range - from almost transparent to opaque options. Glass blocks can provide directional or diffuse light flux.

Finally, the glass blocks are distributed by appointment. The following main categories are distinguished: decorative, interior and building blocks. They differ in appearance, size, color, strength and other parameters.

Features of interior glass blocks

Using glass blocks you can create a beautiful and unique interior indoors or form a decorative surface outside the house.

The following areas of application are especially popular:

1. Wall. By laying glass blocks, you can build smooth and fairly strong walls. The best option is rooms with high humidity (bathroom, sauna, toilet), where the high water resistance of the material is useful. At the same time, glass is not susceptible to rotting, mold and fungi. You can lay out the entire wall from such elements or combine them with other materials (for example,).
2. Partitions. The construction of zoning partitions from glass blocks is one of the most popular solutions. Most often they are used to separate swimming areas. Glass blocks are harmoniously combined with tiles, which ensures the preservation of the chosen design style.
3. Window. A panoramic wall is made of glass blocks, and the transparency of the material ensures that it plays the role of a window. A room with a wall-window will be quite bright and insulated.
4. Floors. The material in question may become an excellent replacement ceramic tiles on the floor. The use of corrugated elements eliminates the slipperiness of glass, and the appearance provides an original design.
5. Furniture. Glass blocks are used to create stationary furniture. The facades made from them look great for a bar counter. You can use them to build a table or coffee table, bedside table, or wardrobe. In this case, the blocks are used both as a frame or facade, and to form a tabletop.
6. Decorating elements. There are practically no limits to the use of glass blocks in the interior of a room. Their use as decorative elements ensures the fulfillment of any fantasies. Products with internal decorative inserts allow you to decorate a picture with a three-dimensional effect on the wall. This painting is easy to clean from dirt and retains its paint for a long time. Using glass blocks, the interior can be decorated in a modern style (loft, high-tech, modern), art style or baroque. Stained glass windows in the Art Nouveau style with classical or oriental subjects look great. Arches, niches, and columns are made of glass bricks. Individual elements built into the wall can serve as spotlights.

Modern trends in interior planning make it possible to assign various functions to walls and partitions made of glass blocks. The most typical solution is room zoning. In this case, partitions can occupy the entire space from floor to ceiling or be installed with a limited height (for example, a bar counter).

Another interesting feature is light transmission. There is no need to install windows in walls made of glass blocks; the light flux penetrates the entire surface. At the same time, depending on the type of product, good illumination or twilight is provided.

The functionality of glass block walls expands the heat and sound insulation properties of the material. Such walls are able to retain heat well without requiring additional coatings or decoration. Water resistance makes it possible to arrange a separate toilet, shower or bathroom.

Installation of glass block partitions

Laying glass blocks with your own hands can be done different ways. It is important that the structural element has support (load-bearing wall or stand). Most characteristic methods installation:

1. Traditional or classical method. It requires guide frames made of wooden beams or metal profile. Fastening of glass elements is ensured by a cement-based solution or special glue.
2. Frame option. In this case, first set frame construction, in which the blocks are fixed with seals and sealant.

Installation of glass blocks must be carried out after proper site preparation. It must be carried out in strict accordance with a pre-developed laying scheme, for which careful marking is first ensured. A detailed diagram is especially important when laying decorative elements, drawings and patterns.

Traditional masonry

Classic laying of blocks with glue or mortar begins with making a base - frame guide.

It is most often made from wooden beams, but you can use a steel or aluminum corner.

To do this, lay out the first row of blocks with plastic dividers installed between them.

The dimensions of this row are accurately measured and the frame is assembled according to these dimensions. It is attached to the floor. A frame of the same width is installed strictly vertically on both walls and secured to it with dowels.

To strengthen the structure, reinforcing mesh is used. It is formed from galvanized steel wire in horizontal and vertical directions. Their location should coincide with the seams between the glass blocks.

To avoid direct contact between glass and wire, plastic crosses are used when installing the reinforcing mesh. To attach the reinforcement, holes are drilled in the wall and lower frame.

To fasten the glass blocks together, a special glue is used, preferably white. You can independently prepare a cement-sand mortar in a ratio of 1:3.

The blocks are laid in the following order:

1. Marking and installation of guide frames.
2. Installation of vertical reinforcing bars.
3. A layer of glue or mortar up to 10 mm thick is applied to the surface of the frame. The mortar is also applied to the side faces of the blocks and the first row is laid. To fix the reinforcement and ensure the same width of the seam, crosses are installed, which remain in the masonry and are simply rubbed with mortar.
4. The bottom row is leveled horizontally with a mallet and checked with a building level. Next, a horizontal reinforcing rod is installed on top of the blocks and secured in the wall hole.
5. All subsequent rows are laid similarly.

Taking into account the severity of the elements, it is recommended to erect the wall in parts of 4-5 rows with a break for the mortar to harden. This will eliminate the danger of blocks subsiding. After completion of the masonry, the joints are carefully grouted. For sealing, you can use a silicone compound.

Frame technology

The “on-frame” technique allows you to lay glass blocks without mortar, but for this you need to install special frame system.

In essence, it is a metal or wooden structure in which cells are formed to accommodate glass elements.

The cell dimensions should not exceed the glass block dimensions by more than 1.5-2 mm.

For metal system usually used aluminum profile. Wooden structure assembled from polished boards, the width of which is equal to the width of the bricks.

The entire structure is carefully verified horizontally and vertically using building level and plumb line. Then the frame is painted in the desired color, in harmony with the blocks.

Ready frame system securely attached to the floor, wall and ceiling using dowels. Glass blocks are carefully installed in the cells, after which they are secured with silicone-based seals. The hardening time of this sealant is about 9-10 hours.

Required Tools

At typical installation To make glass blocks with your own hands, you will need the following tool:

• perforator;
• Bulgarian;
• hacksaw for metal;
• spatulas;
• notched glue spatulas;
• mallet;
• hammer;
• paint brush.

To carry out measurements and quality control you need:

• roulette;
• metal ruler;
• square;
• building level;
• plumb line

If there is a need to manufacture wooden frame, then you additionally need to prepare a screwdriver, a hacksaw, and a chisel.

The use of glass blocks in the interior of a room is becoming increasingly popular. This is facilitated by the high performance characteristics, strength and durability of the material.

Modern glass blocks are produced in a wide range, which gives you the opportunity to choose by color, shape and other parameters. Self-installation allows us to somewhat reduce the main disadvantage of the material - price.

Glass blocks as a construction and finishing material have been used since Soviet times, but having passed through the decades and undergone significant changes, glass brick in a new image has returned to perform decorative functions. In modern construction, this material has found wide application due to its unique properties and vibrant variety.

Classification of glass blocks

Glass blocks are two glass half-blocks welded together. Hollow inside. They are distinguished by a variety of shapes, sizes and colors, which can be found in the catalog with photos. New production technologies make it possible to produce frosted and colored glass blocks, corrugated and with inserts, which will transform the interior of any room.

• Forms. Available in brick shapes, rectangular, half, hexagonal and corner. The last two are original, the first are the most popular.
• Color spectrum glass blocks in the interior:

1. colorless (from 70% to 90% transparency), colored (from 50% to 70% transparency);
2. matte (transparency less than 50%), transparent (transparent, light-directing, light-diffusing);
3. relief surface (drop, wave, cubes) and smooth;
4. with internal inserts and decorated in style stained glass(after looking at the photo, you can choose options with various decorative fillings);

• Painting technique performed using two different technologies. Color inner surface before soldering the halves or add color when melting glass. This indicator affects the ability to transmit light.
• Application area. The three main types are decorative, interior and industrial. A shower room with elements of any kind will be original and unique.

Thanks to your technical specifications glass bricks have a number of advantages that allow them to be used in a variety of directions, and a wall made of glass blocks, made by hand, as structural element will delight not only with beauty, but also with practicality.

Advantages

• They are characterized by increased fire resistance. Withstands high temperatures.
• They are durable, have excellent heat-saving, energy-saving and sound-proofing qualities.

• Moisture-resistant, therefore suitable for showers and swimming pools.
• Glass blocks in the interior do not require plastering, painting, or lining with other materials.
• They have no contraindications for use in residential premises and comply with all hygiene standards.
• Installing glass blocks is easy to do yourself.

Glass blocks and interior

For a long time there was an unequivocal attitude towards them - boring, unremarkable material, it emanates a chill, its place is in clinics and catering establishments. Then complete oblivion. Now they seem to have burst into our home as something new, original. Glass blocks in the interior make the room light and spacious. In construction, they are widely used as a finishing material for the design of individual elements, kitchens, bathrooms, and partitions in residential premises. Glass blocks in the interior of the apartment create a unique atmosphere of comfort, as evidenced by numerous photos.

IN one-room apartment the original solution would be partition for zoning space from glass blocks. If we assume that there is still a sleeping area by the window, then the living room is deprived of natural light, but thanks to the partition made of glass blocks, there is enough light in the apartment, and the bedroom is hidden from prying eyes.

Glass blocks in bathroom and a shower is in demand decorative material. On the one hand, they are light-proof and at the same time transmit part of the scattering light. Thanks to glass blocks as a partition, the shower room will visually increase in size, and by covering the toilet area with such material, you will add originality to the overall style with your own hands.

Advice! Before buying blocks, check out the room design options in the photo and choose the most suitable one so as not to make bright element dissonance in the overall picture.