How to Install Glass Blocks in a Bathroom Wall
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Highlights:
- Step 1: Create the Glass Block Design
- Step 2: Build a Frame
- Step 3: Attach the Glass Block Channels to the Frame
- Step 4: Blend the Screws With the Channel
- Step 5: Attach the Frame Pieces
- Step 6: Install the Glass Blocks
- Step 7: Attach Vertical Frame Piece
- Step 8: Attach the Top of the Frame
- Step 9: Position the Insert
- Step 10: Secure the Insert
- Step 11: Attach the Trim to the Wall
- Step 12: Apply the Acrylic or Latex Caulk
- Step 13: Apply the Clear Silicone Caulk
- Step 14: Paint the Trim and Frame
Step 1: Create the Glass Block Design
Measure the wall hole area and create the design for the glass block insert. In our case, it was three glass blocks, 8"x 8"x 4" deep, to create a 24" long rectangular insert.
Step 2: Build a Frame
Straight-cut the lumber to the measured opening, and build a frame around the glass block.
Step 3: Attach the Glass Block Channels to the Frame
Miter-cut the glass block installation channels. Use short screws to attach each glass block channel to each side of the wood frame.
Step 4: Blend the Screws With the Channel
Use your fingertip to dab paint onto the screws to make them blend with the surrounding channel.
Step 5: Attach the Frame Pieces
Attach one vertical side frame piece to the bottom frame piece using wood screws at the corner.
Step 6: Install the Glass Blocks
Position the glass block in the bottom channel and snug it up to the side frame piece. Install other glass blocks, inserting a spacer between each.
Step 7: Attach Vertical Frame Piece
Using wood screws, attach the other vertical side frame piece at the end, tightly against the blocks.
Step 8: Attach the Top of the Frame
Attach the top of the frame using wood screws.
Step 9: Position the Insert
To install the entire framed glass block insert into the wall area, first position the insert. Adjust so it's flush with the wall and check for level and plumb. Add shims as needed along the bottom and top.
Step 10: Secure the Insert
Secure the insert with screws or nails. Drive the screws or nails directly into the shims and along the top and bottom surfaces.
Step 11: Attach the Trim to the Wall
Measure and cut wood trim or molding. Apply construction adhesive to the back of each trim board and attach to the wall with nails or screws.
Step 12: Apply the Acrylic or Latex Caulk
Use paintable acrylic or latex caulk to caulk around wood trim edges and wood frame gaps.
Step 13: Apply the Clear Silicone Caulk
Apply clear silicone caulk between the glass blocks.
Step 14: Paint the Trim and Frame
To finish, paint the trim and frame.
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